Visit Lake Charles Inspiration Guide | Spring/Summer 2023

Scan the QR code or go to VisitLakeCharles.org/podcast to listen to the latest episodes.

Meet the Podcast Hosts!

Brady Renard and Anna Strider take to the airwaves for a bi-weekly podcast featuring enlightening and fun conversations with the people who make Southwest Louisiana so incredible. In addition, the duo delves into their favorite topic, food, with their Envie Eats segment featuring a different local restaurant. Find their conversations on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcast.

Gumbo or Crawfish?

Brady: Gumbo Anna: Crawfish

Beachside or Poolside? Brady: Pool Anna: Beach

Concert or Comedy Show?

Brady: Comedy Show

Anna: Concert

As they do with their guests, get to know Brady and Anna better with these juxtaposing questions: #VisitLakeCharles

Contributing

15 NEW THINGS TO DO IN LAKE CHARLES

Scan the QR code or go to VisitLakeCharles.org/new for highlights of what's new to SWLA!

Your priority for spring and summer fun should be planning a vacation in Louisiana’s Playground. Lake Charles has it all –outdoor fun, luxurious accommodations, worthwhile day trips, festivals galore, live music, and all the Cajun/Creole food you will love! The playful side of Southwest Louisiana makes us a unique destination for families, couples, groups, and solo travelers that crave fun under the sun, especially with new restaurants, experiences, and adventures at every corner. It’s prime time to discover the city’s offerings with 15 new things to do in Southwest Louisiana.

1. Dine Outdoors at Lake Area Adventure’s New Restaurant, The Terrace. (Opening Soon)

2. Unwind with Cocktails and Appetizers at The Boardwalk

3. Try Generational Recipes and Specialty Meats at Mural’s Kitchen

4. Grab a Ooey, Gooey Cookie from Twanie’s Terrific Treats.

5. Make Plans to Attend the Inaugural Louisiana Food + Wine Festival, Sept. 14-17

6. Test Your Luck at the All-New Horseshoe Casino & Hotel Lake Charles

7. Celebrate the Reopening of Pat’s of Henderson Restaurant with Dinner Reservations.

8. Explore Unique & Savory Flavors at the New Insane Sausages & Insane Chicken Location in Sulphur.

9. Step into a Pescatarian Paradise at the Louisiana Seafood Cook-off, June 27

10. Order From Coffee:30’s New Mocktail Menu & Visit Their New Express Location.

11. Book a Massage or Facial in a Tranquil Oasis at Alevan Salon Spa Sanctuary.

12. Taste Modern Mexican Food at Johnny Sanchez Restaurant inside L’Auberge Casino Resort.

13. Dive into Delectable Macarons and Various French Pastries at Le Macaron.

14. Tee off on the Brand-New Greens at Mallard Golf Club

15. Cheer on Your Ride-or-Die Sports Teams at New Sports Betting Lounges at Delta Downs, Golden Nugget, L’Auberge, and Horseshoe Casino Resorts.

THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS

SPAR Waterpark

Anyone can enjoy the 600-foot-long Raging River, Larry’s Lazy River, and the Lagoon Pool. Younger guests will enjoy Patch’s Splash Pad and Splash & Play Island, with fountains, tipping buckets, small-scale slides and a gigantic yellow bucket that dumps 500 gallons of water every two minutes!

Game 2 Life

Complete intense iCombat laser tag missions straight out of your favorite video games and movies while fighting at an incredibly realistic Hollywood set of a modern military base! The complex also features axe throwing and Shooters Bar & Grill on the second story.

Lake City Cruisers

Hour long glow in the dark bike tours around downtown Lake Charles provide the perfect vantage points to soak in the sights with a guided tour. Kids must be 13+ to participate.

Putt-Putt Fun Center

Nothing says sibling rivalry like a fierce game of PuttPutt. The animal themed Putt-Putt course at Putt-Putt Fun Center has just the right amount of play mixed in with giraffes, pink elephants, and blue whales! They also feature batting cages.

Bayou Games Paintball Complex

If combat and games appeal to your kids, they will love Bayou Games Paintball Complex. Bring the crew to indulge in paintball wars, gellyball, and laser tag, or check out their video game trailer for competitive play!

Almosta Ranch

This 39-acre farm features chickens, guineas, rabbits, peafowl, turkeys, cows, mini donkeys, horses, sheep and goats. In addition to special events, tours include a hayride, a walking tour, and a pony/horse ride. There is also a pond with a white sand beach and a zipline!

Petro Bowl

Experience the largest bowling alley in the area, with 34 lanes, a fully equipped pro shop, training equipment, lockers, a snack bar, and a 40-game arcade room.

Creative Corner

This open studio features a variety of walk-in arts and crafts projects available to make for all ages – as well as special events – so check out their calendar!

From making a splash to competitive fun, families can indulge in active play to create lasting memories!

Almosta Ranch

Beyond

LOCAL INSIGHTS

Meet Paige Vidrine  Mother of two & owner of Buffi's Peaux Boys

This single mom seems to never sleep. If she is not taking care of her family or the restaurant, she is busy creating art, pop-up festivals, or pursuing writing, life coaching, or leading meditations at the Edgemont Healing Center.

When asked what she loves about Southwest Louisiana, Paige does not miss a beat: “The people. I’ve lived in South America, Texas, Mississippi and traveled all over the world. There is nothing like Southwest Louisiana because of the community. The love we have for each other goes beyond the concept of community.”

Spring and summer months are perfect for soaking in the sunshine. Paige said that she loves riding bikes

downtown with her kids. Going to festivals, experiencing local culture, and going kayaking on Big Lake. Other kid-friendly things that Paige recommends are Altitude Trampoline Park, Sam Houston Jones State Park, or SPAR Waterpark in Sulphur.

Paige believes the best way to experience Southwest Louisiana’s culture is through the food: “People talk up New Orleans food, but I believe there’s nothing like Southwest Louisiana food. Every time I travel, I look forward to getting back to the food of Southwest Louisiana!”

Paige’s favorite quote is to “bloom where you are planted.” She said that for so many years, she moved around from city to city.

“I lived in Argentina. I traveled. I thought I could create a better life outside of Southwest Louisiana. Although there is so much more to see in the world, I found that Southwest Louisiana offers so much to the soul if you’d just allow it. I chose to find ways to appreciate the area that built me and shaped me into a better human being. I love the idea of being the best you can be right where you are,” Paige explained.

She has planted her roots firmly in Southwest Louisiana with her family, and she invites you to experience the magic of what makes the culture, the people, and the experiences transformative in this area of Louisiana that she calls home.

the face behind Buffi’s Peaux Boys in downtown Lake Charles, Paige is someone who is no stranger to rolling up her sleeves and making Southwest Louisiana shine for all she is worth.

Sam Houston Jones State Park

FESTIVALS, CONCERTS, AND EVENTS!

Colorful arts, delicious food, live music, and plenty of dancing –experience all this and more during the spring and summer festival season in Louisiana’s Playground! For a full list of festivals, events, and nightlife entertainment options, go to VisitLakeCharles.org/events.

March 4

Colt Ford

L’Auberge Casino Resort

March 6-11

LHSAA Marsh Madness

Boys’ Basketball State Championship   Burton Complex, Lake Charles

March 9-12

Black Heritage Festival   Lake Charles Civic Center

March 11

Stokley

Golden Nugget Lake Charles

March 17 & 18

Coppelia, Lake Charles Ballet Theatre, Tritico Theater, McNeese

March 17, 24, 21

Live @ the Lakefront Concert Series   Lake Charles Civic Center Grounds

April 1

Trace Adkins

L’Auberge Casino Resort

April 6

Louisiana Railroad Days Festival

DeQuincy Railroad Museum Park

April 14

STYX

Golden Nugget Lake Charles

April 22

This is Home Fest   Downtown Lake Charles

April 22-23

Original Downtown

Crawfish Festival

Lake Charles Civic Center

April 26

Mark Chesnutt

Golden Nugget Lake Charles

April 29

Spring Art Walk  Downtown Lake Charles

May 4-14

Louisiana Pirate Festival   Lake Charles Civic Center

May 5

Carly Pearce

Golden Nugget Lake Charles

May 10-13

LHSAA Baseball State Tournament

McMurry Park, Sulphur

May 19

Chennault

International Airshow

Chennault International Airport Authority

May 19, 26, June 3

Downtown at Sundown  Downtown Lake Charles

June 27

Louisiana Seafood Cookoff

Golden Nugget Lake Charles

June 9-11

Holly Beach Crab Festival

Holly Beach

July 4

Red, White, Blue & You Celebration

Lake Charles Lakefront

July 15

Cajun Music & Food Festival  Burton Coliseum

July 28-29

Marshland Festival   Lake Charles Civic Center

August 5-6

Pro Watercross National Championships  North Beach Lake Charles

Live @ the Lakefront Concert Series

Scan the QR code or go to VisitLakeCharles.org/events for a full list of events in the Lake Charles area.

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR CRAWFISH

For most, the spring season introduces pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and bright colors, but Louisianans only care about a bright red platter of pipinghot crawfish between spring and early summer. Since crawfish are limited in availability, prepare to pinch, twist, and peel these mudbugs until the season has run its course. This Louisiana food staple is a social meal, grab n’ go option, and a popular ingredient in various dishes. This critter-crawling, boiled-live, downright unruly dining experience is a delicacy. The goal is to eat your weight in crawfish and reserve your dainty table manners for steak dinners!

SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA DELICACIES & WHERE TO FIND THEM

Plate Lunches

Plate lunches consist of one meat and three side dishes served on a disposable plate and are usually served at legendary hole-in-the-wall joints. It’s loaded with Southern soul foods like smothered pork chops and fried fish alongside macaroni and cheese, red beans and rice, cornbread, and more.

Where to Find Them: Leonard's Food Quarters

Boudin

Traditional boudin ingredients include pork, liver, rice, onions, parsley and flavorful seasonings in a sausage link form. You can find this popular snack at more than 25 locations along the Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail, where you will discover household flavors at unconventional eateries.

Where to Find Them: Various Location Along the Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail

Often confused with pork rinds and fat back, cracklins are similar to bacon but served in a thicker, nugget form. It's a crunchy piece of fried skin, soft rendered fat, and a bit of chewy meat in each bite. This savory treat is seasoned with Cajun spices and is served by the pound in a Ziploc bag.

Where to Find Them: Guillory’s Famous Foods

Po'boys

Po'boys is a sandwich that typically contains lettuce, tomato, roast beef, or fried seafood such as shrimp, crawfish, fish, oysters, or alligator on fresh, buttered French bread with a condiment of your choice. It's often served with chips or French fries.

Where to Find Them: Darrell's Famous Po'boys

Sauce Piquant

Sauce piquant flies under the radar in restaurants around Lake Charles. It’s a spicy, tomato-based stew with various meats, spices, and vegetables cooked down to a soft texture and served over a bed of rice.

Where to Find Them:

Steamboat Bill’s Seafood

Sweet Dough Pies

Sweet dough pies are unique to most dessert connoisseurs. Sweet dough pies are thicker, softer, and sweeter than traditional pies and often served as a morning treat with coffee.

Where to Find Them:

Mrs. Johnny’s Gingerbread House

Louisiana Blue Crab

If someone goes crabbing in our region, the catch is usually Louisiana blue crab. They’re blue while alive, but their shells are bright red when boiled, steamed or deep-fried and served on a seafood platter.

Where to Find Them: Seafood Palace

Grits & Grillades

Usually served during Mardi Gras, grits and grillades are pieces of beef or veal swimming in a roux-based gravy with red wine, seasonings, and spices and then layered on a bed of Southern-style grits.

Where to Find Them: Pujo Street Cafe

Cracklin

Which One Are You?

The Creole Nature Trail All-American Road Caters to Five Types of Road Trippers,

Often referred to as Louisiana’s Outback, the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road is a delectable travel treat for road trippers and day trippers seeking the ultimate outdoor experience in the state. You’ll see everything from sunbathing alligators and flocks of migratory birds to Louisiana blue crabs and fish year-round. This 180-mile trail stretches along the Gulf of Mexico, where you’ll take in the most vibrant sunsets resting above the marshlands and seashells lining the beaches.

Rutherford Beach

Types of Road Trippers: | DESIGNATED DRIVER

You’re probably the most mature person in your group and a little bit of a control freak, but that’s okay because you’re prepared for the trip!

Know Before You Go:

Resources are scarce. There are few gas stations, eateries, and spotty cell reception along this journey. Plan accordingly.

Packing List:

• Sunglasses

• Bottled Water

• Brochures

Where to Stop:

Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point & Pintail Wildlife Drive – Sometimes drivers can’t take in the full road trip experience because their attention is on the road, but here you can see sunbathing alligators lining the road.

FOODIE

If you’re a gastronomic road tripper or just the “hangry” friend of the group, listen up. Your counterparts will probably rely on you to secure the food spots, and you won’t let them down with our delectable backroad bites.

Know Before You Go:

Gas stations are some of the best eateries in Louisiana. It’s equivalent to stepping into a Cajun/Creole’s kitchen.

Packing List:

• Heartburn Medicine

• Stretchy Pants

• Road Trip Snacks

Where to Stop:

Prioritize these three hole-in-the-

wall joints: Anchors Up Grill, Brown’s Grocery, and Chesson’s Grocery for an authentic taste of Louisiana.

THRILL-SEEKER

If you’re road-tripping this trail during the summer months, you’ll find more thrills than you bargained for. Instead of watching wildlife from the comfort of your car, you can get up close and personal with nature’s bounty like crabs, alligators, nutria, fish, birds, and more.

Know Before You Go: Crabbing at recreation areas is a popular outdoor activity for locals, but you do need a hook and line fishing license to do it legally, but the good thing is, it's $5 and can be purchased at most sporting stores or online.

Packing List:

• Sunscreen

• Insect Repellent

• First-Aid Kit

Where to Stop: Brown’s Food Center & Blue Crab Recreation in Hackberry, Louisiana. Only 10 minutes apart, you can purchase your crabbing equipment at Brown’s and get your crabbing experience at the recreation center.

INFLUENCER

There are aesthetic opportunities lurking around every corner of the Creole Nature Trail. For influencers that are seeking picturesque content for their social media channels, you’re in luck!

Know Before You Go:

To ensure the survival of native wildlife species and their habitats, a significant portion of this route is maintained, restored, and enhanced

through the National Wildlife System. At these locations, you’ll take photos of iconic scenery, but also take a moment to unplug and appreciate nature’s gifts.

Packing List:

• Waterproof Phone Case

• Portable Cell Phone Charger

• Fanny Pack or Small Backpack

Where to Stop:

Book a tour with Grosse Savanne to score the best of both worlds. This boat tour allows you to stay connected with your social media followers through engaging content and reconnect with nature as you learn about the area’s sustainability efforts through the tour guide.

| PET PASSENGER

When the winds are grazing your whiskers and you can roam across a string of rural beaches, it’s a good day on the road for you. You love the scent in the air, surrounding sounds, and discovering new sites.

Know Before You Go:

Your paws can handle a barefoot trek at local beaches but remind your human to wear comfortable shoes when guiding you by leash.

Packing List:

• Dog Food & Water

• Poop Bags

• Beach Towel

Where to Stop:

Holly & Rutherford Beaches are the perfect beaches for the entire family to soak up the sun, collect seashells, birdwatch, and unwind to the soothing sounds of the waves. Don’t leave without catching a sunset.

Whether you spend a full day or a half day traveling this rural route, each road tripper type calls for a different packing list, attractions, and pro-tips on this wild ride!

RESET REPLENISH

Open Water Wellness

Whether you’re fully submerged into a body of water or coasting above ripples in the river, there’s an indescribable feeling that water brings to the human body. Not only does water quench our thirst and cleanse our bodies, but water also has a way of washing away psychological and emotional strain to promote neurological health – that's wellness. Southwest Louisiana offers everyone opportunities to practice open-water wellness around four of the region’s most popular waterways: Lake Charles, Prien Lake, Calcasieu River, and the Gulf of Mexico.

■ LAKE AREA ADVENTURES

Services: Kayak Rentals, Boat Rentals, Inflatable Rentals, Guided Tours

■ PADDLE UP BOARDING CO.

Services: Paddleboard Rentals, Tours, Lessons, and Parties

■ RIVER RAFT RENTALS

Services: Kayak Rentals

■ RIVER RAT RENTALS

Services: Jet Ski Rentals

■ SELF-FISH DREAMS*

Services: Boat Cruises, Fishing Excursions

*Self-Fish Dreams is unique in its open-water offerings because they cater to boat lovers, sunset chasers, and those who crave that gentle splash of moisture against their skin but require assistance to gain that experience. This nonprofit organization provides free boat cruises and fishing excursions for senior citizens over age 65, as well as people with physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities. Open nine months out of the year, you can book a two-hour excursion with Self-Fish Dreams and gain this exclusive service aboard a 20-foot, wheelchair-accessible pontoon boat. Water recreation is a way of life in Southwest Louisiana, and everyone can take in the soothing scenery of open water.

Scan the QR code or go to VisitLakeCharles.org/water for a full list of water sports.

Spas & Pampering

Selfcare is essential to wellbeing, and it seems that more people are starting to realize how important it is to slow down, decompress and recharge. Taking the time to take care of yourself means that you can have more energy to show up in style for the people that you love. Louisiana’s Playground invites you to indulge in selfcare and wellness by having a spa day (or two), so be sure to carve out some time to pamper yourself.

Facials, massages, essential oils, and deep relaxation – the time is now to rejuvenate! You can treat yourself and melt away into some of the spa experiences that can be at in the Lake Area. Spa du Lac at L’Auberge Casino Resort and the Spa & Salon at Golden Nugget are sanctuaries from the glitz and glam of the casino. From saunas to whirlpool and vanity areas, you can take advantage of luxurious amenities to enhance your pampering experiences.

Other full-service spas in Lake Charles include Scarborough’s, Massage Lake Charles, and a new addition to the area, Alevan. Mimosas, chocolates, and treats – Scarborough’s also features daycation packages for a rich, luxurious experience. Massage Lake Charles focuses on a variety of massage techniques and skin care services, in addition to couples’ massages. Alevan is making its mark as one of the first multicultural hair salons in Lake Charles. They also have an outdoor sanctuary and courtyard that provide an outdoor oasis with a koi pond, firepit, and waterfall features.

Remember to take some time for yourself so that you can be renewed and refreshed from your stay in Louisiana’s Playground!

w Lake Park

LUXURIOUS RESORT LIFE

L'Auberge Casino Resort

Lazy rivers, spectacular pools, spas, delectable dining, and a refreshing drink with a twist of lime – L’Auberge Casino Resort, Golden Nugget Lake Charles, Horseshoe Lake Charles, and Delta Downs Racetrack Casino Hotel – are destinations unto themselves. During the spring and summer months, the water is just fine for a dip in the pool at one of Lake Charles’ premier gaming resorts.

L’AUBERGE:

Tucked away on the other side of L’Auberge’s rolling golf greens, the entry way is grand with an elegant water fountain and valet parking ready to sweep you away into a relaxing stay. Here, you can float on a lazy river, lounge outside in the tropical oasis environment, or you can swim up to the poolside bar at the lazy river and enjoy a frozen cocktail. For dining, Ember Grille & Wine Bar is always on point with its upscale atmosphere and exquisite dishes. You can choose from a variety of other restaurants as well with Asia, Barstool Sportsbook, Daiquiris & Dogs, Drago’s, and the new Johnny Sanchez – opening this summer!

GOLDEN NUGGET:

Golden Nugget boasts all Landry’s restaurants throughout the property. There is no shortage of delicious food at every turn. The darling restaurant is Vic & Anthony’s where people can celebrate special occasions and enjoy an extensive wine list. A variety of restaurants are sprinkled throughout the property: Bill’s Bar & Burger on the beach, Cadillac Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Bar, Grotto, Landry’s Seafood House, Lillie’s Asian Cuisine and Saltgrass Steakhouse. Chart House is uniquely situated by the Country Club at Golden Nugget with a breathtaking view. For sports betting, there’s Draftkings Sportsbook and late night dancing at Blue Martini!

DELTA DOWNS:

On the west side of the parish, Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel adds its unique flavor to the gaming scene in the Lake Charles area. While the property features Rosewater Grill & Tavern with signature cocktails, steaks, and a panoramic view of the track. The Tin Lizard Bar & Grill features a wide range of tasty sharables, craft brews, and creative cocktails, or if you are in a rush, you can also get a quick bite at the Gator Grill! In addition to the wide variety of slots, you can check out the horseracing during racing season and place your bets. Also, be sure to indulge in the The Clubhouse authentic Southern steakhouse during racing season!

HORSESHOE:

The newest addition to the Lake Area is the elegant Horseshoe Lake Charles which features a state-of-the-art Caesars Sportsbook, a renovated hotel tower, and culinary offerings including the award-winning The Brew Brothers. To satisfy your pizza craving, Slice Pizzeria & Pasta is fresh, hot, and made to order, and the Horseshoe also includes 7 Seven Noodle Bar. The all-new sophisticated Four Suites Bar is the perfect way to immerse yourself in all the luxuries of this gorgeous modern bar, complete with handcrafted cocktails and the latest bar top video poker. Additions include the Gordon Ramsay Steak, which is the first in Louisiana.

JEREMY PRICE MEET

The Mural Man

Jeremy Price is literally painting the town in Lake Charles, having created roughly 200 murals in total. His repertoire of artwork keeps growing, as does his popularity for commissions. A concentration of Jeremy’s murals is in downtown Lake Charles on buildings and inside businesses. Interestingly, he did not set out to become a muralist early on in his career.

“I’ve been drawing, mainly portraits, since I was a child, won a Smoothie King coloring contest and got free smoothies for a year when I was 8, so I knew it was my destiny. (Haha!) I earned a few bachelor’s degrees at McNeese, one being in fine arts concentrating in drawing, painting, and printmaking. I like feeling small and doing big things, because it’s the human experience, so I became a muralist without planning to,” Jeremy explained.

During the spring and summer months, Jeremy enjoys spending time with his son and friends, painting murals, going on bike rides, skateboarding, and spending time watching the clouds, smelling the rain, looking at the moon and the stars, playing music, and being outside.

Jeremy describes the arts community in Southwest Louisiana as being a plethora of creative talent in every art form that is “unique to our struggle or our blessing, either way it’s unique to our way of life.”

His favorite mural that he has created is “Breathe.” Jeremy reflects: “It’s God breathing creation into existence, without Him, the ultimate creator, there’s nothing. I’ve painted a few versions of it, and the one in Lake Charles can be seen at Lake and Giovanni. The Luna Bar & Grill mural in the Lake Charles’ area is my

most expressive, and I think that the L’Auberge Casino Resort mural is the most meaningful for our community. I love them all though.”

Jeremy finds his inspiration from God, prayer, music, and anything and everything that finds him or that he is led to see. Some of his favorite artists are Caravaggio, Dali, Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Vladimir Kush.  He thinks that everyone visiting Southwest Louisiana should experience food, music, art, and the people who live here.

Favorite quote?

“Accept the things to which fate binds you and love the people with whom fate brings you together, but do so with all your heart.” - Marcus Aurelius

Favorite 3 local restaurants?  Luna, Tony’s Pizza, Crying Eagle

Outside Recent Relics

Scan the QR code or go to VisitLakeCharles.org/jp to hear the Louisiana's Playground Podcast episode featuring Jeremy Price.

STELLA MILLER MEET

Cultural Trailblazer

Art, culture, and education are whirling around inside the heart of Stella Miller, local cultural trailblazer and founder of the Black Heritage Gallery. She knows the importance of outreach to encourage an appreciation for the arts, a passion that was ignited by her own mother years ago. She has carried that torch with her, lighting up the arts for cultural diversity in Lake Charles.

Stella reminisced about her mom: “She was a teacher who believed in education that included the arts. She made sure I went to the symphony and participated in or went to cultural events throughout the city.”

The Black Heritage Gallery (BHG) started in 2001. The Junior League of Lake Charles and the BHG invited patrons to become involved, and there was a large showing of support. Over the years, they gained partners like McNeese State University and Southern University art departments.

“Since 2001, the gallery has significantly increased attendance and has featured over 200 artists who would have no place to show their work or very few opportunities. The gallery opened with a grant from Junior League with the Negro League Baseball exhibit. The Black Heritage Gallery recently moved to 1911 Historic City Hall with the opening of The Help in December of 2019. The gallery has the largest number of people attending the opening receptions in the building,” Stella explained.

Reflecting on the arts scene in the area, she said that it’s alive and vibrant, and she’s noticed that more people are attending opening receptions and visiting galleries throughout the area.

Stella’s favorite local restaurants:  The Kitchen, Leonard’s, and Steamboat Bill’s  Events that Stella loves in the spring/summer:  Outdoor concerts like Downtown at Sundown and events like Meet me at the Market.

Top Things that Stella Recommends:  Black Heritage Gallery, downtown Lake Charles, Sam Houston State Park, casinos, and she’s looking forward to the pocket park honoring music legend Nellie Lutcher.

Black Heritage Gallery

“The main goal for the gallery is to lead a diverse audience in discovering African American artists and to nurture artists at all stages of their career,” Stella remarked.

Scan the QR code or go to VisitLakeCharles.org/art for a full list of art galleries & exhibits.

Beachside WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS

Palm trees, white sugar sand, and a cool breeze. One thing that holds true on a universal level - is that everyone can use a little more fun in their life! South Beach Sports Bar & Grill, which is tucked away behind Crying Eagle Microbrewery, is like being whisked away into a beachside oasis with the fluttering sound of palm trees. South Beach currently has 9 deep sand volleyball courts and a bar & grill that has a California surf shack feel to it. From pulled-pork sandwiches to cauliflower pizzas, the menu offers good eats. Not to mention, a full bar is available for anyone who would like to have libations – including frozen margaritas!

Golden Nugget and L’Auberge Casino Resort each have beachside features with a perfect view to watch the sunset over Lake Charles. When the sun goes down beachside firepits bring add to the atmosphere where you can enjoy an evening chatting with friends. At Golden Nugget, Bill’s Bar & Burger also offers an extensive list of local and craft beer. And, a courtside volleyball net is perfect for playing on the white sand. An outdoor boardwalk connects the two properties, complete with indigenous vegetation, flora and fauna. This lighted path is the perfect way to casually walk between properties.

Right off Interstate 10, North Beach offers quick access to a white sand beach along the shores of Lake Charles. It’s perfect for a quick picnic to soak in the sights. From North Beach, people can catch a glimpse of special events such as fireworks on July 4 or the Pro Watercross National Championships this August.

Scan the QR code or go to VisitLakeCharles.org/beach for a full list of area beaches.

Hitting the Greens IN SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA

Golf in Lake Charles features lush scenery and indigenous plants, making the courses picturesque backdrops with birds and other wildlife paying quick visits along the way! Over the past year, there have been several additions to the golf scene including an entirely new golf course that recently debuted, Mallard Golf Club – a true Scottish links experience. The National Golf Club of Louisiana features a brand-new club house and The Max restaurant that also includes an expansive screened in porch, providing an ideal place to watch the

sunset over the golf course. The Chart House at Golden Nugget offers a fine dining experience with a sweeping view of the Country Club at Golden Nugget course, and next door, Contraband Bayou Golf Course at L’Auberge boasts of having a renowned golf architect, Tom Fazio designed course. Across the river in Sulphur, Frasch Golf Course offers a 71-par course as well as a driving range with chipping and putting greens and a pro shop with a clubhouse and grill. While you’re here, be sure to play a round in Louisiana’s Playground!

The Country Club at The Golden Nugget

Scan the QR code or go to VisitLakeCharles.org/golf to check out golf courses in Southwest Louisiana.

Most Unique Menu Items at Lake Charles’ Hottest Brunch Spots

Offering the best of both worlds, breakfast and lunch, brunch is typically a weekend affair, where menu items consist of bloody Marys and mimosas alongside waffles, French toast and mounds of eggs, grits, and breakfast meats. But brunch is more than a meal in Lake Charles, it’s a midday culinary movement where local restaurants can tie Louisiana’s culture, fresh seafood, and more interesting twists into their menus. Whether you prefer brunch inside of our high-end restaurants, party atmospheres, or hole-in-the-wall joints, there is a restaurant that caters to every type of brunch lover. Check out the top 10 most unique menu items at Lake Charles’ hottest brunch spots.

Biscuits N Jamz, Bacon Stuffed French Toast

Biscuits N Jamz

Brunch Hours: Wednesday-Monday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

Menu Item: Bacon Stuffed French Toast

Description: True to its namesake, this mom-and-pop restaurant is known for its homemade, soft buttery biscuits and freshly made jams, but if you want to hang with the big boys, order the bacon stuffed French toast. This traditionally sweet dish adds a savory twist of salty, crunchy goodness to the plate. It consists of French toast stuffed with bacon, cream cheese and peach bourbon jam, topped with powdered sugar. There is also a banana version available.

Luna Bar & Grill

Brunch Hours: Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Menu Item: Eggs Calcasieu

Description: This breakfast is not intended for the weak. It consists of two eggs and fresh boudin placed atop a slice of brioche toast with hollandaise sauce drizzled across the dish. It’s also plated with thick, juicy fried shrimp. Wash it all down with their funky cocktails while being serenaded to the sound of local jazz bands.

The M Bar Sports Bar & Grill

Brunch Hours:

First Sunday of the Month, 11 a.m.

Menu Item: Blueberry & Sangria Mimosas

Description: If you’re in town on the first Sunday of the month, prioritize brunch at The M Bar. They serve all the brunch

staples like chicken and waffles, catfish and grits, various omelets and more, but their mimosa flavors make this brunch experience a unique one. You can quench your thirst with a blueberry or sangria mimosa instead of mixing champagne with traditional orange juice.

Villa Harlequin

Brunch Hours: Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Menu Item: Savory Bread Pudding

Description: Located in downtown Lake Charles, this high-end brunch spot made a name for itself with traditional Italian cuisine by night and delectable brunch food by day. We challenge you to try the savory bread pudding. It’s a unique spin on the popular Louisiana dessert, but instead of sweetness, this dish consists of two poached eggs and spicy crawfish cream sauce resting on a savory layer of soft bread.

Coffee:30

Brunch Hours: Monday-Saturday, 7 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Menu Item: Sundial Sandwich

Description: Coffee:30 exists to satisfy your brunch cravings. This menu is stacked with beignets, breakfast bowls, pancakes and more, but the sundial sandwich is a gamechanger. It's made up of two authentic pearl sugar Belgian waffles lightly sprinkled with powdered sugar with breakfast sausage, a fried egg, and Vermont Sharp Cheddar resting between and served with a side of country potatoes.

MacFarlane’s Celtic Pub

Brunch Hours: Sunday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Menu Item: VooDoo Bloody Mary

Description: All of Southwest Louisiana can’t stop raving about MacFarlane’s Insta-worthy VooDoo bloody Mary. It’s made with steeped-in-house vodka, spices, and seasonings, and topped with more than 15 ingredients including celery, cucumbers, cheese, tomatoes, olives, pickled green beans, praline bacon, bell peppers, onion rings, shrimp, and slices of orange, lemon, and lime. It’s only $11.99 for this bottomless concoction. *mic drop*

Rikenjak’s Brewing Company

Brunch Hours: Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Menu Item: Hangover Fries

Description: Rikenjak’s Brewing Company has an anecdote for party animals seeking hefty dose of carbs to combat Saturday night’s shenanigans. Swap out fatigue, nausea, and irritability with an order of their hangover fries, which consists of waffle fries topped with queso, a fried egg, bacon and green onions. If you’re still in a party mood, grab a beer and take advantage of their Sunday Funday with zydeco music and patio games.

Restaurant Calla

Brunch Hours: Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Menu Item: Blue Crab Beignets

Description: Restaurant Calla is home to farm-to-table, chef-inspired cuisine, and their brunch is next-level from the location to the artistry on the plate. You’ll get a taste of traditional brunch items like steak and eggs or chicken and biscuits, as well as non-traditional menu items like stuffed quail or redfish and grits. But you have to sink your teeth into one of their blue crab beignets, which is a ball of fresh crab meat that’s breaded, deep-fried, and served with an avocado almond cream sauce with a hint of mint. It’s a shareable, but we understand if you don’t want to ration these bad boys.

Sunday Jazz Brunch at Luna Bar & Grill

FISHING ADVENTURES

Southwest Louisiana is the place where you need to drop your line. The location sets anglers up for success because the choices are numerous whether you want to go fishing in freshwater, brackish water, saltwater, or even go offshore or surf fishing with the proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. Waterways are plentiful and so are

opportunities to catch the big one – and not let it get away!

Captain Tom Adams of Fishing Tom Guide Services has some tips and advice for anyone looking to have a reel good time fishing in the Lake Area. He’s been fishing the Louisiana Coast most of his life, but for the past 10 years, he’s been guiding in the Lake Charles area.

If fishing in the Calcasieu River, Tom says you can catch many different types of freshwater fish, sport fish like black bass and catfish to great pan fish like sacalait (white perch and bluegill). Captain Tom recommends using minnows, worms and varieties of artificial lures.

“A beautiful place to have this type of experience is in the spring or summer at Sam Houston Jones State Park,” said Captain Tom.

For a saltwater experience, Holly Beach is ideal for walking on sandy beaches,

collecting seashells and fishing the waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Captain Tom explains: “The best way to fish the surf is with a surf rod and high-test line. A Carolina rig baited with croaker or mullet are the best way to entice the monsters that lurk in the waters of the Gulf. The most common fish caught this way are Redfish, black drum and sharks. The best time for this is summer and fall. During the summer months with a calm day, the waters of the Gulf of Mexico open up to offshore fishing. This introduces the opportunity to catch Ling Cod, Mahi and Red snapper.”

Whichever fishing excursion is right for you, Captain Tom has a piece of advice: “On any fishing trip it is important to have sunscreen and plenty of water. It’s no fun to cook your wonderful catch if you got cooked by the Louisiana sun.”

Check out fishing guides in Southwest Louisiana!

Waterways are plentiful and so are opportunities to catch the big one – and not let it get away!

Yearning to put a sign on your office door that says, “Gone Fishing?”

Scan the QR code or go to VisitLakeCharles.org/fish for a full list of local fishing guides.

Stay Play in Louisiana’s Playground

A wide variety of places to stay is at your fingertips in Southwest Louisiana. There are upscale, recently remodeled accommodations as well as affordable places to overnight throughout the area in addition to more nontraditional selections. Luxurious casino resorts, plush with amenities, music, dining, and fireside chats, offer an

assortment of room options to fit your style. Or, stay connected to nature and under-thestars at Sam Houston Jones State Park with Tentrr for glamping or rent a new cabin with all the creature comforts of home. Vacation rentals are also prevalent with an array of choices, or if you’re traveling through with an RV, we have you covered there too!

Bord du Lac Marina