Lake Charles Travel Guide

Lake Charles, LA, is located in the southwestern part of the state, not far from Port Arthur and Lafayette. Lake Charles got its name from the lake which borders the city from the west. In 1910, a large fire destroyed the town of Lake Charles, however, it was rebuilt very fast and rapidly grew into a city. In the past few decades, Lake Charles has become a popular vacation spot due to its culture, landmarks, welcoming locals, sports, beaches, and much more.

Things to Do in Lake Charles

Lots of wonderful indoor and outdoor activities await visitors in Lake Charles. To spend quality time in nature, head to Bord Du Lac Park, right on the lake shore, where visitors can fish, get something to eat, and simply enjoy the serenity of the park. Additionally, the Prien Lake Park is a very popular due to its walking and biking trails, picnic areas, beaches, and boat docks. Alternatively, Sam Houston Jones State Park has beautiful birds and wildlife -- ideal for budding photographers. Visitors can also join hiking tours here to learn about the history and nature of the area.

On rainy days, check out the interesting selection of museums in Lake Charles. To discover more about the heritage of Lake Charles and Louisiana as a whole, the Mardi Gras Imperial Calcasieu Museum is super engaging and brilliant for kids and adults alike. The museum is filled with costumes, decor, and original art pieces depicting Mardi Gras scenes. If you're a sports fan, make your way to the McNeese State University and cheer on the local college team at a football game.

Best Places to Stay in Lake Charles

The best area to stay in Lake Charles is around the lake where there are plenty of outdoor activities, parks, restaurants and cafes nearby. Whether traveling with family and friends, as a couple or solo, a vacation rental is a great way to establish a new home away from home. Many rentals in Lake Charles come with full kitchens, large living rooms, dining areas, multiple bathrooms, and sometimes even a hot tub.

Best Time to Visit Lake Charles

The weather is generally pleasant year-round at Lake Charles. The best time to visit is October when the weather is hot without the humidity. The average temperature from May until the end of October is around 85 degrees but can peak to over 90 degrees. June is the wettest month, with around 5 inches of rainfall.