Discover the Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point, an engaging attraction that captivates the senses and sparks the imagination. This free, family-friendly site along the western entrance of the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road offers an educational, immersive experience highlighting Southwest Louisianas rich culture, cuisine, music, and outdoor pursuits. Savor the aromas of authentic Cajun cooking, interact with Zydeco and Cajun instruments, and let kids hone crabbing skills amid qu

Before my visit to Southwest Louisiana last August, I was unfamiliar with the regions rich culinary treasures. While I knew of gumbo and jambalaya, specialties like boudin and crawfish were new to me. Since then, my palate has been forever changed for the better. During Mardi Gras, king cakes take center stage—a treat Id heard of but never tasted. Its a travesty to miss these Louisiana staples. Here, I share seven must-try foods, complete with recipes where possible. Theyre best savored on-site

Each year on my birthday—coinciding with the peak of spring bird migration—my spouse and I embark on a journey along the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. We start in Sulphur, heading south on LA-27 to Sabine National Wildlife Refuge, then to Johnson Bayou and Peveto Woods Bird and Butterfly Sanctuary on LA-82. From there, its back on LA-27 to Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge, LA-14 to Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge, and as many back roads through the regions agricultural fields

Coffee enthusiasts in Lake Charles will appreciate the exceptional brews from Acadian Coffee Roasters. Co-owners Nancy Holmes and Nancy Kirby have mastered the art of coffee roasting at this micro-roastery, specializing in 100% organic, Rainforest Alliance-certified, and Fair Trade Arabica beans. The difference in quality and flavor is unmistakable. I first discovered Acadian Coffee at the Cash & Carry Farmers Market. After switching from a single-serve machine to a hands-on pour-over method

Since moving to Louisiana eight years ago, Ive discovered a world of new words and flavors, like mayhaw—a tart, berry-like fruit from trees, akin to smaller crabapples. My first encounter was at a Lake Charles farmers’ market, where a vendor showcased jars of “Mayhaw Jelly.” Curious, I bought one—its sweet-tart taste pairs perfectly with toast or biscuits. A few years later, news of the Starks Mayhaw Festival had me buzzing with excitement. The festival features classic amusements: rides, games

Recently, while enjoying dinner at Joe’s Pizza & Pasta—one of my favorite local Italian spots known for its authentic Sicilian marinara sauce—my family dove into a lively discussion about golf. My brother-in-law raved about his recent round at Gray Plantation, while my grandfather anticipated his weekend game at Frasch Park Golf Course in Sulphur. The conversation turned exciting as we noted the recent opening of Lake Charles newest course: the Country Club at Golden Nugget. Golf enthusias

I grew up just down the street from some of Dud Faulk’s granddaughters, creating fond memories playing in their backyard. I recall my dad and younger brother using Faulk duck calls to lure ducks in the Southwest Louisiana marshes. It wasn’t until later that I truly appreciated the family-owned legacy of Faulk’s Game Calls. Visiting their warehouse a few years ago felt like stepping back in time. Each call is still handmade, hand-tuned, and crafted with unmatched passion for the outdoors. I re

Duke Ellington famously said, If it sounds good, it is good. Southwest Louisiana embodies this spirit, where live music and pleasant weather invite everyone to step out and dance. As dusk falls, Downtown Lake Charles comes alive with the Downtown at Sundown concert series—one of my top Friday night outings. Starting May 15, enjoy four consecutive Fridays from 6-9 p.m., with streets closed for dancing and relaxing. This years lineup features Wendy Colonna, Marcia Ball, Rusty Metoyer & Zydeco

Shopping on vacation is always a thrill—hunting for unique, destination-specific treasures, souvenirs for loved ones, or indulging in some rare solo browsing time. In Lake Charles, Southwest Louisiana, discover exceptional local boutiques that make every visit memorable and worthwhile. In Part 1 of our Reasons to Shop Local series, we spotlight womens fashion havens and must-visit spots for authentic culinary gifts. FASHION FINDS Catina Couture brings vibrant fashion to Southwest Louisiana w

Louisiana’s love affair with cocktails dates back centuries. Sipping a summer cocktail or frozen beverage is an essential way to escape the intense heat and humidity. And it doesn’t have to be alcoholic—think of our iconic snowballs! In this summer blog series, we explore cocktails and frozen drinks across Southwest Louisiana, sharing recipes from top local bars and restaurants so you can savor them on-site or recreate at home. At 121 Artisan Bistro, experience Martini Madness every Wednesday

Louisiana is in the midst of a craft spirits renaissance, with breweries and distilleries emerging statewide, crafting high-quality products often featuring local ingredients. Abundant sugarcane makes Louisiana a natural leader in rum production—one of the most versatile and enjoyable spirits. During a recent visit to Lacassine, I discovered how Louisiana Spirits Distillery embodies the states rum heritage. As a history enthusiast and farm-to-table advocate, the tour—from sugarcane field

In Part 1 of our guide to shopping local in Lake Charles, we highlighted boutiques for womens apparel and delightful spots for food lovers. In Part 2, discover authentic Louisiana-made goods at select stores and unique treasures for your home. These finds make perfect souvenirs to cherish memories of your trip. LOUISIANA-MADE PRODUCTS For a true taste of Louisiana, visit Louisiana Market in the Cottage Shops Cultural District. They stock Certified Cajun Foods—products grown, made, produced, a

Surviving a Louisiana summer demands something refreshingly cold. Frozen delights like Coke Icees, sno-cones, and slushies offer a welcome escape from 80- to 100-degree heat. This summer, discover the coolest kid on the block: Pops and Rockets gourmet popsicles. These innovative treats bring fresh, bold flavors to the Lake Area. I first featured their king cake pop in February, and since then, theyve introduced outrageous flavors that keep customers returning. Owners Robbie Austin and Nick V

Charming mom-and-pop shops define the appeal of Lake Charles. Since relocating to southwest Louisiana in 2007, Ive been captivated by local gems like donut shops, boiled crawfish stands, drive-thru daiquiri shacks, and especially snowball stands. Snowballs were a delightful discovery for me in Louisiana. Unlike childhood snow cones—coarse crushed ice in leaky paper cones with basic syrups—these feature finely shaved, dense ice that perfectly absorbs vibrant syrups. Shaped into cones and served

Drive-thru frozen daiquiri shops are a Louisiana specialty, offering a convenient way to enjoy adult beverages from your vehicle. Originally from Pennsylvania, where strict blue laws prevail, I was amazed upon moving to Lake Charles. After researching and visiting several spots, heres my firsthand guide to five top locations. These shops share large Styrofoam cups filled with tempting frozen drinks, drive-thru service, indoor seating, and weekend entertainment like live music or karaoke. Each b

Love a quick 48-hour escape to New Orleans? On the drive back to Houston along Interstate 10, savvy travelers pack an empty cooler and grab orders for boudin, andouille, cracklins, and jerky from authentic mom-and-pop spots near Lake Charles. Its a cherished tradition. Discover these six standout stops along the Texas-Louisiana border on the renowned Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail, based on firsthand visits. Louisiana Spirits’ Bayou Rum Sugar cane is a cornerstone of western Louisianas ec

Summer is in full swing in Southwest Louisiana, and the Red, White, Blue & You Festival is a cornerstone of Lake Charles 4th of July celebrations. Families and friends gather under the stars on blankets or boats for a spectacular fireworks display, filled with oohs and aahs as the sky lights up. The festivities begin with a star-spangled community street parade rolling through downtown Lake Charles. Participants are encouraged to decorate vehicles, golf carts, or bicycles. The family-fr

Lake Charles summers are scorching, making it the perfect time for our Summer Cocktail Series. At Ember Grille & Wine Bar in L’Auberge Casino Resort, expert bartender and cocktail creator Kelly Bistok crafts refreshing drinks like the Bayou Sidecar—a twist on the classic Sidecar—and the light, breezy White Linen gin cocktail infused with St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur and cucumber. The Bayou Sidecar showcases two premium Bayou Rums from Louisiana Spirits Distillery in Lacassine,

When Louisiana native and food legend Jay Ducote visited Lake Charles last year with the Tommy’s TV crew filming for the Louisiana Culinary Trails program, excitement was in the air. Jay runs his own blog, radio show, and writes a column for Louisiana Cookin’. His passion for our states culinary culture shines through immediately. Raised hunting and fishing like many Cajuns in the Bayou State, Jay joined us to showcase fresh, local seafood along Southwest Louisianas Seafood Sensation Culinary Tr

In Southwest Louisiana, our culinary scene shines bright. In June, the Lake Charles CVB invited locals and visitors to vote for their Top 20 Favorite Restaurants. Over 3,800 votes were cast, revealing Lake Charles/Southwest Louisianas standout dining spots! 1st Place: Steamboat Bill’s on the Lake   2nd Place: Luna Bar and Grill   3rd Place: Pat’s of Henderson With 205 restaurants nominated, the competition was fierce—including a four-way tie that expanded the Top 20 to 23 excep