LAKE CHARLES | SULPHUR | WESTLAKE | DEQUINCY | VINTON | IOWA
Lacassine Sunrise
REMARKABLE EXPERIENCES IN LAKE CHARLES/SWLA
Whether your meeting is big, small, or somewhere in between, Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana welcomes the opportunity to host your upcoming event in Louisiana's Playground. We are dedicated to ensuring that your meeting in our community is a remarkable experience from beginning to end. Our various meeting spaces and offsite venues provide ample options to suit your needs, guaranteeing that your attendees not only have an unforgettable event but also immerse themselves in the vibrant culture that defines our destination.
At the core of any successful gathering is the ability to foster connections and exchange ideas. We offer numerous avenues for networking and engagement.
Partake in culinary delights alongside colleagues at our renowned Cajun/Creole restaurants, indulge in a round of golf on some of Louisiana's premier courses, or arrange a captivating charter fishing trip. These exceptional opportunities highlight the abundance of activities that Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana has to offer, allowing for an enriching and well-rounded experience for your attendees.
We invite you to seize the chance to explore the breathtaking culture, engaging activities, and experience
Louisiana's most magnificent sunsets, all of which can be uniquely enjoyed in the charming locale of Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana.
Gracie Days Photography
Golden Nugget, p14
Lake Charles Event Center, p8
MEETINGS & CONVENTIONS
Each convention or meeting is different.
The Visit Lake Charles team is here to make sure your event turns out exactly the way you want it. Here are some of the ways we can assist you.
• Attendance promotion
• Bid proposals/RFPs
• Incentive programs
• Local public relations assistance
• Name badges for attendees
• On-site registration assistance
• Site inspections
• Spousal program itineraries
• Welcome bags and area information
• Welcoming committee
TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL CHARMING WEDDINGS
Southwest Louisiana is brimming with classic Southern charm.
Visit Lake Charles is able to provide assistance with room blocks as well as information on venues, caterers and more to make weddings as stress free as possible for the bride and groom.
For a complete list of venues and more, contact Visit Lake Charles at (337) 436-9588 or go to visitlakecharles.org/venues.
You know your clients. We know our area.
Together, we can create a customized itinerary that excites and engages, meets your client’s needs and exceeds your service expectations.
• Area brochures and maps
• Dedicated services manager with connections to local services and vendors
• Fam tours and site visits
• Group meal functions
• Group rates/Hotel leads
• Images and videos
• Neighboring tourism authority connections for Fam tours and day trips
• Qualified step-on guides
• Sample itineraries
SCAN ME
PLANNING RESOURCES & SERVICES
EVENT & GROUP PLANNING GUIDE
What to Do & Where to Start? Visit Lake Charles Can Help!
■ PREPARE FOR IT: (18-24 MONTHS OUT)
Do you:
• Have specific Dates Set? Flexible?
• Know the Total Number of Participants Expected?
• Have a Hotel Sleeping Room Block Estimate?
• Know your Meeting/Function Space Requirements?
• Have a Preliminary Agenda & budget set?
1. Start Planning Early! The sooner you can get the big things nailed down the better. The foundation of any event would start with picking the date(s), researching venue(s) and hotel(s), and entertainment or catering options. Once you have the foundation, everything else can fall into place. The further out you plan, the more options you will have, and it is also better for promotional purposes. Plus, it is less stressful to plan in advance!
2. Pick an Optimal Date and Optional Dates. This may seem obvious, but picking a date can be critical to the success of your event. Check to see what else is going on in town. Call Visit Lake Charles. The staff can give you an up to date account of what is happening, booked for the year and traditionally booked for the coming year. Optional dates are always good in case the venue that you need is unavailable.
3. Research Venues. Visit Lake Charles keeps the most up to date information on venues in Southwest Louisiana. Communicate your needs to our team, and we can help utilize our resources to find the right fit for your organization.
4. Hotel Proposals. There is no need for you to do tons of research when our team works very closely with the hospitality community. Call Visit Lake Charles and let them know your needs. Our sales team can send out a request for proposal (RFP) that contains pertinent information for hotels to be able to submit bids for your review.
■ SEE IT: (12-24 MONTHS OUT)
5. Conduct a Site Visit. Visit Lake Charles coordinates a tour of the hotel properties and venues for meeting planners. Site Visits are essential to making the best selection of venue for your group. We will work with you on dates that are best for your schedule and coordinate all the stops in advance. When it is time to sign the contract, you want to feel confident you've made the right choice.
■ BOOK IT: (10-16 MONTHS OUT)
6. Entertainment, Speakers and Talent. Of course, if there is a special group or individual needed for your event or meeting, that would go into picking a date. If not, once you have your date, venue, and host hotel, think about which groups might be good to showcase at your event. Research speakers or other talent such as musicians or DJs. If you need help with finding local talent, contact your sales manager or service coordinator at the Convention and Visitors Bureau. Our knowledgeable staff can point you in the right direction and send entertainment lists or suggestions.
7. Everyone’s Hungry! Time to make decisions on catering. Some venues provide their own catering staff, and some venues allow outside caterers. Depending on decor, you might even be able to choose a caterer who can dazzle your group by bringing in flowers and other decorations. With the surplus of delicious food in Southwest Louisiana, you can bet we have a list of local caterers as well!
8. Making it Memorable. Find a local photographer or photographer within your group who can take pictures of the events. It helps to commemorate the event, especially if it's a family reunion or milestone event. This will also come in handy with planning the next function. It's a great way to keep a record. Photographers, like entertainers or caterers all play into the budget.
■ VISIT LAKE CHARLES SERVICES (3-6 MONTHS OUT)
9. Services Coordinator. Visit Lake Charles provides numerous services to support your event. Our Group Services Coordinator will be in contact with you to review the services available. The best part is, most of our services are complimentary based on your hotel room block.
■ CLOSER TO THE EVENT (1-3 MONTHS OUT)
10. Mailings and Promotions. Today, we know that you are probably doing most of your promoting online. However, if you have a mailing list, it's great to send out a "save the date" card. Then, closer to the event, about six weeks beforehand, you can send out a reminder. Send the final invitation a few weeks prior to the room block being closed. Our destination services specialist can help create digital pre-promotion for you to send to your attendees.
Huntsville / Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau
ROOM LAYOUT GUIDE
Room Setup Examples
space to meet
note-taking. This is a convenient setup to use before breaking into role-playing groups because chairs can be moved.
space to meet
space to meet
space to meet
ROOM SETUP EXAMPLES
BANQUET
ROOM SETUP EXAMPLES
space to meet
ROOM SETUP EXAMPLES
THEATER
ROOM SETUP EXAMPLES
THEATER
ROOM SETUP EXAMPLES
THEATER
Generally used for meals and sessions involving small group discussions. A five foot round table seats eight people comfortably. A six foot seats ten people comfortably.
THEATER
THEATER
THEATER
Appropriate for large sessions and short lectures that do not require extensive note-taking. This is a convenient setup to use before breaking into discussion or role-playing groups because chairs can be moved.
Appropriate for large sessions and short lectures that do not require extensive note-taking. This is a convenient setup to use before breaking into discussion or role-playing groups because chairs can be moved.
Appropriate for large sessions and short lectures that do not require extensive note-taking. This is a convenient setup to use before breaking into discussion or role-playing groups because chairs can be moved.
CLASSROOM
BANQUET
Appropriate for large sessions and short lectures that do not require extensive note-taking. This is a convenient setup to use before breaking into discussion or role-playing groups because chairs can be moved.
Appropriate for large sessions and short lectures that do not require extensive note-taking. This is a convenient setup to use before breaking into discussion or role-playing groups because chairs can be moved.
BANQUET
BANQUET
Appropriate for large sessions and short lectures that do not require extensive note-taking. This is a convenient setup to use before breaking into discussion or role-playing groups because chairs can be moved.
BANQUET
BANQUET
Generally used for meals and sessions involving small group discussions. A five foot round table seats eight people comfortably. A six foot round table seats ten people comfortably.
BANQUET
Generally used for meals and sessions involving small group discussions. A five foot round table seats eight people comfortably. A six foot round table seats ten people comfortably.
The most desirable setup for medium to large-size lectures. Requires relatively large room. Tables provide attendees with space for spreading out materials and taking notes.
Generally used for meals and sessions involving small group discussions. A five foot round table seats eight people comfortably. A six foot round table seats ten people comfortably.
CLASSROOM
Generally used for meals and sessions involving small group discussions. A five foot round table seats eight people comfortably. A six foot round table seats ten people comfortably.
Generally used for meals and sessions involving small group discussions. A five foot round table seats eight people comfortably. A six foot round table seats ten people comfortably.
CLASSROOM
RECEPTION
CLASSROOM
Generally used for meals and sessions involving small group discussions. A five foot round table seats eight people comfortably. A six foot round table seats ten people comfortably.
CLASSROOM
CLASSROOM
CLASSROOM
The most desirable setup for medium to large-size lectures. Requires a relatively large room. Tables provide attendees with space for spreading out materials and taking notes.
The most desirable setup for medium to large-size lectures. Requires a relatively large room. Tables provide attendees with space for spreading out materials and taking notes.
The most desirable setup for medium to large-size lectures. Requires a relatively large room. Tables provide attendees with space for spreading out materials and taking notes.
The most desirable setup for medium to large-size lectures. Requires a relatively large room. Tables provide attendees with space for spreading out materials and taking notes.
Stand-up social function where beverages and light foods are served. may be presented on small buffet tables or passed by servers. May a meal function.
RECEPTION
The most desirable setup for medium to large-size lectures. Requires a relatively large room. Tables provide attendees with space for spreading out materials and taking notes.
RECEPTION
RECEPTION
RECEPTION
The most desirable setup for medium to large-size lectures. Requires a relatively large room. Tables provide attendees with space for spreading out materials and taking notes.
RECEPTION
Stand-up social function where beverages and light foods are served. Foods may be presented on small buffet tables or passed by servers. May precede a meal function.
Stand-up social function where beverages and light foods are served. Foods may be presented on small buffet tables or passed by servers. May precede a meal function.
CONFERENCE AND HOLLOW SQUARE
RECEPTION
Stand-up social function where beverages and light foods are served. Foods may be presented on small buffet tables or passed by servers. This setup can include highboy cocktail tables throughout the room. May precede a meal function.
Stand-up social function where beverages and light foods are served. Foods may be presented on small buffet tables or passed by servers. May precede a meal function.
CONFERENCE AND HOLLOW SQUARE
Stand-up social function where beverages and light foods are served. Foods may be presented on small buffet tables or passed by servers. May precede a meal function.
CONFERENCE AND HOLLOW SQUARE
CONFERENCE AND HOLLOW SQUARE
Stand-up social function where beverages and light foods are served. Foods may be presented on small buffet tables or passed by servers. May precede a meal function.
CONFERENCE AND HOLLOW SQUARE
Appropriate for interactive discussions and note-taking sessions for 25 people. Many hotels have elegant “boardrooms” for 10 to 20 equipped with full audiovisual capabilities, a writing board and a
CONFERENCE AND HOLLOW SQUARE
Appropriate for interactive discussions and note-taking sessions for fewer than 25 people. Many hotels have elegant "boardrooms" for 10 to 20 people, equipped with full audiovisual capabilities, a writing board and a flip chart.
Appropriate for interactive discussions and note-taking sessions for fewer than 25 people. Many hotels have elegant “boardrooms” for 10 to 20 people, equipped with full audiovisual capabilities, a writing board and a flip chart.
CONFERENCE AND HOLLOW SQUARE
Appropriate for interactive discussions and note-taking sessions for fewer than 25 people. Many hotels have elegant “boardrooms” for 10 to 20 people, equipped with full audiovisual capabilities, a writing board and a flip chart.
U-SHAPE
Appropriate for interactive discussions and note-taking sessions for fewer than 25 people. Many hotels have elegant “boardrooms” for 10 to 20 people, equipped with full audiovisual capabilities, a writing board and a flip chart.
E-SHAPE, U-SHAPE AND T-SHAPE
E-SHAPE, U-SHAPE AND T-SHAPE
Appropriate for interactive discussions and note-taking sessions for fewer than 25 people. Many hotels have elegant “boardrooms” for 10 to 20 people, equipped with full audiovisual capabilities, a writing board and a flip chart.
E-SHAPE, U-SHAPE AND T-SHAPE
E-SHAPE, U-SHAPE AND T-SHAPE
Appropriate for interactive discussions and note-taking sessions for fewer than 25 people. Many hotels have elegant “boardrooms” for 10 to 20 people, equipped with full audiovisual capabilities, a writing board and a flip chart.
Appropriate for groups of fewer than 40 people. These are best for interaction with a leader seated at the head of the setup. Audiovisual is usually best set up at the open end of the seating.
E-SHAPE, U-SHAPE AND T-SHAPE
Appropriate for groups of fewer than 40 people. These are best for interaction
Appropriate for groups of fewer than 40 people. These are best for interaction with a leader seated at the head of the setup. Audiovisual is usually best set up
Appropriate for groups of fewer than 40 people. These are best for interaction with a leader seated at the head of the setup. Audiovisual is usually best set up at the open end of the seating.
E-SHAPE, U-SHAPE AND T-SHAPE
Appropriate for groups of fewer than 40 people. These are best for interaction
Appropriate for groups of fewer than 40 people. These are best with a leader seated at the head of the setup. Audiovisual is usually at the open end of the seating.
Generally used for meals and sessions involving small group discussions. A five foot round table seats eight people comfortably. A six foot
Huntsville / Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau
Huntsville / Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau
LAKE CHARLES EVENT CENTER
900 Lakeshore Drive
Lake Charles, LA 70601
83,260 7.8
The Lake Charles Event Center has a sweeping view of the lake and is a large facility with extremely versatile rooms for any number of events.
• Ability to bring your own caterer
• Free on-site parking
• Convenient Access to I-10
• Seating for up to 8,000
Rosa Hart Theatre Jean
Rosa Hart Theatre
Rosa Hart Theatre
Rosa Hart Theatre
Rosa Hart Theatre
Rosa Hart Theatre
MEETINGS & CONVENTIONS
THIRD FLOOR
James E. Sudduth
James E. Sudduth
James E. Sudduth
Jean Lafitte
Accessible
Accessible
Accessible
Rosa Hart Theatre
Rosa Hart Theatre
SECOND FLOOR
James E. Sudduth
James
Sudduth
James E. Sudduth
FIRST FLOOR
James
Accessible
Sudduth
Sudduth
Sudduth
FOLDING WALL
FOLDING WALL
FOLDING WALL
Concerts, sporting events, trade shows, rodeos and equestrian events. Events and entertainment on any scale!
• Ability to bring your own caterer
• Free on-site parking
Chalkley Room
VENUES
WEST-CAL ARENA & EVENTS CENTER
401 Arena Road Sulphur, LA 70665
17,705 21
The West-Cal Events Center offers state-of-the art media resources, ample lobby space, and a large catering kitchen. Great for meetings, weddings and reunions. The West-Cal Arena offers a multifaceted open-air venue that can accommodate any size event, including rodeos, equestrian events, and festivals.
Event Center Arena
• Free on-site parking
• Flexible meeting space
• State-of-the-art A/V
• Convenient access to I-10
• Ability to bring your own caterer
• On-site catering available
• Free on-site parking
• Up to 120 covered stalls
• Seating for 1,800+
• 60+ 30/50 amp RV slots
ARENA
Meeting Rooms
Exhibition Hall
Exhibition Hall
GOLDEN NUGGET LAKE CHARLES
2550 Golden Nugget Blvd. Lake Charles, LA 70601
29,305 8 1,100
From intimate soirées to stately functions and conventions, Golden Nugget offers nearly 30,000 square feet of world-class indoor and outdoor event space to accommodate groups from 20 to more than 2,000 guests.
This luxurious casino-resort property offers 1,100 spacious rooms and suites, 12 renowned restaurants and lounges, live entertainment venues, a private beach and two-acre pool complex, a spa & salon, an 18-hole championship golf course and a retail promenade.
• On-site catering
• On-site audio-video services
• On-site valet and free self-parking
FOLDING WALL
TERRACE
Grand Ballroom
Willowick
L'AUBERGE CASINO RESORT
777 Avenue L’Auberge Lake Charles, LA 70601
26,000 8 1,000
From small-scale gatherings to large corporate events, L’Auberge has the right venue to make your next event spectacular. L'Auberge has enough space to accommodate upwards of 1,500 people and 26,000 square feet of meeting space.
L'Auberge Casino Resort is home to 6 innovative restaurants and 10 uniquely sophisticated shops and boutiques.
• On-site catering available
• On-site valet and free self-parking
VENUES
HORSESHOE CASINO LAKE CHARLES
100 Westlake Avenue Westlake, LA 70669
3,835 15 253
Take advantage of approximately 4,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. With breakout rooms for smaller meetings or gatherings, we can accommodate groups from 30 to 300.
• On-site catering available
• On-site valet and free self-parking
River
Bayou
Lake Basin
DELTA DOWNS RACETRACK CASINO & HOTEL
Get in on the thundering action at Delta Downs Racetrack Casino Hotel. With three separate and distinct spaces available, our meeting venues can accommodate anywhere from eight to 800 guests, and our newly enhanced hotel features 370 luxurious rooms and suites, and a deluxe aquatic and fitness center.
With more than 1,600 slots, live racing, and so many new and exciting additions, Delta Downs is just too good to pass up! Take I-10 to Vinton, Exit 4 or 7.
• On-site catering
• On-site valet and free self-parking available 2717 Delta Downs Drive Vinton, LA 70668
• On-site audio-video services
Rosewater Grill & Tavern
VENUES
SPRINGHILL SUITES
LAKE CHARLES
1551 W. Prien Lake Rd. Lake Charles, LA 70601
(Connected to Residence Inn by Marriott, p26)
WYNDHAM LAKE CHARLES
2940 Lake St. Lake Charles, LA 70601
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON
330 Arena Rd
Sulphur, LA 70665
1028 E. 4th St. DeQuincy, LA 70663
MEETING HOTELS
1150 W. Prien Lake Rd. Lake Charles, LA 70601
Lakeshore Dr. Lake Charles, LA 70601
VENUES
2505 Hwy. 108, South Sulphur, LA 70665
LA
VENUES
4550 South Park Road (337) 905-5867 www.stablesatlebocage.com
The Historic Calcasieu Marine National Bank
SOWELA Technical Community College Regional Training Center
The Brick House 110 W. Pine St. brickhousecateringandevents.com
SOWELA Technical Community College Regional Training Center 3820 J. Bennett Johnston Ave. sowela.edu/meet
The Historic Cash & Carry Building 801 Enterprise Blvd. empireoftheseed.com
The Venue 2525 2nd Avenue thevenuelakecharles.com
VENUES
LAKE CHARLES
Chadwater 8179 Tom Hebert Rd. empireoftheseed.com/event-venues/ chadwater-estate
Gray Plantation
6150 Graywood Pkwy. graywoodllc.com
The Tree House at Oak Crossing 5656 Nelson Rd. oakcrossing.net
Historic Calcasieu Marine National Bank 844 Ryan St. empireoftheseed.com
Mason Amie 1313 Stanley Rd. bayouretreats.com/maison-amie
Prien Lake Park/ Harbor's Edge Pavilion 3700 W Prien Lake Rd. cppj.net
Paramount Room 844 Ryan St. empireoftheseed.com
The Golden Doors Event Center 2013 Oak Park Blvd. goldendoorseventcenter.com
Imperial Calcasieu Museum 204 W. Sallier St. imperialcalcasieumuseum.org
SULPHUR
Henning Cultural Center 923 Ruth St. brimstonemuseum.org
IOWA
Estates 8424 Frontage Rd.
WESTLAKE
VENUES
*Temporarily closed at time of printing. Call property for details.
Bank Street Bed & Breakfast 1400 Bank St. tripstowalkabout.com/bank-street-bed-and-breakfast/
WIFI
Five luxurious staterooms, each with its own large private bathroom, decorated with charming period furnishings. Full gourmet breakfast, TV with cable, Wi-Fi, smoking porches—all the in the heart of downtown Lake Charles.
Two-room bed & breakfast, offering thoughtfully hosted stays with a full homemade breakfast included. This bed & breakfast is designed for guests who appreciate personal hospitality, comfortable spaces, and a place worth lingering.
Bodega Wine Dive
Mazen's
Villa Harlequin
Kathryn Shea Duncan
Kathryn Shea Duncan
121 Artisan Bistro
Kathryn Shea Duncan
Kathryn Shea Duncan
PRIVATE DINING VENUES
LAKE CHARLES
SULPHUR
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Chuck Fest Marshland Festival
Krewe of Krewes Parade
Southwest Louisiana has celebrations down to an art form—complete with food, music, lights and laughter. Known as the Festival Capital of Louisiana, we host more than 75 fairs, festivals and special events each year, including a Mardi Gras extravaganza!
JANUARY
Chuck Eats Week
Southwest Lousiana
Mardi Gras Twelfth Night
Revelry
Lake Charles
Louisiana Fur & Wildlife Festival
Cameron
Martin Luther King Festival
Lake Charles
FEBRUARY
Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana Southwest Louisiana
Southwest Louisiana District Livestock Show & Rodeo
Lake Charles
MARCH
Mardi Gras of Southwest Louisiana
Southwest Louisiana
Black Heritage Festival
Lake Charles
Iowa Rabbit Festival
Iowa
Southwest Louisiana Garden Festival
Lake Charles
Louisiana Food & Wine Festival
Lake Charles
APRIL
Rum Revival
Lake Charles
Live at the Lakefront
Lake Charles
Louisiana Railroad Days Festival DeQuincy
Spring Art Walk
Lake Charles
This Is Home Fest
Lake Charles
MAY
Downtown at Sundown
Lake Charles
Wellness on the Water
Lake Charles
JUNE
Holly Beach Crab Festival
Cameron
Juneteenth Freedom Festival
Lake Charles
SWLA Pride Con
Lake Charles
JULY
Red, White, Blue & You
Lake Charles
Lake Charles Symphony Summer Pops
Lake Charles
Cajun French Music and Food Festival
Lake Charles
Marshland Festival
Lake Charles
SEPTEMBER
Cal-Cam Fair
Sulphur
Calca Chew Food Festival
Lake Charles
White Linen Night
Lake Charles
OCTOBER
Chuck Fest
Lake Charles
Rouge et Blanc
Lake Charles
The Lost Hollows
Haunted Trails
Lake Charles
Front Porch Series
Lake Charles
NOVEMBER
Flea Fest
Lake Charles
Holiday Art Walk
Lake Charles
Mistletoe & Moss
Holiday Market
Lake Charles
Kids Create! Family Arts Fest
Lake Charles
Veterans Day Avenue of Flags
Lake Charles
Smoke and Barrel
Lake Charles
DECEMBER
Southwest Louisiana
Christmas Lighting Festival
Southwest Louisiana
Christmas Under the Oaks Sulphur
View full calendar!
Cal-Cam Fair
Smoke and Barrel
Chuck Fest
SCAN ME
ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT
CASINOS
Golden Nugget Lake Charles
GoldenNuggetLC.com
2550 Golden Nugget Blvd., Lake Charles Golden Nugget Lake Charles features 1,100 luxury hotel rooms and suites; an 18-hole championship golf course; extensive retail options; an 18,000-square foot ballroom; 30,000 square feet of meeting space; a one-of-a kind two-acre pool and lazy river complex; a private beach front and marina; and a spa and salon. The property is also home to a number of Landry’s signature restaurants including Saltgrass Steak House, Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse, Grotto Ristorante, Landry’s Seafood House, Chart House, Bill’s Bar & Burger and more; indoor and outdoor entertainment venues; and multiple bars and lounges with live music. Golden Nugget’s spacious casino floor features more than 75 table games, a high limit salon, a poker room, and 1,600 of the newest slot machines.
L’Auberge Casino Resort
llakecharles.com
777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles 26-story casino resort with 1,000 casually elegant rooms and luxury suites. Enjoy 30,000 square feet of non-stop Vegasstyle gaming with 1,600 slot machines, 83 table games, and 7 live poker tables. Hit the greens at Contraband Bayou Golf Club®, an 18-hole championship Tom Fazio course, and savor culinary delights at six innovative restaurants. Stroll down the L’Auberge promenade for an upscale retail experience featuring a collection of 10 uniquely sophisticated shops. Rejuvenate at the world class spa or take a dip at the pool & lazy river. Dock your boat at our marina and play a match of volleyball at the beach while enjoying top-name entertainment.
Horseshoe Casino
Lake Charles
caesars.com/horseshoe-lake-charles 100 Westlake Avenue, Westlake Head over to this newly renovated property and explore all the new things Horseshoe Casino Lake Charles has to offer, including a VIP Baccarat Lounge, a Caesars Sportsbook® location, a completely redesigned hotel tower and restaurant offerings featuring the award-winning Brew Brothers and Gordon Ramsay Steak.
Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel deltadowns.com
2717 Delta Downs Drive, Vinton Enjoy a spacious casino floor with more than 1,600 of the most popular slot and video machines, live Thoroughbred and American Quarter Horse racing from fall through spring on a six furlongs oval track, and daily simulcast events from coast-tocoast and around the world in the state-ofthe-art off track betting (OTB) facility. The beautifully appointed hotel features 370 guest rooms with a spectacular pool and fitness center. Additional amenities include the Gator Grill, Triple Crown Buffet, and fine dining in Rosewater Grill & Tavern and The Lookout Restaurant, as well as chart-topping entertainment at the Delta Event Center and local entertainers at Gator Lounge.
For upcoming casino entertainment & events, go to VisitLakeCharles.org/casinos.
Golden Nugget Lake Charles
L'Auberge Casino Resort
Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel
Horseshoe Casino Lake Charles
GOLF
Whether you are a novice or a seasoned professional, our five courses offer excellent conditions and Southern hospitality. This golfing destination, featuring lush scenery, Louisiana’s landscape and a mild climate, makes golfing available year round in one of the most beautiful areas in the country.
Lake Charles
CONTRABAND BAYOU® GOLF CLUB AT L’AUBERGE CASINO RESORT
777 Avenue L’Auberge, Lake Charles (337) 395-7220 • llakecharles.com
Hours: Daily dawn-dusk
Unique, public 7,077 yard, par-71 championship Tom Fazio designed course. Natural vegetation lines 8 lakes to challenge golfers of all skill levels. Named “Best Course” and “Best Secret” by Texas Golfer magazine; “most notable debut and most worthy designs” by Travel +Leisure Golf magazine; “2011, 2012, 2013 & 2014 Best Places to Play in Louisiana,” “Best Casino Courses of 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013” by Golfweek magazine. “Best Course in 2013 for the mid-south region” by Southern Gaming Magazine. Also awarded the 2011 Gold Tee Award for overall excellence and quality by Meetings & Conventions Magazine. Pro shop; driving range; concrete paths; Champion Ultradwarf Bermuda grass; locals rates. An interactive touchscreen GPS is available in every cart.
THE COUNTRY CLUB AT THE GOLDEN NUGGET
2550 Golden Nugget Blvd., Lake Charles 1-337-508-GOLF (4653) GoldenNuggetLC.com • Hours: 7 a.m.–dusk
The Country Club at Golden Nugget’s 18-hole, 7,000-yard championship golf course was
designed by award-winning Todd Eckenrode and Origins Golf Design. The course features miniverde greens, celebration tees, and fairways and roughs surrounded by Spartina Patens and Muhly grass. In addition, The Country Club features a full-service clubhouse with breathtaking views of the golf course and bridge. Chart House seafood restaurant features signature items such as fresh fish specialties and slow-roasted prime rib with an extensive wine, beer and cocktail list, and a Sunday brunch. The Country Club at Golden Nugget was voted One of the Top Ten New Golf Courses of 2015 by Golf Digest Magazine.
MALLARD GOLF CLUB
3470 Morganfield Drive, Lake Charles (337) 491-1400
www.mallardgolfclub.com
This Scottish links inspired golf course course, which was built in 2022, was designed by Jeff Blume. This Championship golf course features five sets of tee boxes, elevated greens, and rolling hills. The golf course is surrounded by native areas with no trees and was designed to have fast firm fairways for maximum roll with generous landing areas. It's sure to challenge the best golfers while also appealing to higher handicap players.
Hours: Daily 7 a.m.–6:30 p.m.; excluding Mondays, open at 9 a.m.
The 6,267-yard municipal course at Sulphur’s Frasch Park is an 18-hole, par 71 golf course, completed in 1966. Frasch Park is a pretty course to play because there are mature trees through the entire design. The terrain is fairly flat with a meandering waterway that runs through the course.
Westlake
NATIONAL GOLF CLUB OF LOUISIANA
1400 National Dr., Westlake (866) 255-6693 • (337) 433-2255 nationalgcla.com
Hours: Daily dawn–dusk
The 18-hole, par-72 course, designed by David Bennett, is set in a mature growth pine forest, featuring an abundance of water hazards, preserved wetlands, roughly 90 bunkers, and is part of a high-end, residential community. There are five sets of tees with yardage ranging from 6,065 to 7,025 yards. Selected as one of “America’s Best New Courses” by Golfweek magazine for 2011. Open daily, and tee times accepted 7 days in advance.
Contraband Bayou® Golf Club at L'Auberge Casino Resort
Country Club at Golden Nugget Golf Course
National Golf Club of Louisiana
Kick off your Creole Nature Trail journey at the Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point—a free, fun attraction that immerses you in nature and Louisiana’s unique culture. Through imaginative, hands-on displays sure to inspire, you can learn the best places to spot alligators and migrating songbirds, take a peek at wildlife found in bayous and marshes, smell the mouthwatering aromas of Cajun/Creole cooking, and “play along” with a Cajun and Zydeco band.
Located at 2740 Ruth St., Sulphur, LA, just south of Interstate 10 at exit 20. Call (337) 502-4358 for more information.
Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point
Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point
Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point
SCAN ME
CREOLE NATURE TRAIL
CREOLE NATURE TRAIL ALL-AMERICAN ROAD
Explore the vital Louisiana coastal wetlands in Louisiana’s Outback, and see the birds, alligators and other wildlife that inhabit them in their natural environments. One of only 57 federally-designated All-American Roads, the Creole Nature Trail's 180-mile drive is an outdoor adventure land with much to discover along the way. Whether your preference is to view and photograph nature, fish, crab, hunt, or to bask in the sun and collect shells, the Creole Nature Trail is a natural wonder and a recreational paradise for all ages.
Planning your adventure:
• 26 miles of natural Gulf beaches great for swimming, shelling, surf fishing and picnicking
• Over 400 different bird species spotted each year (including hundreds of thousands of migrating waterfowl in winter!)
• Peveto Woods Sanctuary is a great place to see migrating neotropical songbirds and butterflies.
• Fish from your own boat, a pier, shore or the banks, or hire a local professional guide…it’s up to you!
Enjoy interactive displays and colorful dioramas, including exhibits on marshes, swamps, prairies, Gulf wildlife, Creole and Cajun cooking, and “play along” with a Zydeco and Cajun band. (See page 42)
CREOLE NATURE TRAIL ALL-AMERICAN ROAD
3hrs | creolenaturetrail.org
Along this more than 180-mile distinctive natural corridor through Louisiana’s Outback—one of America’s “Last Great Wildernesses”—you have the opportunity to experience world-famous wildlife habitats and estuaries. (See page 43)
GROSSE SAVANNE ECO-TOURS
2hrs | (337) 310-4260
358 Chalkley Rd., Bell City grossesavanne-ecotours.com
Along Hwy. 82 in Cameron Parish 26 miles of natural Gulf beaches offer some of the finest “shelling” around. Holly Beach and Rutherford Beach are the two larger and better known beaches.
CREOLE NATURE TRAIL
LAKEFRONT PROMENADE
SUGGESTED MINIMUM TIME NEEDED
30min | 1100 Bord du Lac Dr., Lake Charles Renovated cobblestone path along the lake complete with custom lighting and seating. Conveniently located behind the Lake Charles Event Center, it is walking distance from Millennium Park, Bord du Lac Marina and the PPG Sprayground & Splash Pad.
NIBLETT’S BLUFF PARK
1hr | (337) 589-7117
3409 Niblett’s Bluff Rd., Vinton
History of the bluff dates back over two hundred years. One of the more significant events was during the Civil War when Niblett’s Bluff became an encampment. Among all this history are excellent fishing, camping, birding and hiking opportunities.
NORTH BEACH/INTERSTATE 10
1hr | (800) 456-7952 or (337) 491-1280
North shore of the lake (Exit 29 eastbound travelors, Exit 30A westbound travelers)
Located near the Lake Charles/SWLA Convention & Visitors Bureau, North Beach is perfect for sunning, beach volleyball and picnics.
PEVETO WOODS SANCTUARY
30min | (800) 456-7952
LA 82, 8.5 miles west of the LA 27/ LA 82 Intersection
Grab your binoculars and enjoy the natural beauty of the brightly plumaged spring warblers, tanagers and orioles as well as more sought after species such as the Scarlet Tanager.
PRIEN LAKE PARK
1hr | (337) 721-3500
3700 W. Prien Lake Rd., Lake Charles cppj.net
29-acre park on Prien Lake Featuring walking paths with measurement markings, canoe and boat launches, kids playground and sprayground water park, numerous picnic areas, amphitheater, two pavilions and free Wi-Fi.
SAM HOUSTON JONES STATE PARK
2hrs | (337) 855-2665 or (888) 677-7264
107 Sutherland Rd., Moss Bluff lastateparks.com
Features 1,087 acres of lakes, trees, vistas, rivers and streams. An excellent spot for bird watching with nearly 200 species brought in by the migratory patterns in the spring and fall. Park also includes a disc golf course and kayak rentals.
Grosse Savanne Eco-Tours Gulf Beach
BrendaLafleur.com
LindseyJanies.com
MUSEUMS & GALLERIES
Lake Charles HISTORIC CITY HALL
1hr | (337) 491-9147, 1001 Ryan St.
Rotating exhibits of great significance, presentations, and festivals.
ABERCROMBIE GALLERY/ MCNEESE STATE UNIVERSITY
30min | (337) 475-5060, 4205 Ryan St., Shearman Fine Arts Bldg., Rm. 125
Rotating exhibits by well-known artists as well as university faculty and students.
ALEXANDER ART STUDIO
45min | (337) 433-2299, 900 Ryan St., Ste. 102, alexanderartstudio.com
Original paintings and amazing gifts!
BLACK HERITAGE GALLERY
30min | (337) 491-9147, 1001 Ryan St.
Located within Historic City Hall
On Louisiana's African American Heritage Trail, rotating exhibits and educational activities representing the contributions of African Americans to Southwest Louisiana
GALLERY BY THE LAKE/ASSOCIATED LOUISIANA ARTISTS
30min | (337) 491-9147, 1001 Ryan St.
Located within Historic City Hall lakecharlesartists.com
Largest selection of art by local artists in the Southwest Louisiana area.
SUGGESTED MINIMUM TIME NEEDED
Learn more about our museums, galleries and the current exhibits on display at
IMPERIAL CALCASIEU MUSEUM
30min | (337) 439-3797
204 W. Sallier St. imperialcalcasieumuseum.org
Historical collection of artifacts and memorabilia depicting life in the Old Imperial Calcasieu region, also featuring the 375 year old Sallier Oak tree.
MARDI GRAS MUSEUM
1hr | 741 Enterprise Blvd. mardigrasmuseum.org
The Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu immerses you in all things related to Southwest Louisiana's familyfriendly Mardi Gras! From the traditional Mardi Gras chicken run known as a Courir de Mardi Gras to how the fabulous over-the-top headdresses and gowns are imagined and created.
PORT WONDER
3hrs | (337) 426-1559, 1011 N. Lakeshore Dr. Home to the Children's Museum and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries Nature and Science Center. Offers family-friendly activities year-round.
Sulphur
HENNING CULTURAL CENTER
30min | (337) 527-0357, 923 S. Ruth St. brimstonemuseum.org
Local artists’ works and traveling exhibits are displayed.
DeQuincy
DEQUINCY RAILROAD MUSEUM
45min | (337) 786-2823, 400 Lake Charles Ave. dequincyrailroadmuseum.com
Original town site in 1895 at the intersection of two major railroads. 1913 steam locomotive, passenger car, a caboose and other railroad artifacts are on display.
DEQUINCY TOWN HALL MUSEUM
30min | 218 E. Fourth St. Newport Industries museum and memorabilia. Wall of Honor paying tribute to locals who have served in the US military services.
Explore more things to do in Southwest Louisiana!
Kathryn Shea Duncan
Port Wonder
Imperial Calcasieu Museum
SCAN ME
ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT
HISTORIC SUGGESTED
Lake Charles
911 MEMORIAL
30min | (337) 491-1256
900 Lakeshore Dr. Memorial honoring two local men killed in the September 11, 2001 attacks.
CHARPENTIER HISTORIC DISTRICT
1hr | Downtown Lake Charles Step back in time with a self-guided walking or driving tour of one of the finest collections of Victorian architecture in Louisiana, dating from the late 1800s to the early 1900s.
MILLENNIUM STATUE
15min | N. Lakeshore Dr. 15 ft. bronze statue of Jesus Christ standing 23 ft. tall over the resting places of Lake Charles’ earliest and most famous settlers.
NELLIE LUTCHER MEMORIAL PARK
30min | Lake Charles
An ideal location for community events, this park features a stage, special landscaping features, and connectivity for food trucks.
SHELL BEACH DRIVE
30min | Lake Charles
Located along the southeastern side of the lake, this drive down Shell Beach Drive will give visitors a view of some of the most luxurious homes in the area.
VETERAN'S MEMORIAL PARK
30min | Lakeshore Dr.
Located along the boardwalk by the Lake Charles Civic Center, this park displays the five branches of the Armed Forces with engraved bricks representing the men and women who have served since WWI Famous WWII Patton Tank on display.
Sulphur
SULPHUR HISTORIC DISTRICT
30min | (337) 527-0357
In downtown Sulphur, there are sites of interest, private historic homes and shops.
DeQuincy
DEQUINCY HISTORIC DISTRICT
30min | (337) 786-2823
Journey through the area once known as the “Turpentine Capital of Louisiana” and tour beautiful and historically significant buildings.
View and download the Charpentier
Historic District Guide
Charpentier Historic District
DeQuincy Railroad Museum
Millennium Statue
Henning Cultural Center
TASTINGS
Lake Charles
BODEGA WINE DIVE
30min
(337) 564-6989, 3505 Country Club Rd facebook.com/BodegaWineDive
Charcuterie, Pizzas, Sweet Jams, and Atmosphere. Fun Tastings, Sommelier on staff, and a fantastic crowd. Oh and wine... lots of wine.
CRAVE
30min
(337) 421-0040, 2801 Ryan St., Suite 100 cravegiftbaskets.com
Crave is a unique "eat" boutique, offering gourmet baskets, premium olive oils and balsamics, wine, cheese and other fine foods. A unique tasting bar allows you to sample all of its products before making your selections.
CRYING EAGLE BREWING COMPANY – UNIVERSITY
1hr
(337) 990-4871, 1165 E McNeese St. CryingEagle.com
Craft brewery featuring a 4,000 square foot taproom, tasting bar, live music, entertainment, beer garden and more. Free tours.
Sulphur
YELLOWFIN VODKA DISTILLERY
30 min
(337) 660-8373, 1716 E. Burton St. YellowfinVodka.com
Smooth sipping, genuine craft vodka proudly distilled from Non-GMO Louisiana cane sugar, fermented, distilled, filtered and bottled at Yellowfin Distillery in Sulphur, LA.
Lacassine
BAYOU RUM 1hr
(337) 588-5800, 20909 S. I-10 Frontage Rd. BayouRum.com
Bayou Rum is handcrafted on site the Louisiana way – in a traditional copper pot using 100 percent natural, unrefined Louisiana cane sugar and molasses. Offers free distillery tours followed by a rum sampling!
Enjoy Southwest Louisiana's favorite finger food off the beaten path! Boudin is perfect for breakfast, lunch, dinner or anytime in between. The trail includes more than 30 stops with each location offering a unique taste & experience.
Bayou Rum - Louisiana Spirits Distillery
Crying Eagle Brewing Co.
LindseyJanies.com
MLHobby Photography
TRAVEL DISTANCES MAP
Now that you have read about all that Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana has to offer, it’s time to see it for yourself. Located on Interstate-10 just 140 miles east of Houston and 218 miles west of New Orleans. The unique sights, sounds, and culinary delights of Southwest Louisiana await your arrival!
Creole Nature Trail Route Airport
CITIES & MILEAGE
Alexandria, LA 102 mi/ 164 km » 1.75 hours
Austin, TX 304 mi/489 km » 4.5 hours
Baton Rouge, LA 122 mi/196 km » 2.0 hours
Biloxi, MS 272 mi/438 km » 4.0 hours
Dallas, TX 339 mi/546 km » 5.0 hours
Houston, TX 140 mi/ 225 km » 2.0 hours
Jackson, MS 300 mi/483 km » 4.5 hours
Lafayette, LA 75 mi/121 km » 1.0 hours
Little Rock, AR 400 mi/644 km » 6.0 hours
Natchez, MS 172 mi/277 km » 3.0 hours
New Orleans, LA 218 mi/351 km » 3.0 hours
San Antonio, TX 339 mi/ 546 km » 5.0 hours
Shreveport, LA 185 mi/298 km » 3.5 hours
SOUTHWEST LOUISIANA
TRANSPORTATION
AIRPORTS
Lake Charles
Regional Airport (LCH)
500 Airport Blvd., Lake Charles, LA 70607 (337) 477-6051
LCH is the local regional airport with service provided by United Airlines (through IAH) and American Airlines (through DFW).
Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT) (70 miles/1 hour from Lake Charles) 200 Terminal Dr., Lafayette, LA
Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR) (133 Miles/2 Hours from Lake Charles) 9430 Jackie Cochran Dr., Baton Rouge, LA
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) (140 miles/2 hours from Lake Charles) 2800 North Terminal Road, Houston, TX
William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) (146 MIles/2 Hours from Lake Charles) 7800 Airport Blvd., Houston, TX
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) (218 miles/3.5 hours from Lake Charles) 900 Airline Dr, Kenner, LA
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BUS TRANSPORTATION
City of Lake Charles Transit (337) 491-1253 www.cityoflakecharles.com
Greyhound (337) 439-4578 or (800) 231-2222
RAIL TRANSPORTATION
Amtrak www.amtrak.com
AUTOMOBILE RENTAL SERVICES
Avis Rent-A-Car (337) 477-9319
Budget (337) 477-7991
Enterprise Rent-A-Car (337) 479-2447 or (800) 736-8222
Hertz Rent-A-Car (337) 477-0616
National Rent-A-Car (337) 478-0083 or (888) 868-6206
CHARTER BUS RENTALS
Lake Charles, La Bon Temps Express (337) 774-4386
American Safety Transit (337) 222-9824 www.american-safetyllc.com
Hotard Coaches (800) 356-6831
Lake Charles Limo & Trolley (337) 304-1021 lakecharleslimoandtrolley.com
