The Ultimate Gift Guide to Southwest Louisiana

It’s time to make your holiday shopping lists and check them twice to decide who gets all the nice gifts that await in Southwest Louisiana. Whether the weather outside is frightful or warm and sunny, get into the holiday spirit by visiting Not Just Christmas for year-round décor. We’ve crafted the…

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Creole Nature Trail Survival Kit

Are you planning a road trip down the Creole Nature Trail? Well, you should! “Louisiana’s Outback” is full of gators, wildlife, and natural wonders that the whole family will enjoy. Here are ten things you should remember to bring on your journey to ensure you have an amazing and worry free time. 1…

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Late Night Eats in Lake Charles, Louisiana

Once the sun sets over the beautiful Lake Charles, the fun late-night adventures begin. A good time is never scarce after hours here in Southwest Louisiana (SWLA), and lucky for you, neither is an unforgettable meal. A late-night adventure enjoying the many treasures SWLA has to offer is hard to…

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Alligators in Southwest Louisiana

The American alligator lives mainly in freshwater swamps, lakes, and bayous in the southeastern United States. Along the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road that traverses the marshlands, warm, sunny days bode well for sightings of an American alligator, which derives its name from the Spanish el…

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Where to Get Gumbo in Lake Charles

Whenever a cool snap hits in Southwest Louisiana, everyone knows it's gumbo weather . Of course, no one makes gumbo as good as your favorite relative, but we have some delicious contenders that even the most fastidious taste buds would agree are delicious and authentic. A true gumbo in Southwest…

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Tunes for the Trail: Louisiana Spotify Playlists

When you think of Louisiana, vibrant sounds of music come to mind—an eclectic mix of Zydeco, Cajun, blues, and soulful ballads that reflect our rich culture and heritage. To accompany your adventures in Lake Charles and the Southwest Louisiana area, we've curated three playlists that capture the…

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Haunted History of Lake Charles

If a building has withstood the tests of time, there are sure to be accounts of paranormal activity. Southwest Louisiana's rich history is filled with quirky stories about the citizens in the area. While some tales may seem too good to be true, these locations have actual events to support their…

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Shopping in Downtown Lake Charles

Tucked away in colorful boutique shops throughout downtown Lake Charles, there is a variety of fashion, custom made art, and interesting finds that are perfect for spoiling yourself or bringing home a souvenir or two! The majority of all the businesses in downtown Lake Charles are locally owned, and…

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