About Lake Charles
Lake Charles is the fifth-most populous city in the U.S. state of Louisiana, and the parish seat of Calcasieu Parish, located on the namesake lake, Prien Lake, and the Calcasieu River. Founded in 1861 in Calcasieu Parish, it is a major industrial, cultural, and educational center in the southwest region of Louisiana. As of the 2020 U.S. census, Lake Charles's population was 84,872.
Places to visit in Lake Charles
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Creole Nature Trail
NatureA scenic byway running south from Lake Charles through marshes, wildlife refuges and Gulf beaches. Expect to see alligators, wading birds and wide wetland views along boardwalks and observation points.
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Charpentier Historic District
HistoricA downtown neighborhood of Victorian homes built by local carpenters in a distinctive mix of styles. A self-guided walk or drive reveals ornate porches, turrets and gingerbread trim.
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Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu
MuseumA museum showcasing elaborate costumes, crowns and memorabilia from southwest Louisiana's Mardi Gras celebrations. Visitors get a glimpse of the craftsmanship behind the parades and balls.
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Sam Houston Jones State Park
Nature · 7 mi from centreA wooded park north of the city where rivers and lagoons meet, with hiking trails, fishing, canoeing and birdwatching. A peaceful setting of pines, oaks and cypress.
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Lake Charles Lakefront
ParkThe downtown shore of Lake Charles, with a promenade, the Civic Center and a small sandy beach area. A pleasant spot for a sunset walk and a venue for many local festivals.
Where to stay in Lake Charles
Popular hotels in Lake Charles, out of 70 properties you can book.
Golden Nugget Lake Charles
From $174 per night
OYO Hotel DeRidder Hwy 171 North
From $70 per night
Wyndham Lake Charles
From $153 per night
L Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles
From $159 per night
Hampton Inn Lake Charles
From $218 per night
Wingate By Wyndham Lake Charles Casino Area
From $172 per night
Home2 Suites by Hilton Lake Charles
From $459 per night
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lake Charles By IHG
From $152 per night
Comfort Suites Lake Charles
From $106 per night
Super 8 by Wyndham Lake Charles Northeast
From $75 per night
Days Inn By Wyndham Lake Charles
From $68 per night
Clarion Pointe Sulphur - Lake Charles
From $114 per night
Best time to visit Lake Charles
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Lake Charles is October, when average daytime highs are around 84°F and rain falls on about 4 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Lake Charles weather forecast
- Wed 21 Oct 83° 56° 0%
- Thu 22 Oct 85° 57° 0%
- Fri 23 Oct 86° 59° 0%
- Sat 24 Oct 84° 60° 0%
- Sun 25 Oct 84° 56° 1%
- Mon 26 Oct 85° 60° 1%
Know before you go
- Currency
- United States dollar (USD)
- Language
- English
- Calling code
- +1
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zone
- America/ChicagoUTC−5
- Capital
- Washington, D.C.
Upcoming public holidays in United States
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year's Day
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- Presidents DayWashington's Birthday
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Getting to Lake Charles
These are the airports closest to central Lake Charles. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- LCH Lake Charles Regional Airport6 mi (10 km) from the city centre
Getting around Lake Charles
Driving is the best way to get around Lake Charles, although Historic Downtown is a pedestrian friendly area and it is easy to walk to most downtown attractions.
Lake Charles travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Lake Charles?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Lake Charles is October, when average daytime highs are around 84°F and rain falls on about 4 days a month.
What is the weather like in Lake Charles?
August is usually the warmest month in Lake Charles, with average highs of 92°F (33°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 40°F (5°C). The wettest month is typically May, with about 275 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Lake Charles?
Lake Charles Regional Airport (LCH) is the closest airport, about 6 miles (10 km) from the centre of Lake Charles.
What time zone is Lake Charles in?
Lake Charles uses the America/Chicago time zone (currently UTC−5). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
How do I get around Lake Charles?
Driving is the best way to get around Lake Charles, although Historic Downtown is a pedestrian friendly area and it is easy to walk to most downtown attractions.
What are the best places to visit in Lake Charles?
Top sights in Lake Charles include Creole Nature Trail, Charpentier Historic District, Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu and Sam Houston Jones State Park. A scenic byway running south from Lake Charles through marshes, wildlife refuges and Gulf beaches. Expect to see alligators, wading birds and wide wetland views along boardwalks and observation points.
Where should I stay in Lake Charles?
Popular areas for hotels in Lake Charles include Lake Charles. Well-reviewed options include Golden Nugget Lake Charles and OYO Hotel DeRidder Hwy 171 North.
How many hotels can I book in Lake Charles?
Destina Holidays currently lists 70 properties in and around Lake Charles, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.
