There’s a reason Lake Charles is known as Louisiana’s Playground. From restaurants showcasing local specialties to waterways waiting to be explored, there’s adventure around every corner, and on every plate. Whether you’re a resident or a first-time visitor, here’s what’s new in Lake Charles.
New Restaurants & Local Dining Highlights
Located downtown, Augustine honors chef Dave Evans’ France-born mother, who started a life for herself in the local restaurant business. The restaurant combines French elegance and Southern charm, both in gilded, velvet-draped decor and in flavor. Dishes include a French onion grilled cheese and blue crab spaghetti with salmon roe.
Since its founding in 2016, Crying Eagle Brewing has been a mainstay for beer, music, and inventive pub grub. Now, the Eagle has landed in a new location on the lakefront, offering a multi-level space with three bars and waterfront views to enjoy with your Louisiana Lager and crawfish queso.
Another new entry, Prestige 337, is a women-owned restaurant serving a fresh blend of Cajun and soul food, from creamy lobster mac & cheese to jerk-spiced lamb chops.
Latest Attractions & Local Experiences
Among the splashiest new developments this year, Port Wonder is a $30 million lakeside venue housing The Children’s Museum of Southwest Louisiana, with interactive exhibits that invite children to crawl through an alligator’s nest or climb a lighthouse. There’s also the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Nature and Science Center, where visitors can touch stingrays, marvel at aquariums, and play a virtual fishing game.
Complementing the experience is Petit Lagniappe, a gift shop stocked with kid-approved toys, costumes, accessories, and games, with gift wrapping included. Entry isn’t required to shop, and all proceeds benefit the museum’s year-round programming.
And home to ball fields and playgrounds, Pinederosa Park Recreation Complex now features the Lazy Gator Waterpark, complete with a 1,000-foot lazy river, splash pad, four water slides, and a food and beverage pavilion.
The new 6,000-sq.-ft. building for the Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu is now open in the Nellie Lutcher Cultural District, offering a whimsical collection of historic costumes and animatronics (including a talking dog, representing the Krewe of Barkus).
Mia’s Downtown, a popular boutique selling women’s apparel and home décor, has expanded! Shoppers can now expand their wardrobe at the original downtown location and at the new location in the Prien Lake Mall.
Downtown Lake Charles Updates
Known for its historic architecture, proximity to the lakefront, and boutique businesses, downtown Lake Charles keeps things fresh with new developments and amenities.
All Put Together is a new boutique specializing in Louisiana brands, gifts, and apparel for men and women. Look for lots of LSU, McNeese, and holiday merch! Truck Stop Tuesday is a new monthly event combining food and community in front of Historic City Hall. Each month will feature a new food truck, such as Mi Tierra, a popular choice for authentic Mexican-style dishes.
The first Friday of every month, head down to The Lakefront for Feel Good Friday. Explore The Children’s Museum of Southwest Louisiana after hours, gather with friends, craft, shop, and enjoy delicious bites and brews from Crying Eagle Brewing Lakefront.
Some of the biggest developments are still to come, like Five Iron Golf, pairing state-of-the-art sports simulators with food and drinks, while the proposed Ryan Street Historic District was approved by the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism. A new bed and breakfast is coming to Downtown Lake Charles. The Bank Street B&B, a repurposed home located in the Charpentier Historic District, will begin accepting bookings soon.
Upcoming Events & Seasonal Openings
Festivals and events are a defining facet of Lake Charles, and with more than 75 events each year, there’s always something to look forward to.
Downtown at Sundown, a popular spring/summer concert series, returns for four consecutive Fridays beginning May 1. From Swamp Pop to R&B, the city flocks to the downtown area for weekly themed concerts featuring regional bands. It’s a chance to shop, dine from delicious food trucks, and dance the night away!
Whether you’re just getting started or a lifelong fitness enthusiast, Wellness on the Water is a great place to connect with others. The immersive festival is designed to give motivation, support, and guidance, no matter where you are on your wellness journey. Explore the Lakefront on a 5K Run and 1K Walk, join a group fitness class, recharge with guided stretching, and bask in the upbeat energy throughout the day.
Grab your sunscreen and head south for the annual Holly Beach Crab Festival. This coastal celebration is a weekend of relaxation at one of the most popular beaches along the Gulf. Get ready for quirky contests, delicious Cajun cuisine, live music, and endless sunshine.
SWLA Pride Fest returns with a new location! Celebrate authenticity and confidence with family-friendly games and crafts, LGBTQ+ vendors, and a catwalk contest. The party moves indoors for the Main Event with DJ EJ and Jorgeous from RuPaul’s Drag Race.
The Juneteenth Freedom Festival returns with a week-long celebration of freedom, community involvement, education, and cultural pride. From fitness events and a community clean-up to a comedy show hosted by Sheryl Underwood, it’s an inclusive celebration leading up to a full-day festival and concert on June 19.
Celebrate America250 at Red, White, Blue & You, a 4th of July celebration! Kayak and boat throughout the day, groove to local bands, witness the Armed Forces salute, and join the hot dog eating contest. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and camp out anywhere along the Lakefront for front row seats to the grand finale fireworks display.
Pack your dancing shoes and appetite for the return of the Cajun Music and Food Festival. Get ready to two-step to performances from Cajun bands, shop for trinkets, cheer on your new favorite accordion players, and sample traditional Cajun dishes like jambalaya and gumbo.
What began as a small community gathering in Hackberry, LA, has transformed into the hottest summer concert in the region. Get ready to spend two days rocking out to popular Zydeco, Swamp Pop, and Cajun bands at the Marshland Festival.
Fans of all things spicy don’t want to miss SWLA’S Hot Sauce Fest, a new festival highlighting the hottest vendors in the region.
Summer festival season closes out with Cal-Cam Fair. Celebrating 104 years of amusement, pageantry, and the importance of livestock, this beloved festival is a celebrated community event. Indulge in traditional fair foods like funnel cakes and turkey legs, brave thrilling carnival rides and games, and enjoy live performances from local bands, dance groups, and choirs. It’s a wonderful weekend, perfect for making lasting memories.
Plan Your Trip to Lake Charles
Lake Charles continues to balance its familiar charms with new reasons to visit. If you’re drawn to seasonal festivals, waterfront views, or inventive dining, this corner of Southwest Louisiana invites exploration at your own pace. Plan your visit to Louisiana’s Playground today and discover why Lake Charles remains a destination that rewards curiosity.
Dining and Cooking