Food Traveler Magazine Winter 2017 | Page 42

An EcLeCtIc CaJuN GeTaWaY The Time of Your Life LaKe ChArLeS/SoUtHwEsT LoUiSiAnA For authentic charm, culture, history and delicious Cajun cuisine, you can get your fill in Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana. You can experience the great outdoors along the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road, and later that evening, enjoy casino gaming or a night on the town. The area is known for casino resorts, with four casino com- plexes in the area. Golden Nugget Lake Charles and L’Auberge Casino Resort sit side by side along the waterway, and feature spas, golf courses, live entertainment, incredible restaurants and retail outlets in addition to the casino floor. Delta Downs Racetrack Casino & Hotel has a Texas flair with restaurants, an event center, and of course, seasonal horseracing. Also, the Isle of Capri Hotel Casino has a re- laxed atmosphere with a dancefloor for people wanting to do the two step or Cajun/Zydeco dancing. Music, art, and culture are all thriving in Southwest Louisiana. There are concerts, and a downtown area with all local food experiences such as jazz brunches on Sundays to a Zydeco brunch on Saturday. Festivals and events pack the calendar year round in the area. Several well-known festivals include Mardi Gras, the Louisiana Pirate Festival, Arts & Crabs Fest and a myriad of spring, summer and fall festivals all brimming with live music, food and fun. Let’s not forget about the food! From jambalaya to gumbo, crawfish étouffée and the fresh catch of the day, you can taste Cajun cooking at every turn. Also, travel the South- west Louisiana Boudin Trail to taste one of Southwest Louisiana’s favorite finger foods. While you’re in town, you can also shop at specialty stores for Louisiana products to bring home to your friends and family. Everyone loves a gift from Louisiana! For more information on Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana, festivals, attractions, accommodations, restaurants and more, visit www.visitlakecharles.org/GoodTimes.