Explore Lake Charles, Louisiana

The city of Lake Charles overlooks a freshwater lake with the only white-sand inland beach along the Gulf Coast. Local legends say the pirate Jean Lafitte made Lake Charles, Louisiana his hideaway and left behind hidden treasure on the shores of the lake.

This legend is celebrated each year with the state's 2nd longest festival, Contraband Days. Held annually the first two weeks in May, the festival features a re-enactment of Jean Lafitte and the Buccaneers taking over the city, complete with cannons and a "walking of the plank" by the city's mayor.

The nightlife is non-stop in Lake Charles, featuring 24-7, Las Vegas-Style gaming on either side of the I-10 Bridge and plenty of nightclubs featuring live music and evening fun. Golfers will enjoy a choice of several popular courses including a nationally ranked facility and for sportsmen, the hunting and fishing in and around Lake Charles, Louisiana is one of its greatest attributes.

The city is considered a major petrochemical refining center, gaming center, and home to McNeese State University.