Lake Charles, Louisiana will see three landmark attractions set to debut in 2025. The projects blend modern design with the city's southern culture and outdoor scenery. One of the year’s most anticipated openings is Port Wonder, a 23,000-square-feet lakeside facility opening in February. Located on the lakefront, this $30 million attraction will be a hub for exploration and learning. Inside, visitors will find the Children’s Museum of Southwest Louisiana, featuring interactive exhibits for young adventurers. Sharing the space is the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Nature and Science Center, the only attraction of its kind in the state. Guests can explore the freshwater and saltwater aquariums, get up close with stingrays in a touch tank, and enjoy hands-on STEM activities. Another major attraction Crying Eagle Brewing- Lakefront will open its doors in the summer. This full-service restaurant combines scenic views with a seafood-inspired menu and a microbrewery specializing in lagers. With a full bar offering cocktails and wine, it’s the perfect spot to relax after a busy day. The $12 million Crying Eagle Lakefront goes beyond dining with indoor and outdoor entertainment areas and a waterfront to-go station. Winter ushers in the new addition: Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu, located in the heart of the Nellie Lutcher Cultural District. This modern space will bring the magic of Mardi Gras to life with over 400 historic costumes spanning five decades. Animatronic figures, including the beloved Norah Jean, the talking dog from the Krewe of Barkus, add a touch of whimsy to this immersive experience. Designed to celebrate the family-friendly traditions of Southwest Louisiana’s Mardi Gras culture, the museum is a nod of the area’s unique heritage. “We’re thrilled to offer visitors and locals alike experiences that highlight the best of Southwest Louisiana,” says Kyle Edmiston, Visit Lake Charles President and CEO.

  Discover the heart and soul of Louisiana through a captivating interview with Maria Manzella of the Louisiana Office of Tourism. Maria unveils the state's irresistible allure, from its rich musical heritage to its delectable cuisine and boundless outdoor adventures. Highlighting the diversity of Louisiana's cultures and the warmth of its people, she showcases the state's penchant for celebration with an astonishing 400 festivals annually. With its unique blend of history, culture, and hospitality, Louisiana stands as a beacon for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences. Explore the magic of Louisiana at every turn, guided by Maria's expert insights.  

  Diana Hernandez from New Orleans Tourism vividly depicts the city's allure. Described as one of the world's most welcoming destinations, New Orleans embraces diversity, offering a non-judgmental atmosphere where visitors can truly be themselves. With its rich cultural tapestry, from urban exploration to renowned cuisine, the city captivates travelers of all ages and backgrounds. Recognized globally as a top food destination and the birthplace of jazz, blues, and the cocktail, New Orleans boasts a vibrant cultural scene. Through www.neworleans.com, travelers can access curated itineraries and event calendars, ensuring an unforgettable experience in this dynamic city.  

  Eugenie Mitchell, VP of Tourism Sales Lafayette Convention & Visitor Commission, paints a vivid picture of the city's cultural richness and natural beauty. From the unique Cajun and Creole heritage to the vibrant music scene pulsating through venues like the Blue Moon Saloon, Lafayette promises a sensory journey like no other. Mitchell highlights the significance of food in local culture, inviting visitors to savor the flavors of gumbo and boudin sausage. Additionally, Lafayette's outdoor offerings, including swamp tours and wildlife encounters, underscore the city's allure for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Dive into Lafayette's enchanting world through Mitchell's captivating insights.  

  Embark on a journey to the enchanting town of St. Francisville, Louisiana, as Devon Corbello shares insights into its allure. Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, this hidden gem offers a blend of scenic beauty, historical intrigue, and culinary delights. From captivating hiking trails adorned with waterfalls to the renowned Myrtles Plantation, known for its ghostly tales, there's something for every adventurer. Dive into the culinary diversity, including locally sourced mushrooms that add a unique twist to Southern comfort cuisine. Uncover the secrets of St. Francisville at visitStFrancisvilleLA.com and plan your unforgettable getaway today.  

  In a delightful exchange at the Royal Air Force Club in Piccadilly, London, Graham engages Marie Stagg from Visit Baton Rouge in a captivating dialogue unveiling the city's myriad treasures. Baton Rouge, Louisiana, emerges as a mosaic of cultures, offering an enticing blend of culinary delights, pulsating live music, and rich historical experiences. Marie paints a vivid picture of the city's culinary landscape, where Cajun, Creole, and a myriad of international influences converge. From blues festivals to swamp tours and leisurely bike rides along the Mississippi River, Baton Rouge beckons with promises of unforgettable adventures. Through Marie's words, Baton Rouge emerges not just as a destination, but as an immersive journey into the heart of Louisiana's soul.  

  Graham McKenzie engages David Bradley of Visit Shreveport Bossier, uncovering the allure of this Louisiana gem. David paints a vivid picture of Shreveport Bossier's multifaceted appeal, from its scenic byway trails to quirky gas station tours, all serving as gateways to the state's rich cultural tapestry. Highlighting the city's pivotal role in music history, David traces its roots back to Elvis Presley's iconic beginnings at the Louisiana Hayride. With tantalizing culinary offerings blending Cajun, Creole, and Texan flavors, coupled with a thriving music scene featuring both legends and rising stars, Shreveport Bossier emerges as a must-visit destination. Conveniently located and easily accessible, it beckons travelers to immerse themselves in its vibrant spirit and Southern hospitality.  

  Jennifer Bertholdt, a prominent figure in Louisiana Tourism, discusses her plans for promoting the state. They emphasize the importance of destination stewardship, highlighting the enthusiasm of residents and ambassadors in sharing Louisiana's unique culture and attractions. Climate change is integrated into Louisiana's tourism strategy, focusing on sustainability in events like Mardi Gras and raising awareness about coastal wetland loss. The conversation underscores the deep connection between Louisiana's culture and its environment. Jennifer will be speaking at the World Travel Market, where she will showcase new properties, attractions, upcoming festivals, and the significance of music in Louisiana's cultural heritage.  

Summer is over, and the fall festival season has kicked off in Louisiana. The season in Louisiana brings a variety of eclectic food, music and cultural festivals. Sip on a pumpkin spiced latte and enjoy the unique culture and sounds of the south this fall.   Fall Festivals – The Fall Festival line up ensures there's something for everyone. For literary lovers, the Louisiana Book Festival is a world class literary celebration and the largest book festival in the state. The festival is bookworm’s dream to meet celebrated writers, and enjoy thought-provoking presentations. There are varied activities plus food and live music all day long. If music is your thing, head to the Festival Acadiens et Creoles that takes place in October to discover Lafayette's unique cultural heritage. It's a free three-day festival of nonstop music, dancing, food as well as crafts. It’s a genuine Cajun and Creole experience like no other. Art enthusiasts will love the Red River Revel Arts Festival in Shreveport, which is north Louisiana's largest arts festival.   Road Trips - Fall is the perfect time for a road trip through Louisiana, with 19 Scenic Trails and Byways to choose from. Each route weaves through the state, allowing travelers to learn about the distinct cultures in each area. Each path presents a little taste of everything for visitors to soak up. Take in the scenery through Louisiana's bayous, gardens, and wildlife refuges. Learn about enriching history and stories at local eateries, dance halls, and the "Cajun Music Capital of the World," a stop on Zydeco Cajun Prairie Byway.   Film fans can check out the Cane River National Heritage Trail and stop by the Steel Magnolia House Bed and Breakfast in Natchitoches, where Steel Magnolias was filmed. It is now part of the Louisiana Film Trail, or take the Northup Trail and learn the fascinating true story behind Twelve Years a Slave. https://www.explorelouisiana.com/  

 

A Sportsman's Paradise

The ultimate playground

Sure, that’s a lot to live up to. But with thousands of hiking and biking trails, beautiful State Parks, and one of the largest game preserves in the United States, Louisiana is the ultimate playground for all outdoorsmen. Our vast expanse of coastal wetlands and countless birding trails make our state a habitat for many rare and endangered species and a natural paradise for bird watchers as well. Come step into the wild outdoors of Louisiana.

Tease Your Taste Buds and

Feel the Rhythm

Dive into our visual stories and learn more about Louisiana's culinary culture with tourism experts representing Louisiana, New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Lafayette.