A Road Trip to Remember: Top Places to See When Driving from Alexandria, Louisiana to Lake Charles, Louisiana
Are you planning for a memorable road trip in Louisiana? Perhaps a scenic drive from Alexandria to Lake Charles is right up your alley! This 118-mile long journey is an adventure-filled experience that showcases scenic landscapes and interesting pit stops along the way.
Whether you're a history buff, outdoor enthusiast or a foodie, there's something in store for everyone. From nature reserves, museums, state parks, and popular restaurants, here are the top places to see when driving from Alexandria to Lake Charles.
Enjoy a Melange of Cultures in Lake Charles
Lake Charles is a melting pot of different cultures such as French, Spanish, African-American, Native American, and Cajun, which makes it an excellent place to explore for foodies, history buffs, and art enthusiasts.
Visit the Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu - If you're fond of the Mardi Gras Festivals, you'll be excited to visit this unique museum. It features the history, traditions, costumes, and float designs of the event that celebrates the festive civic holiday.
Try Some Delicious Cajun and Creole Dishes - A trip to Lake Charles would be incomplete without indulging in the flavorful cuisine. Visit the award-winning restaurants like Steamboat Bill's, Bistro on the Bayou, and Luna Bar and Grill for authentic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish etouffee.
Stroll through the Downtown Charpentier Historic District - Take a leisurely walk through the historic district that showcases the city's early 20th-century architecture. The buildings feature styles such as Art Deco, Art Moderne, and Bungalow.
Explore the Beauty of Kisatchie National Forest
Kisatchie National Forest, situated in central Louisiana, is the state's only national forest. It stretches over 600,000 acres of area that features pine forests, rolling hills, scenic rivers, and diverse wildlife.
Hike the Cary Trail - The Cary Trail, named after one of the forest's famous botanists, offers a 7-mile long trek through majestic pine forests and beautiful waterfalls.
See the Kincaid Lake Recreation Area - Kincaid lake, boasting of crystal clear waters, is popular for a range of recreational activities such as swimming, picnicking, kayaking, and fishing.
Take a Scenic Drive on the Longleaf Trail Scenic Byway - Take a drive along this 17-mile long byway to witness the beauty of the Kisatchie Forest. Along the drive, you'll come across some of the unique sites such as the Castor Creek Scenic Overlook and the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness.
Discover the Rich Historical Significance of Fort Polk
Fort Polk, situated in Vernon Parish, Louisiana, was established in 1941 during World War II for the Louisiana Maneuvers. It is now home to the Joint Readiness Training Center, which is a premier live-fire training facility in the US.
Visit the Fort Polk Military Museum - The museum features a range of artifacts, photographs, and documents that highlight the history of Fort Polk and the Louisiana Maneuvers.
Get Active by Visiting the Warrior Outdoor Adventure Park - This park provides the visitors with options for outdoor activities such as ATV trails, shooting ranges, kayak/canoe rentals, and fishing.
Explore the Leesville Historic District - The city of Leesville is situated right outside the main gate of Fort Polk. It features beautiful historic buildings and museums that showcase the Louisiana culture and history.
Relive History at the Alexandria Museum of Art
Alexandria, situated in Rapides Parish, boasts a rich history of Native Americans, European explorers, and African slaves. The city is a cultural hub that provides locals and visitors with a range of experiences, like visiting the art museum or touring the historic buildings.
Visit the Alexandria Museum of Art - The museum offers a range of exhibits from local and international artists. The museum's mission is to promote contemporary art and provide art education programs for the community.
Go on a Historical Tour of Forts Randolph and Buhlow State Historic Site - This state historic site features two forts from the Civil War era, which are currently in ruins. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to witness the history of the forts.
Spend Time in the Kisatchie National Forest - The 604,400-acre national forest features hiking, camping, swimming, and fishing opportunities.
Experience Nature at Sam Houston Jones State Park
Sam Houston Jones State Park, located in the Calcasieu Parish, features a mix of pine forests, hardwood forests, and swamplands. It is an excellent place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the diverse plant and animal life in the area.
Hike the Sam Houston Jones Hiking Trail - This trail is a 1.8-mile long walk through the mixed hardwood and pine forests.
Go Birdwatching at the Bird Observatory - The bird observatory provides an excellent opportunity to indulge in birdwatching, with many species calling the park home.
Fish in the Moss Lake - The lake, covering over 1100 acres, is an excellent spot for fishing. It is home to a variety of fish species like catfish, bass, and crappie.
In Conclusion
The road trip from Alexandria to Lake Charles is a must-do for those seeking an adventure-filled experience in Louisiana. With plenty of attractions, nature spots, and historic sites, there is something for everyone to explore along the way. So, pack your bags, start your engines, and get ready for a road trip to remember!