Lake Charles, located in Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana, is a city located on the banks of the Calcasieu River in southwestern Louisiana, and borders both Lake Charles and Prien Lake. The city is located on Interstate 10, with Interstate 210 serving most of the city. U.S. Highway 90 and U.S. Highway 171 are other major roads connecting Lake Charles to nearby cities.

This port city is the sixteenth largest seaport in the United States, with the Calcasieu Ship Channel providing direct access to the Gulf of Mexico, 34 miles downstream from the city docks. The city grew as a lumbering center in the late 19th century, but now is a major petrochemical refining center in the country.

Recreational opportunitiesa are abound at Lake Charles. A drive along Creole Nature Trail will take you towards the Gulf and deep into Cajun country. Sabine National Wildlife Refuge is a popular destination, where you can take a 1.5-mile nature trail into this land of alligators, mink, and rare and beautiful waterbirds such as the roseate spoonbill.

With a thriving cajun culture, which is celebrated each year during the annual two-week festival, Contraband Days. Lake Charles is known as an energetic and vibrant community that knows how to let loose and relax. Many people upon visiting, just never leave!