About Our Community

Downtown

At Lake Charles Memorial Health System, we are proud to serve such a rich and diverse community. Calcasieu Parish and the surrounding community of Lake Charles, Louisiana, has a French history extending back to its early settlers. Lake Charles is 70 miles west of Lafayette and 3 hours from New Orleans, located near the Texas border just 2 hours from Houston.

Southwest Louisiana has a thriving arts community, complete with exhibitions, festivals celebrating the arts, dance, music, concerts, theatre and more. Our rich cultural history makes art and creativity an intrinsic part of life for those living in Southwest Louisiana.

Events and Festivals

There are many ways to enjoy local sounds and delicacies. Lake Charles, the Festival Capital of Louisiana, has more than 75 festivals and special events each year, including Mardi Gras, Chuck Fest and the McNeese State University Block Party to name a few.

Savor delicious food or catch a live concert just about every weekend! View a calendar of events to see what’s going on in Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana.

Outdoor Activities and Recreation

Sunset

There are many different ways to experience the sights and sounds of Southwest Louisiana. From kayaks to bikes to pontoon boats. While you're at it, don't forget to experience the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road. See alligators, ride airboats and experience the natural splendor of Louisiana's coastal marshlands.

Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana offers lush hunting grounds and glistening waters filled with fish, from freshwater to the saltwater shores of the Gulf of Mexico, lapping up onto sand and shell beaches. Birding is top notch, with Southwest Louisiana located along the Mississippi Central Flyways meaning that hundreds of thousands of waterfowl winter here. Fishing is a year round affair with bass, crappie, redfish, and panfish - perfect for any Cajun dish! Crabbing is a local pastime, and anyone can join in the fun.

You will also want to check out Sam Houston Jones State Park for an up close view of alligators and the majesty of the marsh. The Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center has interactive displays so you can experience stories of animated Cajun characters, T'Maurice and Tante Marie!

Some points of attraction and interest include:

Visit our area's Convention and Visitor's Bureau website for more information about Lake Charles, Louisiana.

For more information about the Lake Charles Memorial/LSUHSC Family Medicine Residency, or answers to any other questions, don't hesitate to call 337.494.2023.