Pre-/Post-Tours

Explore Southwest Louisiana’s cultural offerings during one of the most festive seasons of the year, Mardi Gras! From Twelfth Night to Fat Tuesday, Lake Charles transforms into a vibrant party with plates of piping-hot crawfish, flamboyant Carnival costumes, traditional and unorthodox king cakes, high-energy neighborhood parades, gumbo cookoffs, and more. Around here, you come for the food and stay for the party, but you’ll also fall in love with the locals. There is no better way to pre-game for SATW than reveling around Louisiana’s Playground in green, gold, and purple.

Includes reimbursement of up to $400 (rental, airfare [LCH], mileage) on transportation to Lake Charles and transportation in Visit Lake Charles company vehicle from Lake Charles to Shreveport for SATW. Availability is limited.

Experience the charm of the original French colony in Louisiana. Natchitoches (Nack-a-tish) was established in 1714, and retains its European flavor through its architecture, heritage and lifestyle. Chances are, the thing you’ll love most, (aside from the famous meat pies) is the charming 33-block Landmark historic district - a shopper’s paradise and a bed & breakfast lover’s dream. The Natchitoches area offers numerous attractions, museums, Creole plantations, a National Park, and year ‘round festivals including the Festival of Lights, Louisiana’s premiere holiday destination.

Includes transportation to and from Shreveport. Availability is limited.

Start your SATW experience with a memorable stay in the piney hills of North Louisiana! Ruston and Lincoln Parish is best known for its lively college-town atmosphere, 22-block historic downtown district, thriving arts culture, scenic outdoor attractions, and the incredibly sweet peaches grown here. During the tour, you can expect to brush up on your military history at the North LA Military Museum, shop for unique and handmade items in downtown Ruston's boutiques and art galleries, enjoy beer tastings at the local microbrewery, experience agrotourism at Mitcham Farms Peach Orchard, and enjoy the numerous public art displays in the area. And that's just the start of it. We hope you'll join us for a memorable tour made just for you in Louisiana's College Town!

Includes transportation to and from Shreveport. Availability is limited.

Mardi Gras in Cajun Country is the greatest, most colorful free party on Earth. Residents celebrate in many ways including the traditional Courir de Mardi Gras; parades with marching bands, beads, and doubloons; Mardi Gras Indians with elaborate dancing and costumes; various styles of king cakes; as well as extravagant Mardi Gras balls complete with a king and queen. If you've ever wanted to experience Mardi Gras in Cajun Country this is your chance!

Includes transportation to and from Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT).