All of them are serving up good food and a good time. Most are located in or very near downtown Beaumont making it easy to visit while you’re in the area. 

I’m sharing the restaurants I’ve personally tried and enjoyed, with a couple I want to try next time!

Places to Eat in Beaumont Texas

Katharine & Co

Katharine & Company, located in the historic Mildred Building in Beaumont, is a gourmet restaurant that serves some of the best food throughout the week.

The menu includes fresh salads, homemade soups, house-made sandwiches, and from-scratch desserts, as well as beer and wines.

New York Pizza & Pasta

Pizza and pasta barely begins to describe what you’ll find on the vast menu at New York Pizza & Pasta. 

Have a hankering for fried calamari? Mediterranean salad? Ribeye steak? Salmon fillet? Shrimp Modo Mio? 

They’ve got all the gourmet Italian eats to satisfy every palate. They pride themselves in their Old-World cooking style, making dinner here an unhurried, quality experience.

Rao’s Bakery

Rao’s Bakery brings the sweet taste of Italy to Beaumont, Texas. They are famous for their Mardi Gras King Cakes that they ship out all throughout the United States.

They were also the first in Texas to produce and sell Gelato, Italian ice cream.  Rao’s is a great place for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, and of course a delicious variety of pastries, cakes, and desserts of many kinds.

J. Wilson’s

J. Wilson’s is known around Beaumont for its attention to detail. Fresh ingredients, carefully crafted in house, adorn every plate.

Fried shrimp, flank steak, stuffed chicken breast… everything is served like artwork on cast iron plates. J. Wilson’s has a great bar menu and offers brunch, lunch, and dinner.

Tacos La Bamba

Tacos La Bamba offers up typical Mexican food. Not the kind you might find up north in my neck of the woods, mind you.

But the authentic Mexican eats that take Taco Tuesday (and everyday) to a whole new level at a great price. They even offer breakfast tacos! Burritos, enchiladas, tostadas, and more can be found at this Tex-Mex restaurant.

Carmela’s Mexican Restaurant

Visit Carmela’s for traditional Mexican cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The menu includes all your favorite Mexican food options like flautas latinas, enchiladas, and classic tacos. Let me recommend Carmela’s famous fajitas!

Floyd’s Cajun Seafood Company

Floyds fuses Texas and its Louisiana neighbor with its southern hospitality and cajun way of life. The Floyds of Floyds have perfected their passion: the Crawfish, committing their lives to finding just the right flavor combinations to wow even the harshest critic. If you enjoy oysters you absolutely must try their famous Oyster Nachos. Happy hour is offered Monday-Friday

Struggle Street Brewing Company

Crafting their own beer right in Beaumont, Texas, Struggle Street Brewing Company is proud to be Texan. Stop in to try out their beer on tap. Their creativity keeps the tap options exciting.

Check out their menu for a thorough list of the beer they offer from various breweries as well as what they make in house.

Here are two restaurants I look forward to trying when I make it back to Beaumont Texas.

Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp

Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp, right next to Mamma Tia’s on Calder Ave. in Beaumont, offers a lively and fun dining experience with great music and casual vibes. Specializing in Mexican Cajun seafood, their must-try dishes include the Catfish Basket and Steak Nachos.

Mamma Tia’s Bistro

Mamma Tia’s Bistro, a newly opened gem in Beaumont, Texas, offers a fresh twist on dining with its unique “Mex-Italian” fusion. Combining Mexican and Italian favorites like pizza, pasta, wings, and sandwiches, the bistro serves up flavorful dishes in a newly renovated space. Be sure to try their famous Peach Bellini—it’s a must!

8 Fun Things to Do in Lake Charles

1. Airboats & Alligators Airboat Tour

If you’ve never been out on an airboat now is your chance. These Lake Charles swamp tours complete with airboats and alligators are so much fun. Skim across the water as you look for alligators and learn about life in the bayou.

2. Wildlife Refuge Wetland Walkway

Here at Just Short of Crazy we LOVE a good wildlife refuge hike and the Sabine National Wildlife Refuge Wetland Walkway does not disappoint. An easy 1.5 mile loop through marsh wetlands that includes an observation tower overlooking the refuge.

The refuge includes informational kiosks, covered benches, water and most importantly, a bathroom.  The walkway is ADA friendly and is open from sunrise to sunset.

3. Seafood Sensation Trail

You can’t visit Lake Charles and not try the seafood and this seafood sensation trail let’s you try the best of the best. Everything from fish to oysters to shrimp and crabs make their way into local dishes.  Follow the trail and savor the seafood.

4. Boudin Trail

Prior to my visit to Louisiana I had never heard of Boudin. For those who are curious Boudin is made of varying amounts of pork meat, liver, rice, onions, parsley and dry seasonings like salt, red pepper, black pepper and garlic powder. It is THE snack food of southwest Louisiana. I tried Boudin as both a link sausage and as a Boudin ball. This is definitely a culinary dish that is a must-try when you are in Louisiana.

5. Mardi Gras Museum

See Mardi Gras costumes up close and learn the history and traditions of this Louisiana festival. And if you happen to be in town at the right time of year, here’s a complete guide to Mardi Gras in Lake Charles.

6. L’Aubegere Casino & Resort

L’Auberge Casino Resort offers exceptional accommodations, a casino, beautiful pools, and unbelievably delicious on-site restaurants.

7. Imperial Calcasieu Museum

Home to a permanent and revolving exhibits the Imperial Calcasieu Museum showcases life in southwest Louisiana from the past and present. A perfect way to spend a rainy afternoon.

8. 1911 Historic Arts & Cultural Center

Located in historic city hall the 1911 Historic Arts and Cultural Center showcases traveling exhibitions from around the world, as well as regional and local artists. There are three floors of exhibit space, a clock tower and gorgeous courtyard. A definite must when you visit and won’t cost anything but your time as admission is free.

5 Free Things to Do in Lake Charles

Spend a Day at the Beach

26 miles of beaches along the Gulf of Mexico offers sun, surf and shelling fun.

Peruse Prien Lake Park

Overlooking Indian Bay, the park is located on the east side of Prien Lake. Here you can enjoy an idyllic setting complete with trees, grass, flowers, fountains, and streams. Enjoy a scenic view of the lake and the I-210 bridge. It is also the perfect location to have a picnic, take a stroll or watch the sunset.

Important to note: the nearby Prien Lake Mall has some of the best shopping in Lake Charles

Tour and Taste at the Bayou Rum Distillery

The folks at Bayou Rum know exactly what they are doing when it comes to making rum. The Satsuma Rum is so very good!! Mix some with a little Blueberry Lemonade and it’s sunshine in a glass.

Party at Lake Charles Festivals

The people in Lake Charles have perfected the art of having fun. Next time you visit Lake Charles, be sure to stop by one of their festivals. The area hosts more than 75 events and festivals each year. Everything from culinary events to one heck of a Mardi Gras event (2nd largest in Louisiana).

Stroll or Bike the Creole Nature Trail

This is one of the best places to hit the road and explore some of the best nature trails in Louisiana. Spot alligators and numerous bird species, go sea shelling or crabbing. The Creole Nature Trail is well worth exploring!

4 Things to Do in Lake Charles with Kids

Play at Millennium Park

Located on the lakefront the park is complete with splash pad (so important in the summer), swings and play sets. There is also plenty of room to run and a walking path, restrooms and picnic area to make a complete day.

Enjoy a Grosse Savanne Eco Tour

Take a boat tour out to a bird sanctuary and see planet Earth up close and personal. Thousands of birds flock to this region during migration season. It is an incredible sight to experience.

Picnic at Sam Houston Jones State Park

Head to the great outdoors and explore over 1,000 acres at Sam Houston Jones State Park. Filled with long-leaf pines, waterways, and an abundance of picnic spots. Its the perfect place to spend an afternoon or an entire day. The park also offers camping, cabins, disc golf and birding.

Explore History at the USS Orleck Naval Museum

The USS Orleck is one of the most decorated US Navy ships since WWII and you can literally touch history and feel the spirit of the sailors who served when you visit the museum.

3 Romantic Things to Do in Lake Charles, LA

Enjoy a Cozy Meal at the Golden Nugget

The Golden Nugget lets you experience a world of cuisine without having to dust off your passport or buy an airline ticket. From fine dining at the steakhouse or seafood house, to asian cuisine to Mexican, Italian and even a burger bar. Your taste buds will thank you for picking any of the restaurants at the Golden Nugget.

Take a Carriage Ride Through the Charpentier Historic District

Seriously, does it get any more romantic than a carriage ride?  Without hesitation this is one of my favorite things to do in Lake Charles for couples. The Charpentier Historic District in listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The district includes more than 40 blocks of turn-of-the-century Carpenter-style buildings. The tour is only available during the day so that you can best see the architecture and gorgeous gardens. It’s a must tour if you are visiting with the one you love.

Get a Couples Massage at the Spa du Lac

Y’all probably know that going to the spa is one of my favorite things. The Spa du Lac is a blissful experience and one worth adding to the memory books.  Covering 8,700 square feet with facial, massage and body treatment rooms, seperate men’s and women’s locker rooms, saunas, whirlpools and more.  After visiting the spa be sure to indulge in a dip in the pool or take a float on the lazy river.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is there to do in Lake Charles besides gamble?

From museums to outdoor adventures to Mardi Gras Lake Charles has so much to offer besides gambling. Not visiting during Mardi Gras season? Be sure to visit the Mardi Gras museum and be amazed by the costumes and even stand on a float!

Explore history at any number of the area museum. Get outside. Take an airboat tour. Go birding or fishing. I list all my favorite things above, but see how my friends over at 2foodtrippers enjoy their time in the city.

What is Lake Charles Louisiana known for?

Lake Charles is the 5th largest city in the great state of Louisiana. Conveniently situated on Lake Charles, Prien Lake, and the Calcasieu River. And, honestly, not that far from the Gulf of Mexico, only about 30 miles!

Home to the second largest Mardi Gras celebration in the state. It is also the epicenter for major petrochemical refining, has a massive tourism industry due to its location is SW Lousiana, and is the education center for this corner of the state.  Once you’re in Lake Charles New Orleans and Houston are a day visit away.

Is Lake Charles safe?

Use your street smarts, kids, and you’ll be fine. Like any other city, petty crimes exist, but if you’re ok visiting New York City, Miami, Houston, or LA you’re good to go to Lake Charles.

Some safe travel tips:

• Use common sense
• Stay in public/common areas
• Walk in groups or pairs
• Keep your handbag or backpack in front of you
• Keep your hands free, phone in pocket and be aware of your surroundings

What is there to do in Lake Charles at night?

The casinos are the place to be for nightlife in Lake Charles. From gambling to entertainment to fine dining you’ll be able to find plenty to keep you busy until the early morning hours.

How far is Lake Charles from New Orleans?

It’s an easy 3 hour drive from downtown Lake Charles to the French Quarter in New Orleans. Far enough that you could make a weekend of it, close enough to go for the day for a plate of beignets and a stroll around the French Quarter.

Learn more about Lake Charles at VisitLakeCharles.org

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Mystical Krewe of Barkus Mardi Gras Parade

Photo Credit: www.justshortofcrazy.com

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A Different Kind of Mardi Gras: Chasing Chickens and Tequila Soaked Gummy Worms

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Things to do in Beaumont, Texas range from culture to fishing to public art, things to do inside and outside and everything in between.

Beaumont makes a perfect weekend getaway and I promise you won’t go hungry. There are so many great restaurants!

Use this complete guide to plan your next adventure.

Things to Do in Beaumont Texas – Inside

Art Museum of SE TX

The Art Museum of Southeast Texas is a small, but well-curated museum in downtown Beaumont. With the mission to “provide education, inspiration and creative vision” to Southeast Texas, the Art Museum offers unique collections and exhibits as well as public programs.

Traveling exhibitions as well as their permanent collection celebrate Texas and its history and creativity. Admission is free with donations accepted.

Texas Energy Museum

Learn about the history of energy and oil in the Texas Energy Museum, as well as the processes involved in the refinery of petroleum. There are a surprising amount of products today that include oil byproducts.

Check out the interactive displays that showcase the evolution of the oil industry including an oil drill display and robotic characters who share the story of the great 1901 Spindletop gusher.

Tyrrell Historical Library

The Tyrrell Historical Library is not your average library. The focus of Tyrrell is to gather and preserve the history of the Beaumont area.

It is located in a beautiful hundred year old building and holds a treasure trove of historical and genealogical information all about Beaumont and the surrounding area.

Jefferson Theater

The Jefferson Theater in Beaumont is a beautifully restored theater that offers weekly classic movie showings. In addition, the Jefferson Theater has regular live shows and events including the symphony, ballets, junior league Dancing with the Stars, and so much more.

McFadden-Ward House

This stunning Texan home was built in 1906 and contains its original furnishings. The McFadden-Ward House is currently offering free self-guided tours of a portion of the house.

Throughout the year, you’ll find the McFadden-Ward House busy with community events, live music, summer camps, and more.

Chambers House Museum

The Chambers House Museum is another breathtaking oil boom home open for tours. The Beaumont Heritage Society inherited the house in 2004 when the last of the original owners passed away. T

hey found the home beautifully preserved with all of its early 1900s items and artifacts. Stepping into the Chambers House is stepping back in time.

Spindletop Gladys City Boomtown Museum

Take a walk through Gladys City as it was in the early 20th century during the first Spindletop oil boom. 15 replica buildings grace this museum, complete with a saloon, post office, and a livery stable.

The most fascinating display is the reenactment of the Lucas Gusher. In 1901, oil was discovered on Spindletop Hill shooting high into the air and continuing to gush for 9 entire days.

The Spindletop Gladys City Boomtown Museum replicates the awesome sight with water.

While the book is readily available on Amazon or a local bookshop near you I thought I’d give you a little peek at what you’ll find between the covers.

Not to brag, but I feel like this is really THE guide for finding the best food, festivals, museums, outdoor activities, music, and more.

While somethings may have changed the past few years, it’s still stands as a great guide to America’s North Coast.

Add these fun suggestions to your list of not to miss activities and attractions in Cleveland.

10 Unique Things To Do In Cleveland

Enjoy Lake View Cemetery—Cleveland’s Outdoor Museum

Lake View Cemetery has been compared to an outdoor museum, and for good reason. The elaborate grave markers, monuments, and chapels located on the grounds provide some of the most stunning funerary architecture in Ohio.

Highlights of the cemetery include the impressive James A. Garfield Memorial, which is the final resting place of the twentieth president of the United States; Wade Memorial Chapel, whose interior was designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany of New York; and the eerie Haserot angel, which looks as though it has black tears streaming down its face.

Catch the Buzz on Buzzard Day

As proof that Clevelanders will celebrate anything, I give you Buzzard Day in Hinckley. The day starts with a scrumptious all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast, followed by a different kind of arts and craft show filled with the interesting and unusual.

After browsing, head out on the city streets for some good old- fashioned games. A guest buzzard makes a special appearance at the park during the spotting event.

Experience Wizbang! A Circus Like No Other

Locals Danielle and Jason Tilk have taken their oddball sense of humor, placed it on steroids, and created a memorable, one-of-a-kind, knee-slapping fun circus like no other.

Dubbed the Wizbang!, the circus, which started out performing for small audiences, has now grown to include bigger theaters.

Wizbang! is a pop-up theater that entertains guests with outrageous antics, circus acts, dance, music, cabaret, and nonstop fun.

The one thing to expect during a Wizbang! show is the unexpected. From one act to the next, you never know what will happen, but you know you’ll have fun finding out.

Meet Fuzzy, Giant Monsters at the Cleveland Kurentovanje

Kurentovanje (koo-rahn-toh-VAHN-yay), a Slovenian-style Mardi Gras, is held each winter in the Slovenian neighborhood. During the one-day festival, the streets fill with vendors, activities, food, and music.

The highlight of the festival is the parade, which features the release of Kurent, a seven-foot-tall abominable snowman–looking creature wearing bells, feathers, and streamers, whose job it is to chase away winter and usher in spring.

Seriously, does life get any better than attending a festival that celebrates a Yeti adjunct creature? I think not!

Prepare to Get Messy with the Polish Boy

What’s a Polish Boy? Well, it’s unlike anything else—a marriage of kielbasa, French fries, coleslaw, and Barbeque sauce.

This messy creation is available around town, and a few joints even offer their own unique rendition of the Polish Boy.

Head over to Hot Sauce Williams to try their verison topped with their special sauce. Best known for their appearance on Man v. Food in which the Polish Girl (like the Polish Boy but add a helping of pulled pork on top) was featured.

Of course, there are many other locations throughout the area that serve out their own version of the Polish Boy. Tip–Be sure to grab lots of napkins, it’s going to get messy.

Cheer On Your Favorite Caterpillar at the Woollybear Festival

In the science world, the woollybear is a fuzzy little caterpillar. In the Vermilion, Ohio, world, it’s a reason to throw a really big festival.

The Woollybear Festival, which happens every fall, is one of the largest one-day festivals in the entire state.

The huge parade is the star, well besides the Woollybear, of course, of this festival and lasts almost two hours and includes pets, marching bands, radio and TV personalities, vintage cars, floats, a royal court, and so much more.

Unique to this festival is the opportunity to cheer on your favorite woollybear in the Woollybear 500 Race.

Delve into the World of Rock and Roll

Immerse yourself in the world of rock and roll in the nationally renowned Rock and Roll Hall fo Fame museum full of memorabilia that preserves the history of “rock and roll,” a term popularized by Cleveland DJ Alan Freed in 1951.

Stroll through exhibits packed with instruments played by the artists, lyrics hand-scribbled on everything from napkins to notebooks, gold records, and stage outfits.

Step Inside The World’s Largest Geode

Rock hounds and gem collectors will be astounded to discover that the world’s largest geode can be found a short drive and ferry trip away from Cleveland.

Located on South Bass Island, Crystal Cave lies beneath the surface of Heineman’s Winery, Ohio’s oldest family-owned and -operated winery.

Tour guides lead visitors on an adventure forty feet below the surface to share how the cave was discovered when digging a well and how that discovery saved the winery during Prohibition.

How to View the Stars Tonight

Located on the campus of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, the Shafran Planetarium and Mueller Observatory take stargazing to a whole new level.

The state-of-the-art planetarium introduces guests to the wonders of the night sky around us and takes visitors on a virtual journey beyond our own small universe.

As a bonus, during the evening hours, guests can use the building’s roof to help find the North Star.

Soar Through Women’s Aviation History

Tucked away inside the terminal of Burke Lakefront Airport is a little-known museum that honors women who have soared to new heights in the realm of aeronautics.

The International Women’s Air & Space Museum sheds light on the important role women have played in the history of aviation—some of it out of this world!—from the accomplishments of such well-known women as Amelia Earhart and Sally Ride to the lesser-known endeavors of women who hail from Northeast Ohio.

It won’t take long to go through the exhibits that share memorabilia and artifacts, but the inspiration you’ll find will stick with you for a lifetime.

Buy 100 Things to Do in Cleveland Before You Die on Amazon and it’s companion book Secret Cleveland that adds a bit of the strange and bizarre to the Cleveland mix!

Pin 10 Unique Things To Do In Cleveland To Pinterest

Small towns are kind of my jam. I love the slow pace, charm, and hidden gems that usually go undiscovered, for the most part, by those who prefer big city adventures.

In 2005, Katrina demolished nearly everything along the coastal road.

In fact, ground zero for Katrina is just a few miles down the road in Waveland.

New Orleans got all the Katrina press, but these small communities along the Mississippi Gulf Coast were leveled and many businesses took years to rebuild.

Thankfully, Katrina couldn’t hold this town down and more than 14 years later, Bay Saint Louis is back to a vibrant community that welcomes ALL visitors with genuine kindness and openness.

I spent my brief visit chatting with locals, listening to stories of life on the coast, exploring the hidden gems and trying to figure out how to come back and do it all again.

The region is perfect for singles, couples, young families, multi-generational, girlfriend getaways, and snowbirds.

Honestly, regardless of what type of traveler you are, there is something for you here in Bay Saint Louis.

Plus, it’s location couldn’t be any more perfect.

Only an hour from NOLA there’s absolutely no reason not to add a visit here on to your New Orleans adventure.

This is, after all, the destination where New Orleaneans come to get away from the city and you’ll soon learn why.

27 Reasons To Visit Bay Saint Louis, MS

Pet-Friendly

Pets are allowed on the beach (with a leash please), at restaurant patios, in the parks, and at some of the area lodging (I’m looking at you Bay Town Inn).

Bowls of water are readily available around town for Fido to find a refreshing drink.

I loved seeing all the dogs around town.

New 100+ slip harbor

This harbor gives boaters the opportunity to easily visit the town.

Transient slips are available for free for up to four hours.

Tie up the boat, walk across the street, have a delicious meal, go shopping, visit the beach and then head back out.

How perfect is that?

Food, food, food

15 unique and independently owned eateries and pubs dot the tiny community of Bay Saint Louis.

Be sure to include Mockingbird Cafe, Serious Bread Bakery in your visit.

One-Of-A-Kind Boutiques

Home decor, women’s fashions, books, pottery, antiques, art, shoes and more.

These independently, mostly woman-owned, boutiques offer unique and fun items with lots of beach-themed options (adore).

Angel Trees

Live Oak trees are so important to Bay Saint Louis residents. When Katrina destroyed a number of the trees the wood was turned into Angel Trees.

Carved by an Indiana chainsaw artist, Dayle K Lewis, there are 6 “trees” located throughout town.

Stop in at the visitors center to see one and get the location of the other trees.

This Property is Condemned Movie Walking Tour

This 1966 drama starring Robert Redford and Natalie Wood was filmed in Bay Saint Louis.

Today, you can visit 5 filming locations complete with storyboards that have a photo of the scene from the movie so you can see it then and now.

All the locations are within an easy walk of the train depot. Pick up a map at the visitors center where you’ll find the first stop.

100 Men DBA Hall

A stop of the Mississippi Blues Trail the 100 Men DBA Hall is a historic music hall that welcomed the likes of Etta James and Ottis Redding.

If possible, attend an event or at least stop and check out the epic murals on the side of the building. So much history is stored between these walls.

Mardi Gras Museum

Ahhh and ooohhhh over Mardi Gras gowns that have been worn by members of the Krewe of Nereids.

The museum is free to visit and is located in the historic train depot.

Open Monday-Friday 9am to 4pm, Saturday 9am to 5pm

History of Hancock County Exhibit

Another reason to visit the historic train depot. 

The exhibit showcases travel, work, education, worship, entertainment, music, and hurricanes. Well worth the stop.

Golf Carts

Arrived by boat? Want to leave the car at the hotel?

You can cruise around BSL in a golf cart. So much fun to scoot around town in these electric carts.

Stop in at the BODEGA to rent your golf cart.

Starfish Cafe

If you want to experience something more than just satisfying your hunger, go to Starfish Café. The restaurant is famous not only for its tasty food but also because of how the restaurant values the community and how they are training up and coming culinary rock stars.

The restaurant ingredients like vegetables, herbs, and spices come from their own backyard and the rest are locally sourced.

Their menu is ever-changing and will depend on the ingredients they have available.

No prices are printed on their menu either – the diners just pay what they want. This encourages all to come at Starfish. Everyone is welcome.

Farm Market

Thinking of cooking a hearty meal while in Mississippi? Or you just want to taste something homemade or something fresh?

Bay St Louis Farmers Market has loads of fresh garden produce for sale.

The community farmers market has lots of choices to offer: from organic fresh local produce to homemade baked goods, jellies, local honey, handcrafts, hot tamales, plants and more!

Rise early and be there Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon before vendors sell out.

Old City Hall

Word on the street is that the Old City Hall could be haunted.

I ran out of time and heard about this possible haunting too late during my visit to actually investigate, but if you are interested in the paranormal it’s worth a visit.

The building is over 100 years old and once held the city jail. Stories of objects moving, doors opening and closing, footsteps, and bright lights.

St Rose de Lima

Home to one of the best Southern Gospel Choirs in the country and its altar features an extraordinary mural of an African Christ figure rising before a live oak tree. St Rosa de Lima will make you want to attend church just to hear that choir sing.

For an interesting history of the church and why it’s such an important stop on your visit watch this great video interview (start at 1:30 to bypass the long intro).

Second Saturdays

Shops and galleries of Old Town BSL are open to shop after hours. Second Saturdays feature local artwork, antiques, shopping, dining, and live music.

The Arts

The arts are alive and well in Bay St. Louis and is staying that way with the Creative Arts Center.

The center, located at the corner of Washington and Central, is a gathering space for emerging arts. Offering classes for everything from pottery to metal works.

Nearby is The Arts, a non-profit dedicated to promoting art in everyday life in Hancock County, Mississippi. They host a number of events throughout the year including the growing and popular Arts Alive festival hosted in March.

Sandy Beaches

Not only does Bay St. Louis offer up beautiful sandy beaches they do so with free parking! Unheard of in most beach communities so an extra nice treat here. Bring your beach gear and plan to stay a while.

Walkable Community

Once you park your car in Old Town Bay St Louis you are able to walk anywhere you’d like to go. I love that about this little seaside town. Restaurants, shopping, museums, Angel trees are all within a short stroll making it a perfect way to explore the town.

Oh Those Coastal Views

Honestly, I never get tired of standing on the shore of the ocean and staring out past the horizon.

There is something absolutely hypnotic about listening to the waves crash against the shore while realizing what a very big world we live in. And, oh, those Secret Coast sunsets.

They are not to be missed.

Bay Town Inn

I love this adorable inn by the sea. Seriously!

It’s comfortable, beautifully decorated and designed and located in the heart of Bay St.Louis.

Be sure to read the story I wrote about my visit to the Bay Town Inn.

Alice Mosley Museum

Located in the T&N Historic train depot on the 2nd level. Alice Mosley is a nationally acclaimed fold artist, humorist and storyteller (1909-2004).

Many of her originals on display plus there are prints to buy.

I adore her works of art and hope to have the drunk birds (shown above) hanging in my house soon (they were sold out when I visited).

The museum also includes son Tim’s 35-year-old collection of majolica, art pottery, art glass and a range of Americana.

Free to visit.

Be sure to drive by Alice Moseley’s blue house located across from the T&N Historic Depo

Bay St. Louis Little Theater

Bay St. Louis Little Theater is a local community theater founded in 1946. Despite the destruction of the old Little Theater due to Hurricane Katrina, a new one rose at its present location.

The theater produces shows that are truly exceptional and features talented actors.

Aside from the traditional shows staged in the theater, it can also turn into dance halls as well as a location for concerts.

This is a must-see and must-experience in Mississippi. Purchase a ticket to watch shows in this multi-awarded theater.

Kate Lobrano House

Aa 1896 Shotgun Cottage is now home to a turn-of-the-century museum located at 108 Cue St in Bay St. Louis.

There are over 30k pieces in the photo collection, county history including census, birth, marriage, deaths, etc.

Plus, the Kate Lobrano House is home to 800 reference books on the county and South Mississippi.

One of a Kind Festivals

Dolly Should (2nd Sat in Jan), Frida Fest (2nd Sat in July), Cruisin the Coast (Columbus Day weekend–America’s Largest Block Party with cruise-ins, headline bands and oldies entertainment, wamp meet, auto auction), Historic Cemetery tour (Oct 31), Snowflakes in the Bay (mid-Nov through December)

Waveland, MS

There are 3 things you shouldn’t miss at Waveland, Mississippi. First, visit the Lighthouse, originally built to serve as a bathroom at the beach and was finished to become a beautiful lighthouse that attracts more visitors.

Second, do some recreational fishing along the Garfield Ladner Pier with family and friends. The coastal waters offer various fishes for everyone.

Third, visit the Ground Zero Hurricane Museum which features inspirational displays of pictures as well as interactive exhibits that depict the recovery of the city and its people after Hurricane Katrina.

The MS Gulf Coast is Out of this World

If you are looking for a great and fun place to learn science, technology, and engineering, the Infinity Science Center is the place to be.

It’s a non-profit museum that includes the visitor center for NASA’s Stennis Space Center, a room full of carnivorous plants, a Deep Ocean Explorer, a place where you can build and invent, a rocket, outdoor exploration of the swamp, and many more.

Spark your curiosity, dig deep, and discover the earth, the ocean, and outer space.

Get Outside

Birding, Fishing, Biking, Walking, Kayaking, Paddle Boarding, Parks, Historic landmarks, shrimping, marsh tour, airboat tour, and so much more. If you love being outside you’re going to love Coastal Mississippi.

If you are ready for warm sand, blue sea, breathtaking sunsets, sun-kissed skin, sea breeze, seafood and laid back afternoons.

If you are dreaming about living the coastal life, if only for a week, then you really need to visit the Mississippi Gulf Coast and have a glimpse of the life and culture near the sea.

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Easy enough to put together and pairs perfectly with fresh bakery bread, veggies, and fruit for dipping. Serve with a chilled glass of wine or cold brew.

This recipe is inspired by The Melting Pot fondue restaurants’ cookbook. I’m going to try making this with an aged white cheddar (cheese aged over 12 months is naturally lactose-free) so that Em can enjoy it as well.

If you don’t have a fondue pot there are plenty on Amazon.com to fit just about every budget.

VODOO CHEDDAR CHEESE FONDUE

CHEESE FONDUE INGREDIENTS:

2 ¾  cups (11 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 cup beer (light beer recommended)

½ cup diced tomatoes with green chiles

2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic

½ cup cooked baby shrimp

1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

CHEESE FONDUE DIRECTIONS:

Toss the cheese with the flour in a bowl. Place a metal bowl over a saucepan filled with 2 inches of water. You may also use a conventional double boiler.

Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and pour the beer into the bowl. Stir in the tomatoes with green chilies and garlic using a fork. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.

Add half of the cheese and cook until the cheese is melted, stirring constantly. Add the remaining cheese a small amount at a time, stirring constantly in a circular motion after each addition until the cheese is melted.

Fold in the shrimp and pepper. Pour into a warm fondue pot and keep warm over low heat.

Serves 4 to 6. Serve with artisan bread, seasonal vegetables and apple slices for dipping.

Cheese Fondue Note – Cheese should be shredded and tossed with flour or cornstarch to aid in thickening and to improve the viscosity of the fondue. The fondue should be the consistency of warm honey when completed.

Monitor the cheese carefully as it is being added. Not all the cheese may be needed, and, in some cases, more cheese may be needed to reach the perfect consistency.

Yield: Serves 4 to 6

VODOO CHEDDAR CHEESE FONDUE

Print

This Voodoo Cheddar Cheese Fondue recipe is easy to put together and pairs perfectly with fresh bakery breads, veggies and fruit for dipping.

Ingredients

• 2 ¾ cups (11 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beer (light beer recommended)
• ½ cup diced tomatoes with green chiles
• 2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic
• ½ cup cooked baby shrimp
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Instructions

1. Toss the cheese with the flour in a bowl. Place a metal bowl over a saucepan filled with 2 inches of water. You may also use a conventional double boiler.
2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and pour the beer into the bowl. Stir in the tomatoes with green chilies and garlic using a fork. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
3. Add half of the cheese and cook until the cheese is melted, stirring constantly. Add the remaining cheese a small amount at a time, stirring constantly in a circular motion after each addition until the cheese is melted.
4. Fold in the shrimp and pepper. Pour into a warm fondue pot and keep warm over low heat.
5.  Serve with artisan bread, seasonal vegetables and apple slices for dipping.

Notes

Cheese should be shredded and tossed with flour or cornstarch to aid in thickening and to improve the viscosity of the fondue. The fondue should be the consistency of warm honey when completed.

Monitor the cheese carefully as it is being added. Not all the cheese may be needed, and, in some cases, more cheese may be needed to reach the perfect consistency.

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Here are 10 free things to do in New Orleans that won’t cost you a dime.

Free Things To Do In New Orleans

Free Festivals

You won’t have to look far to find a festival happening in the city. Numerous festivals are hosted throughout the year and many of them are free to the public.

Open Mic Comedy Night

Head over to the House of Blue on Tuesdays for open mic comedy acts in the Voodoo Garden.

Be sure to check out the House of Blues event calendar for other free shows throughout the week.

Watch Glass Blowing Demos at New Orleans Artworks

Hot Glass Now grants visitors the opportunity to appraise firsthand the lifeblood animating glassblowing and sculpture.

Observe our master-glassblowers while they work, and discover many of the techniques used to create designs exhibited in our glass collection and tax-free gallery.

Hot Glass Now comprises live demonstrations hosted daily in our open-working studios.

Admission to Hot Glass Now is free of charge.

Legendary Literary Tour

See where the literary greats once lived and/or spend time. Frommers.com has a great slide show with all the information you’ll need.

Hemmingway, Faulkner, Anne Rice, Grisham and more have spent time in the Big Easy. Now you can walk in their footsteps.

Free Dancing Lessons

Learn the tango at Eiffel Society (2040 St. Charles Ave.) on Tuesday nights from 7p-10p. Take a Swing beginner dance class at the Spotted Cat Music Club (623 Frenchmen St.) on Wednesday at 5p.m.

Art Walk

Stroll down Julia Street and browse more than 25 galleries. On the first Saturday night of each month join other art aficionados on Julia Street for a gallery hop that includes wine.

Also, the New Orleans Museum of Art offers free admission to the sculpture garden.

Free Jazz Concerts

Stop at Musical Legends Park at 311 Bourbon St from 10 am to close to enjoy some Jazz music. A great outdoor park that is a great place to relax from all the hustle of Bourbon St.

Jazz History Self-Guided Audio Tour

The New Orleans Jazz National Historic Park has an 11 stop tour. Stop by the visitor center at 916 N. Peters St and pick up your tour brochure or download a copy from their site.

Visit Jackson Square

One of the most energetic squares in the city. Jackson square always has something happening from vendors selling art to musicians playing music.

You can easily spend a few hours wandering around the square.

While you are there stop in the cathedral and take in all its beauty and grandeur.

Mardi Gras Museum

Stop by Arnaud’s and go upstairs for a tour of their Germaine Cazenave Wells Mardi Gras Museum.

The museum is free, but I highly recommend a stop at Arnaud’s French 75 Bar to enjoy a cocktail at one of the classiest cocktail lounges in town.

Order a French 75, sit back and enjoy.

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A few year ago it moved to Beaumont to offer more room for parking, crowds, and event growth.

And yes, Mardi Gras happens outside of New Orleans. 

In fact, you can go just about anywhere along the Gulf Coast and in the entire state of Louisiana and find any number of Mardi Gras festivities.

But why go anywhere else when you can celebrate Mardi Gras Cajun-Texas style in Beaumont?

I was joined by Nedra from Adventure Mom to attend the first-ever Mardi Gras of Southeast Texas in Beaumont and we had a great time!

This article is brought to you in partnership with Visit Beaumont. This article contains affiliate links. 

Why Celebrate Mardi Gras in Beaumont Texas

Why struggle through traffic and crowds to big city events when you can celebrate Mardi Gras in Beaumont, TX?

If you’re road-tripping from Texas to New Orleans for Mardi Gras you can save yourself a lot of miles and drive time just by taking the exit off I-10 to Beaumont. 

Seriously, you’re going to love Mardi Gras done Texas-style!

There are parades, carnival rides, fireworks, concerts, great food, a small chicken run, some of the best King Cake on the coast and so much more!

Mardi Gras Beaumont Parades

There were 9 parades during the four-day celebration.

Five of them are held along the city streets while the other four happen inside the festival grounds which required a ticket for entry. More on the fairgrounds later.

Of course, five free parades are more than enough to keep everyone happy.

There were floats, bands, dancers, fire trucks, cars, jeeps, and even an ATV/Golf Cart parade!

Arrive at the parades ready to have a lot of fun. It’s ok to dance in the streets, yell “throw me something, Mister!”, and have an all-around good time.

Plus, it’s all completely family-friendly. 

Oh, and the leader at the parades was none other than the Budweiser Clydesdale horses! I hope the Clydesdale horses lead the parades every year.

They are incredible to watch plus if you go to the Mardi Gras fairgrounds afterward you can see them up close and personal.

There is great music, lots of throws, and it’s one heck of a party.

As each float rolls past be prepared to catch some beads.

They are tossed frequently and in quantity and it’s a lot of fun to try to catch them.

Tips for Attending the Mardi Gras Beaumont Parades

• There is lots of free parking available. Some lots charge but we were able to easily find free parking and then walk a couple of blocks to the parade route.
• Be aware of flying throws and be ready to catch some beads.
• There is plenty of space for everyone along the parade route. No need to save a spot early in the day.
• The parades last about 45 minutes.
• Dress accordingly, stay hydrated, and use sunscreen, as needed.
• Plan to arrive early. During our visit, the times adjusted without notification. If you don’t want to miss an event I recommend getting there at least 30 minutes early.

After the parade head to the fairgrounds for more Mardi Gras fun.

Inside the Mardi Gras Beaumont Fairgrounds

Note: there is a fee to enter the fairgrounds. It ranges from $10-$15/day per person with no discount for children. An additional ticket is needed for carnival rides. The best deal is to purchase tickets in advance online.

Once inside the fairgrounds you’ll find carnival rides, fair food (alligator on a stick, anyone?), the Clydesdale horses, and so much great music. 

Live Music at Mardi Gras Beaumont

Each night of the event brings in different acts. Saturday night was a throwback to the 90s with Tone Loc and Vanilla Ice.

They put on a very energetic and fun show and the crowd went wild.

It is standing room only so make sure to wear very comfortable shoes.

There are three music stages with performers from all styles of music to keep the party going all night long.

Fair Food

There is fair food galore at Mardi Gras. The hardest decision you’ll have to make is what to eat first. Some of the vendors have long lines so be prepared to wait. 

Alligator on a stick, boudin balls, nachos, funnel cakes, and lemonade, to name a few.  If you can imagine it they probably have it.

However, this is not the place to go if you’re looking for healthy options.

Treat yourself to something though, it is Mardi Gras after all and it only happens once a year.

Budweiser Clydesdale Horses

Budweiser has a “barn” set up at the fairground for the horses to rest when they are not performing in a parade. It’s a must-visit while you’re there.

The horse stalls allow you to visit the horse and get a more up-close look at them. They are simply gorgeous.

Each of the horses has a name plaque outside their stall so you can learn a bit more about them.

Budweiser goes all out to make sure the horses rest in comfort and it’s one of the nicest portable barns I’ve had the chance to visit. 

Everyone’s Favorite Mardi Gras Treat — KING CAKE!

You can’t have a Mardi Gras celebration without Rao’s King Cake. No, seriously, you can’t.

Rao’s is the oldest bakery in Southeast Texas and they make over 12,000 King Cakes each season. You know they have to be good when they are selling that many. 

They offer up both full-size and individual-sized cakes plus they have Mardi Gras sugar cookies that you might want to try as well. By the way, Rao’s doesn’t use preservatives in their cake which we love!!

While at Rao’s grab a cup of coffee and give the pecan cinnamon roll a try. It’s a best seller for good reason. 

If you find yourself in need of a cake you can’t go wrong with the Eclipse or Dobasche cakes.

Fat Tuesday Taste of the Triangle

Round out your Mardi Gras celebration with the Taste of the Triangle. This is a ticketed event starting at $30.

Held at the Beaumont Civic Center you can sample small bites from over 40 restaurants and beverage companies from throughout Southeast Texas.

From appetizers to desserts you’ll get to taste dishes from all over the area.

Where To Stay When You Celebrate Mardi Gras in Beaumont

The Holiday Inn and Suites Beaumont Plaza right off of I-10 is a great location for your Mardi Gras stay.

It’s a quick 10-minute drive from the hotel to downtown for all the Mardi Gras fun.

If you don’t want to drive you can easily grab an Uber or a Lyft from the hotel.

The 8-story hotel offers spacious rooms, a hotel pool and gym, and an on-site restaurant and bar.

Parking is free. 

Mark Your Calendar for Mardi Gras 2021

The next time you find yourself in need of a good place to celebrate Mardi Gras be sure to consider Mardi Gras Southeast Texas in Beaumont.

The official dates for Mardi Gras Southeast Texas in Beaumont haven’t officially been set, but Fat Tuesday in February 16, 2021 so there is a really good chance it will be February 11-14th.

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Note: This post is photo-heavy 🙂

What could be better than seeing dogs dressed up in Mardi Gras costumes?

Well, besides chasing chickens, of course.

I can’t think of a better way to spend a bit of time and the reality met my expectations and the parade was a riot to watch.

Love the matching costumes.

At times it’s hard to see the parade participants through the encroaching crowds.

EVERYONE wants to pet the dogs as they go by

Mystical Krewe of Barkus Mardi Gras Parade Costumes

The dogs parade along the lake showing off costumes that range from simple to elaborate. Big dogs, little dogs, and dogs of every size in between join the fun to celebrate Mardi Gras their own way.

Working it like a pro

Tutu and Mardi Gras colors for the win

You can bring a couple chairs or stand along the route. I kind of recommend standing as the spectators kind of move and shuffle closer and closer to the dogs.

At some points you may need to be standing in order to get glimpses of the dogs, but even with the crowds, this is a really fun event to attend during Mardi Gras.

Mystical Krewe of Barkus Mardi Gras Parade Floats

Hands down my favorite “float”

SO very fancy

So creative for a Dachshund “float”

Simple but the fire engine red wagon is perfect for these puppy Dalmatians

I love how both dogs and owners dress up for the parade and I was impressed by the “floats” for some of the dogs.

Some dogs are costume free but so cute it doesn’t matter 😉

This is a great event for families that love dogs. I adored the parade and had so much fun watching the dogs parade by.

It definitely helped ease missing BB so much during my travels.

Details for the 2023 Mystical Krewe of Barkus Mardi Gras Parade

DATE: Saturday, Feb 18

LOCATION: Lake Charles Civic Center, Lakeside

MORE INFO: VisitLakeCharles.org

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I was about to find out as I stepped up in the parade trailer complete with a blue johnny strapped at the back.

By the vibe in the air, I could tell that I was in for a really good time.

Who knew that by the end of the parade I’d make new friends indulge in, maybe one too many, tequila-soaked gummy worms and cheer on a swarm of kids chasing chickens.

This is the kind of fun that can only be had at the Iowa Chicken Run in Iowa (pronounce Eye-Oh-Way), LA.

What Is The Iowa Chicken Run?

This rural, authentic Mardi Gras parade is a centuries-old tradition that includes riders on horseback, ATV’s and on parade trailers. Revelers and parade goers wear their absolute best Mardi Gras colors and you’ll see traditional style costumes mixed in the crowd.

A parade captain is in charge and blows a whistle for everyone to load up and head out. Stopping at rural homes along a predetermined route the captain will blow his whistle again indicating it’s time for zydeco music and dancing to entertain the homeowners.

If the music and dancing meet with homeowners approval gumbo ingredients are donated to the community gumbo dinner for later in the day. Before leaving the yard, a chicken is gently tossed into the air and as soon as the chicken’s feet hit the ground all the kids scramble to try to catch it.

Afterward, everyone loads back up on parade floats, ATV’s and horses and the parade moves on to the next lucky house. Rinse and repeat until the parade ends.

Who Started The Iowa Chicken Run

In 1978, Willie Bushnell, his son Willis Bushnell, Griffin Victorian, Rogers Bellard, Boo-Zoo Chavis, and their families started the Iowa run to keep their heritage and cultural traditions alive for their children and future generations to come.

When Mr. Bushnell passed away his youngest daughter Helen Bushnell Morris and his oldest grandsons and granddaughters continued the tradition until 2009.

The last several years, the eldest grandsons, Rodney Louis Victorian, Kimmy Bellard and their families have preserved the event.

Chasing Chickens

Just when you think you’ve seen it all the captain throws that chicken and the kids go WILD. My number one tip is to stay out of the way of the kids when that chicken flies free.

Stay close enough to enjoy their chicken chasing enthusiasm though because there’s nothing quite like it.

Usually, the captain only tosses a chicken once during a stop, but sometimes a couple of chickens are chased.

Yes, there are multiple chickens that get to share the thrill of being chased by local kids.

The successful child that actually catches the chicken receives a small monetary token from the captain.

I Blame The Tequila Soaked Gummy Worms

Whew, the chicken run is one heck of a good time especially when it comes to a new friend offering up tequila soaked gummy worms.

Planning is key as she made a couple of jars full of these alcohol soaked treats. Just like her mama taught her she made enough to share with strangers and for that, I say THANK YOU.

At first, I declined this interesting delicacy as tequila and I am not on the best of terms.

However, by the third time, the gummy worms came my way I threw caution to the wind and accepted my fate a big, fat juicy gummy worm.

Thankfully, I had a beer chaser to help keep that gummy worm down.

I’ll just say the second worm goes down a lot easier than the first 😉

Zydeco Music

A band on a parade float keeps the music going while traversing between homes.

Once you hop off your parade float for a bit of music and dancing the music is provided by an accordion and scrub board.

Even if you don’t have an ounce of rhythm or dance skill (slowly raises hand) Zydeco music will have you moving to the beat and a couple of gummy worms will have you not caring how bad you dance.

Is It Worth Attending?

In my opinion,  the Iowa Chicken Run is a must-attend event for anyone interested in experiencing an authentic Louisiana rural Mardi Gras. I had so much fun!

The locals were warm, welcoming and made us feel like we’d been friends for years.

So thankful for the invite to join them on an Iowa Chicken Run float.

More Information at Southwest Louisiana Mardi Gras

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Photo Credit: www.justshortofcrazy.com

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