Candy Rodriguez

We're proud to share that the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road has been named the #8 Best Scenic Drive in the United States in the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards 2026! 🏆

Stretching 180 miles through Southwest Louisiana, the Creole Nature Trail offers travelers an unforgettable journey through marshlands, prairies, beaches, and some of the state's most abundant wildlife habitats.

📍 Start planning your adventure on the Creole Nature Trail today and see why it's one of America's best scenic drives: https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-scenic-drive/

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS, SWLA!

The Mardi Gras Museum is beginning to explore new ways to bring Mardi Gras to life with hands-on workshops and interactive programs that celebrate Southwest Louisiana's rich culture, history, and traditions.

We're considering classes and experiences like:
🎭 Mask-making
🎨 Float design and creative construction
👑 King cake decorating

Now we'd love to hear from you! What kinds of demonstrations would you be excited to attend? Who do you know that would host a great workshop or event? Share your ideas in the comments!

Enjoying a Power Bowl for lunch at Area337LC!
Not pictured: A delicioso cafecito. ☕️

WOW!!

📰 Lake Charles Makes Headlines in Washington Post and Beyond

We’re excited to share that Lake Charles was featured in the Washington Post on Sunday, June 7, in a travel story highlighting the unique culture, cuisine, music, history and natural beauty that make Southwest Louisiana unlike anywhere else.

The article showcases everything from the Creole Nature Trail and Charpentier Historic District to zydeco music, local restaurants, Port Wonder, and the region’s rich Cajun and Creole heritage.

The story’s reach extended even further through syndication in additional news outlets, including The Detroit News, USA Today and other online publications.

Read here: https://www.detroitnews.com/story/travel/2026/06/01/why-you-should-visit-lake-charles-louisiana/90315826007/



📸 Featured: The Washington Post, Sunday, June 7, 2026.

That’s a wrap on Southeast Tourism Society’s Marketing College at Mercer University in Visit Macon! Now, time to finish my final project so I can earn my Travel Marketing Professional (TMP) certification in September.

A TMP is a professional designation awarded to tourism professionals who complete a three-year program focused on destination marketing, leadership and industry strategy.

Grateful for the opportunity to continue growing professionally and I’m ready to continue using what I’ve learned to better serve our community.

Day 2 of Southeast Tourism Society’s Marketing College wrapped up with our annual dinner.

So thankful for all of these beautiful humans! 🫶