The Charpentier Historic District in Lake Charles offers visitors the chance to go on a self guided walking tour that spans over forty blocks. The area is well known as a place of architectural wonder and is even named after the carpenters who worked on the houses, as “charpentier” is the French word for carpenter.

The houses feature eclectic styles dating from the beginning of the century, and visitors should particularly keep an eye out for little details like leaded glass, ornate finishes, and towers and spires that make the area look like something out of a fairytale. There is also an app you can download that will take you on a tour of the area with explanations in multiple languages.

Address: 1205 North Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601, 800 456-7952

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