Drooling over yesteryear’s architecture is hardly a blast for kids, but for adults, the 40 blocks of “the finest Victorian architecture in the state” can’t be missed. Some of the homes have been converted into law offices, while many are still private homes. Plan to either drive the blocks or walk the tree-canopied streets to ogle the turn-of-the-century homes. Begin your tour at the Lake Charles Tourist Bureau on Lakeshore Drive. Shell Beach Drive is another stretch of road featuring gorgeous, southern-style mansions. These impeccable homes overlook Lake Charles, have fantastic sunset views, and are worth a slow drive to ogle at them.

Hours
The Tourist Bureau is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; weekends from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.