For an all-in-one destination that exudes luxury and unparalleled relaxation close to home, set a course for Cypress Bayou Casino Hotel, Louisiana's first land-based casino, just a short drive southeast of Lafayette on the Chitimacha Indian Reservation in Charenton.
History of the Chitimacha
The original inhabitants of the Cajun Coast, the Chitimacha likely inhabited this region as far back as the 1300s, when they commanded a well-earned reputation as one of the most powerful tribes along the Gulf Coast between Texas and Florida. Today, the Tribe still inhabits a portion of its indigenous territory—the only federally recognized tribe in the state to do so. Leaders in cultural preservation and economic development, the Tribe claims the title of the second largest employer in St. Mary Parish.
Before or after a visit to the casino, swing by the Chitimacha Museum to gain a deeper appreciation for the Tribe’s storied history. Multiple wall cases display Chitimacha baskets (many more than one hundred years old), an original dugout dates from between 1417–1677 AD, and several short films guide visitors through the Tribe’s history, connection to the region’s waterways, and language revitalization. At the gift shop, Tribal artisan pieces are available for purchase.
Cypress Bayou Casino Hotel, the crowning glory of Charenton with 102 rooms, is designed for an extended stay, and offers a multitude of amenities to guarantee a memorable getaway. Renovated in 2016, the casino offers more than 700 slot machines and a variety of table games. Beyond the gaming floor, The Pavilion, with 19,700-square-feet and seating for over 2,000, hosts live entertainment each weekend, including national acts and talent.
Scallops at Mr. Lester's. The steakhouse at Cypress Bayou Casino is frequently cited as one of the best steakhouses in the South.
Mr Lester's Steakhouse
When it comes to fine dining, Cypress Bayou’s selection of first-class restaurants is sure to satisfy. Executive Chef Willie Gaspard, an Abbeville native with experience at Juban’s Restaurant in Baton Rouge and Rip Van Winkle Gardens at Jefferson Island, presides over the property’s extensive dining facilities, which include award-winning Mr. Lester’s Steakhouse. Frequently cited as one of the best steakhouses in the South, Mr. Lester’s offers mouth-watering appetizers like buttermilk fried quail and BBQ shrimp and grits alongside its namesake steaks and seafood entrees with Cajun flair.
For traditional Mexican cuisine (and authentic recipes with a creative twist), stop by Loco Mexican Grill & Cantina. With its open patio seating option and Spanish-style ambiance, diners can escape the hubbub of the casino floor while snacking on chimichurri steak and fries, or chorizo boudin balls. Nearby, Cafe Delphine serves tasty Cajun and casual dining staples, from homestyle gumbo and fried seafood platters to po-boys and chicken wings.
Learn more at cypressbayou.casino/
