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Houston, TX, USA to Lake Charles, LA, USA from $6: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Houston, United States of America
to
Lake Charles, United States of America

How to Get from Houston to Lake Charles: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$6 by trainBest price
235 kmDistance
2h 24m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Houston to Lake Charles with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
3h  19m
Estimated price
$6-90
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
3h  19m
Estimated price
$6-90
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 235 km
Duration: 2h 24m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  24m
Estimated price
$26-40
Company
United Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
3h  9m
Estimated price
$192-424
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Traveling From Houston to Lake Charles

This journey from Houston’s vibrant urban energy to Lake Charles’ laid-back charm offers you a delightful contrast between a bustling city and a peaceful getaway.

Best Neighbourhoods in Lake Charles

Lake Charles boasts a variety of neighborhoods, each with its charm.

Historic District
• Charming architecture with rich history
• Nearby galleries and museums for culture lovers
South Lake Charles
• Family-friendly parks and recreational activities
• Easy access to shopping and dining options
Prien Lake
• Scenic waterfront views for relaxation
• Popular spot for fishing and boating enthusiasts

Best Times To Visit Lake Charles's Attractions

To get the most out of your visit to Lake Charles, timing is key.

Lake Charles Boardwalk
Visit early morning or late afternoon for cooler temps and fewer crowds.
Creole Nature Trail
Spring and fall offer mild weather and beautiful wildlife sightings.
L'auberge Casino Resort
Weekdays tend to be less busy, allowing for a relaxed atmosphere.

Lake Charles Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Lake Charles enjoys a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. For the best travel experience, plan your visit during the spring or fall, when temperatures are comfortable, and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.

Dining Recommendation in Lake Charles

Don't miss out on trying the crawfish étouffée at Steamboat Bill’s, where the flavors of fresh local seafood and rich Cajun spices come together in a comforting bowl. This dining experience stands apart from Houston’s diverse offerings, showcasing a more intimate, community-oriented atmosphere that highlights the region’s unique culinary heritage.

Houston - Lake Charles operators

Explore transport companies operating between Houston and Lake Charles, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Houston to Lake Charles

Average Duration
3h 19m
Estimated price
$6-90
Plane Show flights
Website
united.com

Plane from Houston (IAH) to Lake Charles (LCH)

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$180-430
Drive

Drive from Houston to Lake Charles

Average Duration
2h 24m
Estimated price
$26-40

Houston to Lake Charles: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Houston and Lake Charles offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Houston to Lake Charles, covering a distance of 146 miles, with the journey taking around 2 hours and 24 minutes. 💸 Enjoy budget-friendly travel as the prices to drive from Houston to Lake Charles typically range from $26 to $40, offering an affordable option for a quick getaway.
Average price
$26 - $40
🚂 Traveling from Houston to Lake Charles by train is a convenient option, with services departing three times a week - on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 19 minutes. 🌟 Enjoy a scenic route covering a distance of 146 miles from Houston to Lake Charles USA. The train service, operated by Amtrak, offers a comfortable and relaxing travel experience. Tickets for this route can range from $6 to $90.
Departure Point
Houston station
Arrival Point
Lake Charles station
🛫 Flying from Houston to Lake Charles is a quick and convenient option, with the direct flight taking just 1 hour and 1 minute. United Airlines provides flights between the two cities for easy travel. 🌅 When departing from Houston Airport, passengers can expect a smooth 3-hour and 9-minute journey before landing at Lake Charles Airport. This allows for a hassle-free and efficient travel experience. 💸 Flight prices between Lake Charles and Houston can range from $192 to $424, offering travelers flexibility in choosing a fare that fits their budget and travel plans.
Departure Point
Houston Airport
Arrival Point
Lake Charles Airport
🚌 Embark on a scenic bus journey from Houston to Lake Charles spanning a distance of 146 miles and taking approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes to reach your destination. 🌉 Enjoy the smooth ride as you traverse through picturesque landscapes on Route 1, with a brief stopover in New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal before continuing your adventure towards Lake Charles.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check the arrival and departure times on the Amtrak website for the Sunset Limited train, as schedules can fluctuate — see the latest info at amtrak.com
• Pack snacks or meals as the train does not offer full dining services; consider stopping by Central Market in Houston before you board for some delicious local options.
• Once you arrive at the Lake Charles Amtrak station, familiarize yourself with the nearby local transit options; the station is conveniently located close to local buses, and you can find schedule information at cptran.org

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Houston to Lake Charles.

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The distance between Houston and Lake Charles is approximately 134 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 145.9 miles. If you choose to travel by train, it will take you approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes to reach Lake Charles from Houston. Alternatively, you can opt for a plane and arrive in about 3 hours and 2 minutes. Driving by car is another option, and it will take you approximately 2 hours and 24 minutes to reach Houston from Lake Charles. Lastly, traveling by bus will take around 2 hours and 55 minutes to reach Lake Charles from Houston.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Houston to Lake Charles is by taking the train, with prices ranging from $6 to $90. This mode of transportation takes approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, driving would be the quickest option, taking around 2 hours and 24 minutes and costing between $26 and $40. Both choices offer their advantages, allowing travelers to decide based on their budget and time constraints.
The prices of a train ticket between Houston and Lake Charles vary depending on the class and availability, with prices ranging from $6 to $90. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Lake Charles and Houston also vary, with prices ranging from $16 to $55. It is advisable to check for promotions or deals offered by the different transportation companies to find the best price for your trip.
To travel from Houston to Lake Charles without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 146 miles, and it takes about 2 hours and 24 minutes to drive there. The cost of the trip can range from $26 to $40, depending on factors such as gas prices and any tolls along the route. Driving offers flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy the scenic journey at your own pace.
To travel from Houston to Lake Charles without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The bus journey takes around 2 hours and 55 minutes and costs between $16 and $55. Another alternative is to take a train, which takes approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes and costs between $6 and $90. Lastly, you can fly from Houston to Lake Charles, which takes around 3 hours and 2 minutes and costs between $190 and $430. These options provide convenient and affordable ways to reach Lake Charles from Houston without a car.
Yes, there is a direct link between Houston and Lake Charles. You can take a train from Houston to Lake Charles which departs three times a week and takes approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes. There is also a direct bus service that operates daily and takes approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes. Both the train and bus services are operated by Amtrak and Greyhound USA respectively.
The flight duration between Houston and Lake Charles is typically around 56 minutes for a direct flight. However, this time may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and flight delays. The prices for the flight between Lake Charles and Houston can range from $192 to $424, depending on the airline, the time of booking, and any additional services or amenities included in the ticket price. It is always recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel needs.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Lake Charles with over 103 hotels available. Prices for hotels start at $69 per night. Some popular hotel chains in the area include Holiday Inn, Hilton, and Marriott, offering a range of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and on-site dining options. Additionally, there are also bed and breakfasts, motels, and vacation rentals available for those looking for alternative accommodation options.

Trips from Houston

Trips to Lake Charles