Golden Nugget Lake Charles

2550 Golden Nugget Blvd., 5 mi. from downtown, in South Lake Charles, (844) 777-4653, (337) 477-4653. 740 rooms; 25 stories. Pools; hot tubs; fitness room; full-service spa; private beach; 18-hole golf course; marina. 9 restaurants; 4 bars. 8 shops.

Built in 2014, the Golden Nugget Lake Charles casino/hotel is situated far away from everything except another casino and a chemical plant. The innovative modern casino is equipped with 1,600 slot machines, 70 table games, and 6 poker tables and is a big draw. Many people decide to spend the night.

Generously sized accommodations include pillow-top beds and a cool-toned decor in shades of taupe, grey, and white. A fun, diner-style booth table is provided for dining, and attractive art is hung throughout. Baths offer deep tubs that fill fast, and the toilet is in a separate enclosure, as is the shower. Note that though the hotel is family-friendly, with recreational facilities that appeal to children, no one under age 21 is permitted on the casino floor or in bars.

Facilities include the H2O Pool and Bar area with lounge chairs, cabanas, daybeds, and fire pits, plus hot tubs, a lazy river, and a bar and grill. The Arcade keeps children busy, and The Grand Ballroom presents big-name entertainment. Shuttles run back and forth between the Golden Nugget and neighboring L'Auberge Casino Resort, allowing guests to enjoy both properties. An additional 300-room hotel tower will open soon.

Restaurants include a Vic & Anthony's Steakhouse, a Landry's Seafood House, and a Cadillac Mexican Kitchen and Tortilla Bar. The Claim Jumper Grille is open 24 hours, and The Buffet is the place to go for an expansive breakfast selection. There is also a Starbucks and four bars. A favorite shop is The Chocolate Box, where you can indulge in handmade candies as well as gelato, milkshakes and coffee.