Whether you’re planning your first visit or coming back for more, exploring the shops of Lake Charles and Southwest Louisiana is one of the most enjoyable ways to dive deeper into the culture and take a piece of it home. From art-filled emporiums and foodie boutiques to funky downtown shops, local markets, and craft distilleries, there’s a treasure around every corner.
Ready to find your perfect souvenir? Let the hunt begin!
Flock of Five Gift and Art Emporium
One of the best places to start your treasure hunt is Flock of Five Gift and Art Emporium in Sulphur. This shop is a creative haven, filled with pottery, hand-carved pieces, furniture, and Louisiana-themed gifts that reflect the culture of the region. They also offer homemade candles and soaps made with natural oils, giving your gift an authentic, aromatic touch. You’ll leave with something meaningful, whether it's for yourself or someone back home.
Downtown Lake Charles Boutiques
Downtown Lake Charles is full of charm, and Bux Kajun Korner is a standout stop for anyone looking to bring home a true piece of Louisiana. This colorful shop offers an impressive variety of Lake Charles and Louisiana-themed gifts—from local art and handmade jewelry to home décor and unique souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a one-stop shop for Cajun flair and thoughtful treasures.
Just steps away, you’ll also find other locally loved spots like The Emporium, a music-lover’s paradise filled with vintage records and memorabilia; Bespoke Hat Company, known for its custom creations; Recent Relics, packed with nostalgic finds; Mia’s Downtown for stylish apparel; and Candice Alexander Art Studio, showcasing bold, imaginative local art.
Boudin: The Cajun Staple
No trip to Southwest Louisiana is complete without experiencing boudin, the legendary Cajun sausage that locals and visitors alike can’t get enough of. The Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail features several stops that offer nationwide shipping, so you can keep the Cajun flavor going long after vacation ends. You can check out the full list of trail locations online and decide which spot best satisfies your craving.
Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point
For a more nature-inspired stop, Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point in Sulphur features a family-friendly gift shop with Louisiana wildlife-themed souvenirs. Kids especially love the interactive experience of hatching gator eggs, making this a fun and educational memory to bring home.
Crying Eagle Brewing
If you’re craving a cold drink and a cool souvenir, Crying Eagle Brewing delivers both. Known for their creative brews and laid-back vibe, this local favorite also features a merch shop stocked with t-shirts, drinkware, and Crying Eagle-branded gear. You can sip a locally brewed beer while you browse and maybe even grab a six-pack to go.
And there’s even more on tap! Crying Eagle is expanding to a second location right on the lakefront, opening July 2025. Situated just off I-10, near Port Wonder, it’ll be the perfect pit stop to kick off your Southwest Louisiana adventure or wind it down with a view.
Bayou Rum Distillery
The gift shop at Bayou Rum is a must-stop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs—think rum-infused candies, branded glassware, apparel, and, of course, bottles of their signature spirits. It’s the perfect place to grab a flavorful reminder of your trip. If you’ve got extra time, stick around for a guided distillery tour where you’ll learn how Bayou Rum is made from Louisiana sugarcane and even enjoy a tasting if you're 21 or older.
Creative Roots in the Cottage Shops District
Creative Roots is a vibrant storefront in the Cottage Shops District that showcases the work of over 23 local makers, including jewelers, potters, painters, quilters, candle makers, and more. It's a great spot to shop for handcrafted, one-of-a-kind treasures that reflect the heart of Southwest Louisiana. Even better? They offer creative classes, so you can make your own masterpiece and bring home a truly personal souvenir from your visit.
Farmers Markets Across the Region
Farmers markets across the region also serve as incredible sources for local finds. Lake Charles Farm & Table Market is open on Tuesdays, while the Charlestown Farmers Market downtown brings vendors to the heart of the city every Saturday. The Moss Bluff, Westlake, and Iowa Farmers Markets also take place on Saturdays, with Iowa’s happening on the first Saturday of the month.
If you want an expanded experience, Meet Me at the Market takes place monthly on the first Saturday at Historic City Hall. This lively event brings together a wide variety of local vendors and artists, and adds in live music and food trucks to create a fun, festival-style atmosphere perfect for shopping, snacking, and soaking up the local culture.
Year-Round Shopping Events in Lake Charles
While local shops and boutiques offer memorable finds every day of the year, Lake Charles also hosts a vibrant lineup of seasonal shopping events that make the hunt for the perfect souvenir even more exciting. From festive holiday markets and cultural festivals, there’s always a new opportunity to discover handcrafted treasures and connect with the creative spirit of Southwest Louisiana.
Start planning your trip today, whether you’re coming for the weekend or building your next vacation itinerary, our team at Visit Lake Charles is here to help you uncover the best of what Southwest Louisiana has to offer.
