Head to Sorrento for a shopping experience with a little history mixed in. The Cajun Village Shops look like a cute collection of boutiques--and they are, and that would be reason enough to go. These stores have a little extra Louisiana punch, however; they’re all housed in preserved and restored historical buildings from Cajun settlements in the surrounding area. The structures were purchased, moved to their current site, and restored before becoming the collection of small shops present today. When you browse through the Cajun Village Shops, you’re walking through a special, lovingly preserved piece of Louisiana history.
In addition to the shops, there’s a small tractor museum on the property, in the only building original to the site—stop in for a look at how this crucial piece of farming technology has changed and developed. There’s a coffee shop where you can perk up with a cup of coffee and beignets or treat yourself to a heartier breakfast or lunch—offerings include local favorite red beans and rice.
If you’d like to spend a little more time in the area, relaxing and soaking up a little bit of the past, spend a night or two at the on-site bed and breakfast. The Cottages at Cajun Village are all historic, restored structures like the shops, decorated with cozy antique furniture. Enjoy a free breakfast at the coffee shop before exploring the shops or the many attractions in the surrounding area, but try to be back by 4pm if you can—that’s when you can watch the Cajun Village mascots, live alligators named Big Boy and Nubby, take their evening meal.
For a full listing of shops and hours and to contact the B&B, visit cajunvillageshops.com.
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