Church Point
Explore the colorful history of this Cajun Country town.
At a Glance
- Known For: Buggy Capital of the World, Cajun Mardi Gras traditions, Church Point Courir, local Cajun culture
- Top Things to Do: Visit Le Vieux Presbytère Museum, explore historic downtown, enjoy Cajun’s Dance Hall, shop local artisan markets
- Major Events: Church Point Courir de Mardi Gras, children’s Courir parade, Cajun Woodstock festival
Top Things to Do in Church Point
Church Point is known as the “Buggy Capital of the World,” a name that refers to the horse-drawn carriages that traveled the roads of South Louisiana a century ago. Many people traveled miles to attend services at La Chapelle de La Pointe de Plaquemine Brulée, or Church at the Point, which later gave the city its name.
Learn more about the city’s history at Le Vieux Presbytère Museum, a building that once housed the town’s priests. Explore artifacts from the original Catholic church and antique buggies that brought its residents home. Other displays focus on the area’s agricultural industry, as well as the community’s civic, economic and social institutions.
Visiting during summer? Bring the kiddos to Central Park’s skate park, a well-maintained concrete ramp for skateboarding. The park also hosts monthly artisan markets featuring local vendors. Or visit the Church Point Community Center, which features a playground and plenty of outdoor space.
Love live music? Slip on your dancing shoes and head to Cajun’s Bar and Dance Hall, which hosts local musicians and bands weekly in a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere.
Places to Stay
Stay a night under the stars at Mr. Bee’s RV Park, located in the heart of Church Point. Or stay in nearby Lafayette. Both La Quinta Inn – Lafayette North and Wingate by Wyndham Lafayette are great options for budget travelers, offering the comforts and amenities of chain hotels.
Food & Drink
Grab a delicious breakfast or lunch from Cafe’ Maison — a charming New Orleans-style eatery serving locally roasted coffee. Edward’s Seafood Haus serves boiled crawfish, shrimp and crabs by the pound from their drive-through window. Just outside of the city is Vautrot’s Mini Mart, a gas station known for its specialty meats and plate lunches. Try the boudin balls, smothered pork ribs or chicken spaghetti.
Events & Festivals in Church Point
Experience one of Louisiana’s most historic Mardi Gras traditions at the Church Point Courir de Mardi Gras, held each year on the Sunday before Fat Tuesday. This Cajun celebration features masked riders on horseback traveling from house to house, chasing chickens and gathering ingredients for a communal gumbo, followed by a lively parade through town. A Children’s Courir and parade take place the day before.
In spring, Cajun Woodstock features all-day live music, a round steak cook-off and an epic poker run — all for a good cause. Proceeds support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, so you can enjoy the festivities while making a difference!
Travel Tips & Resources
It's easy to navigate Church Point. Catch a flight to Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT), then rent a car or take a rideshare. Rayne is also a short drive from Natchez, Mississippi (3 hours), Galveston, Texas (4 hours), and Destin, Florida (6 hours).
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Church Point?
Some of the best things to do in Church Point, Louisiana, include visiting Le Vieux Presbytère Museum to learn about local history and exploring Cajun culture through live music at Cajun’s Bar and Dance Hall. Families can enjoy outdoor spaces like Central Park, while visitors can also experience local food and community events throughout town.
What is Church Point known for?
Church Point is known as the “Buggy Capital of the World” and for its deep-rooted Cajun culture. The town is especially famous for the Church Point Courir de Mardi Gras, one of the largest traditional Cajun Mardi Gras celebrations in Acadiana.
What is the best time of year to visit Church Point?
While there really isn’t a bad time of year to visit Church Point, we’d say the best time is spring and fall, perfect for festivals and outdoor activities. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are generally mild and less crowded.
What is the weather like in Church Point?
Church Point typically enjoys hot, humid summers and short, cold winters. Expect average highs of 90° F in July and August, with lows dipping to 43° F in January. Pack layers for winter, and sunscreen and a hat for summer.
Where can I get more travel information about Church Point?
For official travel information about Church Point, Louisiana, visit Acadia Tourism, the parish’s official destination marketing organization. The site provides visitor guides, maps, transportation details, hotel and lodging information, event calendars and planning resources to help travelers make the most of their visit. Travelers can also find statewide trip ideas, itineraries and regional guides on ExploreLouisiana.com, Louisiana’s official tourism website.