Josh Pitts Josh Pitts

New Orleans' Famous Cemeteries  - Final Resting Places of Residents & Legends

Picture walking around a graveyard that's more like an outdoor museum. That's the same as exploring New Orleans' special cemeteries. These aren't regular graveyards; they're full of history and connected to the city's heart. So, let's take a digital tour and learn about some of the coolest "cities of the dead" in the Big Easy.

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Josh Pitts Josh Pitts

10 Reasons to Explore New Orleans on a Bike Tour

New Orleans, steeped in rich history, an electrifying music scene, tantalizing cuisine, and stunning architectural gems, is a city best experienced up close. Paved Paradise Tours provides you just that - an opportunity to weave your way through this fascinating city, all from a comfortable bicycle seat.

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Josh Pitts Josh Pitts

Celebrating LGBTQ+ Diversity and History in NOLA

New Orleans is a magnetic city known for its culture and rich history. In the heart of the deep South, New Orleans is often seen as a bright light of acceptance and inclusion for those who live here as well as those that pass through - a place where diversity is welcomed and celebrated. In honor of Gay Pride Month, we decided to take a trip down memory lane to explore the city's LGBTQ+ history, from the parades that dominate the streets to the literary figures who found inspiration here.

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Josh Pitts Josh Pitts

Discover the Magic of New Orleans City Park

New Orleans City Park, a captivating urban oasis, is a must-visit tourist destination. It spans over 1,300-acres and brings a unique display of culture and history. The park has several attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. From its enchanting oak trees adorned with Spanish moss to the diverse array of attractions, City Park is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed when exploring the Big Easy.

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Josh Pitts Josh Pitts

Discovering the Rich History of St. Louis Cathedral in the Heart of New Orleans

St. Louis Cathedral is New Orleans’ true gem. It is a must-visit destination for exploring the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant community. The cathedral's resilience reflects New Orleans people’s strength and resilience. Whether you're a person of faith or someone who loves art and history, St. Louis Cathedral is a not-to-be-missed destination.

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Paved Paradise Tours Paved Paradise Tours

James Gallier Sr

James Gallier Sr is one of the most defining Irishmen in the city’s history, in addition he served as one of the most influential architects in New Orleans. Iconic landmarks in the city such as the Gallier House were one of his amazing creations.

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Paved Paradise Tours Paved Paradise Tours

The Irish in New Orleans

Today Irish culture, much like Haitian culture, has been so engraved in daily New Orleans life that you do not actively notice it. Walking around downtown or uptown, you will often spot an Irish bar. From an architectural side, Irish people have also had a significant impact on the city. James Gallier Sr for example, was an Irish immigrant who lived in New Orleans in the 1800s, and is one of the most influential architects in New Orleans history.

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Paved Paradise Tours Paved Paradise Tours

The Vietnamese in New Orleans

It is truly remarkable how many cultures have influenced New Orleans in their own way– the immigration of Vietnamese immigrants is relatively recent compared to that of Jewish, German, Haitian, or Irish counterparts– yet they have had such a substantial effect on New Orleans culture, music, community, and cuisine.

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Paved Paradise Tours Paved Paradise Tours

Early Haitian Influence in New Orleans

The culture and traditions of the Haitians have had a great effect on New Orleans culture, traditions, and way of life. As is with many other cultures and nationalities, the Haitian population has greatly influenced the architecture, naming of the streets, and the overall feel of the city.

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Paved Paradise Tours Paved Paradise Tours

Historical Figure: Karl Frederick d’Aresnbourg

In early June 1721, d’Arensbourg and 300 other German-speaking settlers arrived at Biloxi to establish a settlement– only to discover what was waiting for them wasn't what they expected. The party was incredibly underprepared, since they hadn't possessed nearly enough food or supplies to last long enough. Between March and October 1721, over 700 people arrived at the colony, and over half perished in the following months.

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