black owned tours new orleans

How To Spend 3 Days In Black-Owned New Orleans

If you're looking to support some businesses that are Black-owned in New Orleans, here's a guide on how you can do so.

Stephanie Ogbogu • Aug 29, 2019

You’re almost there! You’ve taken the first step—deciding to take a trip to New Orleans and experience its colorful cultural ambiance, excellent restaurants, and nowhere-else-but-here traditions that make New Orleans one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US. Get ready to immerse in the sea of creativity, romance, drama, and fun!

If you’re traveling to New Orleans, it’s probably to partake in the city’s rich, diverse culture. If you’re looking to support some black-owned businesses while you’re in town, here’s how you can do so.

Day 1 in Black-owned New Orleans

You’ve arrived in New Orleans with your bags stuffed with outfits for an adventurous three-day getaway. Before you start your day, check in to one of New Orleans’ black-owned hotels.

Hilton Garden Inn New Orleans Convention Center , Hubbard Mansion , and Hotel Indigo are all black-owned hotel options conveniently located near attractions throughout the city.

Once you’ve checked in, it’s safe to say you’re probably a bit hungry. Now is the perfect time for brunch. Head over to Ma Momma’s House of Cornbread, Chicken and Waffles to get your fix of mouth-watering cornbread, red beans and rice, grits, and of course chicken and waffles.

Not only is this spot a great place for some good food, but it’s also part of New Orleans culture. Located on the city’s east side, Ma Momma’s House is owned by a family with deep roots in the city. The restaurant is co-owned by Nicole P. Mackie and Take Fo’ recording artist, Rene “Chef Reero” Poyraz.

Chef Reero is one of the founding members of the rap duo Da’ Sha Ra,’ who is best known for their NOLA club hit “Bootin’ Up.” In the 90s, her Take Fo’ labelmates included DJ Jubilee and No Limit artist Mia X.

Once you’re done with your meal, head on over to the New Orleans African American Museum located in the historic Tremé neighborhood, the oldest-surviving black community in the United States. They close at 4 PM so give yourself enough time to check out the Welcome To The Afrofuture: Ground Zero exhibit as well as the Black Space and Geographies exhibit presented by NOAAM and the Amistad Research Center.

New Orleans is known for its food, especially their delectable pralines. After your museum visit, stop by one of the Loretta’s Authentic Pralines locations, the Cafe location on 2101 N. Rampart or the French Market location at 1100 N. Peters St. Fun fact about Loretta, She was the first African American woman to successfully own and operate her own praline company in New Orleans.

Nothing goes with a dessert like a little wine. Head over to Second Vine Wine , located in the historic Treme and Marigny of New Orleans, and partake in a wine tasting or class. If you like what you taste, don’t forget to buy a bottle for the road.

Good morning! Start your day with a light workout at Magnolia Yoga Studio , the first black-owned yoga studio in New Orleans. They offer both private and group classes and if you really want to intensify your workout, they also offer hot yoga.

After you’ve broken a sweat, grab some breakfast at Backatown Coffee Parlour. Backatown is a locally-owned coffee boutique with a little something for everyone. In addition to premium coffee and espresso drinks, the boutique also serves loose leaf teas, juice, fresh-baked pastries, breakfast items and desserts along with an assortment of light fare meals.

After breakfast, let’s take a tour of the city with All Bout Dat Tours. Explore the rich culture of New Orleans with a themed tour around the city to Congo Square, Armstrong Park, and the First African American neighborhood in the United States. Imagine meeting extraordinary locals while learning all about Voodoo, Creole culture, and Freedom Fighters while aboard “The Black Pearl.” Make sure you make your reservations for hotel pick-up at least 48 hours in advance.

It’s lunchtime, so you should stop by the late Leah Chase’s restaurant, Dooky Chase’s , for some authentic New Orleans cuisine. On Tuesday-Friday, Dooky’s offers a delicious lunch buffet that changes daily. You can always find New Orleans’ staples such as red beans and rice and hot sausage on the buffet. On Fridays, they offer shrimp and lima beans instead of the red beans. You may also order Creole favorites such as gumbo, po’boys, shrimp Clemenceau, and stuffed shrimp. You can get menu items like fried chicken, and chicken creole daily, as well.

If you are in a shopping mood after grabbing a bite, head on over to Community Book Center , a social hub of the Seventh Ward, specializing in African literature. The bookstore also hosts performances, book signings, and storytellings from time to time. Of course, you can stop in for a book or two, but you can also find African-centered art, fabric, jewels and an assortment of gifts and trinkets here.

Most people visiting New Orleans head to the French Quarter. Don’t think that you can’t still have an authentic experience in this neighborhood. The French Quarter, also known as the Vieux Carre, spans 12 blocks situated alongside the Mississippi River. The neighborhood runs from Canal Street to Esplanade Avenue and inland toward North Rampart Street. The French Quarter has so much to offer that it will keep you occupied for the day. You can find locals living, working, drinking and enjoying even the most tourist-heavy parts of the city.

Candy-colored buildings line the street and if you look closely you’ll see Spanish, French, and Creole influences. Right in the center of the neighborhood is Jackson Square. This is where you’ll see most people posing in front of Andrew Jackson’s statue, having their portrait done by a street artist, getting their tarot cards read, and checking out the street performers. Don’t forget to tip the talented kiddos. It takes a lot to perform day in and day out.

For dinner, treat yourself to We Dat’s Chicken & Shrimp , which is a local favorite when it comes to Black-owned New Orleans businesses. We Dat’s started as a food truck but quickly expanded to multiple restaurant locations due to high demand. They offer an assortment of menu items including chicken wings, fried shrimp, catfish, and seafood wraps.

For breakfast this morning, head on over to Cafe Rose Nicaud, named after Rose Nicaud, an African American woman who became the first known coffee vendor in New Orleans. Cafe Rose Nicaud serves all-day breakfast, so even if you happen to get a late start on your day, you can enjoy your faves at any time. 

Following breakfast, check out the Backstreet Cultural Museum . The Backstreet Cultural Museum is a pillar in the Tremé community where second-line parades begin and end. Each year, the museum attracts visitors from around the globe. While you’re there, make sure you take a peek at their extensive collection of Mardi Gras Indian regalia, including suits of Big Chiefs, Queens, Flag Boys, Wild Men, and more.

A trip to New Orleans is not complete without stopping by Louis Armstrong Park , also located in the Tremé neighborhood. Just look for the iconic, arched entrance. If you’re lucky, you may be able to catch a show at the Mahalia Jackson Theater. Make sure you check out Congo Square, the historic meeting space where slaves and free blacks gathered throughout the 19th century for meetings, open markets, and the African dance and drumming celebrations.

After your museum and park visit, head to Studio Be in the Faubourg Marigny/Bywater area and check out some awesome artwork from activist/artist Brandan “BMike” Odums. There, you’ll be able to find original works of all kinds, including murals, graffiti art, and souvenirs featuring African American leaders.

Cap your night off by heading over to Cuban Crafters Cigar Bar , the French Quarter’s only smoking bar. They have a huge selection of cigars to choose from, as well as international and locally crafted drinks.  Whiskey & Sticks is another great cigar bar you should try. Take in the scenery in their courtyard while enjoying drinks, small bites, and of course, a great cigar.

For dinner, head to Neyow’s Creole Café . People come from far and wide to dine at Neyow’s. Their menu is complete with generations worth of original family recipes.

You will need much more than three days to fully absorb everything that Black-owned New Orleans has to offer, but if you’re only in town for a weekend, there’s still so much to do. Whether you spend three days in NOLA or seven, you’ll leave with a renewed love of African American culture, art, and music. 

Brought to you by @VisitNewOrleans! Leave with a story, not just a souvenir. #ad

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We're dedicated to providing a comprehensive and immersive experience of the afro-creole culture in new orleans. join us and discover the heart and soul of this vibrant and unique city., all our tours, nola urban culture city tour.

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2nd Line Tours was established in 2017. It is a tour company in the Greater New Orleans area that provides tours to locals and visitors.For us, we’re consider ourselves to be in the business of entertainment and thankfully there’s so much to see down in New Orleans. From our favorites spots and the people along the way, these diverse destinations will have you captivated from beginning to end.Book your visit today and join us on a once in a lifetime tour.

Since 2017, founder Dennis M. has taken tourists on the ride of a lifetime with his red-carpet tours that give you the real deal of authentic NOLA.

Unlike other companies, 2nd Line Tours offers a one-of-a-kind guide that caters to the true foundation of New Orleans culture and growth. Providing guests with the Afro-Creole experience, we highlight moments in history that make NOLA what it is today. Mix that in with some spirits, fun, and energy, and it’s no wonder people name us the best tour ride in the city.

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Visitors can choose and book from a variety of tours offered: infamous Celebrity, Urban Cultural City, and our best-selling customer favorite nighttime Spirits & Spirits Tour. 2nd Line Tours has created a unique New Orleans tour experience suitable for every age

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Our man Jay took care of us our entire trip. He was knowledgeable on the history of all of New Orleans but also showed us the best time ever! Thank you 2nd Line. We will be back.

The tour with Dennis was top notch and he made it extremely special, allowing us to participate in the parade and the whole nine yards. We had a very good time and the tour was very touching. Very very nice Dennis! Thank you for a great tour!

J A Y held it down !! If you a real one looking for a real good, genuine, and authentic tour of the city then hit this place y'eard'mae ! Straight up beybeyyy. So much history and culture to the city, its a must that you dig into the roots to truly appreciate what you are experiencing.

Dennis was awesome! Thank you for the great tour last night! I learned so much about the history of NOLA. You have to take one of there tours so awesome.

This was a wonderful and cultural touring experience!! It's Black owned. When you visit New Orleans please contact Jay for a real and interesting tour of the city. He is the person that will teach his personal feel of NOLA!!We had so much fun!!! Thanks Jay!!!

Best. Tour. Ever. Very in depth and true experience based tour. Dennis was on point with all of his stops and definitely worth the price!!!!

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African Heritage French Quarter Tour

For over 300 years people of African origin have called New Orleans home and have created a culture that is abundant & beautiful. This two hour tour will show you the French Quarter and a small part of Treme from the view of African people.

Studio Be Tour

This tour is as colorful as the creole cottages & shotgun homes that line the streets of Treme. This two hour walking tour of the oldest African American neighborhood in the nation explores the legacy of this culturally rich area. You will discover in this tour the roots of Jazz, Storyville, Black Mardi Gras Indians and visit some of the most cultural significant sites in New Orleans.

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Private african american new orleans tour, private african-american new orleans tour, tour details.

New Orleans – the city with the most profound African heritage in the Northern Hemisphere. The tour starts at the Mississippi River, where the city was founded in 1718 and where the first two slave ships arrived in 1719. The river is the site where Jeanne Marie Aliquot, while disembarking from France, was rescued from the Mississippi River by a black fisherman; because the Ursuline Order would not accept black nuns, Aliquot eventually helped facilitate the founding of St. Augustine Catholic Church, where the second oldest order of African-American nuns, the Sisters of the Holy Family, took their vows. This is also where Marcus Garvey was deported in 1927.

You will visit the Royal Orleans Hotel, site of the former St. Louis Exchange, the antebellum South’s largest slave market, and the Bourbon Orleans Hotel, site of the Quadroon balls, as well as the convent of the Sisters of the Holy Family. See the sites where early Civil Rights newspapers L’Union and The Tribune were published.

Next, you’ll see Congo Square, site of African slave gatherings, the only place in North America where enslaved Africans were allowed to gather and where pure West African religious ritual occurred. Then, you will move on to St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, oldest African-American Catholic parish in the nation, and the Tomb of the Unknown Slave.

Also included are St. Louis Cemeteries #1 and #2, the site of significant African-American history. St. Louis #1 includes the tombs of Civil Rights pioneer Homer Plessy, Civil Rights activist-publisher Dr. Louis Charles Roudanez, Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, Jazz dynasty Barbarin Family, and New Orleans’ first African-American mayor Dutch Morial. St. Louis #2 features music legends Danny Barker and Ernie K-Doe, and St. Louis #2 Square #3 features what historian Joe Logsdon called “the world’s greatest collection of memorials to African American achievement.” Square #3 is the final resting place of the Sisters of the Holy Family; education patroness Marie C. Couvent; first African American Civil war hero Andre Cailloux; first African-American lieutenant governor Oscar James Dunn; legendary military drummer Jordan Noble; and Civil Rights publisher Jean Baptiste Roudanez.

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GREAT Garden District Tour The tour moved along to keep it very interesting. I highly recommend this tour!” - baney3, Fairfax, Virginia

From : Did a broken wagon wheel decide the fate of Marksville? Curious Louisiana investigates https://www.theadvocate.com/curious_louisiana/the-city-of-marksville-started-with-a-broken-wagon-wheel/article_44747a3a-d74d-11ee-a7ba-f70465b6288a.html https://www.tourneworleans.com/tours/

From : An immersive exhibit of Banksy's provocative graffiti is promised for New Orleans https://www.nola.com/entertainment_life/arts/exhibit-of-graffiti-superstar-banksys-art-coming-to-nola/article_9f847e2a-ebf2-11ee-8849-578e18129a15.html https://www.tourneworleans.com/

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The  Welcome Guide for Black Tourists in New Orleans is a directory of Black-owned businesses. Published by McKenna Publishing Company, in partnership with New Orleans & Company, Welcome is part of a commitment to supporting, connecting, and building a sustainable ecosystem of Black wealth in the most Africanized city in the Western hemisphere. This directory serves as an intentional community-anchored effort for Black tourists to support the local Black-owned businesses and service providers to ensure they benefit the tourist economy that drives this city, because BLACK DOLLARS MATTER !

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NEW ORLEANS AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM 1418 Governor Nicholls St. | (504) 218-8254 The African American Museum welcomes tour groups, school groups, and individuals Thursday-Saturday or by

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14 Black-owned Businesses to Visit in New Orleans — From Jazz Clubs to Creole Restaurants

They're some of the best spots in the Big Easy.

Beyond the raucous joy of Bourbon Street, New Orleans offers vibrant and distinct culture that travelers come from all over the world to experience. This Gulf Coast port city is the birthplace of jazz and an ethnic melting pot. And the city's motto, "laissez les bons temps rouler," is French for "let the good times roll." From the rich cuisine to the Mardi Gras parades, the city relishes decadence.

Much of what is most beloved about New Orleans derives from the Black, Caribbean, African, and African American roots of the city, from the second line parades with soulful brass bands to the savory gumbo NOLA is known for. Even as gentrification and climate change disproportionately stress Black neighborhoods in New Orleans, Black businesses continue to thrive. On your next trip to the Crescent City, show some love to the communities who keep NOLA funky and flavorful by supporting these Black-owned businesses.

Discover Creole Cuisine

For some fine dining in the Warehouse District, visit Vyonne's for a weeknight dinner or Sunday brunch. It offers a seasonal menu inspired by owner Vyonne's AfroCreole heritage. Stop by for a happy hour cocktail in the courtyard before sitting down to dinner. Morrow's , located in the Marigny, serves classic New Orleans staples and authentic Korean dishes to locals and celebrities like Beyoncé and Jay-Z. Dooky Chase has been considered an institution in the Treme community since 1941. Former Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush have eaten at Dooky Chase, a go-to for traditional favorites like red beans and rice or shrimp Creole.

Shop on Bayou Road

A small stretch of Bayou Road, New Orleans' oldest street, is home to a variety of Black-owned businesses and restaurants. There's the Community Book Center , offering every genre of books by Black authors and literature about Black culture for readers of all ages. Across the street, you'll find the King and Queen Emporium International selling handmade soaps, candles, and body butters that make excellent gifts. Pick up a post-shopping snack like jerk chicken at Coco Hut Caribbean , and grab some bread pudding for dessert from Cupcake Fairies .

Sip Craft Cocktails

Mixology is a New Orleans art form, and Victory serves up impressive cocktails. Try classic New Orleans cocktails like the Sazerac, or experiment with Victory's specialty drinks, which use house-made syrups and fresh ingredients. Check out the back room, Secreto, with gorgeous, Instagrammable, Middle Eastern-inspired décor.

Catch Some Live Music

Kermit's Treme Mother in Law Lounge has been a hangout for local musicians and NOLA residents since the '90s. The self-proclaimed "shrine to New Orleans music" is owned by Kermit Ruffins, the local legendary trumpet player, who you'll also find on the grill serving up barbecue. It's open seven days a week with live music daily from some of the city's best artists.

Learn About the Free People of Color

Le Musée de f.p.c. is the only museum in the United States dedicated to preserving the history of free people of color. Free people of color, often abbreviated f.p.c., was the term used to refer to Black people who were born free or manumitted prior to the Civil War. Take a walk back in time through artwork and artifacts commemorating the thriving communities of free Black artists, entrepreneurs, politicians, and journalists in New Orleans.

Get Caffeinated

Backatown Coffee Parlour is named for its location; It's in a neighborhood formerly known as Backatown, the Black "vice" district of the jazz era. The cafe is part of a revitalization of the historic Basin Street where Jelly Roll Morton and Louis Armstrong used to play. Sit outside and tuck into a piece of crawfish quiche or a sweet potato scone with your cafe au lait.

La Vie en Rose , a Creole coffee shop in the Lower Garden District, calls itself "a personal love letter" to the city of New Orleans. The baristas craft their syrups from 300-year-old family recipes and work exclusively with local bakers and coffee makers. Over in the Marigny, Baldwin & Co is a cafe and bookstore with delectable coffee and tea concoctions. It is named after prolific writer James Baldwin, and the specialty drinks are named after foundational books by African American authors. Sip on the "If Beale Street Could Talk," an espresso drink with cinnamon and cayenne, while you browse the book selection and in-store library.

Find a Unique Keepsake

Apartment 4 Lifestyle is a Black woman-owned boutique specializing in handmade, fair-trade, or vintage goods. Located in the heart of Treme, you can find textiles sourced from female artisans, one-of-a-kind furniture, jewelry, and other gifts for yourself or loved ones at home.

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The Black Heritage & Jazz Tour of New Orleans,  for everyone who wants to get off the beaten path!

(+1) 504 457 9439

[email protected], family reunions.

Family Reunion Custom Tour -  Our most popular tour for groups and family trips. We offer exclusive group tours for Family Reunions and School/Educational Groups.

Black Heritage & Jazz Tour-Step-on guided tour.

You provide the transportation and we provide your tour guide.

Duration 2.5-3 hrs.

$35 per adult

$30 for Senior, Military & Student

Children 12 and under are free.

Kindly note we do have a minimum of 20 persons, for the above mentioned price.

Reservations are required in advance. 

Please call 1 504.457.9439 for more information.

Black Heritage & Jazz Tour- Charted Tour

We provide coach bus transportation.

$55 per adult

$50 for Senior, Military & Students

This includes Hotel pick up and drop off in the Downtown New Orleans area.

Minimum 30 and maximun 52 persons, for the above mentioned price.

All Bout Dat Tours LLC presents exciting news for Black family reunion banquets & picnics  

10 years seniority tour company proudly presents exciting new services & excursions.

Mikhala Iversen, Five-star rated tour guide, founder and CEO of All Bout Dat Tours LLC, leading Black Owned and operated tour company in New Orleans, Louisiana. 

“Summertime,” Ms. Iversen says, is when large groups of Black family reunions come to New Orleans to celebrate and unite, this is our favorite time of the year because of all the love they bring to our city. Families over the years have been asking for additional Black owned services. We want to assist our families and we now have the capacity to accommodate the family banquets and picnics. We are partnering with Ms. Bunny Youngs owner of EatCrawbabies LLC and an exquisite Black owned and operated event Hall.

“The Family reunion picnics will take place under the breathtaking 200 years Old Oak trees in our historic City Park. We can provide Second-Line Brass Bands, DJ’s and now have the capacity to throw parties you will never forget”.

Mikhala Iversen All Bout Dat LLC & Bunny Young Crawbabies LLC

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Leading Black-Owned Tour Company & New Orleans’ Only Black-Owned Historic Jazz Club to Present an Evening of Live Jazz & Creole Dining

Photo Credit: Jerry Dantzic, 1954

The show will include a Billie Holiday & Lester Young tribute, New Orleans traditional jazz, and some brown sugar blues. “We are honoring Billie Holiday & Lester Young in a tribute concert,” says Mikhala. “I’m fortunate to be working with some of New Orleans’ finest jazz musicians. As jazz singers, we carry the lighthearted and deep songs to the next generation. These are songs that contain truth, vulnerability, and resistance. The best and only real way to do this is to get up on the bandstand and sing them.”

The band is The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, established in 1910 by Papa Celestine and handed down through generations. The current bandleader is New Orleans Native and highly favored drummer, Mr. Gerald French. “It’s happy music for people to enjoy,” says French.

Mikhala is an international recording artist from Copenhagen, Denmark, with Southern roots on her mother’s side. Her mother, Rosita Thomas, was a celebrated jazz and blues singer who stayed in Copenhagen after she met Mikhala’s father journalist Henrik Iversen. He is an award-winning journalist, acclaimed TV producer, and the founder of The Ben Webster Foundation.

She comments, “I grew up in a revolutionary jazz house. My childhood home was a safe haven for travelers, activists, and jazz superstars. My aunties were Josephine Baker, Eartha Kidd, and Nina Simone. My uncles were Ben Webster, Clark Terry, Dexter Gordon, Ernie Wilkins, and New Orleans’ own Louis Armstrong. They were all very close friends of my parents. Because she could cook so well, they called my mother ‘Mama Charlie Parker of the Kitchen!'”

“Where’s your gig at?” Visitors kept asking me. “We all sing on my tours.” Mr. Paul Sylvester, the owner of Sweet Lorraine’s, made it possible. All Black owned and operated.

Dinner and jazz reservations can be made online at AllBoutDat.com

All of the shows start at 8pm and 10pm. Limited seating requires reservations.

For press inquiries, contact [email protected] or 504-457-9439

Also check out: HBCUconnect.com

• Arts and Culture

September 13, 2023

Black-Owned Tour Company & New Orleans’ Only Black-Owned Historic Jazz Club to Present an Evening of Live Jazz & Creole Dining

New Orleans five-star rated tour company  All Bout Dat Tours LLC  and The Historic Sweet Lorraine’s Jazz Club are partnering to present an evening of world-class jazz performed by singer Mikhala “Jazz Muffin” Iversen and The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band headed by bandleader Mr. Gerald French.

Mikhala’s shows will be every Friday at Sweet Lorraine’s located at 1931 St. Claude Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116. The Jazz & Creole Dinner shows will held on October 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th & November dates are 3rd, 10th, 17th, and 24th.The show will include a Billie Holiday & Lester Young tribute, New Orleans traditional jazz, and some brown sugar blues. “We are honoring Billie Holiday & Lester Young in a tribute concert,” says Mikhala. “I’m fortunate to be working with some of New Orleans’ finest jazz musicians. As jazz singers, we carry lighthearted and deep songs to the next generation. These are songs that contain truth, vulnerability, and resistance. The best and only real way to do this is to get up on the bandstand and sing them.”

The band is The Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, established in 1910 by Papa Celestine and handed down through generations. The current bandleader is New Orleans Native and highly favored drummer, Mr. Gerald French. “It’s happy music for people to enjoy,” says French.

Mikhala is an international recording artist from Copenhagen, Denmark, with Southern roots on her mother’s side. Her mother, Rosita Thomas, was a celebrated jazz and blues singer who stayed in Copenhagen after she met Mikhala’s father journalist Henrik Iversen. He is an award-winning journalist, acclaimed TV producer, and the founder of The Ben Webster Foundation.

She comments, “I grew up in a revolutionary jazz house. My childhood home was a safe haven for travelers, activists, and jazz superstars. My aunties were Josephine Baker, Eartha Kidd, and Nina Simone. My uncles were Ben Webster, Clark Terry, Dexter Gordon, Ernie Wilkins, and New Orleans’ own Louis Armstrong. They were all very close friends of my parents. Because she could cook so well, they called my mother ‘Mama Charlie Parker of the Kitchen!’”

“Where’s your gig at?” Visitors kept asking me. “We all sing on my tours.” Mr. Paul Sylvester, the owner of Sweet Lorraine’s, made it possible. All Black owned and operated.

Dinner and jazz reservations can be made online at  AllBoutDat.com

All of the shows start at 8 pm and 10 pm. Limited seating requires reservations.

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Black-Owned Tour Companies

These black-owned tour companies showcase the best of their destinations., united street tours.

An art teacher and later a dean of students, Chakita Patterson wanted to bring Black History Month to life for her class. In lieu of more homework, she planned a Nashville walking tour. “I wanted to get my students out of the classroom and into the community to learn about Black history in their own backyard,” Patterson said.

She took her students through Music City to sites related to the Civil Rights Movement and knew she was onto something. After tinkering with the presentation, she knew United Street Tours was here to stay.

“We stop at places where history actually happened, like Woolworth’s, where sit-ins happened,” she said of the now notorious five-and-dime. There, in 1960, nonviolent protestors sought to desegregate Nashville lunch counters and were attacked by whites. But the protesters were the only ones jailed.

“My group from today didn’t realize how organized the movement was,” she said. “The students who participated in the sit-in movement had to go through training and practice before they got to participate.”

Guests appreciate the fuller view of history they gain.

“The thing that makes United Street Tours unique is we lift stories that were once buried and we raise them front and center in a country music town,” Patterson said.

unitedstreettours.com

Soul of DFW

Dallas-fort worth.

On a Soul of DFW tour, participants will eat, taste and sample their way through Black history and culture unique to Texas with founder, food historian and author Deah Berry.

“I love to educate different communities about Black culture,” Berry said. “One of the ways I love to do that is with the bus tour, because it allows me to intermingle a lot of different disciplines. It brings everything to life.”

Berry has been in business since 2018, serving groups of 40-50. Each tour visits a variety of Black-owned restaurants in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Participants will enjoy two or three bites or sips at each one. They will also get the opportunity to learn at a few significant historic stops.

“There are a number of different homes used in the Civil Rights Movement that have been converted into museums,” Berry said. “Churches also have super interesting stories. There’s one called St. Paul’s United Methodist that has a twofold story. It was designed by the first African American architect in the state of Texas, and I get to give them the opportunity to speak to people who came from formerly enslaved histories.”

Berry hopes Soul of DFW bus tour participants will be fed not just physically but also mentally and emotionally at the conclusion of the tour.

deahberrymitchell.com

Tours by NOLA

New orleans.

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a deeper well of Crescent City history than that shared by Robin and Harris Parson.

The married couple honed their skills as docents and archivists for the Louis Armstrong Foundation. When COVID shook everything up in tourism, the Parsons were forced to reconsider their paths as well. Tours by NOLA was born.

Walking tours tend to serve 18-28 people and cover multiple fascinating New Orleans destinations, including the Garden District, Treme, the French Quarter and nearby plantations.

“We’re oral historians,” Robin Parson said. “I love bringing them to the first African American newspaper, L’Union, on Conti Street. People are blown away when they learn it was here in New Orleans.”

Harris Parson tells about historical figures as if he knew them personally. Ask him about Henriette DeLille and the St. Louis Cathedral, and participants will soon gain an intimate knowledge of the pitfalls of the law, Black communities, the impact of the Catholic Church and the sheer will to survive.

“No matter where we go, each tour is a different story with a very common thread of indigenous and formerly enslaved people. We try to get everyone’s story, connect the dots and tell how they fit in this gumbo,” Harris Parson said.

toursbynola.com

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Black-Owned Tours in New Orleans

Black-owned tours will take you through stories of music, history, food, slavery, and the civil rights movement in new orleans.

Black-owned tours offer historical and modern perspective and insight about the city of New Orleans. There are tours about the origins of jazz and where you can experience it now. Of course, there are historical tours about the devastating realities of slavery and resistance, on which you’ll visit sites that are still of great importance today, like Congo Square. You’ll leave NOLA with knowledge that will help you understand why the city is such a unique, cultural hub.

Many of these listings were compiled with assistance and permission from the publishers of Welcome Magazine  in New Orleans.

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• Rare opportunity to tour Shreveport’s Calanthean Temple, learn Black business history

S HREVEPORT, La. ( KTAL/KMSS ) — A college in Shreveport has scheduled an event that celebrates the history of Black-owned businesses in the city.

Centenary College’s “Legacy of Persistence: Historic Shreveport Black-Owned Businesses and Their Founders” will take place in two parts on Tues., Apr. 9.

Begin your tour of Shreveport history by visiting the Calanthean Temple on Texas Avenue at 9:45 a.m. Then, stop in for the lecture and panel discussion at Centenary’s Kilpatrick Auditorium at 6:30 p.m.

Dr. Mary Barrett is a retired Professor of Geology who spent much of her career at Centenary College. She said the oil and gas industry risks appearing as if it has always been overwhelmingly White. Still, her research shows that Shreveport’s Black community and Black entrepreneurs have always been woven into our history.

  Dr. Jama Grove , Assistant Professor of History at Centenary and one of the event organizers said historians and community members, including Greg Powell, Ronald Swafford, and Robert Trudeau, have preserved this legacy locally, giving us the opportunity to share it with our students and the community as a whole.

If you’re interested in attending either portion of the event on Tues., contact Dr. Grove at [email protected].

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