Located in the Heart of Red River Valley, Paris was founded in 1839 and became the Lamar County seat in 1844. Paris became incorporated in 1845 and has grown to play a major role in Texas economy within Northeast Texas.

Paris received recognition in 1998 for being named "Best Small Town in Texas" by Kevin Heubusch in his book "The New Rating Guide to Life in America's Small Cities."

Paris is home to numerous beautiful parks to include Bywaters Park, Wade Park, Record Park and Lake Gibbons. Rich in culture and recreation, Paris is also home to Lake Crook and Sam Bell Maxey State Historic Structure and the renowned 'Tour de Paris' bike race held every summer. The Paris Municipal Band, formed in 1923, is the oldest municipal band in Texas. Summer concerts are located in the historic district at Bywaters Park, across from the Paris Public Library.