MLK Boulevard Murals (Big Nine)
Vibrant MLK Boulevard Murals in Toledo's Big Nine district celebrate Black history and culture, transforming the neighborhood into an inspiring outdoo...
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for viewing art
MLK Boulevard Murals (Big Nine)
Best Time
Best light for viewing art
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vibrant MLK Boulevard Murals in Toledo's Big Nine district celebrate Black history and culture, transforming the neighborhood into an inspiring outdoor art gallery.
"This food will make you go, 'daaaaaamn' when you take that first bite. It will improve your day."
📸 Capture the Art
Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the vibrant colors and intricate details of the murals. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the various mural locations. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Still Dreaming' Mural
Broadway, south of the bridge
A powerful mural capturing the spirit of perseverance and hope, a must-see landmark.
Community Artistry
Various locations along MLK Boulevard
Experience a diverse collection of murals painted by talented Black artists, each telling a unique story.
Neighborhood Transformation
MLK Boulevard and surrounding streets
Witness how art has revitalized the Big Nine district, creating a visually stunning and culturally rich environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Explore the Big Nine's Vibrant Art Scene
Timing Your Mural Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Art
Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the vibrant colors and intricate details of the murals. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the various mural locations. :athletic_shoe:
The black artists who helped paint the street mural today
The current state of the Black Lives Matter art on MLK.
📅 Check Local Events
Look for community art walks or festivals that might be happening during your visit. :calendar:
📍 Don't Miss 'Still Dreaming'
Make sure to find the 'Still Dreaming' mural on Broadway, south of the bridge. :star:
Murals Downtown
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Art
Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the vibrant colors and intricate details of the murals. :iphone:
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the various mural locations. :athletic_shoe:
📅 Check Local Events
Look for community art walks or festivals that might be happening during your visit. :calendar:
📍 Don't Miss 'Still Dreaming'
Make sure to find the 'Still Dreaming' mural on Broadway, south of the bridge. :star:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the MLK Boulevard Murals for their vibrant artistry and the powerful messages they convey, transforming the Big Nine neighborhood into an inspiring outdoor gallery. The 'Still Dreaming' mural is a standout, and the area's growing culinary scene adds to the appeal. Some minor issues with outdated business hours have been noted.
"Simply fantastic. Matt knows what he's doing. Good sized portions. Pork Belly is outstanding, cooked well with crispy bits; just enough bbq sauce to add to the flavor without overwhelming the flavor of the pork. Mac & Cheese is unique and unlike any I've had; spices, bits of tomato - this is grown-up mac & cheese! Go see ‘em!"
Chris Cooke
"Tasty, simple fare with flare. Reasonably priced, and located in a hip, upcoming area of town. Will definitely keep it in my folder of lunch spots in the city."
Stacey Gibson
"Please update your hours online - tried to place a to-go order over the phone Sat at noon
,no answer, so ended up driving out just to see the spot closed. Would love to try y’all out soon!"
Ben
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The MLK Boulevard Murals, also known as the Big Nine, are located along MLK Boulevard and surrounding streets in Toledo. You can reach this area by car, with street parking generally available. Public transportation options may also serve the vicinity, so check local transit schedules for routes.
While there isn't one designated starting point, many visitors begin their exploration near the 'Still Dreaming' mural on Broadway, south of the bridge, as it's a prominent piece. From there, you can wander along MLK Boulevard and adjacent streets to discover other artworks.
Yes, the murals are spread across the Big Nine neighborhood, and walking is the best way to appreciate them. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a fair amount of exploring on foot.
Public transportation can be a viable option depending on your starting point. Check with the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) for routes that service the MLK Boulevard area.
While official guided tours might not always be available, local community groups sometimes organize art walks or events. It's worth checking local event listings or community pages for any scheduled tours or gatherings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the MLK Boulevard Murals are an outdoor public art installation, and there are no tickets or admission fees required to view them. You can explore the art at your own pace, anytime.
The murals can be viewed at any time, but daylight hours offer the best visibility and lighting for photography. Visiting during the day also allows you to experience the neighborhood's atmosphere.
As an outdoor art display, the murals are always accessible. However, community events or festivals might occasionally impact access to certain areas, so it's good to check local event calendars.
There is no entrance fee to explore the Big Nine mural district. The art is freely accessible to the public as part of the neighborhood's revitalization efforts.
While you can technically see the murals at night, the experience is significantly enhanced during daylight hours when the colors and details are most vibrant. Some areas might also be less well-lit after dark.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'Still Dreaming' mural on Broadway is a popular photo spot. Generally, any mural with good lighting and a clear view of the artwork will make for great photos. Experiment with different angles and perspectives.
There are generally no restrictions on personal photography of the murals. However, always be respectful of the neighborhood and any private property.
The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, often provide beautiful, soft lighting that enhances the colors of the murals. Midday can be harsh, but overcast days can also offer diffused light.
Aerial photography might be possible depending on drone regulations and permissions in the area. Some creators have shared aerial views, suggesting it's feasible.
Any modern smartphone with a good camera will suffice for capturing vibrant mural photos. If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you can achieve even more professional results, especially with wide-angle lenses.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Big Nine area is an upcoming part of town with several dining options. Reviews mention places with 'good sized portions,' 'outstanding' pork belly, and 'grown-up mac & cheese.' You can find tasty, simple fare with flair at reasonable prices.
Expect a variety of flavors, with reviewers highlighting dishes like 'Best Chicken Philly in town' and 'Best Bologna outside of Memphis.' Many describe the food as 'incredible' and capable of making you say 'daaaaaamn' with the first bite.
Reviews rave about the 'Pork Belly' and 'Mac & Cheese' at a local spot, describing it as 'unique' and 'grown-up.' Other mentions include 'Chicken Philly' and 'Bologna.' The atmosphere is often described as 'chill and welcoming.'
It's advisable to check specific restaurant hours online or call ahead, as one reviewer noted issues with outdated hours, missing a Saturday lunch opportunity.
Reviews suggest that the food in the Big Nine area is 'reasonably priced,' making it an accessible option for visitors looking for a good meal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Wear comfortable shoes for everyone, as exploring the murals involves walking. Pack snacks and water, especially on warmer days. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the open spaces and vibrant art provide plenty of visual stimulation and opportunities for imaginative play. Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children more freedom to move around.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Photographers
Plan your visit around optimal lighting conditions, such as the golden hours, for the best photographic results. Experiment with different angles and compositions to capture the essence of each piece. Don't forget to seek out the 'Still Dreaming' mural, a particularly iconic and photogenic artwork.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Combine your mural tour with affordable dining options in the Big Nine neighborhood, which reviewers describe as 'reasonably priced.' Pack your own water bottle and snacks to save even more. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as the best way to see the murals is on foot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Big Nine Murals
These murals are a collaborative effort, often featuring the work of talented Black artists who use their craft to educate, inspire, and foster a sense of pride within the community. They serve as a visual narrative, connecting past generations with the present and future, making the history tangible and accessible to all who visit. The Big Nine district is actively being revitalized, and the murals are a central part of this transformation, drawing attention to the area's cultural richness.
Visiting the MLK Boulevard Murals offers a unique opportunity to engage with local history and art in a meaningful way. It's a chance to appreciate the artistic talent within the community and to reflect on the important messages conveyed through these powerful visual statements. The experience is both educational and aesthetically rewarding, making it a must-see for anyone interested in art, history, and community empowerment.
Exploring the Big Nine Neighborhood
Beyond the art, the Big Nine offers a growing culinary scene. Reviewers have praised the local eateries for their 'tasty, simple fare with flair' and 'incredible' food that is 'reasonably priced.' From outstanding pork belly to unique mac and cheese, the dining options add another layer to the visitor experience. The atmosphere is often described as 'chill and welcoming,' making it a pleasant place to spend time.
When visiting the Big Nine, embrace the opportunity to wander and discover. The murals are spread out, encouraging exploration on foot. This allows you to not only appreciate the art but also to get a feel for the neighborhood's character and the community spirit that is driving its revitalization.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit