Arts This Way Alleys
Fort Wayne's vibrant alleyways transformed into open-air galleries by local artists, showcasing colorful murals and street art.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for art appreciation
Arts This Way Alleys
Best Time
Best light for art appreciation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Fort Wayne's vibrant alleyways transformed into open-air galleries by local artists, showcasing colorful murals and street art.
"This was just one of the art decorations and murals throughout Ft Wayne. They are all tastefully done and bright and colorful."
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Perfect for senior photos and unique urban shots. Bring your camera!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Wander through the alleys to discover hidden gems and appreciate the art up close.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Mural Masterpieces
Various Alleys Throughout Fort Wayne
Explore a kaleidoscope of colorful murals and street art, transforming ordinary alleyways into open-air galleries.
The Iconic 77 Steps
Downtown Fort Wayne
Climb or admire the visually striking 77 steps, a popular spot for photos and appreciating the urban art scene.
Instagrammable Photo Ops
Throughout the Alleys
Discover countless unique backdrops for stunning photos, from intricate murals to artistic installations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Artful Alleys
Fort Wayne's Creative Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Perfect for senior photos and unique urban shots. Bring your camera!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Wander through the alleys to discover hidden gems and appreciate the art up close.
✨ Appreciate the Art
Take time to admire the tasteful and bright murals that enhance the city.
📍 Find the 77 Steps
Don't miss the famous 77 steps, especially beautiful at night.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Perfect for senior photos and unique urban shots. Bring your camera!
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Wander through the alleys to discover hidden gems and appreciate the art up close.
✨ Appreciate the Art
Take time to admire the tasteful and bright murals that enhance the city.
📍 Find the 77 Steps
Don't miss the famous 77 steps, especially beautiful at night.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the vibrant and tasteful murals that transform ordinary alleys into colorful, Instagrammable art spaces. The '77 Steps' is a particular highlight, offering a unique visual experience. While the art is widely appreciated, some visitors note that the alleys can be less maintained in certain areas.
"One of my favorite parts of Fort Wayne. Beautiful at night to check out the 77 steps and during the day you can appreciate all the wall art and beautiful paintings. Very Instagrammable spot and lots of cool areas to take photos."
Rachel Erotika
"Not sure where to actually leave a review? This was just one of the art decorations and murals throughout Ft Wayne. This alley had several murals. They are all tastefully done and bright and colorful. Much better than just a boring alley or brick walls."
Brian Dible
"great wall art"
Bb Jeanie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Arts This Way Alleys are scattered throughout Fort Wayne, with a notable concentration in the downtown area. Look for vibrant murals and street art in various alleyways. The '77 Steps' is a key landmark to start your exploration.
Fort Wayne has a public bus system, Citilink, which can take you to various parts of the city. Check their routes and schedules for access to areas with alley art.
Parking availability varies by location. Downtown areas often have parking garages and street parking. It's best to check specific parking options for the alley you plan to visit.
While generally safe, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring less-trafficked areas. Visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
Most alleys are pedestrian-focused and may not be suitable for driving. It's best to park and explore on foot to fully appreciate the art.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Arts This Way Alleys are a free public art initiative. You can explore and enjoy the murals and installations without any admission fee.
The alley art is accessible at any time, as it's part of the urban landscape. However, for the best viewing experience and safety, daytime is recommended.
While there isn't one single official map for all alley art, many local guides and social media posts highlight popular locations. The '77 Steps' is a good starting point.
Guided tours specifically for the alley art may be limited. However, local art organizations or tourism boards might offer walking tours that include these areas.
Information on contributing may be available through local arts councils or the 'Arts This Way' initiative if they have a donation or volunteer program.
📸 📸 Photography
Anywhere with a vibrant mural or interesting installation is a great photo spot! The '77 Steps' is particularly popular for its visual appeal.
Yes, photography is encouraged! The alley art is meant to be enjoyed and shared.
Daytime offers the best natural light to capture the colors and details of the murals. Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can also provide beautiful lighting.
Generally, there are no restrictions for personal photography. However, if you plan to use the images for commercial purposes, it's always best to inquire.
Yes, the alleys are popular for professional photoshoots, especially senior portraits.
🎫 🎨 Art & Culture
The art is created by local artists, showcasing the talent within Fort Wayne and the surrounding areas. 
Arts This Way is a project that transforms overlooked urban spaces, like alleys, into vibrant public art installations, fostering community pride and creativity.
You'll find a variety of art forms, including murals, graffiti art, mosaics, and sculptures, all contributing to a dynamic urban art scene.
The art beautifies the city, encourages exploration, supports local artists, and fosters a sense of community pride.
Fort Wayne has a growing art scene with public art throughout the city, including sculptures and murals beyond the designated alleyways.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your children to point out their favorite pieces and perhaps even take photos with them. The '77 Steps' can also be an exciting feature for younger explorers. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for walking and perhaps a small notebook for them to sketch their favorite artworks.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for softer light and more dramatic shadows. The urban setting provides a gritty yet artistic backdrop, perfect for portraiture, street photography, or simply capturing the vibrant spirit of Fort Wayne's art scene.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Combine your alley art exploration with a picnic lunch or snacks from a local market to keep costs down. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in the artistic atmosphere without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Arts This Way' Initiative
+1The initiative often involves collaboration with neighborhood stakeholders to select artists and themes that resonate with the local community. The result is a diverse collection of artworks, ranging from intricate murals to striking sculptures, each telling a unique story or adding a splash of color to the cityscape. It's a testament to the power of public art in fostering creativity and connection.
+1Exploring these alleys offers a unique perspective on Fort Wayne, revealing hidden artistic gems that might otherwise go unnoticed. It encourages visitors to wander off the beaten path and discover the city's creative pulse. The project not only beautifies the environment but also serves as a platform for artists to gain recognition and for the community to celebrate its cultural identity.
Photography Opportunities
When planning your photo session, consider visiting during the daytime for optimal natural light that truly brings out the colors of the artwork. The golden hours of early morning or late afternoon can also cast a beautiful glow, adding a different mood to your shots. The variety of styles and subjects within the alleys ensures that every photograph can be distinct and captivating.
Many visitors, including those seeking senior portraits or engagement photos, find these alleys to be an ideal location. The urban art adds a contemporary and edgy feel to portraits, making them stand out. Remember to be respectful of the art and any other visitors while you're capturing your shots.
The Significance of the '77 Steps'
This landmark has become a popular spot for visitors, particularly for its photogenic appeal. It serves as a recognizable landmark for navigating the art-filled areas and is frequently cited as a must-see location for those exploring the city's creative side. Its integration with the broader alley art scene makes it a key element in the overall experience of discovering Fort Wayne's public art.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit