Philadelphia Mural Mile - a large mural on the side of a building
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Philadelphia Mural Mile

4.6
·119 reviews·Philadelphia, United States

Philadelphia's vibrant streets transform into an open-air gallery, showcasing thousands of community-created murals.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
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Philadelphia Mural Mile - a large mural on the side of a building

Philadelphia Mural Mile

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Philadelphia's vibrant streets transform into an open-air gallery, showcasing thousands of community-created murals.

4.6
(119 reviews)

"A wonderful tour and a great way to learn more about the community and its dedication to the arts!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Book a Guided Tour

Mural Arts tours offer deep dives into art history & community stories.

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be walking a lot to explore the diverse murals! :athletic_shoe:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

South Philadelphia Murals

South Philadelphia Murals

South of Market Street

Discover stunning large-scale murals and intricate mosaics that tell powerful community stories.

Center City Walking Tour

Center City Walking Tour

North of Market Street (Old City, Chinatown)

Explore diverse street art, from vibrant portraits to abstract designs, showcasing Philly's artistic spirit.

Graffiti Pier Art

Graffiti Pier Art

Delaware River Waterfront

Witness dynamic, ever-changing spray-painted murals on this iconic industrial site.

Curtis Center Mosaic

Curtis Center Mosaic

6th and Walnut Streets

Marvel at a historic, century-old glass mosaic mural within the Curtis Building.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Artful Wander

The Philadelphia Mural Mile offers a vibrant outdoor gallery. Consider booking a guided tour with Mural Arts Philadelphia for deeper insights into the art and community stories. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking to discover these incredible street art pieces.

Timing is Key for the Best Views

While murals are always accessible, visiting during daylight hours ensures you can fully appreciate the intricate details and vibrant colors. Weekday mornings often offer a more serene experience, allowing you to soak in the art without large crowds.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Good for photos, vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

only had a day to spend in Philly and decided to visit the Philadelphia Magic Gardens!! Sooo pretty & perfect for a date or trip w your family!! #phillytok #philly #traveltok #visitphilly #dateideas
@sprklgirly
27.1K likes • 304.2K views

Book a Guided Tour

Mural Arts tours offer deep dives into art history & community stories. InstagramReddit

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be walking a lot to explore the diverse murals! :athletic_shoe:

Just wrapped up my latest mural in Philadelphia with Mural Arts, and I couldn’t be happier! Bringing this vision to life was such a rewarding experience. Life really is better when you’re doing what you love. Thanks for all your support! #art #mural #philadelphia #muralist #artist
@kellzart
6.9K likes • 22.2K views
Things To Do In Philly This Summer— Part 1👆 A mural arts tour has been on my list for a long time! 🤔To tour the mural mile south or the mural mile north is the question. The Mural Mile South tour takes you South of Market Street to Lombard Street, and the Mural Mile North tour takes you north of Market Street into Old City, through Chinatown and around city hall. Which would you choose to exp...
eliza.michiels
49 likes • 1.5K views

Explore Beyond the Main Routes

Hidden gems and smaller artworks await discovery off the beaten path. :compass:

Check Mural Arts Schedule

Special events and new mural unveilings happen year-round. :calendar:

🎨 Our team members, Sadie and Josh, went on a mural tour with @muralarts to get a firsthand experience of how it serves local artists and the community of Philadelphia. 🎨 Josh, who went on the Mural Mile Center City walking tour, had this to say: “I've lived in Philly for many years and have known about our murals and how Philly is one of the top mural cities in the world, with over 2500 murals...
creativerepute
110 likes • 4.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book a Guided Tour

Mural Arts tours offer deep dives into art history & community stories. InstagramReddit

Wear Comfy Shoes

You'll be walking a lot to explore the diverse murals! :athletic_shoe:

Explore Beyond the Main Routes

Hidden gems and smaller artworks await discovery off the beaten path. :compass:

Check Mural Arts Schedule

Special events and new mural unveilings happen year-round. :calendar:

Capture the Details

Zoom in on textures and hidden elements for stunning photos. :iphone:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(119 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors overwhelmingly praise the Philadelphia Mural Mile for its stunning artwork, informative tours, and community impact. Many highlight the passion of the guides and the beauty of the diverse murals. However, some critics express concerns about artistic direction and representation within the Mural Arts program.

"Great organization who puts on magnificent programs throughout the community of Philadelphia. Their tours are also beautiful and informative."

Jenn Soos

"We had a wonderful day strolling South Philadelphia with our knowledgeable tour guide Carol. We loved seeing the beautiful art from large mural walls to small mailboxes and of course stunning mosaics in the neighborhood. We learned a lot about the history the background of the murals and the techniques used. Highly recommend this tour and looking forward to doing the remainder of their tours"

Photos AdamsFamily

"Very enjoyable 90 minutes walking tour of murals in center Philly. We had the chance to meet the CEO of the organization on the way, and she was, well, nothing short of amazing. Everyone felt inspired and uplifted. A lot to discover!"

Frederic ARROUAYS

What People Like

Beautiful and diverse murals
Knowledgeable and passionate guides
Community-focused art projects

What People Dislike

Concerns about artistic direction
Perceived lack of diversity

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Mural Mile is spread across various neighborhoods. SEPTA public transportation (bus and subway lines) is a convenient way to access different sections. Many visitors also find it easy to navigate by foot or bike once in the city center. Parking can be challenging, so public transit is often recommended. TikTok

Navigating the Mural Mile is best done with a map or by joining a guided tour. Mural Arts Philadelphia offers specific tours for different areas like Center City, South Philadelphia, and North Philadelphia, which helps in covering the key murals efficiently. Instagram

Parking can be difficult and expensive in many areas of Philadelphia, especially near popular mural sites. It's advisable to research parking garages in advance or utilize public transportation to avoid the hassle. Reddit

Philadelphia has been expanding its bike lane network. Many areas around the Mural Mile are bike-friendly, and bike-sharing services are available, making it a great way to explore at your own pace. :bike:

For a comprehensive experience, consider booking separate tours for different neighborhoods like South Philadelphia or Center City. Alternatively, use ride-sharing services or public transport to hop between mural clusters. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The murals themselves are publicly accessible and free to view. However, if you wish to join a guided tour offered by Mural Arts Philadelphia, tickets are required and can be purchased through their official website. Instagram

Tour prices vary depending on the type of tour and duration. It's best to check the official Mural Arts Philadelphia website for the most up-to-date pricing and booking information. Instagram

Since the murals are outdoors, they can be viewed at any time. However, for the best experience and safety, daylight hours are recommended. Guided tours have specific schedules. TikTok

Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy exploring the Mural Mile on their own using maps or by simply wandering through neighborhoods known for their street art. This allows for flexibility and spontaneous discovery. TikTok

While some city passes might include general Philadelphia attractions, specific Mural Arts Philadelphia tours are typically booked directly. It's worth checking the details of any city pass you consider. :ticket:

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

The best way is to immerse yourself! Join a guided tour for historical context and artist insights, or create your own adventure by following a map and exploring at your own pace. InstagramReddit

This depends on your pace and how many murals you want to see. A guided tour typically lasts 90 minutes to 2 hours. Exploring independently could take anywhere from a few hours to a full day. Reddit

Most areas with murals are generally safe during daylight hours. However, as with any urban exploration, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in less populated areas or after dark. Reddit

Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, sunscreen, and your camera or smartphone for photos. A portable charger can also be useful if you plan on taking many pictures. :iphone:

Restroom availability can vary depending on the specific neighborhood. Public facilities might be limited, so it's a good idea to use restrooms at cafes or shops you visit. :toilet:

📸 📸 Photography

Overcast days can provide soft, even lighting that's great for capturing mural details without harsh shadows. Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can also create dramatic lighting. TikTok

Many murals are incredibly photogenic! Look for those with vibrant colors, interesting compositions, and unique subject matter. The Graffiti Pier is also a popular spot for dynamic, raw street art photography. TikTok

A smartphone with a good camera is perfectly adequate for capturing most murals. If you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, you can experiment with different lenses for wider shots or close-ups of intricate details. :camerawithflash:

Visiting during off-peak hours, like weekday mornings, can help minimize crowds. You can also use a slightly wider aperture to blur out background elements or wait for a moment when people have passed. Reddit

Generally, photographing public murals is allowed for personal use. However, always be respectful of private property and any posted signage. For commercial use, you may need to seek permission. :camerawithflash:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Philadelphia Mural Mile can be a fantastic and engaging experience for families. The vibrant colors and large-scale imagery are captivating for children. Consider booking a family-friendly guided tour, as guides often tailor their stories to be interesting for younger audiences. TikTok

Focus on murals with recognizable figures or playful themes. Neighborhoods like South Philadelphia often have murals that are particularly engaging for kids. Remember to pack snacks and water, and plan for breaks, as little legs can get tired. The interactive nature of spotting different elements in the murals can turn it into a fun scavenger hunt!

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Photographers

For art lovers and photographers, the Mural Mile is a dream destination. You'll find a diverse range of styles, from photorealistic portraits to abstract designs and intricate mosaics. TikTok+1 Dedicated photography tours or visiting during optimal lighting conditions (early morning or late afternoon) can enhance your experience. Instagram

Don't just focus on the large, prominent murals; keep an eye out for smaller, hidden gems and unique artistic details. The Graffiti Pier offers a raw, dynamic backdrop for urban photography, while the historic Curtis Center mosaic provides a different kind of artistic marvel. Be prepared to spend ample time capturing the details and grandeur of these urban masterpieces.

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

The Philadelphia Mural Mile is an incredibly budget-friendly activity, as most of the art is publicly accessible and free to view. TikTok While guided tours have a cost, you can easily create your own self-guided tour using online maps or by simply exploring neighborhoods known for their street art. Instagram

Combine your mural exploration with a visit to Reading Terminal Market for affordable and delicious food options. Walking or using public transportation will also help keep your expenses down. It's a fantastic way to experience the city's culture and art without breaking the bank.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Impact of Mural Arts Philadelphia

Mural Arts Philadelphia is a globally recognized public art program that has transformed the city into an open-air gallery. Founded in 1984 as the Philadelphia Anti-Graffiti Network, its mission evolved from crime prevention to community beautification and empowerment through art. The organization collaborates with local artists and community members to create thousands of murals across the city, each telling a unique story and reflecting the neighborhood's identity. TikTokInstagram

The impact of these murals extends beyond aesthetics. They serve as powerful tools for social change, fostering dialogue, building community pride, and providing economic opportunities for artists. Mural Arts Philadelphia offers a variety of programs, including guided tours, art education, and community engagement projects, making art accessible to everyone. Reddit

While the organization has been praised for its contributions, some critics point to a perceived lack of artistic diversity or a tendency towards more conventional themes in some murals. However, the sheer volume and reach of Mural Arts Philadelphia have undeniably shaped the city's visual landscape and its reputation as a 'City of Murals.' [^Review]

Navigating the Mural Mile: Tours vs. Self-Guided Exploration

Deciding between a guided tour and a self-guided exploration of the Philadelphia Mural Mile depends on your travel style and interests. Guided tours, often led by knowledgeable docents from Mural Arts Philadelphia, offer invaluable context, historical background, and insights into the artists' intentions and community impact. These tours are structured to cover specific neighborhoods, ensuring you see a curated selection of significant works. Instagram+1

Self-guided exploration offers the ultimate flexibility. You can create your own itinerary, linger at murals that capture your attention, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. This approach is ideal for those who prefer a more spontaneous adventure or have specific murals they wish to seek out. Having a good map or using a navigation app can be helpful for this method. TikTok

Regardless of your choice, comfortable footwear is essential, as the Mural Mile encompasses various neighborhoods and requires a significant amount of walking. Both options provide a rich and rewarding experience of Philadelphia's vibrant street art scene. Reddit

Beyond the Canvas: Community and Culture

The Philadelphia Mural Mile is more than just a collection of beautiful artwork; it's a testament to the city's rich cultural tapestry and its commitment to community engagement. Many murals are created in collaboration with local residents, schools, and community groups, fostering a sense of ownership and pride. These artistic endeavors often address social issues, celebrate local history, and reflect the diverse identities of Philadelphia's neighborhoods. TikTokInstagram

Exploring the Mural Mile offers a unique opportunity to connect with the spirit of Philadelphia. You'll encounter art that speaks to the city's resilience, creativity, and ongoing evolution. From the vibrant energy of South Street to the historic charm of Old City, each mural adds a layer to the narrative of this dynamic urban landscape. Reddit

This focus on community involvement ensures that the murals are not just decorations but living expressions of the people who call Philadelphia home. It's an experience that goes beyond sightseeing, offering a deeper understanding of the city's soul. [^Review]

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