Wide Open Walls Murals
Sacramento's 'Wide Open Walls' transforms the city into a vibrant outdoor art gallery with stunning, large-scale murals by local and international art...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Wide Open Walls Murals
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sacramento's 'Wide Open Walls' transforms the city into a vibrant outdoor art gallery with stunning, large-scale murals by local and international artists.
"Sacramento celebrates artistic expression placed on many walls throughout the city. World wide participating wall muralists/artists dazzle us with their imaginative creations."
🗺️ Plan Your Mural Route
These murals are spread out! Use a map or app to plan your walking or driving route to see multiple pieces efficiently.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to discover these urban art gems. Prioritize comfort!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Orangutans by Bordalo II
Near Golden 1 Center
A striking mural of orangutans, a powerful statement on conservation, often cited as a favorite.

Johnny Cash by Shepard Fairey
16th and L Street
An iconic portrait of the Man in Black, a must-see for music and art fans alike.

Ana Valentine's Art
U.C.D. Medical Center Parking Garage, Stockton Boulevard
Vibrant and imaginative creations by artist Ana Valentine, showcasing local inspiration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art Walk
Best Viewing Times
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Plan Your Mural Route
These murals are spread out! Use a map or app to plan your walking or driving route to see multiple pieces efficiently.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to discover these urban art gems. Prioritize comfort!
📸 Capture the Art
Bring your camera or phone for stunning photos. Look for unique angles and lighting to make your shots pop.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tricky near some murals. Look for public parking garages or be prepared for street parking challenges.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Plan Your Mural Route
These murals are spread out! Use a map or app to plan your walking or driving route to see multiple pieces efficiently.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to discover these urban art gems. Prioritize comfort!
📸 Capture the Art
Bring your camera or phone for stunning photos. Look for unique angles and lighting to make your shots pop.
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tricky near some murals. Look for public parking garages or be prepared for street parking challenges.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sacramento's 'Wide Open Walls' for its impressive collection of public art, transforming the city into an open-air gallery. The murals are celebrated for their creativity, diversity, and accessibility, offering a unique way to explore Sacramento. While some find the spread of murals requires significant travel, the artistic merit and community impact are widely appreciated.
"I think That Sacramento has an open mind when it comes to art. The "Wide Open Walls" program shows just that, It gives artists an opportunity to express their art that was inspired by Sacramento and can be enjoyed by all that pass by, Here's an example by artist 🎨🎭 Ana Valentine that was done at U.C.D. Medical center's Parking garage on Stockton Boulevard and here's a huge mural of Johnny Cash by Shepard Fairey viewable from 16th and L Street. both in Sacramento"
Author Alfred Guajardo
"About half a dozen or so mural that are high quality. Kind of reminds me of being in Oakland or Miami. Glad it exists, good chance to stretch one's legs."
Greg Bem
"Sacramento celebrates artistic expression placed on many walls throughout the city. World wide participating wall muralists/artists dazzle us with their imaginative creations."
Terry Wilson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting Around
The 'Wide Open Walls' murals are scattered throughout Sacramento. Many are concentrated in the downtown and midtown areas, but others are in different neighborhoods. Checking an online map or a dedicated app for the mural locations is highly recommended to plan your route.
Exploring the murals is best done on foot or by bike, especially in denser areas. For murals further apart, you might consider driving or using ride-sharing services. Public transportation can also be an option for some locations.
Many visitors find it enjoyable to create a walking tour of nearby murals. For those spread further apart, consider a combination of walking for clusters and driving or using a ride-share for longer distances.
While official guided tours might be limited, local walking groups or art enthusiasts sometimes organize informal tours. It's worth checking local event listings or community forums for such opportunities.
Yes, depending on the mural's location, Sacramento's public transit system can get you close to many of the 'Wide Open Walls' art pieces. Check the local transit authority's routes and schedules for specific mural locations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, all 'Wide Open Walls' murals are part of a public art initiative and are free to view. They are displayed on exterior walls throughout the city, making them accessible to everyone.
The murals are publicly displayed and can be viewed at any time, day or night. However, for the best visual experience and safety, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
There is no entrance fee. The 'Wide Open Walls' program aims to bring art to the public spaces, so all murals are free to admire.
Official 'Wide Open Walls' websites or local tourism sites often provide maps or lists of mural locations. Community forums and social media can also be good resources for up-to-date information.
The 'Wide Open Walls' festival typically takes place annually, often with live painting events and artist meet-and-greets. Keep an eye on their official channels for announcements about upcoming events.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best natural light for photographing the murals, avoiding harsh shadows and creating a more appealing image. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography of the public murals. However, always be respectful of private property and avoid obstructing public pathways.
Experiment with different angles, get close to capture details, or use the surrounding environment to frame the mural. Consider including people in your shots for scale and context.
Use a moderate aperture (f/8-f/11) for good depth of field. If shooting in low light, increase your ISO or use a tripod to avoid blur. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing large murals.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and airspace restrictions. Always check FAA guidelines and local ordinances before flying a drone in urban areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Sacramento has a vibrant food scene. Many murals are located in areas with numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering diverse culinary options from casual bites to fine dining.
You'll find a wide variety, including farm-to-fork specialties, international cuisine, breweries, and coffee shops. Areas like Midtown are particularly known for their eclectic dining options.
Yes, many restaurants in Sacramento cater to families. Look for casual eateries, pizza places, or cafes that offer kid-friendly menus and a relaxed atmosphere.
Absolutely! Many cafes, food trucks, and delis offer quick and delicious options perfect for a grab-and-go meal between mural viewings.
Sacramento is known for its healthy and diverse food options, so you'll find plenty of restaurants offering excellent vegan and vegetarian dishes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan your route to include murals that are easily accessible and perhaps located near parks or playgrounds for breaks. Many murals are in areas with casual dining options, making it easy to grab a bite. Remember to bring snacks and water, and make it a fun scavenger hunt to find different artworks!
🚶♀️ Art Enthusiasts & Photographers
Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for optimal lighting conditions that enhance the vibrancy and detail of the murals. Bring your best camera gear and experiment with different perspectives to capture the essence of each piece. The sheer volume and quality of the murals provide endless opportunities for stunning photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Wide Open Walls' Initiative
These large-scale artworks transform blank walls into vibrant canvases, making art accessible to everyone. The program has significantly enhanced the city's aesthetic appeal and has become a major draw for tourists and locals alike. The diversity of styles and themes ensures there's something to captivate every viewer, from abstract pieces to detailed portraits.
Exploring Sacramento's Mural Scene
Other notable pieces include Shepard Fairey's striking portrait of Johnny Cash and the imaginative works by Ana Valentine at the U.C.D. Medical Center. Many visitors enjoy stumbling upon hidden gems as they explore, adding an element of surprise to their art hunt. The sheer scale and creativity of these murals make them a compelling reason to explore Sacramento's urban environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit