Midtown Alley Murals - Image 1
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Midtown Alley Murals

4.6
·776 reviews·St. Louis, United States

A mile-long riverfront wall transformed into a vibrant outdoor gallery by over 250 graffiti artists.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Annual Paint Louis Event

Live art creation spectacle

CrowdHigh
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Midtown Alley Murals - Image 1

Midtown Alley Murals

Best Time

Annual Paint Louis Event

Live art creation spectacle

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A mile-long riverfront wall transformed into a vibrant outdoor gallery by over 250 graffiti artists.

4.6
(776 reviews)

"Absolutely amazing artwork! This was one of the coolest places I visited while in St. Louis."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive-By Option

Consider viewing from your car for safety and convenience, especially if alone.

👟 Comfortable Footwear

The ground can be uneven; wear sturdy shoes for exploring on foot.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Paint Louis Spectacle

Paint Louis Spectacle

Witness graffiti artists from across the globe create massive murals over three days. A true explosion of color and talent.

Reddit
The 'Battle of St. Louis'

The 'Battle of St. Louis'

A standout mural that captures the imagination, showcasing the diverse artistic visions present.

Reddit
Riverfront Wall Gallery

Riverfront Wall Gallery

A mile-long canvas featuring over 250 artists' unique styles and subjects. Always something new to discover.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Ever-Changing Canvas

The Midtown Alley Murals are a dynamic outdoor gallery, constantly evolving with new art. Visit during the annual Paint Louis event for a vibrant spectacle of live creation, but be aware that the area is industrial and can feel isolated. Reddit

Safety and Accessibility

While free and open, the mural area is adjacent to train tracks and industrial zones. Some visitors recommend viewing from your car for safety, especially if you're alone. Reddit The terrain can be rough, so wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk. Reddit

Best Times

When
Annual Paint Louis Event
Why
Live art creation spectacle
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, safer feel
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light on art
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Where are the coolest murals or plain awesome graffiti?

🚗 Drive-By Option

Consider viewing from your car for safety and convenience, especially if alone. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

The ground can be uneven; wear sturdy shoes for exploring on foot. Reddit

reddit.com

Street art

reddit.com

St. Louis Mural Map!

📸 Photo Opportunities

Bring your camera! You'll likely take over 100 photos. Reddit

📅 Check Event Dates

Plan around Paint Louis for a unique, immersive art experience. Reddit

reddit.com

Any recommendations for a 1st time visitor?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive-By Option

Consider viewing from your car for safety and convenience, especially if alone. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Footwear

The ground can be uneven; wear sturdy shoes for exploring on foot. Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities

Bring your camera! You'll likely take over 100 photos. Reddit

📅 Check Event Dates

Plan around Paint Louis for a unique, immersive art experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(776 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the incredible scale and diversity of artwork at the Midtown Alley Murals, especially during the annual Paint Louis event. Many appreciate the free access and the sheer volume of photographic opportunities. However, some find the industrial location awkward to access and feel it lacks adequate city support for amenities like trash disposal, leading to a less comfortable experience for some. Reddit+1

"Absolutely love this place! Every year an event is held called Paint Louis that brings in graffiti artists from all over. They compete for three days to create giant murals and they do not disappoint.
My only wish is that city supported this event more with trash support and that there would be more port-a potties for visitors."

Shannon Smock

"A great way to see a variety of the Lou's talents. Each time we go, it's only is there. We stay more than and hour and take over 100 pictures. The artistic visions are captivating. There is no waiting. Come and go as you please. No tickets, free to all. The road is rough, there may be other people there, your by the track and big trucks come through. Don't forget to drive by the Arch and riverfront view. Make it up to the Arch park."

Nikki C

"So much mural.. lol.
Fantastic. So many various pieces with Subject matter across the board. I loved the 'Battle of St Louis'.. but really, it was all amazing. And you get your steps in! Go check it out. Do it."

Justin Newell

What People Like

Amazing artwork diversity
Free admission
Paint Louis event spectacle

What People Dislike

Industrial location
Limited facilities
Rough terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The murals are located along the riverfront wall. Access can be a bit tricky as it's an industrial area. Some visitors suggest driving down the riverwalk to view them from your car for a safer experience. Reddit Parking can be limited and the terrain is rough. Reddit

Public transportation options are limited for direct access to this specific industrial area. It's generally recommended to drive or use a rideshare service. Reddit

You can drive along the riverfront for an overview, or park and walk to get a closer look. Be mindful of the rough terrain and train tracks. Reddit

Yes, the murals are near the riverfront, offering views of the Arch. Many visitors combine their trip with a visit to the Gateway Arch National Park. Reddit

While the art is captivating, some visitors feel the area is 'on the wrong side of the tracks' and recommend caution, especially if visiting alone. Viewing from your car is a popular suggestion for added safety. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to the Midtown Alley Murals is completely free. You can come and go as you please without any ticket purchase. Reddit

The murals are an outdoor, public space, so they are accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better viewing. Reddit

The Paint Louis event itself is free to attend and view the artists at work. It's a community event that celebrates graffiti art. Reddit

Yes, the murals are a permanent outdoor installation. However, the most dynamic experience is during the annual Paint Louis event when new art is being created. Reddit

As it's an open public space, there are no specific entry restrictions. However, it's an industrial area, so be mindful of your surroundings and any posted signage. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The murals are vast, so try to capture both the full scope of the wall and close-ups of individual pieces. The lighting can change dramatically throughout the day. Reddit

Experiment with different perspectives. Some artists' work might look best from a distance, while others have intricate details best captured up close. Reddit

Absolutely! The Paint Louis event is a fantastic opportunity to photograph artists in action and see fresh, vibrant murals being created. Reddit

Any camera or smartphone with good resolution will work. Consider a wide-angle lens if you have one to capture the scale of the murals. Reddit

Generally, no. However, be respectful of the artists and their work, and be aware of your surroundings in the industrial area. Reddit

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

It's a raw, urban art experience. The murals are impressive and diverse, but the industrial setting can feel a bit desolate to some. Reddit

Many visitors spend over an hour, taking numerous photos. You can easily spend more time if you're an art enthusiast. Reddit

Unfortunately, some reviews mention a lack of city support for trash and restroom facilities, especially during events. Reddit

Comfortable walking shoes are a must due to the rough terrain. Dress for the weather, as it's an outdoor experience. Reddit

During the Paint Louis event, you can often watch artists at work and sometimes chat with them. Otherwise, the murals are static displays. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Midtown Alley Murals can be a visually stimulating experience for families, offering a vast outdoor gallery of colorful art. However, parents should be aware of the industrial setting and proximity to train tracks. Reddit Consider a drive-by tour to keep younger children comfortable and safe. If walking, ensure kids wear sturdy shoes as the ground can be uneven. The sheer scale of the murals might capture their attention, but supervision is key due to the environment. Reddit

While there aren't specific kid-focused amenities, the vibrant and diverse artwork can spark imagination. It's a unique way to introduce children to urban art in a less conventional setting. Pack snacks and water, as facilities are limited. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Midtown Alley Murals are a dream. The mile-long wall is a canvas for over 250 artists, offering an incredible diversity of styles, colors, and subjects. Reddit Plan to spend ample time here, as you'll likely find yourself taking hundreds of photos. Consider visiting during the golden hour for dramatic lighting, or during the Paint Louis event to capture artists in action. Reddit

Experiment with different lenses and angles to capture both the grand scale of the murals and the intricate details within them. The urban, industrial backdrop adds a unique texture to your shots. Be prepared for varied terrain, so bring comfortable gear and perhaps a tripod for low-light conditions. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

The Midtown Alley Murals are an excellent choice for budget travelers as admission is completely free. Reddit This offers a significant cultural experience without any cost. You can spend as much or as little time as you like exploring the art. Reddit

Your main expenses will be transportation to the site and any snacks or drinks you bring. Since facilities are limited, packing your own provisions is a smart way to save money. It's a fantastic way to experience St. Louis's vibrant art scene on a shoestring budget. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistry of Paint Louis

The annual Paint Louis event is the heart of the Midtown Alley Murals' dynamism. For three days, this event transforms the riverfront wall into a vibrant canvas as graffiti artists from across the nation converge to create stunning, large-scale murals. It's a unique opportunity to witness the creative process unfold in real-time, with artists competing and collaborating to produce breathtaking works. The sheer scale and variety of styles showcased during Paint Louis are a major draw for art lovers and photographers alike. Reddit

This event not only brings incredible art to St. Louis but also fosters a community around urban art. While the event is a highlight, the permanent collection of murals ensures that the alley remains a significant street art destination year-round. Visitors often express awe at the talent and dedication of the artists, making it a memorable experience. Reddit

Navigating the Urban Landscape

Visiting the Midtown Alley Murals involves navigating an industrial riverfront area. While the art is captivating, some visitors note that the surroundings can feel a bit isolated or even unsafe, particularly if you're alone. The terrain is described as rough, with proximity to train tracks and heavy truck traffic. Reddit+1

Because of these factors, many recommend a cautious approach. Some travelers prefer to view the murals from the comfort and perceived safety of their car, driving along the riverfront path. Reddit If you choose to walk, wearing sturdy, comfortable shoes is essential. It's also advisable to visit during daylight hours and perhaps go with a companion for a more comfortable experience. Reddit

A Photographer's Paradise

The Midtown Alley Murals offer an unparalleled opportunity for photographers. The sheer volume of artwork—over 250 artists contributing to a mile-long stretch—means an endless supply of subjects. Reddit From intricate details to sweeping compositions, each mural presents a unique photographic challenge and reward. The changing light throughout the day can dramatically alter the mood and appearance of the artwork, encouraging multiple visits or careful timing. Reddit

Visitors often report taking hundreds of photos during a single visit, highlighting the visual richness of the location. Reddit Whether you're using a professional camera or a smartphone, the vibrant colors and diverse subject matter are sure to make for striking images. Capturing the scale of the larger pieces while also focusing on the finer points of individual artistry is key to a comprehensive photo collection. Reddit

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