Paint Louis Graffiti Wall - John Lennon Wall
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Paint Louis Graffiti Wall

4.8
·30 reviews·St. Louis, United States

St. Louis's Paint Louis Graffiti Wall: the world's longest mural, a dynamic outdoor gallery showcasing global street art talent.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Labor Day Weekend

New art and festival buzz

CrowdHigh
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Paint Louis Graffiti Wall - John Lennon Wall

Paint Louis Graffiti Wall

Best Time

Labor Day Weekend

New art and festival buzz

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

St. Louis's Paint Louis Graffiti Wall: the world's longest mural, a dynamic outdoor gallery showcasing global street art talent.

4.8
(30 reviews)

"The St. Louis Graffiti Wall is hands-down one of the coolest spots in the city! It’s like walking through an open-air art gallery."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking along the wall, so comfortable footwear is a must.

GPS Can Be Tricky :round_pushpin:

Be cautious with GPS; it might lead you to railroad tracks. Aim for the flood wall south of the Arch.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ever-Evolving Canvas

The Ever-Evolving Canvas

Mississippi River Flood Wall

Witness the world's longest mural, a dynamic outdoor gallery constantly repainted by global artists.

Instagram
Battle for the Lou

Battle for the Lou

Specific section of the wall

Experience a competitive art showdown where artists battle for recognition and showcase their skills.

Reddit
Artist Process & Techniques

Artist Process & Techniques

Various sections of the wall

Observe artists using unique techniques like the 'Doodle Grid' and learn about spray paint application.

TikTok+1
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit during the Paint Louis festival (Labor Day Weekend) for the most vibrant atmosphere and new art. Otherwise, weekdays offer fewer crowds for a more intimate viewing experience of this ever-changing canvas. Instagram

Navigating the Wall

While GPS can be tricky and lead you to railroad tracks, aim for the Mississippi River flood wall south of the Arch. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and be aware of your surroundings, as some areas may have homeless encampments. Reddit

Best Times

When
Labor Day Weekend
Why
New art and festival buzz
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

“Why are you graffiti our wall?” This technique is so sick. Make sure you favorite so you can watch it later! #artist #doodlegrid #muralart #fypシ゚viral #murals #artistsoftiktok
@jariyadesigns
84K likes • 1.5M views

Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking along the wall, so comfortable footwear is a must. Reddit

GPS Can Be Tricky :round_pushpin:

Be cautious with GPS; it might lead you to railroad tracks. Aim for the flood wall south of the Arch. Reddit

To all the begginers, keep it simple and pratice and you will improve. *Tiktok, this was done on my property* #tinyg #graff #graffitiforyou #spraypaint #graffiti #paint #tutorial #graffititutorial
@tiny.gee
78.4K likes • 1M views
I took a stroll down the world’s longest mural along the flood wall in St. Louis the day after @paintlouisofficial. Graffiti artists come from all over the world to paint these walls every Labor Day Weekend. Their work is absolutely incredible! Have you ever been? If you know the artists, please tag them below. 🖌️ #BradENSTL #stl #art #graffitiart #fyp
bradenstl
6.8K likes • 164.2K views

Capture the Colors :camera_with_flash:

The vibrant murals make for incredible photo opportunities. Go early for fewer people. Instagram

Respect the Art :pray:

Appreciate the artists' work and avoid adding tags over existing pieces. Reddit

Did you know that graffiti can be legal? It can! Mural Mile is a designated graffiti space located on a flood wall by the Mississippi River. This community art piece was born organically over the last few decades and is a product of Paint Louis, sanctioned by the City of St. Louis. Every Labor Day, there is a weekend-long festival to add new art to the wall. During the festival is the only leg...
thegellmanteamstl
4 likes • 240 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking along the wall, so comfortable footwear is a must. Reddit

GPS Can Be Tricky :round_pushpin:

Be cautious with GPS; it might lead you to railroad tracks. Aim for the flood wall south of the Arch. Reddit

Capture the Colors :camera_with_flash:

The vibrant murals make for incredible photo opportunities. Go early for fewer people. Instagram

Respect the Art :pray:

Appreciate the artists' work and avoid adding tags over existing pieces. Reddit

Check for Festivals :fireworks:

Visit during Paint Louis for the full experience with live art and music. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(30 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Paint Louis Graffiti Wall, calling it a 'must-see' and an 'amazing idea' for its vibrant, ever-evolving outdoor art gallery. The sheer talent of the artists and the scale of the murals are consistently praised, offering an inspiring and visually stunning experience. While most find the art tasteful and the community aspect positive, some mention encountering homeless encampments and GPS navigation issues.

"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Must-See in St. Louis!

The St. Louis Graffiti Wall is hands-down one of the coolest spots in the city! It’s like walking through an open-air art gallery that’s constantly evolving. The colors are bold, the messages are powerful, and every inch tells a different story. You can tell these artists poured their hearts into every mural. It’s a great place to take photos, feel inspired, or just soak in the creative energy. Whether you're local or just visiting, make sure you stop by—it’s a vibe! 🎨🔥 #SupportStreetArt #STLStrong"

Danielle Gardner

"Amazing art n worth it just be careful using the gps with that place it'll make u go into a rail road 😂"

Anastasia Phillips

"Absolutely amazing idea. It looks like most are trying to keep it as clean as can be. Didn’t see anything distasteful. The amount of artwork that was beyond astonishing, was mind blowing. There were artists there who are INCREDIBLE at what they do. Of course we had to add our scribbles. Lol."

Anthonie Messer (F&AM)

What People Like

Incredible, vibrant murals
World-class graffiti artists
Dynamic, ever-changing art

What People Dislike

Tricky GPS navigation
Occasional homeless camps

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The wall is located along the Mississippi River flood wall, south of the Gateway Arch. While GPS can be unreliable and sometimes direct visitors to railroad tracks, it's best to head towards the riverfront area. Many visitors find it easiest to park and walk along the designated paths. Reddit

Parking can be found in the vicinity, particularly in areas closer to the Arch. However, during the Paint Louis festival, parking might be more challenging. Consider public transport or ride-sharing services if you're visiting during peak times. Instagram

The primary access and the most extensive sections of the wall are on the St. Louis side of the Mississippi River. While there might be views from the Illinois side, the immersive experience is on the Missouri bank. Instagram

While the art itself is incredible, some visitors have noted the presence of homeless encampments in the surrounding areas. It's advisable to be aware of your surroundings and stick to well-trafficked areas, especially if visiting alone or at dusk. Reddit

The wall stretches for miles, so wear comfortable shoes! Many visitors enjoy a leisurely stroll, taking in the art at their own pace. You can walk as much or as little as you like, turning back when you've seen enough. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general access to the Paint Louis Graffiti Wall is free. It's an open-air public space. However, if you visit during the official Paint Louis festival, there might be associated events or performances with separate ticketing. Instagram

The wall is accessible year-round, 24/7, as it's an outdoor public space. However, the best experience is during daylight hours for viewing the art and for safety. Instagram

The wall itself is free to visit. The Paint Louis festival, which happens annually on Labor Day weekend, is also largely free to attend, though some specific events or performances might have associated costs. Instagram

During the official Paint Louis event, artists are invited to paint. For the general public, adding graffiti outside of sanctioned events is illegal. However, some reviews mention visitors adding their own 'scribbles,' which may refer to temporary chalk art or very minor additions. Reddit

The Paint Louis festival, held annually on Labor Day Weekend, is when most new artwork is created. Visiting during or immediately after this event will give you the freshest murals. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

It's renowned as the world's longest mural and a vibrant, ever-changing outdoor art gallery. Artists from around the globe gather here to showcase their spray-painting talents. Instagram+1

You'll find a diverse range of graffiti art, from intricate characters and lettering to large-scale murals. The style is dynamic and constantly evolving as artists add new pieces. TikTok+1

Absolutely! The colorful and expansive murals provide a stunning backdrop for photos. Visiting on a weekday morning can offer better lighting and fewer people for unobstructed shots. Instagram

Many visitors highlight the 'Battle for the Lou' as a particularly exciting section. However, the entire length of the wall offers unique artistic expressions. Reddit

Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Consider bringing water, especially on warmer days, and your camera or smartphone to capture the art. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Directly at the wall, food options are limited, especially outside of the Paint Louis festival. However, the area near the Gateway Arch and downtown St. Louis offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks. Instagram

While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can bring your own food and find a spot along the riverfront to enjoy a picnic. Remember to clean up after yourself. Reddit

Downtown St. Louis boasts a diverse culinary scene, from classic St. Louis barbecue and toasted ravioli to international cuisine and casual eateries. You'll find options to suit every taste and budget. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings on weekdays are ideal for photography, offering softer light and fewer crowds. This allows for unobstructed shots of the murals. Instagram

Experiment with wide-angle shots to capture the scale of the wall, and close-ups to highlight the intricate details of individual pieces. Look for interesting compositions and color contrasts. TikTok

If you visit during the Paint Louis festival, you'll likely see artists actively painting. Always be respectful and ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. Instagram

Any camera or smartphone with good resolution will work well. The vibrant colors of the graffiti are the main subject, so focus on capturing their intensity. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, be mindful of private property and avoid photographing individuals without their consent. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Paint Louis Graffiti Wall can be a visually stimulating experience for families. The sheer scale and vibrant colors of the murals are captivating for children. It's a fantastic opportunity to introduce kids to public art and diverse artistic expressions in a unique, open-air setting. TikTokInstagram Encourage them to point out their favorite colors or characters. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as there will be walking involved. While the art is generally family-friendly, be mindful of your surroundings, as some areas might have homeless encampments. Reddit Consider visiting during daylight hours and on weekdays for a more relaxed experience.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Paint Louis Graffiti Wall is a dream. The ever-changing nature of the murals means there's always something new to capture. Instagram Aim for early weekday mornings to avoid crowds and capture the best light. Experiment with different focal lengths to showcase both the grand scale of the wall and the intricate details of individual pieces. TikTok The vibrant colors and dynamic compositions offer endless creative possibilities. Be prepared for a lot of walking to find the most compelling shots.

🎨 Art Aficionados

Art lovers will find the Paint Louis Graffiti Wall an unparalleled outdoor gallery. Witnessing the work of artists from around the world, created with spray paint and incredible skill, is a profound experience. Instagram+1 The 'Battle for the Lou' is a must-see for those interested in the competitive side of graffiti art. Reddit Understanding the cultural context and techniques behind graffiti will deepen your appreciation for this living, breathing art form. Visiting during the Paint Louis festival offers the most comprehensive immersion into this vibrant community. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Graffiti: Techniques and Culture

The Paint Louis Graffiti Wall is a testament to the vibrant and evolving culture of street art. Artists utilize a range of techniques, from precise spray-paint application to intricate layering and shading, to bring their visions to life. Videos showcase methods like the 'Doodle Grid' for creating complex patterns and the use of spray paint with various caps to achieve different line weights and effects. TikTok+2 This evolving canvas is more than just paint on a wall; it's a dynamic dialogue between artists and the urban landscape, reflecting a global community passionate about aerosol art. Instagram

Beyond the technical aspects, graffiti art carries a rich cultural significance. It's a form of self-expression, often challenging societal norms and reclaiming public spaces. The Paint Louis festival, in particular, fosters a sense of community among artists, drawing talent from all over the world to contribute to this monumental, ever-changing artwork. Instagram Understanding this context enriches the viewing experience, transforming a simple walk along the river into an immersion into a global art movement. Reddit

Paint Louis: A Festival of Creativity

The annual Paint Louis festival is the heart of the graffiti wall's activity, transforming the riverfront into a hub of artistic energy. Held every Labor Day Weekend, this event draws artists from across the globe to add fresh murals to the already extensive collection. Instagram+1 It's a unique opportunity to witness the creation process firsthand, with artists working on their pieces throughout the weekend. The festival often includes music, food, and a celebratory atmosphere, making it a can't-miss event for art enthusiasts and locals alike. Reddit

This festival not only adds new layers of art but also reinforces the wall's status as a sanctioned graffiti space, a product of collaboration between artists and the City of St. Louis. Instagram It's a celebration of street art's legitimacy and its power to beautify and energize urban environments. For visitors, attending during the festival offers the most dynamic experience, showcasing the latest trends and talents in the graffiti world. Instagram+1

Navigating St. Louis's Riverfront

Visiting the Paint Louis Graffiti Wall involves navigating the St. Louis riverfront, an area rich with history and iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch. While the wall itself is a major draw, the surrounding area offers a scenic backdrop and opportunities for exploration. Instagram It's important to be aware that while the wall is a vibrant art space, the immediate vicinity can sometimes present challenges, with reports of homeless encampments. Reddit Visitors are advised to stay aware of their surroundings and stick to well-lit and populated areas, especially if visiting during off-peak hours.

Accessing the wall requires a bit of local knowledge, as GPS can sometimes be misleading. Reddit Many visitors find it best to head towards the Mississippi River flood wall south of the Arch and then walk along the designated paths. Comfortable footwear is highly recommended, as the wall stretches for miles. Reddit Outside of the festival, weekdays offer a more tranquil experience, allowing for unhurried appreciation of the art and the river views. Reddit

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