Adventure Collective
Explore Philadelphia’s Vibrant Mural Arts on the Masterpieces West Trolley Tour - Philadelphia

Explore Philadelphia’s Vibrant Mural Arts on the Masterpieces West Trolley Tour

Philadelphiaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5 hours

Fitness Level

Minimal physical exertion required; suitable for all fitness levels.

Overview

Discover Philadelphia's stunning outdoor murals on a 90-minute guided trolley tour. Explore diverse neighborhoods, learn inspiring stories behind iconic artworks, and see how mural art transforms communities.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Masterpieces West Trolley Tour

All Ages! • 90 Minutes • Professionally Trained Guides!

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About This Adventure

Discover Philadelphia's vibrant mural scene on a captivating 90-minute guided tour through its largest outdoor art gallery. Explore diverse neighborhoods, witness stunning masterpieces, and learn the inspiring stories behind iconic murals like The Silent Watcher. Experience how art transforms communities and ignites change in this unforgettable journey of creativity.

Experience firsthand how art ignites change: explore the world’s largest outdoor art gallery and get to know Philadelphia’s stunning mural collection on an exciting guided tour! Weave through diverse neighborhoods by vehicle, and get inspired by the incredible public art that makes Philadelphia the mural capital of the world.

Duration

90 minutes

About

By taking a tour, guests are invited to explore four decades of creativity, featuring a curated collection of masterpieces that reflect our artistic expression over the past 40 years. From the bold strokes of contemporary artists to the timeless classics that have stood the test of time, join us on a celebratory tour that encapsulates the vibrancy, innovation, and enduring beauty of art through the ages. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of creativity and see first hand how art ignites change.

Explore colorful and thought-provoking murals west of Broad Street with our Masterpieces West tour. Travel through the historic neighborhoods of Strawberry Mansion and West Philadelphia, and learn the stories behind stunning new murals like The Silent Watcher, an 11,000 square foot, 19th stories high mural by artist Faith XLVII that has created a new visual landmark at the gateway to University City.

This tour leaves from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA), Hamilton Building (128 N. Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102) and ends at the same location.

Reminders

  • Tour groups will be limited to 36 people or less.
  • Tickets must be purchased in advance - no walk-ups will be accepted.
  • Tours are 90 minutes outdoors, rain or shine and there are no stops for restrooms, so please plan accordingly.
  • It is not necessary for you to print out your confirmation, your guide will have your name on a Will Call list. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes prior to departure to check-in.

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable shoes

Although the tour is on a trolley, some walking between stops requires sturdy footwear.

Bring a camera or smartphone

The colorful murals offer fantastic photo opportunities—make sure your device is charged.

Check the weather forecast

Tours operate rain or shine but dress appropriately for outdoor conditions.

Arrive early to secure seats

Trolleys can fill up quickly; early arrival ensures the best viewing spots.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Peregrine falcons nest atop urban buildings near mural sites.
  • American robins and urban songbirds often flutter through tree-lined streets in the area.

History

Philadelphia's mural movement began in 1984 to combat graffiti and has grown into a major artistic and community initiative.

Conservation

The Mural Arts Program promotes art’s role in urban renewal and environmental stewardship by using eco-friendly paint and engaging local communities.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Supports light walking between stops and standing aboard the trolley.

Weather-appropriate outerwear

Essential

Protects you from rain or sun while outdoors on the tour.

Camera or smartphone

Essential

Captures photos of the vibrant murals and city scenes.

Water bottle

Keeps you hydrated during warmer months throughout the tour.

summer specific