Philadelphia Mural Tours with Mural Arts Philadelphia - Philadelphia

Philadelphia Mural Tours with Mural Arts Philadelphia

Philadelphiaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–3 hours depending on tour

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels with basic walking ability

Overview

Discover Philadelphia’s streets through the vibrant murals brought to life by Mural Arts Philadelphia. Guided walking and trolley tours reveal the city’s most engaging public artworks and the stories behind them.

Details

Philadelphia's streets offer more than history; they are open-air galleries showcasing public art that speaks to the city's culture and identity. Mural Arts Philadelphia stands at the forefront of this creative movement, offering walking and trolley tours that bring the vibrant, large-scale murals of Philly's neighborhoods to life. From Center City's dense urban core to South Philadelphia’s storied blocks, their tours invite participants to experience art as a form of civic dialogue and community expression.

Guests can join curated experiences like the “Magical Manayunk Mural Tour,” which reveals the whimsical and thought-provoking murals decorating this historic neighborhood, or the “South Philadelphia’s Endless Pastabilities Tour,” blending culinary heritage with artistic storytelling. The “Mural Mile Center City Walking Tour” breathes life into the downtown corridor’s public art, while the trolley tours—such as the “Masterpieces East” and “Masterpieces West” routes—offer a comfortable ride through iconic and emerging artworks spanning broad swaths of the city.

What sets Mural Arts Philadelphia apart is its unique integration of art with social themes. Tours like “Murals And Democracy: The People's Public Art” spotlight works that engage political and community conversations, making each mural more than just a colorful image—it’s a piece of Philadelphia’s evolving narrative.

With options for an artist talk—featuring creators like Meg Saligman—and new offerings such as photography courses paired with walking tours, every visit cultivates a deeper connection to the city’s creative spirit. Whether you’re a local or visiting, these thoughtfully guided tours unlock Philadelphia’s streets as a living museum where art and urban life intersect.

The company’s commitment to education and the community positions it as a standout in Philadelphia’s outdoor cultural experiences, offering fresh perspectives on places you might walk past every day but never truly see.

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes

Many tours require walking multiple city blocks, so sturdy footwear enhances your experience.

Bring a portable charger

Capture photos or use navigation apps during tours without worrying about phone battery life.

Check trolley tour departure times

Trolley tours operate on a schedule—arrive early to secure your seat and maximize the trip.

Prepare for urban weather

City conditions can vary; have layers and rain protection ready depending on forecast.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Murals in the lesser-known Bella Vista neighborhood
  • Small alleyway artworks in South of South Philly

Wildlife

  • Urban birds like pigeons and crows
  • Squirrels in city parks along some tour routes

History

Philadelphia's murals began in the 1980s as part of a public art initiative to transform and revitalize urban spaces through community-driven artworks.

Conservation

Mural Arts Philadelphia contributes to sustainable urban development by involving communities in art projects that encourage public engagement and stewardship of shared spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Overcast midday for even lighting
Early morning when streets are less crowded

Best Viewpoints

  • Broad Street’s mural-lined corridor
  • Manayunk neighborhood high points
  • South Philadelphia’s colorful alleyways

What to Photograph

Large-scale murals
Street life interacting with art
Architectural details framing artwork

Recommended Gear

Comfortable shoes

Essential

Necessary for walking city streets during tours.

Water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated during warm-weather tours.

summer specific

Light rain jacket

Useful for possible spring showers.

spring specific

Camera or smartphone

Essential

Capture mural details and tour moments.