Mission District can be likened to an open-air art gallery: this Latino neighbourhood boasts more than 100 documented murals that adorn unassuming alleyways, wooden fences and shop facades!
Last week I decided to put together a DIY walking tour and go check them out. I literally took hundreds of pictures but on this post I wanted to share some of my favorite spots & murals. Overall it was a visually captivating and thought-provoking experience – highly recommend it if you’re around Mission.
Our itinerary (10 Best Spots)
1 – 24th St & Lilac St
2 – Lilac Alley
3 – Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts
4 – Cypress St & 25th St
5 – 24th St & S Van Ness Ave
6 – 24th St & Shotwell St
7 – 24th St & Treat Ave
8 – Balmy Alley
9 – 24th St & Florida St
10- 24th & York St
11 – Clarion Alley Street Art
1. 24th St & Lilac St
2. Lilac Alley
3. Mission Cultural Center of Latino Arts
4. Cypress St & 25th St
5. 24th St & S Van Ness Ave
6. 24th & Shotwell
7. 24th & Treat Ave
8. Balmy Alley
Balmy Alley is where you can find the greatest concentration of art work. The project began during a small community-led event in 1973 and since then, this tiny street has become the heart of the Latino arts movement.
9. 24th St & Florida St
10. Clarion Alley Street Art
The Clarion Alley Mural Project started in 1992 and was inspired by the success of the murals along Balmy Alley. The art here is a mix of murals and street art, though they all carry strong messages of social justice.
If you fancy a coffee in between murals (which I’m sure you will), I recommend Philz Coffee or Haus Coffee on 24th St. They both have super cool & artsy interiors.
Here’s a little video I put together – hope you enjoy!
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