How long does it take to walk the South Street art route?

The walk typically takes 90 to 120 minutes depending on how long you linger at the Magic Gardens. The distance between the first five stops is roughly 1 mile, with an additional walk if you head to the Mural Arts headquarters.

Are Philadelphia's Magic Gardens free to visit?

While you can see many of Isaiah Zagar's mosaics on the exterior walls for free, the main gallery and labyrinth require a paid ticket. It is highly recommended to purchase these in advance as they often sell out.

Is this walking route suitable for families?

Yes, this is a very family-friendly route. Children usually enjoy the bright colors and hidden objects in the mosaics, and Seger Park provides a great space for kids to play during a break.

Can I see murals in Philadelphia without a guided tour Philadelphia program?

Absolutely. Philadelphia's murals are public art designed for everyone to enjoy. A self-guided audio walk allows you to see the most famous works at your own pace without the need for a formal group.

When is the best time of day to see the murals?

Early afternoon is ideal because the sun hits the glass and mirrors in the mosaics, creating a beautiful shimmering effect. It also allows you to finish the walk before the evening rush on South Street.

Is the South Street area safe for walking?

The area is generally safe and very active during the day. Like any urban environment, stay aware of your surroundings, especially if walking alone late at night when the nightlife scene becomes more crowded.

Where should I start my self-guided street art walk?

Starting at Head House Square (2nd and Pine) is best. It allows you to walk west along the South Street corridor, hitting the major landmarks in a logical sequence that ends near the city's main transit lines.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Philadelphia is often called the Mural Capital of the World, and nowhere is that title more evident than along the eclectic corridor of South Street. This self-guided walk invites you to explore a neighborhood where every brick and alleyway tells a story through color and texture. From the historic elegance of Head House Square to the psychedelic labyrinth of the Magic Gardens, this walking route showcases the soul of the city’s creative community. As you wander through Washington Square West and Society Hill, you will encounter the legacy of the Mural Arts Philadelphia program, which transformed the city's landscape from graffiti-scarred walls to monumental works of art. A highlight of this neighborhood stroll is the work of Isaiah Zagar, whose intricate mosaic murals have become synonymous with the South Street identity. These shimmering glass and ceramic installations turn ordinary buildings into extraordinary canvases. Beyond the visual arts, the route touches on the area’s rich musical and social history. You will pass the Theatre of the Living Arts, a venue that has hosted everyone from local legends to international stars, embodying the grit and glamour of the area. The walk also leads you to local-favorite spots like Seger Park and Dirty Franks, where the community's creative spirit continues to thrive in everyday spaces. This walking route is perfect for those who want to explore independently and at their own pace. Whether you are a photography enthusiast looking for the perfect shot or a history buff interested in urban renewal, the South Street area offers endless inspiration. Because street art is a living medium, you might even spot a new mural in progress or a fresh layer of wheatpaste art, making every visit a unique experience. This walking tour Philadelphia experience is a must for anyone wanting to see the city's artistic heart. By choosing an audio walk, you gain the freedom to linger at a favorite mosaic or grab a coffee at a local cafe without following a rigid schedule. Discover the vibrant street art that makes this city famous on this immersive self-guided journey. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Head House Square’s colonial-era architecture

Isaiah Zagar's immersive Philadelphia's Magic Gardens

The legendary Theatre of The Living Arts (TLA)

The 'Famous Franks' mural at Dirty Franks

Dozens of hidden mosaic installations in neighborhood alleys

The headquarters of the world-renowned Mural Arts Philadelphia program

Tour Stops (6)

Head House Square

Start your journey at one of the oldest surviving marketplace structures in the United States. Built in 1745, the 'Shambles' and the Head House itself represent the colonial roots of Philadelphia. While the bricks here are historic, look closely at the surrounding walls of the square. You'll begin to see the first hints of the neighborhood's artistic transformation. This square acts as a gateway between the preserved history of Society Hill and the bohemian energy of South Street. On weekends, the area buzzes with a farmers market, but any day of the week, it offers a peaceful spot to admire the transition from 18th-century architecture to the modern murals that define the city today.

Theatre of The Living Arts

Known locally as the TLA, this building at 334 South Street has lived many lives. Originally a nickelodeon in the early 1900s, it later became an art-house cinema before evolving into the premier concert venue it is today. Its art-deco inspired facade is a landmark of the South Street corridor. For decades, the TLA has been the heart of the city's counter-culture, hosting legendary acts across every genre. As you stand outside, notice how the street art in the vicinity often reflects the musical and rebellious spirit of the venue. The posters and wheatpastes on nearby utility poles are as much a part of the local art scene as the permanent murals.

Philadelphia's Magic Gardens

Prepare to enter a kaleidoscopic world. This is the masterpiece of mosaic artist Isaiah Zagar. Spanning half a city block, the Magic Gardens is a non-profit museum and gallery space covered entirely in mirror shards, reclaimed glass, bicycle wheels, and ceramic tiles. Zagar began tiling the neighborhood in the 1960s as part of the 'South Street Renaissance,' a movement to save the area from a proposed expressway. Please note that while much of his work is visible from the sidewalk for free, the interior labyrinth requires a separate admission. The mosaics here are dense with personal stories, local history, and poetic fragments, creating a shimmering environment that changes with the light.

Seger Park

Seger Park is more than just a green space; it is a canvas for community art and a hub for neighborhood life. As you walk through, you'll see murals that celebrate local residents and the diverse fabric of Washington Square West. Public parks in Philadelphia often serve as the primary gallery for the Mural Arts program, providing a backdrop for daily life. Keep an eye out for the 'Staircase' mural or smaller community-led art projects. The contrast between the vibrant, multi-story art and the quiet residential streets nearby perfectly captures the balance of this neighborhood. It's an ideal spot to take a break and watch the city go by.

Dirty Franks

You have arrived at one of Philadelphia's most legendary watering holes. Dirty Franks has been a sanctuary for artists, writers, and students since 1933. The highlight here is the 'Famous Franks' mural on the exterior wall. It features a lineup of famous people named Frank—from Frank Sinatra and Frank Zappa to Frankenstein and Benjamin Franklin. This mural is a perfect example of the neighborhood's quirky and inclusive sense of humor. Over the years, the mural has been updated and restored, reflecting the evolving nature of street art. The bar itself often hosts rotating art shows, continuing its long-standing tradition as an unofficial community art center.

Mural Arts Philadelphia

The final stop is the administrative heart of the organization that put Philadelphia on the map as an art destination. Mural Arts Philadelphia began in 1984 as an anti-graffiti program and has since produced over 4,000 murals. This office coordinates the massive logistics of scaffolding, paint, and community meetings required to create world-class public art. While the building itself is a workspace, the surrounding blocks are a testament to their mission. The program has become a global model for how art can revitalize neighborhoods and provide a voice to the community. Reflect on the sheer scale of the work you've seen today, from small mosaic shards to five-story paintings.

Frequently Asked Questions

The South Street corridor is widely considered the best area for a street art walk. This neighborhood features the highest concentration of Isaiah Zagar’s mosaics and several iconic Mural Arts Philadelphia projects within a 1.5-mile radius.