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Street Art Tours: Discovering LA's Urban Canvas
This LA street art tour will guide you through the city’s iconic murals and creative spaces, offering a fresh perspective on the City of Angels
December 3, 2024
When you think of Los Angeles, images of Hollywood, palm trees, and endless beaches might come to mind. If you take a closer look, you’ll discover that LA’s true heart actually beats through its vibrant street art scene. Murals and graffiti adorn the city’s walls, telling stories of its past, present, and, in some cases, future.
Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious to uncover a different perspective of the City of Angels, this LA street art tour will guide you through some of the city's most iconic murals and creative spaces. So grab your map and let’s dive into the colorful canvas of Los Angeles.
The Arts District in Downtown LA
When it comes to LA art maps, we suggest starting your journey in the Arts District, a neighborhood that’s become synonymous with creativity. This area is home to some of the most renowned Los Angeles murals, blending history with modern art in a way that reflects the city’s diverse cultural landscape.
America Tropical
125 Paseo de la Plz, Los Angeles, CA 90012
America Tropical is a mural with a fascinating and tumultuous history. Painted by the Mexican artist David Alfaro Siqueiros in 1932, this mural was originally a bold political statement, depicting an indigenous Mexican crucified under an American eagle. The controversial imagery led to its whitewashing shortly after its completion. For decades, the mural was hidden from view, but it was eventually restored and is now celebrated as a powerful piece of LA’s artistic heritage.
Bloom
701 E 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Just a short walk away, you’ll find Bloom on the Neptune Building at the corner of Randolph and South Alameda Street. This mural, with its beautiful colors and intricate design, offers a refreshing contrast to the gritty industrial surroundings. Created by local artist HUEMAN, renowned in the LA street art scene, Bloom pays tribute to Joel Bloom, the unofficial mayor of the Arts District. The mural honors his legacy and the advocacy work he championed for the community.
The Container Yard
800 East 4th St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Next, head over to The Container Yard. This space is more than just a collection of murals — it’s a creative playground where artists from around the world come to leave their mark. The Container Yard is a constantly evolving showcase of graffiti, murals, and installations, making it a must-see on any LA street art tour.
As you explore this special area, you’ll notice how the art reflects the vast voices of Los Angeles. From modern political statements to whimsical designs, the work here captures the essence of the city’s creative spirit. The Container Yard is also a reflection of how street art can transform industrial spaces into cultural landmarks, offering an ever-evolving experience that’s different every time you visit.
The Great Wall of Los Angeles
12900 Oxnard St, Valley Glen, CA 91606, United States
For a larger, more historical perspective on street art in Los Angeles, head to The Great Wall of Los Angeles. Located in the Tujunga Flood Control Channel, this iconic mural spans half a mile and is one of the longest murals in the world.
Created by artist Judith Baca and her team of over 400 community youth volunteers, The Great Wall tells the story of Los Angeles from prehistoric times to the present day. Through its powerful imagery and detailed storytelling, it showcases the struggles and triumphs of marginalized communities in the city's history.
Mural Mile in the San Fernando Valley
Van Nuys Boulevard, Pacoima, CA 91331
Head north of LA to the San Fernando Valley, where you’ll find Mural Mile. This stretch of Van Nuys Boulevard is home to over 50 murals, making it a key destination on any Los Angeles art map. The project began in 2012 as an effort to embellish the community, and it has since grown into a celebrated art movement.
Strolling down Mural Mile, you’ll encounter a wide range of styles, from traditional Chicano art to contemporary pieces. Each mural tells a story, whether it’s about local history, cultural pride, or social issues. This area offers a unique opportunity to explore the multiplicity of LA’s neighborhoods while enjoying the outdoor gallery that Mural Mile has become.
Ventura Blvd and The Great Wall of Los Angeles
12900 Oxnard St, Valley Glen, CA 91606, United States
No tour of LA street art would be complete without a visit to The Great Wall of Los Angeles. Located on Coldwater Canyon Avenue between Burbank and Oxnard Streets, this mural is one of the longest in the world, stretching over six city blocks. Created by Judith Baca and a team of over 400 local artists, The Great Wall is a monumental alternative depiction of Los Angeles’ history, from ancient times to the present day.
The mural was originally painted between 1976 and 1983 and was restored in 2004. It’s a collaborative work that showcases the contributions of various communities to the city’s development. As you walk along this mural, you’ll see scenes of the local Native American tribes, the Great Depression, Japanese-American internment during World War II, and the rise of suburbia.
There are also plans to expand the mural to include more recent events, ensuring that The Great Wall continues to evolve along with the city it represents. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in Los Angeles murals that tell a story on a grand scale.
Other Noteworthy Murals and Street Art
While major murals are certainly a highlight, Los Angeles is full of hidden gems that are just as worth your time.
Frida Kahlo
2318 Porter St, Los Angeles, CA 90021, USA
One such gem is the work of Jules Muck, also known as Muck Rock, located near the 10 Freeway exit in the Arts District. Muck Rock is known for her striking portraits of animals, often depicted with a mix of realism and whimsy. This particular mural of Frida Kahlo with tattoos on her face is no exception, showcasing Muck Rock's unique style and what is seemingly a connection to her own form of self-expression.
Kobe and Gianna Bryant
1251 South La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA
In LA, you'll find no shortage of tributes dedicated to The Black Mamba, Kobe Bryant. One of the more impactful murals is a tribute to Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna, who tragically passed away in a helicopter crash in 2020. Located on the side of an apartment complex, this mural from artist Thierry Guetta, aka Mr Brainwash, features bright colors and emotive portraits that capture the spirit and legacy of the beloved Lakers player and his daughter.
To Ukraine with Love
Arts District, Los Angeles, California
The mural “To Ukraine with Love” by Corie Mattie and Juliano Trindade is a moving tribute to the people of Ukraine. Located in West Hollywood's Arts District, this mural features the decapitated head of Vladimir Putin being carried by doves, conveying a powerful message of peace, solidarity, and support from the West. It also includes a QR code that leads to the National Bank of Ukraine which helps support Ukrainian armed forces in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Moratorium: The Black and White Mural
3221 Olympic Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90006
Finally, no LA street art tour would be complete without mentioning “Moratorium: The Black and White Mural” by Willie Herrón and Gronk. This mural, located in Boyle Heights, is a stark, monochromatic piece that addresses issues of civil rights, social inequality, and remembrance. Its powerful imagery and minimalist style make it one of the most impactful Los Angeles murals.
BEYOND THE STREETS
434 N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036 • beyondthestreets.com/
To round out your LA street art experience, consider visiting BEYOND THE STREETS, a global movement that celebrates graffiti and street art. With exhibitions in cities like Los Angeles, New York, and London, BEYOND THE STREETS pushes the boundaries of what art can be. Their flagship store in LA offers a curated selection of prints, books, and other unique items, making it a perfect stop for art lovers.
BEYOND THE STREETS is more than just a gallery, though. It’s a cultural hub that celebrates the creativity of mark-makers and rule-breakers. It’s a fitting conclusion to your exploration of LA’s vibrant street art scene.
Final Brushstrokes and Sprays on LA’s Street Art
As you can see, Los Angeles is a city where art thrives in every corner, from the grand murals of The Great Wall to the hidden gems tucked away in the Arts District. This LA street art tour offers just a glimpse into the rich tapestry of creativity that defines the city.
And soon, the city’s vibrant art scene will be joined by another unique experience — Meow Wolf LA. Known for creating immersive, interactive installations that transport you to otherworldly realms, Meow Wolf is bringing its next major project to Los Angeles. This new location promises to be an unforgettable journey through fantastical worlds where art, technology, and imagination collide. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Meow Wolf Los Angeles will be a must-see, adding yet another layer to the city’s dynamic creative landscape.
While you explore LA’s street art, remember that Meow Wolf’s immersive experiences extend beyond the West Coast. Be sure to visit other Meow Wolf locations, each offering a unique and mind-bending adventure that will challenge your perception of art and reality.
