Explore Downtown’s Walkable Mural Trail
September 11, 2023 · 20th Street, Culture & History, Family Friendly, Visit
Looking to make the most of your time while waiting for a table or perhaps seeking a way to work off some post-dinner calories? Look no further than Birmingham’s captivating mural trail, an ideal way to immerse yourself in the heart of downtown. This trail invites you to stroll through the storied streets of both the historic downtown district and the civil rights district. While Birmingham boasts an abundance of striking murals, our carefully curated trail promises an enjoyable, sun-soaked afternoon adventure. With an estimated completion time of about an hour, or the flexibility to split it into two leisurely segments, this trail promises a memorable exploration of art and history.
Use this guide to help you navigate the trail and use #BHMHasMoreMurals to get featured on our socials!
Start: Rainbow Wall
Artist: Marcus Fetch and community volunteers
Address: Railroad Reservation/ BPA Lot A 2101 Morris Avenue
Description: The 500-foot-long Rainbow Wall on the side of the railroad tracks off Birmingham’s historic Morris Avenue was completed in 2019 with the help of nearly 100 people.
Stop 2: Red Cape Robot Mural
Artist: John Lytle Wilson
Address: 5th Row, 2105 Morris Avenue
Description: This three-story mural was completed in 2019 by local artist John Lytle Wilson. His love for cartoons inspired his notorious monkey and robot paintings. Learn more about his art here.
Stop 3: It’s nice to have you in Birmingham
Artist: Creighton Tynes
Address: John’s City Diner, 112 Richard Arrington Jr Boulevard North
Description: The slogan “It’s Nice to Have You in Birmingham” has been a cherished part of the city’s promotional efforts since the 1950s. However, this particular mural, which was beautifully painted in 2014, has solidified its status as an iconic backdrop for countless Instagram-worthy moments.
Stop 4: Jungle Mural and others
Artist: Shane B., Dewon Moton, and Aimah Hashen
Address: Forstall Art Center, 215 20th Street North
Description: A lifelong friend and customer of the Forstall family, Shane was asked to turn the art shop’s concrete wall into a masterpiece for others to enjoy while walking along 20th Street North. That led to other artist contributing their artistic touch to what used to be a gloomy alleyway.
Stop 5: Theater District Mural
Artist: Andy Jordan – Blank Space Bham
Address: 1898 3rd Avenue North Alley
Description: This massive mural is located across from the Mcwane Science Center and is conveniently located next to the Vulcan Project Mural. What kind of performers can you spot?
Stop 6: Vulcan Project Mural
Artist: Stephanie Guckenberger and Kyle Kruse
Address: 1820 3rd Alley North
Description: In 2015, this trio of pop-art-inspired Vulcan statues represented an early exploration into the mural trend.
Stop 7: Girl and the Dandelion
Artist: Marcus Fetch
Address: 214 18th St North
Description: Painted during the pandemic, the inspiration behind this mural beautifully encapsulates the essence of childhood bliss.
Stop 8: Black Man Self Love
Artist: Erica Chisolm
Address: Sonya Faye’s Tailor & Clothier, 1709 3rd Avenue North
Description: The latest addition to this trail pays tribute to Black men. Shedding light on the fact that 88% of men never receive flowers in their lifetime, Erica was inspired to incorporate flowers into the mural’s design.
Stop 9: Be Kind
Artist: Erica Chisolm
Address: Nelson Building, 312 17th Street North
Description: Erica, the talented artist behind the mural above, also gave life to the “Be Kind” mural, a masterpiece that showcases the influence of kindness.
Stop 10: Carrie Tuggle and Angela Davis Mural
Artist: Jamie Bonfiglio & Erica Chislom
Address: 1617 4th Ave North
Description: On the exterior wall of Dawson’s Cafe in the civil rights district, these temporary murals depict activist Carrie Tuggle and Birmingham native Angela Davis.
Stop 11: Moving Foward
Artist: Erica Chisolm
Address: 1610 4th Avenue North
Description: This abstract mural was created in 2022, inspired by the civil rights district’s growth.
End: The People Can Fly
Artist: Erica Chisolm
Address: Gay Office Supply, 1522 4th Avenue North
Description: Originating from The People Can Fly American Black Folktale Book, Erica Chisolm hopes to inspire Black people from Birmingham or visitors walking through the historic civil rights district.
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