When people encounter a mural, they experience it first as an impressive work of art. But soon, they begin to ask questions: who created this, why is it here, how was it made? They sense the story behind the mural and want to know more about it.

To help answer people's questions, MAP developed a mural tour program in 1998. Led by docents, these tours offer a "behind the scenes" look at how murals are made. Filled with anecdotes and stories, the tours leave people with an understanding of the complexities of mural making and an appreciation of Philadelphia as the world's largest outdoor art gallery.

Public Tours
WEEKLY WEDNESDAY, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY TOURS
Take a public tour of the "City of Murals!" Each week an experienced docent will explore a different neighborhood. The first week of each month tours Center City; the second week, North Philadelphia; third week, South Philadelphia; fourth week, West Philadelphia. The fifth Wednesday, Saturday, or Sunday, if applicable, tours Broad Street. Each tour is approximately 2 hours long.

Tickets can be purchased at the Visitor Center the morning of the tour. Reservations are STRONGLY recommended but not required. Call 215-389-8687 or order tickets online for any Wednesday, Saturday, or Sunday public tour. Please arrive 30 minutes early to check in at the ticketing kiosk. Tours take place rain or shine in open-air, covered trolleys.

Group/Private Tours
Looking for new event ideas for your business or civic group, senior group or school? How about a private group mural tour? Tours are led by professional docents, are approximately 2 hours long, and include 30-35 murals. Read more about Group and Private Tours.

Murals and Meals Tours
Join us for one of our popular Murals and Meals tours featuring breakfast and/or lunch, a mural tour, and a presentation by Jane Golden. These are scheduled monthly throughout the entire year. To view our upcoming Murals and Meals tours, Visit our Events Calendar.

NEW! Experiential Tours
Experience Philadelphia's murals in a new and interactive way. Meet a professional muralist. Learn first-hand how murals are made, or even paint a mural yourself! Learn more about Experiential Tours.

Gift Certificates
Gift certificates for public tours are available! To order, call 215-685-0754.

Become a Volunteer Tour Guide!
Are you a mural enthusiast? Consider becoming a volunteer tour guide! Training provided. For more information, please call our Mural Tour Coordinator at 215-685-0754 or e-mail tours@muralarts.org.

Self-guided Tour Map
Can't join us in person? Take your own tour using our map. [220K PDF]