Philadelphia Murals and Street Art Tour with Magic Gardens
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Come and discover the artistic side of Philadelphia on this dazzling stroll through South Philly, where an endless tapestry of public art lines the streets.
You’ll feel immersed in the local art scene as your expert guide leads you through the Queen Village and Bella Vista neighborhoods, past breathtaking murals and mind-bending mosaics. As you learn about the history of the pieces and their creators, you’ll come to appreciate how public art impacts the neighborhoods and how amazingly accessible art is throughout a major city like Philadelphia.
After exploring the street art and a gallery or two, your tour will conclude at the incredible Magic Gardens - one of the most impressive and fantastical works of art and sculpture you’ll ever see! Admission into the Gardens is included in our tour.
Part of your ticket also includes a donation to a local organization supporting artists in the city, so you’ll be directly impacting the incredible community highlighted on this tour!
Available options
Public/Join-In Art Tour
Admission into Magic Gardens
Private Art Tour
Admission to Magic Gardens<br/>Private Tour Guide
What's included
View breathtaking hidden gems, and hear the stories behind the art and the artists.
Admission into the fantastical Philadelphia Magic Gardens after your tour
A local expert guide who will lead you to dazzling pieces of public art
A visit to the Davinci Art Alliance, a community-based art organization
A pleasant walk through one of Philly’s most diverse and eclectic communities
A donation to a local community art organization
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your guide outside this iconic local concert venue and hear how it has played such a huge role in the counterculture spirit of South Street
2
Stop 2
A vital commercial and artistic artery of South Philly, South Street has been at the forefront of this city’s counterculture scene for generations. Your guide will lead you past an array of locally-owned art galleries and shops, pointing out decorative facades and giving you fascinating morsels of history along the way
3
This community-based art organization has been a staple in this neighborhood since the 1930’s. Today it supports local artists in the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities by offering exhibit space and grant funding. Guests can view its current exhibits while learning about its past efforts and future goals. Proceeds of your ticket will be donated to DVAA
4
Throughout your tour, you'll weave in and out of the streets and alleys of Bella Vista, the neighborhood surrounding the Italian Market and Magic Gardens. Here, you'll see how Philadelphia's first suburb has changed in the last 200+ years, including beautiful homes, gardens, and public art.
5
Queen Village is a charming neighborhood in Philadelphia known for its historic charm, cobblestone streets, and quaint atmosphere. Located just south of Center City, it offers a mix of historic row houses, trendy shops, cozy cafes, and vibrant community parks, making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
6
Stop 6
Zagar’s masterpiece, a once-barren abandoned lot on South Street transformed it into a mind-bending labyrinth of glass, tile, paint and almost everything else under the sun. This is something that must be seen to be believed, and you will be granted free admission into the Gardens at the end of this tour.
What's not included
Gratuities
Additional food and drink
Not all locations listed are guaranteed stops
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
70 reviews
5★
61
4★
7
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
5.0
125 reviews
5★
121
4★
4
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet outside the entrance of the Theatre of the Living Arts (TLA); 334 South St., Philadelphia, PA 19147
Important notes
Please dress comfortably and casually in weather-appropriate attire, including comfortable shoes for walking. This tour runs year-round and will proceed rain or shine unless such weather constitutes a dangerous situation.
About Philadelphia
Philadelphia, the birthplace of American democracy, is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its significant role in the American Revolution and its vibrant arts scene, Philly offers a unique blend of historic landmarks, world-class museums, and diverse culinary experiences.
Top Attractions
Independence Hall
The birthplace of the United States, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were both signed.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (timed entry tickets required)
Philadelphia Museum of Art
One of the largest and most renowned art museums in the country, featuring a diverse collection of artworks from around the world.
Museum
2-3 hours
$25 (free on certain days)
Reading Terminal Market
A historic public market offering a variety of food vendors, local produce, and specialty shops.
Market
1-2 hours
Free entry, prices vary by vendor
Must-Try Local Dishes
Philly Cheesesteak
A sandwich made with thinly sliced beefsteak and melted cheese, served on a long roll.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with various cheeses and vegetables
Soft Pretzel
A chewy, doughy bread twisted into a knot and topped with coarse salt.
Snack
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Wissahickon Valley Park
Kayaking on the Schuylkill River
Picnic in Rittenhouse Square
Spa day at a luxury hotel
Visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art
Attending a performance at the Kimmel Center
Boat tours on the Delaware River
Ice skating at Dilworth Park
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer comfortable weather and fewer crowds. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
15-28°C
59-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
EST (GMT-5)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Philadelphia is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas
Getting there
By air
- Philadelphia International Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
30th Street Station, Suburban Station
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station, Megabus Stop
Getting around
Public transport
SEPTA operates a network of buses, subways, and regional rail lines that cover the city and surrounding areas. It's affordable and convenient for getting around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Center City
Rittenhouse Square
Fishtown
Day trips
Valley Forge
30 km • Half day
A historic site where George Washington's army camped during the Revolutionary War, now a national park with hiking trails and museums.
New Hope
65 km • Full day
A charming riverside town known for its art galleries, antique shops, and scenic views of the Delaware River.
Festivals
Philadelphia Flower Show • March
Wawa Welcome America • July
Pro tips
- Visit the Liberty Bell early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Take the Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art for the full experience
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods for unique shopping and dining experiences
- Use the SEPTA Key card for convenient and discounted public transportation
- Try the famous Philly cheesesteak at multiple locations to find your favorite
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
