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Philadelphia

The Painted City: Voices and Visions of Philadelphia's Mural Arts

1.7 km61 min4 stops

What awaits you on this Red Thread tour

Step beyond the gallery and into the streets of the 'Mural Capital of the World.' This immersive walking tour decodes the vibrant, towering canvases of Philadelphia, revealing how a 1980s graffiti crisis birthed a global movement of community-driven art. You will uncover hidden histories of civil rights, LGBTQ+ resilience, and grassroots imagination, discovering that these walls are not just painted—they are speaking.

Itinerary

1

TOUR START

Philadelphia Muses

A foundational mural reimagining classical muses as contemporary local artists, symbolizing the city's creative spirit.

0.32 km • 5 min
2

STOP 2

Pride & Progress

A vibrant mural celebrating the history, struggles, and resilience of Philadelphia's LGBTQ+ community.

Pride & Progress

Image by InSapphoWeTrust on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

0.81 km • 13 min
3

STOP 3

Philadelphia Magic Gardens

An immersive mosaic environment created by Isaiah Zagar, showcasing the grassroots power of public art.

0.55 km • 8 min
4

END

Mapping Courage

A powerful mural honoring W.E.B. Du Bois and the segregated African American firefighters of Engine 11.

Mapping Courage

Image by Jason Knauer on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

Where the tour takes place

Starting point and rough tour area – the exact route unfolds in the app.

Good to know

  • Ideal for Art enthusiasts, history buffs, urban explorers, and anyone moved by stories of social justice and community resilience.
  • Best time Daytime, particularly mid-morning or late afternoon when the sunlight best illuminates the vibrant colors of the murals.
  • What to bring Comfortable walking shoes and a camera with a wide-angle lens.
  • Pacing Take your time at the Magic Gardens; the details are overwhelming.
  • Weather Check the forecast, as this is an entirely outdoor experience.
  • Accessibility The route is mostly flat and wheelchair accessible.
  • Engagement Don't just look at the center of the murals; scan the edges for hidden details.
  • Your voucher You can redeem your voucher for two years from purchase. Once redeemed, you have 14 days of access and can enjoy the tour as often as you like during that time.

Your guide

Clara Vogt
Audio sample
0:000:00

Clara Vogt

  • Art, Design & Aesthetics
  • Portugal

Art and design lover. Discovers beauty in the everyday and connects street art, fashion, and architecture.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to the tour after buying?

You see your voucher code right after payment – and you also receive it at the email address you entered at checkout. Redeem that code in the Red Thread app; that's where the tour starts.

When does my access start?

Only when you redeem the code in the app, not at purchase. From redemption you have 14 days of access to the tour.

Do I need the Red Thread app?

Yes. The free Red Thread app turns your tour into a vivid experience: with audio, a map, and thoughtful prompts, it guides you from place to place in an engaging and entertaining way. It's available free for iOS and Android.

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