Overview
There’s so much more to Philadelphia than American history - some of the most incredible public art is on display when you venture into South Philly! On this tour, you’ll head into the heart of the Queen Village and Bella Vista neighborhoods to explore beautiful and surprising pieces of public art, including breathtaking murals and mind-bending mosaics.
As you hear the history of the pieces you see, you’ll come to appreciate how public art and creators are intertwined and appreciated by the neighborhoods that they call home, and how amazingly accessible art is throughout a major city like Philadelphia.
After exploring the street art and a gallery or two, your tour concludes at the incredible Magic Gardens - one of the most impressive and fantastical works of art and sculpture you’ll ever see! Part of your ticket price 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!
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
View breathtaking hidden gems, and hear the story behind the art and the artists.
A local expert guide who will lead you to iconic pieces of public art
Admission to the Philadelphia Magic Gardens after tour
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
Gratuities
Additional food and drink
Not all locations listed are guaranteed stops
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Meet outside the entrance of the Theatre of the Living Arts (TLA); 334 South St., Philadelphia, PA 19147
End point
We will end at the Philadelphia Magic Gardens.
Good to know
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.
What to expect
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Theater of Living Arts
10 min
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
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South Street
15 min
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
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Da Vinci Art Alliance (DVAA)
10 min
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
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Bella Vista
55 min
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.
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Queen Village
55 min
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.
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Philadelphia's Magic Gardens
30 min
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.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/New York).
Additional Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 12 travelers per booking
- Each booking must include at least one adult.
FAQs about Philadelphia Public Art Tour with Magic Gardens
Can I cancel Philadelphia Public Art Tour with Magic Gardens for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 2 hours.
Where does it start?
Meet outside the entrance of the Theatre of the Living Arts (TLA); 334 South St., Philadelphia, PA 19147
What's included?
- View breathtaking hidden gems, and hear the story behind the art and the artists.
- A local expert guide who will lead you to iconic pieces of public art
- Admission to the Philadelphia Magic Gardens after tour
- 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
What's not included?
- Gratuities
- Additional food and drink
- Not all locations listed are guaranteed stops
Which places does it visit?
It visits Theater of Living Arts, South Street, Da Vinci Art Alliance (DVAA), Bella Vista, Queen Village, Philadelphia's Magic Gardens.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
What fitness level is needed?
It is suitable for all physical fitness levels.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Operated by WeVenture
