Nestled into the lush parks and dynamic neighborhoods of Jamaica Plain lies a treasure trove of striking public art murals just waiting to be discovered. Many know JP as a hip hub for foodies, but fewer realize just how much captivating street art flourishes across walls and buildings throughout our community.
Whether you’re a local looking to fall in love with JP all over again or a first-time visitor hoping to uncover a slice of true Bostonian culture, an impromptu mural walking tour makes a fantastic weekend activity. Bring your camera, comfy shoes, and a sense of exploration, and get ready to understand why JPers proudly wear their art on their sleeves…and streets!
Kicking Off Our Mural Tour in Busy Hyde Square
We’ll start our arts adventure in the heart of Hyde Square, an area filled with Latin American culture and vibrancy. Head to the intersection of Centre and Day Streets where you can snap photos of the iconic Jamaica Mi Hungry mural depicting retro images of soda shops, rum bars, and musicians in bright tropical tones. Fun fact – this corner is considered the official center of Jamaica Plain!
Just across the street lies the Jackson Square MBTA station with two stunning nature murals showcasing local wildlife. Marvel at the lush forest scene with golden light streaming through the trees down onto a herd of gentle deer. Spot the other mural portraying a sprawling landscape of billowy clouds drifting over the rolling Blue Hills – be sure to wait for a train to roll through for some dramatic backlighting!
Wandering Down Centre Street Towards Even More Murals
As we wander down Centre Street, keep your eyes peeled for creative, colorful graffiti art tags spraypainted across many small storefronts. We’ll soon arrive at the iconic Rainbow Crosswalk at the corner of Centre and Burroughs Streets. True to its name, diagonal rainbow stripes zing cheerfully across the pavement, injecting joy into the daily commute of residents!
Continuing towards Monument Square, you’ll discover one of JP’s most acclaimed murals known as “Summer in the City of Roses” sprawling across Perkins Street. Lush roses intertwine with images of the Emerald Necklace park system, honoring Frederick Law Olmsted’s vision for green space across Boston. The rich jewel tones and abundant foliage capture JP’s deep connection with thriving nature.
Cross over to the other side of Centre Street near Stony Brook and you’ll spot vibrant walls sporting electric paint hues, retro ice cream cones, Jamaican flags, and abstract street art honoring the area’s Caribbean roots. Snap some photos before heading towards our next set of murals…
Admiring Political & Community Murals in Dudley Square
Catch the MBTA Orange Line inbound towards Forest Hills and depart at the Roxbury Crossing stop to discover Boston’s Dudley Square neighborhood. Home to a vibrant community of activists and organizers, Dudley Square boasts numerous political murals honoring civil rights leaders and calls to mobilize for justice.
Standouts include the “Black Lives Matter” mural with bright yellow background, the Shepard Fairey “Defend Dignity” mural memorializing vital organizations like the ACLU, and the crimson-tinged mural proclaiming “The People United Will Never Be Defeated” in four languages. These works showcase Roxbury’s resilience and solidarity.
Swing down Melnea Cass Boulevard on your way back to the station to photograph the tri-colored mural proudly proclaiming “You Are Now in Dudley Square” next to the Bruce C. Bolling Building.
Wrapping Up Our Tour at The Footlight Club
Catch the Orange line back to Forest Hill and you emerge just minutes from our grand finale mural situated along South Street. Just off Washington Street lies the historic Footlight Club. Founded in 1877, this nonprofit launched from a dramatic society staging theater productions.
Today the building sports a towering 30-foot mural celebrating creativity across a rainbow of masks with expressions ranging from giddy laughter to tearful distress. Step into different roles and curate the perfect drama as you glimpse one final snapshot of Jamaica Plain’s penchant for merging arts and community.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this closer look at some of the best street art murals in and around Jamaica Plain. As you continue exploring local eateries and browsing upcoming cultural events, keep your eyes peeled for more creative gems hidden across buildings and walls. And if you’re seeking to bring home a special piece of JP’s vibrant artistry, don’t miss the upcoming JP Flea Market on March 12 where many local artists sell their works. Happy exploring!
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