Over the past few years, Washington, DC has seen the welcome addition of dozens of murals around the city–thanks in part to the city’s investment in local and regional talent. Mundane walls and alleys have been transformed into cheery and provocative galleries for all to enjoy.

Scoping out murals offers a great excuse (as if we need another one) for some strategic urban rambling. To get things started, here’s a map (0.3 mb PDF) for a suggested two-mile walk in the U Street area that extends south to Blagden Alley.
To add a pleasant mile to the trek, begin at Columbia Heights Metro, walk west to 16th St and south to Meridian Hill/Malcolm X Park (closed at night). Several walkways lead through the park to an overlook and a large cascading fountain. Descend steps and keep following any of the inviting paths and steps downward to 15th and W Sts. Then continue along New Hampshire Ave to U St. See the map above for the rest.
Watch this space for a new murals walk and map to be posted soon!
