How to Explore the SoCo District Murals

The SoCo District, short for South Congress, is one of Austin, Texas’s most vibrant cultural corridors — a lively blend of eclectic shops, live music venues, food trucks, and above all, an open-air gallery of world-class murals. More than just decorative art, the murals of SoCo serve as visual narratives of community identity, social movements, local history, and artistic innovation. For visitors and residents alike, exploring these murals is not merely a sightseeing activity; it’s an immersive journey into the soul of Austin. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a photographer, a traveler seeking authentic experiences, or a local looking to rediscover your neighborhood, understanding how to explore the SoCo District murals thoughtfully enhances your connection to the city’s creative heartbeat.

This guide is designed to help you navigate, appreciate, and engage with the SoCo murals in a meaningful, respectful, and sustainable way. Unlike typical tourist itineraries that rush from one landmark to another, this tutorial emphasizes depth over speed — encouraging you to slow down, observe context, understand symbolism, and support the artists and businesses that make this district thrive. By the end of this guide, you’ll know not only where to find the murals, but how to interpret them, photograph them ethically, and contribute positively to the community that sustains them.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research Before You Go

Before stepping onto South Congress Avenue, take time to understand the cultural landscape you’re about to enter. The SoCo murals are not randomly placed; each has a story tied to the neighborhood’s evolution. Start by identifying key murals that are widely recognized and frequently visited. Popular pieces include “I Love You So Much” by Jen Gale, “The Austin Mural” by David “Dez” De La Torre, and “The Lady in the Moon” by local artist Erika B. Smith. Use trusted local blogs, city tourism websites, and artist portfolios to compile a preliminary list.

Many of these murals are privately owned or located on commercial buildings. Understanding their history — when they were painted, who commissioned them, and their thematic intent — allows you to appreciate them beyond surface aesthetics. For instance, “I Love You So Much” became a viral sensation not just for its bold typography, but because it emerged during a time when the city was grappling with rapid gentrification. The mural’s simplicity became a symbol of emotional resilience.

Use Google Maps to plot your route. Search for “SoCo murals Austin” and save locations. Pay attention to walking distances between pieces — most are within a 10- to 15-minute stroll of each other, making the district ideal for a leisurely afternoon walk.

2. Choose the Right Time to Visit

The lighting and crowd levels dramatically affect your mural experience. Early morning (7:00–9:00 AM) offers the softest natural light, ideal for photography, and minimal foot traffic. You’ll have the space to observe details without distractions. Midday (11:00 AM–2:00 PM) brings the brightest light and the most energy — perfect if you want to capture the murals with people enjoying the district, but be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends.

Evening visits (5:00–7:00 PM) are magical. As the sun sets, the murals are bathed in golden hour hues, and the area comes alive with street performers and outdoor dining. Some murals are illuminated by nearby storefront lights, creating a different visual experience. However, avoid visiting after dark unless you’re with a group — while SoCo is generally safe, poorly lit alleys between buildings can be disorienting.

Check local event calendars. On the first Friday of each month, SoCo hosts “First Friday,” a neighborhood-wide art crawl with live music, food vendors, and artist meet-ups. While this is a fantastic opportunity to meet creators, it also means the murals will be packed. If your goal is quiet contemplation, choose a weekday instead.

3. Walk the Route Strategically

Begin your exploration at the intersection of South Congress Avenue and East 12th Street — a central landmark with multiple murals nearby. From there, head south toward the Congress Avenue Bridge. Key stops include:

• 12th Street & South Congress: Home to “I Love You So Much” and the colorful “Austin is a State of Mind” mural by local collective The Art of the People.
• 1400 block of South Congress: Features the large-scale “Lady in the Moon” mural and the whimsical “Butterfly Garden” by artist Jules Muck.
• 1700 block of South Congress: Contains the “AUSTIN” lettering mural by artist Kelsey Montague, often used for Instagram photos.
• Near the Continental Club: Look for politically charged pieces reflecting Austin’s progressive values and musical heritage.

Use sidewalks and crosswalks. Never step into traffic or onto private property to get a better angle. Many murals are on building facades with limited public viewing space — patience and positioning are key. Use a wide-angle lens or your phone’s panorama mode if you’re trying to capture the entire piece without moving too far back.

4. Observe and Interpret

Don’t just take a photo and move on. Spend at least 3–5 minutes at each mural. Ask yourself: What colors dominate? Are there recurring symbols — birds, flowers, hands, faces? Is the style realistic, abstract, graffiti-influenced, or illustrative? Consider the emotional tone. Is it joyful, melancholic, defiant, or nostalgic?

Many murals incorporate text. These are often the most direct expressions of the artist’s intent. For example, “You Are Enough” by artist Ashley E. Davis uses bold, rounded letters to convey affirmation and self-worth — a message that resonates deeply in a city known for its “Keep Austin Weird” ethos.

Look for hidden details. Some murals include QR codes linking to artist interviews, audio stories, or community projects. Others embed local landmarks or historical figures — like a portrait of Janis Joplin subtly woven into a music-themed mural. These elements reward close observation.

5. Engage with the Community

The SoCo District is alive because of its small businesses and local artists. After viewing a mural, consider supporting the adjacent business — buy a coffee from the café next to the mural, shop at the boutique down the block, or order a taco from the food truck across the street. This isn’t just good karma; it’s essential for mural preservation. Many murals are funded or maintained by local entrepreneurs who see art as part of their brand identity.

If you encounter an artist painting a new mural, pause to watch. Ask politely if you can ask a question — most are happy to share their process. Never interrupt if they’re in the middle of painting, but a simple “Thank you for your work” goes a long way.

6. Document Responsibly

Photography is encouraged, but do so respectfully. Avoid blocking foot traffic or climbing on structures for a better shot. Never use flash on murals — it can damage the paint over time and disrupt other visitors. Use natural light and adjust your phone’s exposure settings for better color accuracy.

If you plan to post your photos on social media, tag the artist and the business where the mural is located. Use hashtags like

SoCoMurals, #AustinStreetArt, or #SupportLocalArtists. This helps amplify the artist’s reach and promotes ethical tourism.

For professional photographers or content creators, always seek permission before using images for commercial purposes. Many artists retain copyright, and unauthorized commercial use can lead to legal issues — even if the mural is visible from public space.

7. Respect the Environment

SoCo is a residential and commercial neighborhood, not a theme park. Keep noise levels low. Do not litter. Do not touch the murals — oils from your skin can degrade paint over time. Avoid spray-painting over or defacing existing works. If you see vandalism, report it to the City of Austin’s Arts & Culture Department or a nearby business owner.

Be mindful of pets. While dogs are welcome in SoCo, keep them leashed and clean up after them. Some murals are on narrow sidewalks — a loose dog can block passage or accidentally damage art.

Best Practices

1. Prioritize Ethical Tourism

SoCo’s murals are not backdrops for selfies — they are public expressions of identity and resistance. When you visit, ask yourself: Am I honoring the artist’s intent, or am I treating this as a photo prop? Avoid poses that objectify or mock the artwork. For example, don’t pretend to be “inside” a mural that depicts a person unless the artist explicitly invites that interaction. Respect the dignity of the imagery.

2. Support Artist Ownership

Many murals are commissioned by property owners, but the artists retain creative rights. Always credit the artist when sharing images. If you’re unsure who created a mural, search the City of Austin’s public art database or use apps like Street Art Cities, which catalog murals with artist attributions. Never claim someone else’s work as your own.

3. Learn the Cultural Context

Austin’s murals reflect its diverse communities — Mexican-American heritage, LGBTQ+ visibility, Black liberation movements, and environmental activism. Take time to understand these contexts. For example, murals along the 12th Street corridor often honor the historic Black business district that once thrived there before urban renewal displaced residents. Recognizing this history transforms your experience from aesthetic appreciation to cultural humility.

4. Avoid Overcrowding Popular Murals

Some murals, like “I Love You So Much,” attract hundreds of visitors daily. To reduce strain on the neighborhood and improve your experience, visit during off-peak hours. If you arrive to a long line, consider exploring lesser-known murals nearby — there are dozens hidden in alleys, behind cafes, or on side streets. The hidden gems often carry the most powerful stories.

5. Educate Others

If you’re visiting with friends or family, share the context behind each mural. Explain why it matters. Encourage questions. This transforms your outing from a passive activity into an educational experience. You become not just a visitor, but a steward of local culture.

6. Leave No Trace

Bring a reusable water bottle. Avoid single-use plastics. If you bring snacks, eat them at a café or picnic area — never on the sidewalk next to a mural. Trash and litter attract pests and detract from the neighborhood’s charm. Clean up after yourself, even if others don’t.

7. Advocate for Preservation

Murals fade. Weather, pollution, and urban development threaten their longevity. Support organizations like the Austin Mural Project or the Austin Creative Alliance that work to document, restore, and protect public art. Sign petitions, attend city council meetings on public art funding, or volunteer for mural clean-up days. Your voice helps ensure these works endure for future generations.

Tools and Resources

1. Digital Maps and Apps

Several digital tools make mural exploration easier:

• Street Art Cities – A global map of street art with user-submitted photos and artist credits. Search “Austin” to find curated SoCo murals with location pins.
• Google Maps – Create a custom map titled “SoCo Murals Tour” and add pins with photos and notes. Share it with friends or print it as a guide.
• Austin Public Art Map – Official city resource maintained by the Office of Arts & Culture. Includes commissioned murals, funding sources, and artist bios.
• Instagram – Search hashtags like

  SoCoMurals, #AustinStreetArt, or #AustinMural. Many artists post time-lapse videos of their work being painted.

2. Books and Publications

For deeper insight, consider these resources:

• “Austin Street Art: Murals, Graffiti, and Public Expression” by Lila M. Carter – A photographic journey through Austin’s public art history with interviews.
• “The Art of the City: Murals in Urban America” by Dr. Rafael Lopez – Includes a chapter on SoCo’s role in the Chicano art movement.
• Austin Chronicle’s “Art & Culture” Section – Weekly updates on new murals, artist spotlights, and community events.

3. Guided Tours

While self-guided exploration is rewarding, guided tours offer expert context:

• Austin Street Art Tours – Led by local artists and historians. Offers 90-minute walking tours with behind-the-scenes stories.
• South Congress Walking Tours – Combines murals with history of the district’s architecture and commerce.
• Private Custom Tours – Available through platforms like Airbnb Experiences. Choose themes: music-inspired murals, feminist art, or LGBTQ+ symbolism.

4. Local Art Galleries and Studios

Many SoCo muralists also have studios nearby. Visit:

• Contemporary Austin – Jones Center – Features rotating exhibits of local muralists.
• Art League of Austin – Hosts open studio days where you can meet artists who’ve painted in SoCo.
• The Art of the People Studio – Located near 12th & Congress; often displays sketches and studies for their large-scale murals.

5. Community Resources

Join local groups:

• Austin Mural Preservation Society – Volunteer opportunities, restoration workshops, and monthly mural walks.
• SoCo Neighborhood Association – Publishes a quarterly newsletter with upcoming mural projects and artist collaborations.
• Local Libraries – The Austin Public Library’s Central Branch has a dedicated “Austin Art & Culture” archive with oral histories of mural creators.

Real Examples

Example 1: “I Love You So Much” by Jen Gale

Painted in 2017 on the side of a vintage clothing store, this simple phrase in bold pink and blue letters became an instant icon. Jen Gale, a local illustrator, created it as a response to rising anxiety and political division in the U.S. The mural’s popularity exploded on social media, with thousands of visitors posing beside it daily. What’s often overlooked is that the building’s owner, a small business owner named Maria Lopez, funded the mural herself after a local nonprofit declined to sponsor it. Today, the store sells “I Love You So Much” merchandise, with proceeds going to local mental health nonprofits. The mural is a testament to how a single phrase, when rooted in community care, can become a movement.

Example 2: “The Lady in the Moon” by Erika B. Smith

Located near the intersection of South Congress and Avenue D, this mural depicts a woman gazing at the moon, surrounded by stars and native Texas wildflowers. Erika, a Mexican-American artist, drew inspiration from her grandmother’s stories of Día de los Muertos and the spiritual connection between women and the night sky. The mural includes hidden symbols: a monarch butterfly (representing migration), a crescent moon (feminine energy), and a lone cactus (resilience). The artist collaborated with a local elementary school to paint the background with student handprints. This mural is not just art — it’s intergenerational storytelling.

Example 3: “AUSTIN” by Kelsey Montague

Part of a global series by artist Kelsey Montague, this mural invites viewers to step into the frame and become part of the artwork. The letters are painted with wings, and visitors are encouraged to pose with outstretched arms as if flying. While visually stunning, this mural sparked debate: Is it empowering or commodifying public space? Some argue it turns art into a tourist gimmick. Others see it as democratizing — making art interactive and accessible. This example illustrates that not all murals are universally celebrated, and critical thinking is part of the exploration process.

Example 4: “We Are Still Here” by The Art of the People Collective

Located on the back wall of a historic building on 12th Street, this mural honors the displaced Black families of the historic East Austin corridor. Painted in 2020 during the racial justice uprisings, it features portraits of elders, a raised fist, and a timeline of key moments in Austin’s Black history — from the founding of the first Black church to the destruction of the “Little Africa” neighborhood. The mural was funded through a crowdfunding campaign by local residents. It’s not on the main drag — you have to walk down a quiet alley to find it. That’s intentional. It’s a memorial, not a spectacle.

Example 5: “The Butterfly Garden” by Jules Muck

This whimsical mural on a former auto shop features hundreds of hand-painted butterflies, each with a unique pattern. Jules Muck, known for her vibrant, nature-inspired work, created it as a tribute to pollinators and environmental conservation. Local schoolchildren were invited to design individual butterflies, which were then incorporated into the final piece. The mural’s location — tucked between a vegan café and a record store — reflects SoCo’s fusion of ecology and counterculture. It’s a quiet masterpiece that rewards slow observation.

FAQs

Are the SoCo murals free to visit?

Yes. All murals in the SoCo District are publicly visible from sidewalks and streets. There are no admission fees. However, some murals are located on private property, so always respect posted signs and avoid trespassing.

Can I take photos of the murals and sell them?

Photographing murals for personal use is permitted. Selling prints or using images commercially (e.g., on merchandise, ads, or stock photo sites) requires written permission from the artist or property owner. Many artists retain copyright under U.S. law, even if the mural is in a public space.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes. Several local organizations offer guided mural tours led by artists and historians. These are excellent for gaining context you might miss on your own. Check the Austin Convention & Visitors Bureau website for current offerings.

How do I find murals that aren’t on the typical tourist list?

Explore side streets like Avenue D, East 11th Street, and South 1st Street. Walk slowly and look up — many murals are on rooftops, alley walls, or the backs of buildings. Ask local shop owners where they’ve seen new pieces. Artists often reveal locations informally on Instagram stories.

What if a mural is covered up or painted over?

Murals are temporary by nature. If you see a favorite mural gone, it’s likely due to building renovations, property changes, or weather damage. Check local art blogs or the Austin Public Art Map for announcements about restoration efforts. Some murals are documented and archived online — you can still experience them virtually.

Can I paint my own mural in SoCo?

No. All public murals require permits from the City of Austin’s Arts & Culture Department and approval from the property owner. Unauthorized painting is considered vandalism. If you’re an artist interested in creating a mural, apply through the city’s public art program or partner with a local business.

Are the murals accessible for people with disabilities?

Most murals are viewable from sidewalks, which are ADA-compliant. However, some are located on uneven terrain or behind fences. The City of Austin provides accessibility maps on its public art website. For those with visual impairments, audio descriptions of key murals are available via QR codes linked to audio tours.

How long does it take to see all the major murals?

A leisurely exploration of the 10–15 most prominent murals takes about 2–3 hours, including time for photos, reflection, and coffee breaks. If you want to include hidden pieces and side streets, plan for 4–5 hours.

Is it safe to visit SoCo at night?

SoCo is generally safe, especially along the main corridor. However, avoid poorly lit alleys after dark. Stick to well-traveled areas, travel in groups if possible, and trust your instincts. Many businesses stay open late, so there’s always foot traffic.

How can I support the artists behind the murals?

Buy their merchandise, follow them on social media, attend their gallery shows, share their work online with proper credit, and donate to their GoFundMe campaigns if they’re raising funds for new projects. Your support helps sustain the creative ecosystem.

Conclusion

Exploring the SoCo District murals is more than a sightseeing activity — it’s an act of cultural engagement. Each brushstroke tells a story of resilience, identity, joy, or protest. To truly experience these works, you must move beyond the camera lens and into the context. Understand the artist’s voice. Respect the community that hosts them. Support the businesses that make their existence possible. And above all, leave the space better than you found it.

The murals of SoCo are not static monuments. They are living expressions — changing with the seasons, the politics, and the people. By approaching them with curiosity, humility, and care, you become part of their ongoing legacy. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime Austinite, this guide invites you to see beyond the surface. Look closer. Listen deeper. Walk slower. And let the walls speak.

As you leave South Congress, carry this truth with you: Art doesn’t belong to the streets — the streets belong to the art. And in SoCo, that art is alive, breathing, and waiting for you to notice it.