Reflecting on Philadelphia's Public Murals

Stroll down the streets of Philly and one's liable to run into one of more than 3,500 public murals. The City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program began in 1984 as part of the Philadelphia Anti-

Graffiti Network's effort to redirect graffiti writers to redirect their artistic endeavors toward painting murals. To date more than 20,000 youth have participated in this program with about 50 to 100 communities working each year with this program.

For those looking for a quick introduction to these works of public art, the Mural Arts Program offers a number of official tours led by trained guides of the "City of Murals." Each year nearly 20,000 people participate in one of their regularly scheduled trolley, bicycle, Segway, walking or public transit tours. Here's a sampling of the tours to decide which one is right for you.

During warm weather months, the Mural Mile Walking Tour in Center City Philadelphia gives one a relaxing and slow paced way to see about 12-15 murals up close. Also, the Ale & Arts Walking Adventure teaches this history of 10 murals wand the bars involved including The Field House, Philadelphia's oldest McGillin's and the graffiti bar at Sampan. For another slow paced option, check out the Segway Tours for a ride throughout Old City and Northern Liberties. Those looking for some light exercise may wish to check out the two-hour bike tours.

The two hour trolley tours, Ale & Arts Trolley Adventure and the Murals & Meals tour work especially those who prefer to see the sites in a more leisurely fashion. These open-air trolleys that are heated but do not have air conditioning and will depart rain or shine.

For the romantic at heart, take a ride on the Love Letter Train Tour. See Stephen Powers; (aka ESPO) collaboration of over 50 rooftop murals that span the Market Street corridor from 45 ^th to 63 ^rd Street. Together these murals collectively express a love letter.

Albert M. Greenfield African American Iconic Images Collection Trolley Tour illuminates the African American experience in Philadelphia. Among the figures honored in the murals seen along this tour include W.E.B. DuBois, Jackie Robinson and Malcolm X. Admission to the African American Museum in Philadelphia is included in this two hour guide tour.

While advance reservations are not required, they are strongly recommended. To make a reservations call 800-537-7676. or do to their website . Also, on this website one can obtain information about the specific days and times when a given tour is offered, pricing information, location and other information needed to plan one's trip.