The Wynwood Walls in Miami, established in 2009 by Tony Goldman, transformed a once-abandoned warehouse district into an outdoor art museum. Spanning over 80,000 square feet, this space features murals from more than 120 artists from over 20 countries. Goldman’s vision was to use the blank warehouse walls as canvases for graffiti and street artists from all over the world. His endeavor transcended the neighborhood and set a new standard for urban art spaces.
Wynwood Walls: Why You Must Visit While in Miami
Wynwood Walls has significantly impacted Miami’s cultural and artistic scene. It has evolved into a contemporary art hub, attracting global tourists and art enthusiasts. Jessica Goldman Srebnick, Tony Goldman’s daughter, continues his legacy by curating new artists and installations annually. The museum educates the community about street art through various tours and programs, including collaborations with local schools and organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami.
The area went through a massive transformation. Originally a run-down warehouse district, Tony Goldman turned it into a thriving hub for street art, setting a new global standard for urban art spaces.
The murals of Wynwood Walls are regularly refreshed to reflect new ideas and artistic expressions. This continuous change keeps the area relevant, encouraging artists to push their creative boundaries. The 10th-anniversary celebration of the Wynwood Walls included a retrospective exhibition curated by Jessica Goldman Srebnick and documented by the renowned street art photographer Martha Cooper.
Wynwood Walls has also played a crucial role in the local community economically. The influx of tourists and art lovers has spurred the growth of local businesses, from cafes and restaurants to boutiques and galleries, boosting the local economy.
Btw, If you are in Miami, and want to know what all you can do in Miami, here’s our complete guide: Top things to do in Miami. You may also want to read our blog about the 15 top things to do during your trip to Miami.
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Visiting Wynwood Walls
Location and Accessibility
Wynwood is located south of the Design District, north of Downtown Miami, west of Edgewater and east of Allapattah. The Venetian Causeway and Julia Tuttle Causeway provide easy access from South Beach. Wynwood Walls is at 2516 NW 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33127. The area is pedestrian-friendly and easily walkable, ideal for exploration.
Public Transport
Take the MetroBus (Route 2) from Government Station to NW 2nd Avenue and NE 25th Street. The Miami Trolley is also available. In addition to dropping you off in Wynwood, the Wynwood route also serves the Design District., a creative neighborhood & shopping destination dedicated to innovative fashion, design, art, architecture & dining. Developer Craig Robins revitalized the neighborhood where The Design District is today in the late 1990s. Robins began acquiring properties and transforming them into a creative hub. The district now boasts over 170 luxury brands, flagship stores, and several cultural institutions, including the Institute of Contemporary Art and the de la Cruz Collection.
You can also take the 119 bus to the Omni Terminal or Arsht Metromover and then transfer to the 32 bus, which drops you off nearby. Alternatively, the 2 bus from downtown Miami stops at NW 2nd Avenue and NW 25th Street.
Tips for Visitors
Timing: Visit during the day for safety reasons.
What to Wear: Wear solid colors to avoid clashing with the vibrant murals if you plan on taking photos.
Tours: Consider guided tours to learn more about the artworks and the artists behind them. Options include walking tours, golf cart tours, and pedal pub tours.
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Things to Do at Wynwood Walls
Art Walk
Attend the Wynwood Art Walk on the second Saturday of each month from 6 PM to 10 PM. This event features live music, food trucks, and opportunities to purchase artwork directly from artists.
Museum of Graffiti
Visit the Museum of Graffiti, the only museum dedicated entirely to graffiti art. It features indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces and a fine art gallery.
GGA Gallery
Don’t miss the GGA Gallery, which showcases works from over 100 street artists in a modern exhibition space.
Notable Artworks and Artists
Hebru Brantley: Known for his sculptures, including an 18-foot tall piece at the entrance.
Ashop Crew: Avant-garde muralists known for their surrealistic and hyper-realistic designs.
DULK: Features murals that blend wildlife and fantasy, emphasizing environmental themes.
Tristan Eaton: Renowned for his pop culture collages.
Where to Eat
Image Courtesy: https://zakthebaker.com/
Zak The Baker
A colorful bakery offering handmade kosher items like croissants, salads, and pasta dishes. It’s an iconic creation of Zak Stern, a renowned baker dedicated to artisanal bread and pastries. The kosher bakery is a local favorite, you might not want to miss.
Here are some other eateries in and around the areas to take care of your hunger pangs. While in Miami, downloading the Apogee Indigo app can be a savior; it helps you make great savings on food and attraction bills.
Image Courtesy: https://www.instagram.com/paletasmorelia
Morelia Gourmet Paletas
Morelia Gourmet Paletas in Wynwood is celebrated for its artisanal ice cream bars that allow customers to pick, dip, and top their paletas. Reviews highlight the excellent quality and unique flavors, with standout favorites like Sicilian Pistachio and Dulce De Leche.
The ambiance is vibrant, aligning with the artistic vibe of Wynwood, attracting a diverse and lively crowd. The shop operates from 12 PM to 11 PM daily, extending to midnight on weekends. This place accepts Apogee Indigo payment.
Image Courtesy: https://www.instagram.com/morgansmiami/
Morgan’s Restaurant
Morgan’s Restaurant is praised for its exceptional service and flavorful Cajun and Creole cuisine. Patrons appreciate the warm, inviting ambiance and the attentiveness of the staff, even during busy buffet hours.
The crowd is diverse, reflecting the restaurant’s broad appeal to both locals and visitors. This restaurant accepts Apogee Indigo payment.
Image Courtesy: https://www.instagram.com/rukawinewood/
Ruka Winewood
Ruka Winewood is a charming wine bar situated in the heart of Wynwood, Miami. Known for its relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance, this bar offers a delightful experience with a selection of small producer wines from around the globe, paired with exquisite Argentinian dishes.
Guests particularly enjoy the spacious outdoor patio, perfect for breezy evenings. Reviews highlight the friendly service and the occasional food pop-ups and DJ events, which add to the vibrant atmosphere. The clientele is a mix of locals and tourists, making for an eclectic and lively crowd. Ruka Winewood accepts Apogee Indigo payment.
Image Courtesy: https://www.instagram.com/wynwoodwallsofficial/
Attractions and Events
Wynwood Art Walk
Held on the second Saturday of each month from 6 PM to 10 PM, featuring live music, food trucks, and local art for sale. Wynwood Art Walk is an immersive art and cultural tour in the heart of Miami’s vibrant Wynwood neighborhood. Visitors rave about the colorful street art, murals, and graffiti that transform the area into an open-air gallery. The tours are well-organized, with knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the history and artists behind the works. Wynwood Art Walk accepts Apogee Indigo payment.
Wynwood Buggies
Offers an engaging street art tour through Miami’s Wynwood Art District. Known for its exclusive partnership with Wynwood Walls, the tour provides an insider’s perspective on the vibrant murals and graffiti. Visitors enjoy the knowledgeable guides, comfortable electric buggies, and the fascinating stories behind the artworks. Wynwood Buggies accepts Apogee Indigo payment.
Museum of Graffiti
The only museum dedicated to graffiti art, offering exhibitions and educational programs.
GGA Gallery
Showcasing works from over 100 street artists in a modern exhibition space.
Image Courtesy: https://www.instagram.com/wynwoodwallsofficial/
How to Become a Wynwood Walls Artist
Artists are typically selected by the curatorial team led by Jessica Goldman Srebnick. The selection process involves research and consideration of artists worldwide, focusing on those who bring unique and narrative-driven work. Each year, around 10 new artists are invited to join, replacing previous participants. The selection often coincides with Art Week. For more information, you can visit the official Wynwood Walls website to learn about submission guidelines and upcoming opportunities.
Wynwood Walls is a symbol of the power of art, turning a neglected area into a celebrated cultural landmark. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a curious tourist, or an aspiring street artist, Wynwood Walls offers a unique and enriching experience of contemporary street art.
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