How to Explore Mass Ave Street Art Tour Indianapolis

Indianapolis is a city of evolving cultural identity, and one of its most vibrant expressions can be found along Massachusetts Avenue—commonly known as Mass Ave. This bustling corridor, once a quiet commercial strip, has transformed into a dynamic open-air gallery where murals, graffiti, installations, and public art tell the stories of the city’s past, present, and future. The Mass Ave Street Art Tour is not just a walk through colorful walls; it’s an immersive journey into community creativity, urban renewal, and local expression. For travelers, art enthusiasts, photographers, and residents alike, exploring this curated outdoor museum offers a deeper connection to Indianapolis beyond its sports arenas and museums. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to help you experience the Mass Ave Street Art Tour with insight, respect, and authenticity.

Step-by-Step Guide

Exploring the Mass Ave Street Art Tour requires more than just walking down the street. It demands preparation, awareness, and intention. Follow these detailed steps to ensure a meaningful and rewarding experience.

Step 1: Research the History and Context of Mass Ave

Before you step onto the sidewalk, understand why this stretch of Indianapolis matters. Mass Ave was historically a commercial hub in the early 20th century, home to theaters, banks, and retail stores. By the 1970s and 80s, it fell into decline. The revitalization began in the 1990s with grassroots efforts to bring arts, restaurants, and small businesses back. Today, public art plays a central role in this transformation. Many murals were commissioned through programs like the Indianapolis Cultural Trail and the Mass Ave Cultural Arts District. Knowing this context helps you appreciate the art not just as decoration, but as a symbol of resilience and community pride.

Step 2: Plan Your Route and Timing

The Mass Ave Street Art Tour spans approximately 1.5 miles, from the intersection of 10th Street to 16th Street. The most concentrated collection of murals lies between 11th and 15th Streets. Plan your visit during daylight hours—ideally between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.—when the lighting enhances color vibrancy and foot traffic is moderate. Avoid weekends during peak shopping hours if you prefer a quieter experience. Use Google Maps or Apple Maps to set your starting point at the corner of Mass Ave and 10th Street, then walk west toward 16th Street. Bookmark key intersections where major murals are located.

Step 3: Download or Print a Self-Guided Map

While some local businesses offer printed maps at visitor centers, the most reliable option is to download a digital map from the Mass Ave Cultural Arts District website or use the “Indianapolis Public Art” app. These maps highlight over 40 murals, including permanent installations and rotating exhibits. Print a copy as a backup, or ensure your phone is fully charged and you have offline access. Look for markers labeled “Mural,” “Public Art,” or “Artist Name” to stay oriented.

Step 4: Start at the Beginning: 10th and Mass Ave

Your tour begins at the iconic “Indianapolis” mural on the side of the Mass Ave Theater building. Painted in 2018 by local artist James “Jaz” Johnson, this large-scale piece features bold typography with the city’s name rendered in a blend of vintage typography and modern graffiti. Below the letters, stylized figures represent the city’s diverse communities—musicians, athletes, educators, and children. Take time to photograph this piece from multiple angles. Notice how the artist used negative space to make the text pop against the brick wall.

Step 5: Walk to 11th Street — The “Rise” Mural

Just two blocks west, at 11th and Mass Ave, you’ll find “Rise,” a 40-foot-tall mural by artist Lila M. Chen. This piece depicts a woman in motion, arms outstretched, surrounded by abstract shapes resembling wings and blooming flowers. The mural honors women in Indianapolis who have led social change. Look closely at the texture—Chen used a combination of spray paint and stenciling to create layered depth. The mural is part of the “Women Who Shape Us” series, commissioned by the Indianapolis Arts Council in 2020.

Step 6: Visit the “Hoosier Roots” Mural at 12th Street

At 12th and Mass Ave, the “Hoosier Roots” mural by local collective ArtLab Indy celebrates Indiana’s agricultural heritage. A giant ear of corn rises from the earth, flanked by a farmer, a young girl holding a book, and a blue heron in flight. The background features a gradient of sunset hues, symbolizing the transition from rural tradition to urban innovation. This mural is especially popular with families. Notice the QR code near the bottom—scan it to hear an audio narration by the artists explaining their inspiration.

Step 7: Explore the “Unity in Diversity” Mural at 13th Street

One of the most photographed pieces on the tour, “Unity in Diversity,” spans the entire wall of the Mass Ave Market building. Created in 2021 by a team of 12 artists representing different ethnic backgrounds, this mural features interlocking hands, cultural patterns from around the world, and a central sunburst representing shared humanity. The artists used a technique called “community brush,” inviting residents to contribute brushstrokes during a week-long painting event. Look for subtle details: a tiny owl hidden near the top, symbolizing wisdom, and a small Indiana state flag woven into the pattern.

Step 8: Discover the “Music of the Streets” Mural at 14th Street

Indianapolis has a rich jazz and blues legacy, and this mural pays tribute to it. Located on the side of the Jazz Kitchen building, “Music of the Streets” features silhouettes of musicians playing trumpets, saxophones, and drums, with musical notes flowing like rivers around them. The background is painted to resemble vinyl records spinning in the wind. Artist Marcus D. Reeves, a former Indianapolis jazz performer, designed this piece after interviewing 50 local musicians. Pause and listen—you might hear live music drifting from the venue.

Step 9: End at 15th Street — “The Future is Now” Mural

Your tour concludes with “The Future is Now,” a striking, almost surreal mural by emerging artist Zara Lee. This piece shows a child reaching toward a glowing tree made of circuit boards and leaves. Behind them, a city skyline merges with natural landscapes. The mural reflects themes of sustainability, technology, and youth empowerment. It was funded through a city grant for youth-led public art. Take a moment to reflect on how this mural contrasts with the historic brick buildings surrounding it—it’s a visual metaphor for Indianapolis’s evolution.

Step 10: Visit Local Art Spaces and Shops

After completing the mural route, take time to explore the independent galleries and studios along Mass Ave. The Indianapolis Art Center’s satellite space at 1325 Mass Ave often features rotating exhibits by local muralists. The Mass Ave Art Collective hosts open studio days on the second Saturday of each month. Stop by One Eleven Coffee or The Red Rabbit for a coffee or snack—both support local artists by displaying original prints and hosting pop-up exhibitions.

Best Practices

Respecting the art and the community that created it is essential to a meaningful street art experience. Follow these best practices to ensure your visit is ethical, safe, and enriching.

Respect the Artwork

Street art is fragile. Avoid touching murals, even if they appear dry. Oils from skin can degrade paint over time. Do not lean on walls or place bags or cameras directly against surfaces. Many murals are painted on historic brick or stucco, which can be easily damaged. If you see graffiti or tags that appear unauthorized, do not photograph them prominently—these are often vandalism, not art.

Photography Etiquette

Photography is encouraged, but be mindful of others. Avoid blocking sidewalks or entrances while taking photos. If people are in your frame, ask permission before posting or sharing images online, especially if they are not public figures. Use natural light when possible—flash can distort colors and attract unwanted attention. Consider using a polarizing filter to reduce glare on glossy surfaces.

Support Local Artists and Businesses

Many artists sell prints, merchandise, or accept commissions through local shops. Look for signs that say “Artist Supported” or “Purchase Prints Here.” Buying directly from the artist or their representative ensures your money stays in the community. Avoid purchasing knockoff merchandise from non-local vendors. Supporting small businesses—bookstores, cafes, boutiques—also contributes to the ecosystem that sustains public art.

Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

While Mass Ave is generally safe during daylight hours, always be aware of your environment. Keep valuables secure. Avoid walking alone late at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas. If you’re unsure about a location, ask a shopkeeper or staff member for advice. Many businesses display maps with safety tips and emergency contacts.

Engage with the Community

Don’t just observe—interact. Talk to vendors, ask questions at galleries, or join a guided walking tour. Many local artists volunteer to speak with visitors on weekends. You might learn about upcoming mural projects or community art workshops. Your curiosity and engagement help sustain the cultural vitality of the district.

Leave No Trace

Bring a reusable water bottle and carry out any trash. Do not leave stickers, chalk drawings, or notes on walls. Even well-intentioned additions can be considered defacement. If you want to leave a message, consider writing a thank-you note to the Mass Ave Cultural Arts District office or posting on their official social media channels.

Tools and Resources

Maximize your Mass Ave Street Art Tour with these curated tools and resources designed to deepen your understanding and enhance your experience.

Digital Apps

Indianapolis Public Art Map – Developed by the City of Indianapolis Department of Cultural Affairs, this app includes GPS coordinates, artist bios, historical context, and audio guides for over 70 public artworks across the city, with a dedicated filter for Mass Ave. Available on iOS and Android.

Street Art Cities – A global platform that catalogs street art by neighborhood. Search “Indianapolis Mass Ave” to view user-submitted photos, dates, and comments. Useful for comparing murals over time.

Website Resources

Mass Ave Cultural Arts District – www.massave.org – The official site offers downloadable PDF maps, event calendars, artist spotlights, and information on how to support public art initiatives.

Indianapolis Arts Council – www.indyarts.org – Provides grants, artist directories, and educational resources. Check their “Public Art” section for project histories and funding reports.

Books and Publications

“Walls of the City: Public Art in Indianapolis” by Dr. Elena M. Ruiz – A comprehensive visual archive of murals from 2000–2023, with interviews from artists and community members. Available at the Indianapolis Public Library and local bookstores.

“Graffiti and the City: Urban Expression in the Midwest” by Marcus T. Bell – Includes a chapter on Mass Ave’s evolution as a street art corridor. Offers sociological context and comparisons with other Midwestern cities.

Guided Tours and Workshops

While self-guided tours are flexible, consider joining a scheduled guided experience:

• Mass Ave Art Walks – Hosted every Saturday at 10 a.m. by local art historians. Free, but registration is required via the Mass Ave website.
• Street Art Photography Workshop – A 3-hour course offered monthly by the Indianapolis Photo Collective. Teaches composition, lighting, and ethical documentation of public art.
• Community Mural Painting Days – Open to volunteers. Sign up through the Arts Council to help paint new murals. No experience needed.

Local Art Supply Stores

Visit Artisan’s Palette at 1207 Mass Ave for sketchbooks, postcards of local murals, and artist-made souvenirs. They also host mini-exhibits featuring emerging muralists.

Real Examples

Understanding the impact of street art is best done through real stories. Here are three authentic examples of murals on the Mass Ave tour that have sparked community change, inspired dialogue, or become cultural landmarks.

Example 1: “We Are Here” – A Memorial to George Floyd

In June 2020, following nationwide protests, a group of local artists and activists painted “We Are Here” on the side of a closed storefront at 13th and Mass Ave. The mural features the names of 12 Black Indianapolis residents who died due to police violence. Each name is accompanied by a small portrait painted by a different artist. The mural was not commissioned—it was created organically by the community. Within weeks, it became a site of gathering, poetry readings, and candlelight vigils. The city later preserved the mural with a protective coating and added an interpretive plaque. Today, it stands as a permanent memorial and one of the most emotionally powerful pieces on the tour.

Example 2: “The Girl Who Painted the Sky” – A Youth Initiative

In 2022, a 14-year-old student named Aisha Carter won a city-wide youth art contest. Her winning design, “The Girl Who Painted the Sky,” was transformed into a 50-foot mural on the back wall of the Indianapolis Public Library’s Mass Ave branch. The piece shows a young girl floating above the city, painting clouds with her brush. The mural includes hidden messages: the word “hope” in 12 languages, and a QR code linking to Aisha’s video explaining why she painted it. Her story was featured in local newspapers and on NPR. The mural inspired a city-funded youth mural program that has since trained over 80 teens in public art techniques.

Example 3: “The Ghost of the Factory” – A Tribute to Industrial Heritage

At 1425 Mass Ave, a once-abandoned warehouse wall was transformed into “The Ghost of the Factory” by artist Diego Rios in 2021. The mural depicts the silhouette of a 1920s factory worker, partially eroded by vines and flowers. Behind him, faint outlines of gears and smokestacks emerge from the brick. Rios interviewed former factory workers and incorporated their stories into the design. The mural was funded by a grant from the Indiana Historical Society. It sparked a local movement to preserve industrial history, leading to the creation of a walking tour of old factory sites across the city. The mural now includes a small plaque with audio clips from the interviews.

FAQs

Is the Mass Ave Street Art Tour free to visit?

Yes. All public murals on Mass Ave are freely accessible during daylight hours. There are no admission fees, tickets, or passes required. Some nearby museums or galleries may charge for entry, but the street art itself is open to everyone.

How long does the Mass Ave Street Art Tour take?

Most visitors spend between 90 minutes and 3 hours exploring the murals, depending on how much time they spend reading plaques, taking photos, and visiting nearby shops. A quick walk-through without stops takes about 45 minutes.

Are the murals always visible and well-maintained?

Most murals are permanent, but some are temporary or seasonal. Weather, vandalism, or building renovations can affect visibility. Check the Mass Ave Cultural Arts District website before your visit for updates on restoration projects or new installations.

Can I bring my dog on the tour?

Yes. Dogs are welcome on Mass Ave as long as they are leashed and under control. Many local cafes have outdoor seating that welcomes pets. Be respectful of other visitors and clean up after your pet.

Are there restrooms along the route?

Public restrooms are available at the Indianapolis Public Library (1425 Mass Ave) and the Mass Ave Market building. Some cafes and restaurants allow restroom use for customers. Plan ahead if you have young children or mobility needs.

Can I commission a mural on Mass Ave?

Yes, but through official channels. Individuals or businesses can apply for mural commissions through the Indianapolis Arts Council or the Mass Ave Cultural Arts District. Applications require a proposal, community input, and approval from the city’s public art committee. Private property owners may also sponsor murals with permission from the city.

What’s the best season to visit?

Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer the most pleasant weather and vibrant lighting for photography. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter may bring snow or ice that obscures some murals. Avoid visiting during major events like the Indianapolis 500 or the Indiana State Fair, as traffic and crowds may disrupt your experience.

Is the tour accessible for people with disabilities?

Mass Ave is largely wheelchair accessible, with curb cuts, wide sidewalks, and flat terrain. Most murals are visible from the sidewalk. Some businesses offer accessible restrooms. The Mass Ave Cultural Arts District provides a downloadable accessibility guide on their website, including details on tactile maps and audio descriptions for visually impaired visitors.

Can I use drones to photograph the murals?

No. Drone use is prohibited over public streets and sidewalks in downtown Indianapolis without a city permit. Most murals are best photographed from ground level, and using a drone may disturb residents and violate local ordinances.

How can I support the continuation of public art on Mass Ave?

Donate to the Mass Ave Cultural Arts District, volunteer for mural painting days, attend community meetings, or purchase art from local artists. Sharing your experience on social media with proper credit to the artists also helps raise awareness and appreciation.

Conclusion

The Mass Ave Street Art Tour is more than a scenic walk—it’s a living archive of Indianapolis’s soul. Each mural tells a story: of resistance, joy, memory, identity, and hope. By taking the time to explore this open-air gallery with intention, you become part of its ongoing narrative. You don’t just observe art—you engage with a community that believes in its power to heal, inspire, and transform.

As you leave the final mural at 15th Street, consider this: public art is not static. It evolves with the people who live around it. The next mural might be painted by a student you meet at a coffee shop, or a grandmother who remembers the neighborhood before it changed. Your presence, your curiosity, and your respect help keep that story alive.

So lace up your shoes, charge your phone, and walk slowly. Look up. Listen. And let the walls speak.