
Ithaca Murals
Ithaca's streets are alive with color! Discover vibrant murals, from large community projects to the iconic 'Lost Cat' tags, transforming the city int...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos

Ithaca Murals
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ithaca's streets are alive with color! Discover vibrant murals, from large community projects to the iconic 'Lost Cat' tags, transforming the city into an open-air gallery.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Wander through downtown Ithaca to discover the diverse murals. Wear comfortable shoes for your art walk! :athletic_shoe:
🔍 Hunt for 'Lost Cat'
Challenge yourself to find the 'Lost Cat' graffiti tags by John Gavin Mahoney on parking meters. A fun local art scavenger hunt! :mag:
Quick Facts
Type
Tourist Attraction
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 'Lost Cat' Tags
Ubiquitous graffiti tags by the late John Gavin Mahoney, a unique local art signature found on parking meters city-wide.

Beverly J. Martin Student Lab Mural
A vibrant mural created with community involvement, showcasing local flora, fungi, and fauna. A true testament to collaborative art.

State and Plain Street Mural
A striking piece of public art that adds color and character to the downtown area, a must-see for mural enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art Walk
Discover the 'Lost Cat'
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Wander through downtown Ithaca to discover the diverse murals. Wear comfortable shoes for your art walk! :athletic_shoe:
🔍 Hunt for 'Lost Cat'
Challenge yourself to find the 'Lost Cat' graffiti tags by John Gavin Mahoney on parking meters. A fun local art scavenger hunt! :mag:
📸 Capture the Colors
Bring your camera or phone to capture the vibrant street art. Golden hour offers beautiful lighting for photos. :camerawithflash:
📅 Check for Events
Look out for events like 'First Friday Gallery Night' or 'Mural Jam' for special art experiences. 📅
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Wander through downtown Ithaca to discover the diverse murals. Wear comfortable shoes for your art walk! :athletic_shoe:
🔍 Hunt for 'Lost Cat'
Challenge yourself to find the 'Lost Cat' graffiti tags by John Gavin Mahoney on parking meters. A fun local art scavenger hunt! :mag:
📸 Capture the Colors
Bring your camera or phone to capture the vibrant street art. Golden hour offers beautiful lighting for photos. :camerawithflash:
📅 Check for Events
Look out for events like 'First Friday Gallery Night' or 'Mural Jam' for special art experiences. 📅
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the vibrant and diverse collection of murals transforming Ithaca into an open-air gallery. The 'Lost Cat' tags are a unique and beloved local feature. While the art is widely appreciated, some visitors note that the murals are spread out, requiring dedicated exploration.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ithaca murals are spread throughout the city, with many concentrated in the downtown area. Walking or biking is recommended to see them up close. You can also find guided tours offered by Ithaca Murals.
Yes, Ithaca has public transportation options that can get you to the downtown areas where many murals are located. Check with TCAT for routes and schedules.
Most murals are located on exterior walls and are visible from sidewalks, making them generally accessible. Some may be in areas with stairs or uneven terrain.
Driving is possible, but parking can be challenging in the downtown core. Many streets have metered parking. Consider parking and then exploring on foot.
Downtown Ithaca, particularly around the Commons and various side streets, features a significant number of murals. The Beverly J. Martin Student Lab and areas around State and Plain Street are also notable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Ithaca murals are part of the city's public art and are free to view. It's an open-air gallery for everyone to enjoy.
Yes, Ithaca Murals offers guided tours that provide insights into the art and artists. Check their schedule for availability and booking.
Daytime offers the best natural light for photography. For a more vibrant atmosphere, consider visiting during 'First Friday Gallery Night' for special events.
There is no entrance fee for viewing the murals. They are integrated into the urban landscape and accessible to the public.
Yes, the murals are a permanent outdoor art installation and can be visited at any time of the year. Be mindful of weather conditions in winter.
📸 📸 Photography
The best time for photography is during daylight hours. Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful, soft lighting for your shots.
Many murals are highly photogenic! The 'Lost Cat' tags offer unique, smaller photo opportunities. Murals at the Beverly J. Martin Student Lab and State and Plain Street are also popular subjects.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with the city of Ithaca and ensure you have any necessary permits before flying a drone.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the vibrant colors. If you're serious about photography, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing larger murals.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography of public murals. However, always be respectful of private property and any posted signage.
🎫 🎨 Art & Artists
A variety of local and visiting artists contribute to Ithaca's mural scene. Notable mentions include John Gavin Mahoney (known for 'Lost Cat' tags), and artists involved in the Ithaca Mural Jam.
The 'Lost Cat' is a recurring graffiti tag by the late artist John Gavin Mahoney, found on parking meters throughout Ithaca, serving as a unique artistic signature.
Organizations like Ithaca Murals and Community Arts Partnership often highlight the artists and their work. Look for artist signatures on the murals themselves.
Events like the Ithaca Mural Jam bring artists together to create new works. Keep an eye on local art organizations' social media for announcements.
Themes vary widely, often reflecting local nature, community spirit, and social messages. Murals can depict local flora, fauna, and cultural elements.










Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit