
West Oakland Murals
West Oakland's vibrant streets are a living gallery, showcasing powerful murals that celebrate history, art, and community spirit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More community events & tours

West Oakland Murals
Best Time
More community events & tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
West Oakland's vibrant streets are a living gallery, showcasing powerful murals that celebrate history, art, and community spirit.
"This history and space is so important to our history, thank you for sharing it. A must visit when your in Oakland."
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking to discover all the amazing street art.
Look for AR murals :iphone:
Some murals come alive with augmented reality – download the app beforehand!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Women of the Black Panther Party Mural
West Oakland
A powerful AR-activated mural honoring the vital contributions of women to the Black Panther Party.
DeFremery Park (Lil' Bobby Hutton Park)
West Oakland
Historic park with murals, a significant site for the Black Panther Party's early activities.
Prescott Market Murals
Prescott Market, West Oakland
Vibrant and colorful murals serve as a backdrop for this community gathering spot.
Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School Mural
West Oakland
An inspiring mural designed to welcome and motivate young students.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art & History
AR Experiences & Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking to discover all the amazing street art.
Look for AR murals :iphone:
Some murals come alive with augmented reality – download the app beforehand!
Book tours in advance :ticket:
Guided tours offer deep historical context; book early to secure your spot.
Visit Prescott Market :shopping_cart:
Enjoy food and community vibes with colorful murals as your backdrop.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be doing a lot of walking to discover all the amazing street art.
Look for AR murals :iphone:
Some murals come alive with augmented reality – download the app beforehand!
Book tours in advance :ticket:
Guided tours offer deep historical context; book early to secure your spot.
Visit Prescott Market :shopping_cart:
Enjoy food and community vibes with colorful murals as your backdrop.
Respect the art :pray:
Admire the murals and avoid touching or defacing them.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the West Oakland murals for their historical significance, artistic merit, and community impact. The AR-activated pieces are a particular highlight, offering an engaging, modern way to experience the art. While the area is rich with culture, some visitors note the importance of being aware of surroundings, as with any urban exploration.
"A friend visited this amazing museum while she was on a radical sabbatical and told me I absolutely had to go. Once I came to CA, it was the first place on my list and seeing the outside mural and the beautiful orange flowers growing in the entry way arch outside had me hooked. We met Ms Jil and put on our shoe covers and took a walk into and through a huge chapter of history that we had never heard. The Black Panthers were so much more than we know and we need to know. You have not visited San Francisco or Oakland if you miss the opportunity to visit this Women of The Black Panther Party Museum.
Kallista"
Our Community Reads with Kallista Marie
"I can’t thank Jil enough for taking the time to walk us through the exhibition. Thank you for opening your home to us and for this incredible museum in honor of the women of the Black Panther Party.
This history and space is so important to our history, thank you for sharing it.
A must visit when your in Oakland."
Roxana Lopez
"We were greated by Jil, who went over how the self guided tour worked and explained that we could take our time, to sit and read the wonderful library or resources/ history.
It was an emotional experience. Sadness, anger and resentment for what happened to my people who were just trying to help and provide resources to our undeserved communities. Joy and hope, to see the many people who had enough love and or empathy for their community, to do something about the challenges. And joy to know that so many of us kept up the fight.
We ened up spending more time there then expected (90 mins or so). I spent about an hour on the tour (including reading) and 30 minutes having good conversation with Jil.
I think its fair to mention, I was visiting Oakland from Minnesota, had luggage, as I was heading to my return flight after. Jil insisted we leave our luggage, in a safe space with her, when my associate and I wanted to go eat. Jil saved us some time and energy. Taking on a responsibility she did not have to, was kind of her and I greatly appreciated it.
I would recommend visiting at least once."
Celia Anderson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
West Oakland is accessible via BART (West Oakland Station) and numerous bus lines. Many murals are clustered around major streets like Peralta Street and Grand Avenue. Driving is also an option, but parking can be challenging in some areas. Consider ride-sharing services for convenience.
Like any urban neighborhood, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit areas, especially if exploring in the evening. Many visitors report positive experiences exploring during the day, particularly around known mural sites and community hubs like Prescott Market.
Yes, public transport is a great way to navigate West Oakland. The BART station is a central hub, and AC Transit buses serve the area extensively. This is a sustainable and often convenient option for mural hopping.
Street parking is available but can be limited, especially on weekends or near popular spots. Some community centers or businesses might offer limited parking. If driving, be patient and prepared to walk a bit from your parking spot.
Many murals are concentrated along West Grand Avenue, Peralta Street, and around DeFremery Park. The area around the Black Panther Party Museum and Prescott Market is also a hub for vibrant street art.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The outdoor murals are generally free to view as public art. However, if you plan to visit the Women of the Black Panther Party Museum or participate in a guided mural tour, tickets or reservations may be required.
As outdoor art, murals are accessible 24/7. However, for the best viewing experience and safety, daytime exploration is recommended. Specific museums or galleries associated with murals will have their own operating hours.
Yes, guided tours focusing on the Black Panther Party history and murals are available. These tours often provide in-depth historical context and can be booked in advance.
Costs for guided tours can vary. Some tours might be donation-based, while others have a set fee. It's best to check with the tour provider for current pricing and booking information.
Yes, the Women of the Black Panther Party Museum is a key attraction. Appointments are often recommended or required for visits, and it's a deeply moving experience.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the AR-activated 'Women of the Black Panther Party' mural, the murals at DeFremery Park (Lil' Bobby Hutton Park), and the vibrant art at Prescott Market. Keep an eye out for new pieces constantly being added.
Absolutely! Several murals, particularly those related to the Black Panther Party, are augmented reality activated. Look for signs or ask locals about the specific apps or platforms to use.
Visit during daylight hours for the best lighting. Consider the angle to capture the full mural and its surroundings. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds.
Yes, many murals are located near historically significant sites related to the Black Panther Party, such as DeFremery Park and the former headquarters. Guided tours often highlight these connections.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, sunscreen, and your camera or smartphone for photos. If you plan to use AR features, ensure your device is charged.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Prescott Market is a fantastic hub with diverse food options, including Pizzeria Violetta and Almanac Beer Co. You'll also find local eateries and cafes scattered throughout the neighborhood.
Many of the diverse eateries in West Oakland, especially at places like Prescott Market, offer a range of options that can accommodate vegan and vegetarian diets. It's always good to check menus or ask staff.
Yes, West Oakland has several local coffee shops where you can grab a coffee and a snack while exploring the art. Ask locals for their favorite spots or check online maps.
While not always consistent, you might encounter food trucks or vendors, especially during community events or at places like Prescott Market. Keep an eye out for local culinary offerings.
You can find a range of prices, from affordable casual eats to slightly more upscale dining. Prescott Market offers a good mix. Expect typical urban pricing for most establishments.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer beautiful soft light that enhances colors and reduces harsh shadows. Midday sun can be very bright and create strong contrasts.
Include a person or recognizable object in the frame to give a sense of scale. Shooting from a slightly lower angle can also emphasize the mural's size.
Prescott Market provides a colorful backdrop. Murals near DeFremery Park and along West Grand Avenue are also popular. Look for murals with interesting textures or unique artistic styles.
If a mural has AR capabilities, you can often capture photos or videos of the augmented elements interacting with the real world, creating unique visual effects.
While some murals may occasionally be tagged, many are maintained or are part of ongoing projects. The community actively works to preserve this art.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Photographers
🏛️ History Buffs & Activism Advocates
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Black Panther Party Murals
Several murals are augmented reality (AR) activated, allowing viewers to experience additional layers of content, such as historical footage, audio narratives, or interactive elements, through their smartphones. This innovative approach brings the history to life and engages a new generation with the legacy of the Black Panthers. The 'Women of the Black Panther Party' mural, for instance, specifically highlights the crucial, often overlooked, roles women played within the organization.
Exploring these murals offers a profound connection to Oakland's past and its ongoing struggle for social justice. It's an opportunity to learn about community organizing, self-determination, and the enduring spirit of activism. Visiting sites like DeFremery Park, known as Lil' Bobby Hutton Park, provides a tangible link to where some of these pivotal moments in history unfolded.
Artistic Vibrancy and Community Spaces
Community spaces like Prescott Market are central to this artistic expression. The market itself is adorned with colorful murals, reflecting the energetic and creative spirit of West Oakland. It serves as a gathering place where art, food, and community converge, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
The ongoing creation and preservation of these murals demonstrate a strong sense of community ownership and pride. Artists often collaborate with local schools and organizations, as seen with the mural at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School, aiming to inspire and beautify the neighborhood for its residents.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit