Hidden Murals of Lemon Grove

Hidden Murals of Lemon Grove tectonic (Atlas Obscura User)

Vivid shades of purple, yellow, and blue weave a stunning tapestry of murals hidden in an alleyway behind a small strip of shops in Lemon Grove.

The murals came to life when Sydel Howell and her mother, who own the medical supply store some of the murals are painted on, were inspired by a trip to the Wynwood Art District in Miami, Florida. After seeing the work of Beth Emmerich on a tattoo shop in North Park, Howell hired her to paint a couple of walls on the back of her building at 7846 Broadway, across from a small city parking lot.

Emmerich subsequently recruited four additional muralists to work on the project: Gloria Muriel, Alex Banach, Maxx Moses, and KJ Ashley. These uniquely funky San Diego murals are a must-see for visitors to Lemon Grove. The murals display various themes of nature and images that appear to be pulled from an enchanting dreamscape.

Know Before You Go

To find the murals, park behind the post office on Lester Street or take the Orange line trolly and exit the Lemon Grove Depot. Cross Lemon Grove Avenue and walk towards Lemon Grove Cafe. Turn onto Lester and enter through the parking lot.