Off the Beaten Wall: Discover Savannah's Hidden Murals

Savannah is a city of layers—history wrapped in Spanish moss, charm paved in cobblestones, and creativity splashed across quiet corners. While many visitors stick to selfie spots near hotels on River Street, the real local art scene lives in neighborhoods and alleys that most tourists miss. From Starland to Cuyler-Brownville, and yes—even inside the Historic District if you know where to look—Savannah’s murals tell a story you can’t find in guidebooks.

🎨 1. Starland District: The Soul of Savannah’s Art Scene

The Starland District is Savannah’s creative epicenter, brimming with murals on nearly every block.

• Murals to See:

  • “Stay Weird” on Bull Street – a quirky classic that’s become a local mantra.

  • Floral and geometric abstracts in Starland Yard and Victory North.

  • Changing mural wall outside Foxy Loxy Café – new artists rotate every few months.

🎨 2. Waters Avenue Revitalization Art

Waters Avenue is rising with color and culture, led by community-driven art.

• Murals to See:

  • Afrocentric panels and abstract portraits.

  • Social justice murals on corner stores and fences.

🎨 3. Benjamin Van Clark Neighborhood

This under-the-radar district southeast of downtown offers raw, meaningful art.

• Murals to See:

  • Neighborhood mosaic walls.

  • Bright murals tucked behind local joints like Shabazz Seafood.

🎨 4. Cuyler-Brownville: Stories in Color

A neighborhood steeped in African-American history and resilience.

• Murals to See:

  • Civil rights tributes near MLK Jr. Blvd.

  • “Roots and Wings” and others that reflect the community’s deep roots.

🎨 5. Hidden Gems in the Historic District (Yes, Really!)

Think the Historic District is only horse carriages and history plaques? Look closer. Away from the hotel strip, several tucked-away murals are well worth a stroll.

• Murals to See:

  • “Love Savannah” near Wright Square Café, a sweet postcard-style mural great for photos.

  • A bold black-and-white face mural in an alley near York and Habersham, often missed by tourists.

  • Artist Row on Liberty Street – several small but thoughtful pieces behind local boutiques and law offices.

• Why Go: These murals often reflect a clash of old and new—a nod to Savannah’s layered identity. And they’re far enough off the main hotel drag that you’ll share them only with locals and the occasional wandering art lover.

🎨 6. Painted Utility Boxes & Alley Murals in Eastside & Midtown

These small but impactful works are often part of youth arts or city-sponsored initiatives.

• Spots to Find Them:

  • Along 38th Street, especially near Montgomery and Habersham.

  • Side alleys near Thunderbolt and Live Oak neighborhoods.

In Savannah, even the walls speak—if you wander far enough to hear them. Skip the crowds and head into the neighborhoods to find murals that reflect the heart and soul of this beautifully complex city.

Published on Thursday, July 3, 2025