Living in the heart of our nation’s capital, it’s no surprise that our city streets serve as a museum for American history. For almost 230 years, DC’s streets have served as the home of some of our most famous Americans, and every corner has a story to tell. In recent history however, Washington’s streets have served as a different type of museum – our colorful street art and murals have become world famous with their Instagram appeal.
While you can see amazing fine art in Washington D.C.’s many museums and art galleries, walk the streets if you really want to feel the artistic vibes of our city. In our neighborhood of NoMa, there’s artwork around almost every corner thanks to the annual multiday Pow! Wow! festival, which invites dozens of artists to transform our blank city walls into Instagrammable masterpieces.
Union Market – Located in a restored, mid-century food hall, Union Market caters to couples, kids and chefs with its mix of restaurants, kitchen supply retailers and gourmet shops – it’s a perfect place to shop for your kitchen, not too far from RESA. However, while many stay for the food, most originally come to this NoMa attraction for the murals. Here you can find Yoko Ono’s minimalist message of strength and hope, as well as LA artist Mr. Brainwash, who’s “Never Give Up” features a wall of colorful hearts. Both places are some of the most photographed murals in DC on the internet.
To see the rest of our neighborhood’s public art, you’ll have to wear your walking shoes. The Washington Post has put together a great walking tour guide of NoMa, ensuring you don’t miss any of the colorful murals you’ve seen on Instagram. Located right in our neighborhood you can catch great pieces such as Superwaxx’s color-blocked “HUMAN!TY” mural, the “We’re Getting Louder” mural, and Hoxxoh’s rainbow spirograph of a vortex painted on top of the old Ibiza nightclub.
All of these great pieces of street art are located all around your RESA apartment. Spend an afternoon going to visit them all, or just take detours during your normal routines to get a sight of some of DC’s great public murals.
1309 5th St NE
Washington, DC 20002
