Complete Guide to the Best Street Art and Murals in Bakersfield Right Now

The street art scene in Bakersfield is flourishing this summer, with dozens of new murals unveiled across the city, transforming neighborhoods and providing vibrant outdoor experiences for locals and visitors. From the historic Arts District to the up-and-coming Seven Oaks neighborhood, Bakersfield offers an immersive dive into public art that captures the city’s spirit and diversity.

Street art is more than decoration-it reflects Bakersfield’s evolving identity and resilience. This surge of mural projects comes at a time when the city is actively investing in creative initiatives to boost cultural tourism and local pride. With the rise of digital fatigue and demand for safe, open-air activities post-pandemic, outdoor murals have become a major draw, engaging residents in art appreciation without the confines of galleries.

Where to See Bakersfield’s Best Murals Today

A must-visit area is the Bakersfield Arts District around 19th and Eye Streets, where the nonprofit organization Urban Canvas has sponsored over 30 large-scale murals since 2022. These pieces showcase a range of styles, from realistic portraits highlighting Bakersfield’s agricultural heritage to abstract works celebrating its ethnic communities.

Another hotspot is the Seven Oaks Business Improvement District along Coffee Road, where the district’s mural program launched last year has already added 12 murals. These artworks are integrated with local shops and eateries like La Trova and The Painted Owl, offering visitors a chance to explore art alongside dining and retail options.

Local Impact and Visitor Info

The Bakersfield Cultural Affairs Department reports a 40% increase in visitors to mural-heavy areas this summer compared to the same period last year, underscoring street art’s rising profile in the city’s tourism strategy. Admission to mural walk tours organized by Urban Canvas costs $15 per person, with proceeds helping fund new public art projects. Self-guided tours are also promoted via free downloadable maps and apps, making it easy and affordable to discover murals on your schedule.

For those interested in photography or sharing their experiences on social media, the recommended starting point is the mural at 2000 19th Street, which depicts the city’s influential oil industry workers. This spot offers ample parking and is adjacent to the Heart of Bakersfield Plaza, where rotating pop-up markets take place on weekends.

Looking ahead, city planners and the Bakersfield Art Council are working on expanding mural installation to neighborhoods such as Central Park and Mill Creek, aiming to complete an additional 20 murals by the end of 2027. Community workshops on mural design and street art appreciation are scheduled through this fall, open to all who want to contribute creatively to Bakersfield’s urban canvas.

For visitors and locals alike, now is the perfect moment to experience Bakersfield’s vibrant street art culture. Whether joining a guided tour or exploring independently, these murals offer a vivid window into the city’s stories, struggles, and successes.