10 Must-See Murals in Tucson That Capture the City's Colorful Spirit

Tucson is a city steeped in history and culture, where the past and present blend seamlessly. It is a place as vibrant and colorful as the sunsets that grace its skies each evening. But some of the city's most captivating colors aren't in the sky—they're painted on the sides of buildings, under bridges, and along bustling streets. Tucson’s thriving mural scene is as iconic as its saguaros, and it’s one of the most Instagram-worthy aspects of a visit to the desert.

Murals are more than decoration in Tucson—they’re storytelling tools. The city has always been a crossroads of cultures, with Native American, Mexican, and Western influences creating a vibrant melting pot of artistic expression. Tucson’s mural tradition dates back to the 1960s and 70s, when public art became a medium for social and political commentary on topics like immigration, cultural identity, and civil rights. Today, murals continue to reflect the city’s deep roots and forward-looking creativity.

From whimsical desert creatures to powerful tributes to community and culture, Tucson’s murals invite visitors to experience its identity in full color. Below are ten of our favorite must-see murals to check out during your stay.

1. “Epic Rides” by Joe Pagac
One of Tucson’s most beloved murals, this lively piece features a western couple speeding along on bicycles, tailed by a javelina, tortoise, and jackalope. It captures the playful spirit of the desert and the city’s love of outdoor adventure.
📍 Location: 534 N Stone Ave

2. “Monsoon in a Bottle” by Ignacio Garcia
A dreamy depiction of the scent of monsoon rain, this mural shows how the desert’s summer storms bring with them both relief and nostalgia. Garcia’s watermelon imagery is a metaphor for Tucson’s unique sensory experiences.
📍 Location: 290 W Fort Lowell Road

3. “Welcome to Oro Valley” by The Desert Pen (Pen Macias)
Painted like a giant vintage postcard, this cheerful mural welcomes visitors to the scenic beauty and small-town charm of Oro Valley. It highlights the community pride and desert beauty that define the area.

📍 Location: 1880 E Tangerine Road

4. “Amazing Discoveries” by Jessica Gonzales
This vibrant mural blends native Sonoran wildlife with mythological imagery. The fusion of a Gila monster and Quetzalcoatl symbolizes Tucson’s cultural blending and reverence for both science and mysticism.
📍 Location: 238 S Tucson Blvd

5. “Woman Taking a Selfie” by Danny Martin
Danny Martin’s black-and-white mural style is unmistakable. This piece combines Day of the Dead imagery with a modern twist, blending tradition with present-day culture.

📍 Location: 121 E 12th St

6. “Mexican Vaquero” by Danny Martin
Another standout by Martin, this mural pays tribute to the vaquero, or Mexican cowboy, celebrating the region’s ranching history and deep Mexican heritage.
📍 Location: 1838 E 6th Street

7. “Goddess of Agave” by Rock Martinez
Towering at 50 by 54 feet, this stunning mural symbolizes feminine strength and the agave’s role in regional tradition—from tequila to spiritual ceremonies. It’s a powerful fusion of beauty, nature, and cultural reverence.
📍 Location: 100 E 6th Street

8. “Greetings from Tucson” by Victor Ving and Lisa Beggs
This classic postcard-style mural is an ideal vacay photo op. Each letter of “Tucson” contains scenes from around the city, encapsulating what makes it such a special place.
📍 Location: 406 N 6th Avenue

9. “City of Gastronomy” by Ashley White (Modern Aquarian)
Painted to honor Tucson’s UNESCO City of Gastronomy designation, this mural celebrates local foodways with imagery of Sonoran ingredients and iconic local dishes. It’s a delicious tribute to Tucson’s culinary scene.
📍 Location: 6502 E Tanque Verde Road

10. “Hola Tucson” by Ashley White (Modern Aquarian)
This joyful mural greets guests at our very own Vacay in Tucson vacation rentals. Featuring bright colors and a warm message, it welcomes travelers with the same heart and soul that Tucson is known for.
📍 Location: Featured at Vacay in Tucson properties

Thank you, Megan, aka tucsonlocalista, for this super-cute photo from The Verde!

There you have it! Your must-see mural tour through Tucson’s streets, alleys, and neighborhoods. Each mural is a visual narrative that reflects the city’s history, culture, and imagination. From honoring traditions to embracing whimsy, Tucson’s murals offer a one-of-a-kind experience that connects visitors to the community in the most colorful way.

Whether you're planning your next trip or already soaking up the desert sun, make time for a mural hunt! And don’t forget to snap and share a few pics with us along the way. Tucson’s art scene is rich with personality, and there’s no better way to experience the heart of the city than through its walls.

When you're ready to wind down in comfort and style, we’ve got you covered. Book your stay with Vacay in Tucson luxury vacation rentals and make our city’s art, flavors, and sunsets part of your story.