Minnesota’s murals are worth celebrating—they make art accessible and celebrate the beauty and cultural history of communities across the state. With National Mural Day on Saturday, June 28, here are a few stand-out murals to explore.
Courtesy of Visit Lake Street
Lake Street Lift
Murals are a vital part of the Lake Street community. By the end of June, various artists will complete 34 new murals between Nicollet and 30th Avenue South. Deemed the “Lake Street Lift Mural Bonanza,” the project is part of “Lake Street Lift,” a wider initiative to make Lake Street the arts and events epicenter of Minneapolis by investing in small businesses, public art, and community events. More than just a visual landmark, the murals are powerful tools for community building. They honor cultural diversity and serve as symbols of Lake Street’s resilience and history. The mural bonanza is one of the largest mural project installations in the nation, at least in such a condensed time frame and geographic area.
These new pieces join over 40 existing murals in the neighborhood. Since 2020, these murals have been an important part of revitalizing the neighborhood, with subjects ranging from civil rights activism to colorful florals. This variety reflects the diversity of artists commissioned for the works, including high school students working with street graffiti to nationally acclaimed professionals. For a map of where to view the murals, check out Visit Lake Street.
More Must-See Murals
Beyond Lake Street, our great state boasts many vibrant murals. Here are a few of our favorites.
Photo by Paul Vincent
“Schmitt Music Mural”
Where: 88 S. 10th Street, Minneapolis
The “Schmitt Music Mural,” a five-story landmark painted in the 1970s, is one of Minneapolis’ most iconic pieces of street art. Located at 88 S. 10th Street, the mural features a piece of classical sheet music chosen by the Schmitt Music Co., which once occupied the building. Beloved by fans of public art and classical music alike, the mural may soon be obscured—not painted over, but potentially hidden from view by a new building planned for the adjacent lot. While no construction timeline has been confirmed, the Houston-based developer’s plans have raised concerns about the future visibility of this cultural gem.
Courtesy of Meet Minneapolis
“The Times They Are a-Changin’”
Where: Fifth Street and Hennepin Avenue, Minneapolis
This five-story tribute to Bob Dylan was created by world renowned street artist Eduardo Kobra on the back of the 15 Building. The three-part mural depicts Dylan in the three stages of his life, and it’s become an iconic stop in downtown Minneapolis.
Courtesy of Flickr
“Greetings from Minnesota”
Where: Minnesota State Fairgrounds, Hoyt Avenue West, Falcon Heights
This glass mosaic greets 2 million state fairgoers every year. Completed in 2008, Susan Warner’s piece celebrates Minnesota’s natural beauty and features landmarks such as Spoonbridge and Cherry, Split Rock Lighthouse, the state’s flower, and more.
Photo by Rebecca Rabb
“Welcome to North Minneapolis”
Where: 328 West Broadway Avenue, Minneapolis
Charles Caldwell’s iconic “Welcome to North Minneapolis” mural greets visitors as they enter North Minneapolis near Broadway’s I-94 freeway entrance. Caldwell is a North Minneapolis-native whose mural depicts jazz musicians and Billie Holiday against the downtown Minneapolis skyline.
Courtesy of CNN
Henderson’s Prince Tribute
Where: 522 Main St., Henderson
Prince is the subject of countless murals across Minnesota, but Henderson’s tribute is worth a special trip. About an hour south of Minneapolis, this town has a special love for Prince–several scenes from “Purple Rain” were filmed here. Note, the bench and statue were moved from Henderson to New Ulm in 2021, but the mural is still on display.
Courtesy of Visit Duluth
“Ganawenjige Onigam”
Where: 212 W. Second St., Duluth
In the heart of downtown Duluth, “Ganawenjige Onigam” is the Duluth’s first public mural created by Indigenous artists. The mural depicts an Ojibwe jingle dress dancer watching over the city and is located outside the American Indian Community Housing Organization.
Other Murals to Check Out
- “First Avenue Stars,” 701 N. First Ave., Minneapolis
- “Greetings from Minneapolis,” 515 First Ave. NE, Minneapolis
- “i like you,” 1955 Johnson St. NE, Minneapolis
- “All for One,” 417 N. Riverfront Drive, Mankato
- “Silo Art,” Downtown Mankato
- “Welcome Mural,” 312 W. Third St., Red Wing
