Union Market Street Art Tour: Where to Find the Best Murals

Washington, D.C.’s Union Market is not just a foodie paradise—it’s also one of the city’s most vibrant hubs for public art. Over the years, street art has become a defining feature of the area, with striking murals transforming ordinary walls into canvases of cultural expression.

Union Market’s murals celebrate creativity, diversity, and the city’s evolving art scene, from larger-than-life portraits to abstract designs bursting with color. Whether you’re a local exploring your neighborhood or a visitor looking for the best Instagram-worthy spots, this guide will take you on a self-guided tour of Union Market’s must-see murals.

Iconic Murals You Can't Miss

“LOVE” by Lisa Marie Thalhammer

📍 Location: 1300 4th St NE
Lisa Marie Thalhammer’s “LOVE” mural is one of Union Market’s most recognizable pieces. With its bold, rainbow-colored letters, this mural symbolizes unity and inclusivity. It’s an ideal backdrop for a photo, especially during golden hour when the colors pop even more.

📸 Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting.

“DC Alley Museum” Collection

📍 Location: Near 1309 5th St NE
Hidden in the alleys surrounding Union Market, the DC Alley Museum features a rotating collection of murals created by local and international artists. The artwork here tells stories about social justice, urban culture, and the ever-changing nature of D.C.

📸 Best time to visit: Midday for visibility inside the alleys.

“U Street Meets Union Market” by Aniekan Udofia

📍 Location: Near Neal Place NE
Aniekan Udofia, known for his mural of Marvin Gaye on U Street, brings another masterpiece to Union Market. His mural here features iconic D.C. figures and cultural references, blending nostalgia with contemporary street art.

📸 Best time to visit: Anytime, but early mornings offer fewer crowds.

“Heart Wall” by Mr. Brainwash

📍 Location: On a shipping container near the market entrance
The internationally renowned street artist Mr. Brainwash (Thierry Guetta) left his mark on Union Market with a vibrant, heart-filled mural. His signature style—a mix of graffiti, pop art, and positive messages—makes this a must-see.

📸 Best time to visit: Midday when the sun enhances the vivid colors.

The Artists Behind the Art

Lisa Marie Thalhammer

Known for her empowering messages and bold colors, Lisa Marie Thalhammer’s work is a staple of D.C.’s public art scene. She frequently explores themes of love, justice, and feminism. Check out more of her work on her website and Instagram.

Aniekan Udofia

Udofia is a D.C. street art legend. His hyper-realistic portraits of cultural icons, from Duke Ellington to Chuck Brown, can be found all over the city. Follow his work on Instagram.

Mr. Brainwash

A French street artist turned global phenomenon, Mr. Brainwash gained fame through the Banksy-directed documentary Exit Through the Gift Shop. His vibrant works mix pop culture with inspirational messages. See his portfolio at mrbrainwash.com.

How Union Market Became a Street Art Destination

Union Market wasn’t always a haven for street art. Over the last decade, local businesses, art collectives, and city initiatives have helped transform the neighborhood into an open-air gallery.

• The MuralsDC Initiative has played a key role in funding and supporting artists to create public art that prevents graffiti vandalism while enhancing the city’s creative landscape.
• The NoMa BID (Business Improvement District) has actively promoted mural projects, inviting artists nationwide to contribute to the area's artistic evolution.
• Annual events like the DC Walls Festival bring fresh new murals to Union Market and beyond, turning the city into an ever-changing street art canvas.

Tips for Exploring the Street Art Scene

Best Ways to Get Around

• By foot: Union Market is compact, making it easy to explore on foot.
• By Metro: Take the Red Line to NoMa-Gallaudet U Station, then walk for 10 minutes.
• By car: Limited street parking is available, but weekends can be busy.

Where to Grab a Bite Nearby

Exploring murals can work up an appetite! Fortunately, Union Market is home to some of the best food spots in D.C.

• St. Anselm – A top-notch steakhouse with a creative cocktail menu.
• La Cosecha – A Latin American market with food vendors serving everything from empanadas to ceviche.
• Buffalo & Bergen – Known for delicious bagels and brunch options.
• Pluma by Bluebird Bakery – Perfect for a coffee and a pastry stop.

Street Art Etiquette

• Respect the artwork – Avoid touching or defacing murals.
• Be mindful of businesses – Many murals are on commercial buildings; be considerate of customers and staff.
• Support the artists – If you love a mural, share it on social media and tag the artist!

Conclusion

Union Market is more than just a food destination—it’s a living canvas that tells the story of D.C.’s artistic spirit. Whether capturing vibrant murals for your feed, learning about the artists behind them, or simply enjoying the area's creative energy, this neighborhood is a must-visit for any street art lover.

Want to explore more? Check out MuralsDC for a complete street art map across Washington, D.C. Or, if you prefer a guided experience, consider a street art tour with DC Mural Tours.