We all know that Tampa Bay has a vibrant art scene — and we’re not just talking about The Dalí or the Tampa Museum of Art. One of our all-time favorite galleries? Tampa Bay itself.
Tampa + the Burg are home to a number of masterful murals and street art pieces. Today, we’re sharing where to find pieces that really paint a picture of our area.
Buccaneers Tom Brady mural, 3125 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg | By Vitale Bros + Tes One
TB12 has since retired, but you can still snag a selfie with the football legend in the Kenwood neighborhood.
“If I Could Fly,” Wayne C. Papy Athletic Center, 6925 N. Florida Ave., Tampa | By Naomi Haverland
One of Seminole Heights’ newest murals adorns the the Wayne C. Papy Athletic Center, home to gymnastics and dance classes for many budding Tampa athletes. Tampa Parks and Recreation commissioned artist Naomi Haverland for the hopeful piece, which was inspired by two female gymnasts from the center.
Hyde Park Village mural, W. Snow Ave., Tampa | By Chad Mize
The next time you pick up your morning vanilla latte at Buddy Brew in Hyde Park Village, grab a table outside and take in the colorful mural next door by TBAY’s own Chad Mize.
“Knowledge is Power,” SPC Midtown Campus | By Zulu Painter
Unveiled recently, this studious scene honors the work of St. Pete native and educator Minson R. Rubin + greets African American students at Gibbs Junior College.
“Diversity in Democracy,” Central and 6th St., St. Petersburg | By James E. Hartzell and John L. Gascot
Commissioned by the League of Women Voters, this mural captures the city’s diversity + and serves as a reminder to heed your civic duty. Pro tip: Bookmark this spot for your next election day sticker photo shoot.
“The Tampa Postcard,” 1102 N. Florida Ave., Tampa | By Carl Cowden III
You’ve probably slowed down to snap a pic of this one driving down Florida Avenue for Insta. Cowden’s mural pays homage to the city’s iconic Henry B. Plant Museum, streetcars, and incredible outdoors.
“Ripple Effect,” Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park | By Pep Rally Inc.
Scope out this brightly colored vision as it “bubbles” under the Fortune Taylor Bridge. Plus, check out the other murals and art in the popular downtown park, including “The Countable and Uncountable Stories of Roberts City,” also by Pep Rally Inc., tiles honoring the F. Garcia & Company Factory, and a bat house painted by artist Lynn Manos Page.
“Hope in the Heights,” Tampa Heights | By Cam Parker
Check out this mural the next time you visit Metropolitan Ministries’ thrift store. “The mural communicates a message of hope that reflects the organization’s mission of helping families in need across Tampa Bay,” according to the city.
Untitled, 3050 1st Ave. N., St. Petersburg | By April Seelbach
This pink wonder adorns Blond Studio, a local hair extension studio. The piece’s artist, April Seelbach, pulls from other eras to inspire her artwork.
Untitled, 1011 1st Ave. N., St. Petersburg| By Zulu Painter
Community Action Stops Abuse Pinellas’ Family Justice Center is the first of its kind in the state, according to the St. Pete Catalyst. Thus, Zulu Painter’s mural blends the stories of family: A woman holding a child, a teenager with flowers, color, and more.
“Dreams really do come true,” S. Dakota Ave., Tampa
You might’ve seen this local beaut on Instagram. This Hyde Park Village mural is the perfect spot to snap a pic of the kids or your pup to brighten up your day.
“We Rise By Lifting Others,” 2924 5th Ave. N., St. Pete | By Leo Gomez
Gomez has painted lots of murals around town with his signature festive colors + beautiful fonts (including this recent one at PIE). This one decorates Chicago steakhouse Beau & Mo’s.
“Pride & Love,” 2437 Central Ave., St. Petersburg | By Chad Mize and Jay Hoff
Located in the Grand Central District, this mural delights both the young and the young-at-heart. The piece was completed during the 2019 SHINE Mural Festival — and is just one of many in the area.
“You Are My Sunshine,” 719 Central Ave., St. Petersburg | By Jeffrey Sincich and Josh Stover
There may no song more fitting to describe the Sunshine City. This iconic photo opp adorns the Morean Arts Center building.
Untitled, 687 Central Ave., St. Petersburg | By Shark Toof
Luckily, St. Pete beaches see more dolphins than sharks, but you can still snap a horror-inducing pic for the ‘gram.
“History Starts Here,” 6410 N. 32nd St., Tampa| By Nneka Jones
This piece gives kiddos a boost as they arrive for their after-school activities — with portraits of legendary ballers and inspirational sayings.
“Today is a Good Day,” 915 S. Howard Ave., Tampa | By Vitale Bros.
There always seem to be new murals and public art emerging in South Tampa. This piece greets happy Green Lemon customers.
“Measured,” MacFarlane Park | By Edgar Sanchez Cumbas and Jay Giroux
This art piece reminds residents of boxing’s place in Tampa’s history with a painting of Joe “King” Roman, “Puerto Rico’s first world heavyweight championship challenger and Tampa resident,” according to the city.
“SAIL AWAY — night or day,” The Sail Plaza | By Traditional & Digital Arts and Juan Pablo & Vanessa Parra
We’d be remiss to leave out aquatic-inspired murals — as there are many Tampa Bay murals that take inspo from our tropical plants, fish, and surroundings. This one decorates Big Ray’s Fish Camp.
Want to make a day out of finding all the murals our city has to offer? Have a peek at our mural map + share photos of your artsy adventure with us on social media by using #TBAYtoday.
City Guides are presented by Water Street Tampa.
