Audubon Mural Project (Harlem)
The Audubon Mural Project is much more than just a collection of street art in Harlem: it’s a vibrant and expanding outdoor gallery dedicated to birds threatened by climate change 🐦. Born from the collaboration between the National Audubon Society and the Gitler &_____ gallery, this project transforms the urban landscape of northern Manhattan, the former home of naturalist John James Audubon, into a powerful canvas for environmental awareness.
Located primarily in the Hamilton Heights and Washington Heights neighborhoods, the Audubon Mural Project is a unique experience. The murals are not confined to a single location but adorn building facades, shop shutters, and walls throughout the neighborhood. It’s an unforgettable way to connect art, nature, and community right in the heart of New York City. A true artistic treasure hunt! 🗺️
Why Visit the Audubon Mural Project?
Visiting the Audubon Mural Project means immersing yourself in an artistic initiative with a profound purpose. It’s a unique opportunity to view spectacular works of art created by diverse artists while learning about the importance of conserving birds and their habitats. Each mural is a visual tribute to a species endangered by climate change, inviting reflection.
Its cultural significance lies in how it integrates art into the daily life of the neighborhood, beautifying spaces and sparking conversations about crucial environmental issues. It is an inspiring example of public art with impact, connecting Audubon’s historical legacy with current ecological challenges. Furthermore, it allows you to discover corners of Harlem and Washington Heights that you might not otherwise visit.
The Audubon Mural Project is also a symbol of community activism and environmental education through art. It is not a centralized attraction but an invitation to explore, walk, and discover 🚶♀️🚶♂️. If you are looking for an authentic New York experience that combines urban art, nature, and exploration of historic neighborhoods, this project is a must-see.
How to Get to the Audubon Mural Project by Subway?
Main Stations
Since the murals are scattered throughout Hamilton Heights and Washington Heights, there isn’t a single “main” station. However, key stations like 145th Street (A, B, C, D lines) or 157th Street (1 line) are excellent starting points to begin your exploration in the heart of the area with the highest concentration of murals.
Subway Lines Serving the Audubon Mural Project Area
The project area is well-served by several subway lines running through Upper Manhattan. The lines that bring you close to the murals are:
- 1 (Red Line) – To access the western area, near Broadway.
- A, C (Blue Lines) – Central and western access along St. Nicholas Ave and Amsterdam Ave.
- B, D (Orange Lines) – Central and eastern access along St. Nicholas Ave (the B line operates on weekdays only).
How to Get to the Audubon Mural Project Area from:
Central Park / Columbus Circle
From Columbus Circle (59th St), you can take the A, B, C, or D lines northbound (Uptown) to the 145th Street station. You can also take the 1 line northbound to 145th St or 157th St.
Lower Manhattan (Wall Street / World Trade Center)
From the Wall Street or World Trade Center area, the most direct way is to take the A or C line (northbound/Uptown) to 145th Street. You can also take the 1 line (northbound) to 145th St or 157th St from stations like WTC Cortlandt or Rector St.
Brooklyn (DUMBO / Williamsburg)
From DUMBO, you can take the A or C line at High St northbound to 145th St. From Williamsburg, take the L line to 14th St–Union Square and transfer to the northbound A, B, C, or D lines. Or take the L to 8th Ave and switch to the A or C uptown.
Queens (Long Island City / Flushing)
From Long Island City, you can take the E line to 7th Ave–53rd St and transfer to the northbound B or D lines. From Flushing, take the 7 line to Times Sq–42 St and transfer to the northbound 1, A, or C line.
Other Parts of Harlem
If you are further south in Harlem (e.g., near 125th St), you can take the A, B, C, D, or 1 lines northbound a few stops. Depending on your exact location, you might even be able to walk and discover more of the neighborhood! 🚶♀️
Airports (JFK / LaGuardia / Newark)
From JFK, take the AirTrain to Howard Beach Station and transfer to the northbound A line to 145th St. From LaGuardia (LGA), take the M60-SBS bus to 125th St and transfer to the northbound A, B, C, D, or 1 lines. From Newark (EWR), take the AirTrain and NJ Transit to Penn Station, and from there, take the northbound A, C, or 1 lines.
What to Do at the Audubon Mural Project?
Exploring the Audubon Mural Project is a unique urban adventure. It’s not about visiting a traditional museum but embarking on an artistic and ecological treasure hunt through the streets of Harlem and Washington Heights. Get ready to be surprised at every corner! ✨
Discover the Murals 🎨
The main activity is finding the murals! Use the official interactive map (available online) to locate the artworks. Each mural is different, reflecting the artist’s style and the beauty of the depicted bird. Look up, check shop shutters, alleys, and facades. The hunt has begun!
Learn About Birds and Conservation 🐦
Each mural represents a bird threatened by climate change according to reports from the National Audubon Society. Take the opportunity to research the species you discover. It’s a fantastic and visual way to connect with biodiversity and understand the challenges of conservation.
Explore the Hamilton Heights/Washington Heights Neighborhood
While searching for murals, take your time to explore these historic neighborhoods. Discover their characteristic architecture, local parks (like St. Nicholas Park), charming cafes, and vibrant community life. The project invites you to get to know Upper Manhattan in a different way.
Participate in Guided Tours (if available)
Occasionally, the National Audubon Society or partner organizations may offer free guided tours. Check their websites before your visit in case any dates coincide. A guide can provide additional information about the artists, the birds, and the project’s history.
Photograph the Urban Art 📸
The murals are incredibly photogenic. Capture the intensity of the colors, the details of the birds, and the way the art interacts with the urban environment. It’s a perfect opportunity for lovers of street photography and to take home a unique visual memory of New York.
Attractions Near the Audubon Mural Project
While exploring the murals of the Audubon Mural Project in Hamilton Heights and Washington Heights, you’ll find yourself near other historical and cultural points of interest that will enrich your visit to this fascinating area of Upper Manhattan.
Hamilton Grange National Memorial
Very close to many murals is Hamilton Grange, which was the country home of Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Visiting this National Historic Site managed by the National Park Service is a perfect addition to your walk.
Trinity Church Cemetery & Mausoleum
This historic cemetery, located between 153rd and 155th Streets, is the final resting place of notable figures, including John James Audubon himself. Visiting his grave adds a layer of meaning to the experience of the mural project that bears his name.
Hispanic Society Museum & Library
Located at Audubon Terrace (Broadway at 155th St), this institution houses an impressive collection of art and manuscripts from Spain, Portugal, and Latin America. It’s a cultural treasure worth visiting if you’re in the area. 🏛️
Riverbank State Park
Located along the Hudson River (accessible from 145th Street), this unique park built atop a wastewater treatment plant offers sports facilities, picnic areas, and spectacular views of the river and the George Washington Bridge. A good place to rest.
Morris-Jumel Mansion
A bit further north, in Washington Heights, you’ll find the Morris-Jumel Mansion, Manhattan’s oldest house (built in 1765). It has witnessed significant historical events and offers tours to learn about its fascinating past.
Sugar Hill / Strivers’ Row
While searching for murals, you’ll be walking through historic areas like Sugar Hill, known for its significance during the Harlem Renaissance, and near Strivers’ Row, famous for its elegant architecture. Enjoy the atmosphere and history of these streets.
Tips for Visiting the Audubon Mural Project
Visiting the Audubon Mural Project is a rewarding experience, but it requires some planning as it’s a scattered outdoor gallery. Here are some tips to make the most of your artistic and ecological tour through Upper Manhattan.
Best Time of Day to Go
Daylight is essential for appreciating the colors and details of the murals and for photography. Try to go during the day, preferably in good weather, as you’ll be walking outdoors quite a bit ☀️. Weekday mornings tend to be quieter regarding general neighborhood foot traffic.
Plan Your Route and Bring a Map 🗺️
Essential: Consult the official online map of the Audubon Mural Project before you go. Decide which murals you want to see or plan a route through a specific area. Make sure your phone is charged 🔋 to use the interactive map or bring a printed version/screenshot. There are many murals!
Respect Private Property and the Neighborhood
Remember that many murals are on private property (businesses, residential buildings). Enjoy the art from the public sidewalk, do not block entrances, and avoid making excessive noise. Be respectful of the residents and local businesses that host these artworks 🙏.
What to Bring and What Not to Bring
Wear comfortable shoes 👟 essential! Also bring a water bottle 💧, sunscreen or a hat if it’s sunny ☀️, or an umbrella if rain is forecast ☂️. A camera or phone with a good battery for photos 📸. Consider bringing lightweight binoculars if you want to see details of birds on high murals. Travel light to walk comfortably.
