Photo courtesy Explore Lompoc.
LOMPOC — Travel often uncovers hidden treasures in the most unexpected places, and Lompoc’s outdoor mural gallery is one of these delightful finds. If you’re a fan of art, history, and exploration, you’re in for a treat with this self-guided tour of Lompoc’s murals. Join us as we wander through the streets and unveil the captivating stories and creativity that adorn the city’s walls.
A History of Art
The concept of the Lompoc Mural Project traces back to 1988 when Gene and Judy Stevens visited Chemainus, British Columbia. During their trip, they witnessed how a small community of just 3,500 residents harnessed the power of art as a primary tool for economic revitalization. Inspired by this vision, Gene and Judy brought the concept back to Lompoc, and in 1989, the very first mural, titled “Flower Industry,” was born.
The mural collection has grown to include over 40 murals that includes commissioned works of art, as well as those painted in a single day or over a weekend by community volunteers.
Today, Lompoc draws visitors from across the globe who come to explore this breathtaking outdoor art gallery. With nearly 40 murals to discover, all meticulously curated and maintained by the dedicated members of the Lompoc Mural Society, the city continues to thrive as a living canvas of creativity and culture.
A Story to Tell
Each mural depicts a story of the inhabitants of the Lompoc Valley, along with their rich cultural and artistic contributions. Each of these murals has a tale to tell, and there are plenty of stories to be discovered. They serve as a visual narrative, showcasing everything from the city’s earliest settlers to the world-renowned wines produced in the region. These murals not only serve as a draw for tourists but also as a medium for the city to proudly exhibit its rich past, present, and future.
For example, the Chumash Indians mural tells the story of the Chumash Indigenous people, who were among the earliest inhabitants of California’s central coast many centuries ago.
Other murals like the Flowers of the Valley capture the city’s floral allure on the front of several garage doors showcasing different flowers that are currently cultivated or have historically thrived in the Lompoc Valley.
Learn the stories behind 16 of Lompoc’s most popular murals!
A Self-Guided Mural Tour
Lompoc has no guided tour, but don’t fear! Lompoc’s outdoor mural gallery is open all day, every day for a self-guided experience. Most murals are concentrated in Lompoc’s downtown and can be accessed on foot!
Grab a coffee from Southside Coffee and start your mural-hunting adventure at the corner of Cypress Avenue and South H Street. Download and use our handy Mural Map or stop by the Lompoc Valley Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau for a map and tips on places to see and things to do along the route. The map will guide you on your mural hunt while you learn about the fascinating history of Lompoc.
You can also view an interactive map, visit our mural page.
Lompoc’s murals provide a glimpse into the heart and soul of this charming city. As you embark on your self-guided tour of Lompoc murals, you’ll discover the rich tapestry of history, culture, and creativity that adorns the streets. So, grab a map, put on your walking shoes, and immerse yourself in the beauty and stories that make Lompoc’s murals a must-see for art enthusiasts and explorers alike.
ABOUT LOMPOC
Located on scenic Pacific Coast Highway 1, just 155 miles northwest from Los Angeles with close proximity to Santa Barbara and Solvang, Lompoc takes on a world of its own. Its
valley setting, surrounded by spectacular rolling hills and vineyards, creates an invitation for visitors to detour off the main road, and explore what’s around the bend.Lompoc is a destination for
wine tasting, golf, cycling, hiking, skydiving, birding, and surfing at nearby Jalama Beach. It is home to La Purisima Mission State Historic Park, the most fully restored and furnished of the 21
California missions, and adjacent to Vandenberg Air Force Base, where rockets are launched throughout the year by such entities as NASA, SpaceX, and ULA, to name a few. Lompoc has 12
hotels to welcome visitors. To discover more about the Lompoc Valley, and other things to see and do, visit: www.explorelompoc.com.