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Chicano Park

Huge, bold murals painted on the pillars of the Coronado Bridge. A National Historic Landmark and the best free art in San Diego.

The All the Way to the Bay mural painted on freeway pillars in Chicano Park

The honest take

Under the Coronado Bridge, the concrete pillars are covered in giant, colorful murals about Chicano history, culture and pride. The community fought to create this park in 1970, and it’s now a National Historic Landmark. It’s one of the most impressive things in the city and plenty of visitors never hear about it.

Give yourself time to walk around slowly. Every pillar tells a story, and the scale is hard to grasp until you’re standing next to them. Then walk a few blocks to grab tacos or a coffee in Barrio Logan, which has some of the best food in town.

This is a neighborhood park, not a backdrop. Be respectful, ask before photographing people, and support local businesses while you’re here.

Worth it? Skip it?

Worth it if

You like art, history, great photos, or seeing a side of San Diego that isn’t beaches.

Skip it if

Honestly, don’t skip it. Unless you really, truly hate murals.

Quick facts

AreaBarrio Logan, under the Coronado Bridge
CostFree
ParkingFree street parking nearby; the trolley’s Barrio Logan stop is close
Best timeDaytime; Chicano Park Day in April is a big celebration
KidsYes
DogsOn a leash

Photo: Rpotance, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Worth-it ratingDrop everything and go