Philadelphia's Magic Gardens image

Philadelphia's Magic Gardens

Tourist attraction Museum Art gallery Art museum Art center Arts organization

One of the Most Reviewed Art museums in Philadelphia


Address

1020 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, United States

Website

www.phillymagicgardens.org

Contact

+1 215-733-0390

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (4.6K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 11 am to 6 pm
  • Friday: 11 am to 6 pm
  • Saturday: 11 am to 6 pm
  • Sunday: 11 am to 6 pm
  • Monday: 11 am to 6 pm
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 11 am to 6 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: visit (25) time (23) space (15) experience (14) area (14) cool (13) unique (12) interesting (11) find (11) walls (11)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 4/5 Sara Beth W. 2 years ago on Google
    It's definitely whimsical and fun - a rabbit warren of mishmash and shiny objects. I guess I thought it would be a bit bigger. It gets a little crowded on weekends when the sun is out and some folks like to camp out in one spot for a full-out photo shoot. I think it would be much more fun when it's less crowded or maybe with kids. Though there are a lot (a LOT) of genitalia, if that's something that bothers you. It's cool to see where the original studio was, and there are indoor spaces with more folk art that is interesting, plus there's a small eclectic gift shop. It takes about 30 minutes for even a comprehensive tour. I think $15 is a bit steep for what it is, but I'd also hate to see it go away.
    28 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rachael J. 4 months ago on Google • 182 reviews
    This was hands down the most magical experience during our trip to the City of Love! You will come out of this place with complete feelings of joy! I felt like a child in an art playground! Please...please...please ask for the scavenger hunt that they offer for both inside and outside garden! This may be difficult for someone that is wheelchair bound. Don't miss this magical experience that is great for the family of all ages! Most beautiful ART 🎨 ✨️ 😍

  • 4/5 Amanda K. 7 months ago on Google • 149 reviews
    PMG was a really fun new experience I had while visiting Philly. I’ve done a lot of the main touristy things in the past but never got around to making it here until now. It was a really unique display of mostly outside art. I spent about an hour here just wandering around checking it out. It’s not huge but if you spend the time to really look at it you find a lot of fun stuff. You also find some really random stuff. They have a small indoor section but this is mostly outside so I’d plan your trip accordingly. Also something to consider is that there are stairs to access some of the areas. They aren’t necessarily steep or anything, but some are made of tiles and a little uneven. There are railings but another thing to consider if steps aren’t for you or a family member. The website says you needed to have your tickets purchased beforehand so I did do that and would recommend doing so. It seems like they have random murals scattered throughout the area outside of the actual garden. These would be free to see in case you don’t want to pay the fee to get inside. Overall it was a fun new experience and I’d recommend it if you have the time!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Silas W. 6 months ago on Google • 133 reviews
    A really cool, creative art space. Worth the $15 to tour around. I can imagine if sunset or sunrise worked for you to visit it could add to the experience, because lots of the tiles are mirror shards. Take your time and check out interesting pattered tiles or just odd things placed in the structure and walls. I visited just after sunset and they had some Christmas lights up that added to the ambiance.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jenna B. 5 months ago on Google • 109 reviews
    If you have the time to stop here it’s definitely worth the trip! Incredible art and so fun to walk through! Give yourself about an hour so you have ample time to go through. They feature several local artists and some pieces are for sale. I recommend buying tickets in advance because they sell quickly.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gen F. 9 months ago on Google • 76 reviews
    Really cool place to visit. Small gift shop with very unique items. Most are locally made. Definitely a must go if you're in the area! Be sure to walk all around the museum outside, there's more art on other buildings.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kelsey F. 1 year ago on Google
    I've seen a lot of beautiful places, but was truly moved by Philadelphia's Magic Garden and the story of how it came to be. Born from an artist who used his artistic passion to spark life back into his derelict community; he transformed his once dilapidated neighborhood into a buzzing artistic hub by turning the buildings themselves into expansive mosaics. Starting with his studio, he spent decades adding onto his work until it eventually spilled through to the adjoining once vacant lot. Now, it's a beautiful garden filled with endless seas of color that take shape into passageways that invites its visitors to explore and imagine. The mosaics continue through the neighborhood; wrapping themselves around the exterior walls of the businesses and homes that line the quiet street. Carefully crafted with tiles, mirrors, bottles, and other broken and discarded objects, every inch of the work brings renewed purpose to items once labeled as trash. Each little shard, unique in its own; displayed intricately to promote the freedom of self expression, the gift of community, and the right to peace. Though once threatened to be demolished, the site is now protected and open to be enjoyed for decades to come. It's a truly moving and profound example of the transformative power of art and how one man's love for his community can restore a neighborhood. I highly recommend a visit if you're in the area!
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bmore Restaurant C. 4 months ago on Google • 74 reviews
    The entry fee is WORTH IT. I was expecting to be disappointed with this spot because of the fee, but when I tell you, I was stunned! It was freezing while we were there, so I imagine coming here during the summer or early fall. A breeze and the sun hitting you while standing in the maze of this art installation??? That would be it. I could die happy.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Marwah Z. 3 years ago on Google
    Pretty cool place to check out if you're in the area. Very artsy and creative. They reuse tiles, bottles, mirrors, and other materials and glassware to make colorful artwork. However the gallery is rather small and does not justify the price for the ticket. Despite that, it is great if you have small kids as they will be enamoured with all the colors and shapes. Great to enjoy with friends or family.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Roddy B. 5 months ago on Google • 93 reviews
    Unique and surprisingly interesting place to visit. Entrance is $15 for adults. The experience is for all ages. Try the outside scavenger hunt and be prepared to have a good time regardless of your age. Expect to be there 30mins-2hours.

  • 4/5 Jim Fred S. 3 years ago on Google
    More interesting than I had expected. He was just starting to decorate the lots and walls on South Street as I was growing up, and honestly I still am not a fan of the adornment consisting solely of broken mirrors and ceramic accompanied by random but generally positive verbiage, which is why I'd never visited before. At this location, though, there's a lot more depth. The incorporation of sculpture and artifacts is both more interesting and more revealing. The scavenger hunt they offered the kids is a perfect supplement. And the brick tuffets are cool. We had fun. I wouldn't mind if more of Philadelphia's vacant lots regrew into this. Make a Polish one next!
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Paige D. 2 years ago on Google
    Such a cool place! Be sure to get tickets in advance if you come on a Saturday — I heard workers say it was sold out. We spent about 30 minutes exploring the entire area (95% outdoors) and loved all of the nooks and crannies.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gracyn L. 2 years ago on Google
    WOW! This is easily the coolest art space I’ve had the pleasure of visiting. Came here from New York on a recommendation and I was beyond impressed! The amount detail put into the mosaics is breathtaking. The Mexican Folk Art exhibit was also great, and reading the stories of the featured artists was very meaningful. My partner purchased a piece from Aureliano Lorenzo right off of the wall! That’s a keepsake that will be treasured for years to come. Thank you all for sharing your art, and many thanks to the kind, courteous staff! Any time we’re in Philly, we’ll be back here.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Ruslan B. 2 years ago on Google
    Don't worth the time and money. Don't buy the tickets in advance. Basically, you can see most of it and the main idea from the street. If you like it - then come in. But there's no need in it. Overrated, definitely
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Joshua C. 11 months ago on Google
    An interesting, whimsical experience. Like most artistic experiences, this isn't going to be for everyone. Certain perspectives feel like walking through a decades-old trash collection, but if one looks closely messages and beauty appear. One could spend 20 minutes or 2 hours touring the outdoor and small indoor displays. For those with shorter attention spans, a scavenger hunt is available to help discover some of the hidden gems that can be found.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jessica 9 months ago on Google • 49 reviews
    If you're near South Street, this is a place you should visit! Lots and lots to see and explore. We had so much fun here. There's also a little gift shop with artists wares. This place is MAGICAL! I'd love to come back again.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 LaResistAnts (. 2 years ago on Google
    We had so much fun talking with one of the volunteers. She taught us all about the artist who has dedicated his last 30+ years to the mosaic art. This magical destination needs to be supported by everyone so they can keep up the good fight for art in Philadelphia. You will see all mosaics in the south street area and other sections of the city were done by this same artist. Enjoy what you see here and find beauty in his creativity!!!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Adrienne J. 2 years ago on Google
    This is a cute little spot especially if you are an art lover like myself. It is composed of artsy mosaic tile and Mexican folk art, mostly which is put together in such a crafty and intriguing way. Another plus is I got some nice Instagram-worthy photos and shots
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Adey Z. 2 years ago on Google
    we loved it!! We were lucky enough to meet the artist himself!we saw him outside of the garden. At age 80,he still drives his little car around and moves his art work around. we were amazed! Isaiah sucha passionated person. He lives for his art. We also enjoyed his his Art Environment! They make me happy! A must visit site inPhilly! Also try to book the tour before museum opens. It is great to learn more about the art work.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alex I. 1 year ago on Google
    Cool art exhibit to visit! Lots of mosaics and neat art on the walls. Narrow staircases and generally just unique architecture. Tickets are pretty cheap - about $12-15 per person. Note that you can't touch the art on the walls. Indoor area as well + gift shop.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brian L. 5 months ago on Google • 48 reviews
    Beautiful and unique display. I can only imagine how this looks in sunlight. The lights reflected the decor in a satisfying way. It was a great neuro stimulating experience.

  • 5/5 Jack R. 10 months ago on Google
    An absolutely fantastic place to be. I'm sure that everything that I thought of has already been said, so I will just say that I highly recommend you come here. Also buying tickets at least a day ahead of time is important. My pictures here are from one of their temporary exhibits.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rosinha M. 11 months ago on Google
    Philadelphia's Magic Gardens is a very interesting place to visit. The work presented there is of total resilience and was executed in all the murals with great care and attention. It is really worth taking your guests to discover this masterpiece in the open air.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Tonya J. 1 year ago on Google
    We found this teeny tiny ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Gem while passing through Philadelphia and I enjoyed my visit! Amazing repurposed items made into art was super cool! Museum members with ROAM privileges get in free. It is recommended that you make reservations for timed entry since the museum is so small. We parked on the street. The workers were extremely friendly. Check out the cool pics I captured! Very unique!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Catarina P. 10 months ago on Google
    Wow! What a cool place for adults and kids. Adults are 15$ and children under 5 are free. My four year old loved it too. It’s truly a gem. Purchase tickets online before arriving. We didn’t wait at all but we went on a weekday. The area is cool too with fun places to eat.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Armory M. 1 year ago on Google
    This is a place you can go to over and over again and find something new. There is much to discover; from the intricate detail on each tile to the picture at large in which the tiles join together to form. Whimsey, creativity, and portals to magic at every turn. It may be a "smaller" space physically but take the time to let your imagination wander into the space. It is spectacular and amazing to realize just how much is packed into it.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Olga S. 9 months ago on Google
    Our visit to the Magic Garden in Philadelphia ✨was an absolute delight, and it's a must-see for anyone who appreciates the sheer devotion and love poured into a place by its creator. This wondrous mosaic masterpiece is a testament to the boundless passion of its artist and the vibrant soul of the neighborhood it calls home. Walking through the Magic Garden, I felt like I was stepping into a world where imagination knows no bounds. The mosaics spark your creativity, urging you to see ordinary objects and phenomena in a completely new light. It's as if the artist collected the shattered fragments of someone else's reality and lovingly pieced them together to create this extraordinary mosaic wonderland. The Magic Garden is a place where the spirit of the artist truly lives on, and it invites you to explore, imagine, and rediscover the world around you. It's a captivating experience that left me in awe of the power of creativity and the beauty that can emerge from dedication and devotion. Don't miss the chance to visit this enchanting place – it's a journey into a reimagined reality you won't soon forget.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Arya P. 1 year ago on Google
    It was a delightful walk through the artsy walls. Surprised by the way scrap, glass bottles, discarded metals were so beautifully incorporated and made to look like a piece of art. Every piece of wall was unique and it felt like walking in a wonderland. The gallery is very well maintained. The space is small and can get very crowded especially on weekends. We easily spent like an hour and a half here. Lots of spots for clicking cool photos.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amelia W. 1 year ago on Google
    A really fun and exciting experience. Truly unique. It’s not very big and you can easily go around in an hour or less but just sitting in the space for a while is also really nice. I wish they’d had more plaques and information around the gallery explaining what was there.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Anirudh P. 2 years ago on Google
    Unique place right in the middle of the city. I had been getting recommendations to visit this place and it didn't disappoint even though you can see the entire place within 30-45 mins. If you are interested in taking lots of pictures then I recommend going on a weekday but if you are planning to visit on a weekend then walk around few times coz the place is quite small and there are people in every corner. Make sure to also check the indoor exhibition. Staff is nice and friendly, if you're in Philadelphia , do visit this place! IG:- journey_man16
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Michelle 4 months ago on Google • 22 reviews
    Beautiful mosaic garden!!! I could spend all day here! I kind of did actually. With two indoor galleries and an outdoor sculpture garden, there’s so much to see! It’s super cool seeing all of the recycled items the artist used to create this unique art. It feels really peaceful being here. Lovely staff. Absolutely recommend!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Stacy A. 7 months ago on Google
    Worth the $25 private tour in the morning to learn about the history and present work of the place. Love their mosaic art in the local community.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lee W. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful little gem in the middle of the city. Not very big but you can spend a long time looking at all the little details lovingly crafted into the walls. I was also very excited to learn that it was made by two fellow RPCVs (Returned Peace Corps Volunteers).
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Shraavan R. 10 months ago on Google
    Really interesting museum where they take attention to detail to the next level. All the employees who work are very helpful and seem to enjoy engaging with the patrons. The magic is everywhere you look, see and step on. Great place for a quick hangout or a first date! Need to book online for reservations. I got a ticket for entry within the next 30 mins but some had to wait for a few hours.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tim H. 10 months ago on Google
    Amazing place! The mosaics fill the space to overflowing. The backstory of the artist and the space itself is fascinating. Try the scavenger hunt to find specific items. Great dining in this area as well
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Opal H. B. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful gem of an art installation in the middle of Philly. Zagar spent decades constructing this extension of his then-home by hand; it eventually became a non-profit and a full-time art space. It feels a bit maze-like with its winding rows and different levels, but you never feel lost, just immersed. There's also a standing rotation of other folk artists featured in the space, as well as a gift shop offering certain pieces for sale. Definitely a must-see in Philadelphia!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Anna Mae R. 2 years ago on Google
    Check it out when you are around town. It is unique place with affordable price for the ticket. I gave it four stars because the place was smaller than I thought it would be 😅.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kat F. 1 year ago on Google
    What a fun place to explore! Be sure to do this when you’re in Philly. Ask for the treasure hunt card and see how many items you can find. Then take your treasure hunting skills with you to find hidden treasures throughout Philly and beyond! This is mainly outside so not a rainy day event.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tracey C. 2 years ago on Google
    If I could give more than 5 stars, I would. LOVE the Magic Garden! Worth every penny (it's $15 to get in) - I shared way too many pictures, but only a fraction of the ones I took. I couldn't make up my mind! If you're visiting Philly, this is a definite must-see. (actually, the entire South Street walk is highly entertaining!)
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 gigi g. 1 year ago on Google
    If you are into art and captivating things, then this is the right place for you! This was truly an amazing and unique experience. When we had first got there, we had arrived an hour earlier than the time on our tickets said. This was no problem for the wonderful staff there They quickly rescheduled our time and let us right in! This was a very open space, with some small hallways and different sized areas. Most of it was outdoors, but they had an indoor space with a gift shop, and more tours. There were many stairs here, so if you’re someone who needs a wheelchair or are unable to go up stairs this exhibit may not be the best fit for you, although you can always just stay on the upper level which is gorgeous as well :). The art was so beautiful, and I could spend hours in here looking at all of the different things. From the outside of the exhibit you could still see the beautiful art on the walls, which was nice to look at. I had a very pleasant time. If you’re looking for something fun to do in philly this is the right place! 💫 🖼️
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Itay A. 1 year ago on Google
    People recommended to visit the place. I was sure it's real gardens. Was disappointed to find out it's only few rooms with recycled art on the walls. The upper part was not available for a visit, so the visit is about few minutes. Not something really impressing, and for sure not worth the price of $15. I felt like wasting time and money.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kevin 1 year ago on Google
    Very cool and memorable place to visit! It only takes about 30 mins to look through everything, 1 hour if you want to look at every detail more leisurely. Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sduk3406 1 year ago on Google
    Found this Lil hidden gem. It's a cozy Lil museum. They are dog friendly as long as the dog is in a backpack carrier, website says no backpacks but they do allow em. They just ask that you move it to the front of your body in order to not bump into the art in the walls. You can even check your bag if you want. Parking is mostly street parking (paid) there are signs that say 2hr or 3hr parking depending on zones. There are pay boxes everywhere. You just need your plate number. No need to display ticket on your dashboard.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Katherine 8 months ago on Google
    Magical place with lots to check out if you are in the area. Getting your tickets beforehand is the way to go if you want to avoid wait time. Absolutely loved all the art!

  • 5/5 Kyle G. 2 years ago on Google
    A truly incredible and awe-inspiring experience. There is so much going on and the more you look, the more you'll find. You could visit the Magic Gardens time after time and still find something new to appreciate about it. This is a great place to go with kids and to help you feel like a kid. You're also right on South Street, so there is plenty to do nearby. Book your time online ahead of time to skip the line.

  • 5/5 Miles H. 2 years ago on Google
    A very interesting place to be! The visuals and texture of all the walls are awesome. If you like very busy, chaotic art you'll probably like this too. If you're partner to someone who likes Instagram you will definitely be here if you're in Philly

  • 4/5 Alex P. 5 months ago on Google • 19 reviews
    Good, small place. It’s interesting but I wish they have a description of the works and artists in the garden. The things exhibited inside are also good. They have a section for you to draw and color the arts yourself.

  • 4/5 Stephen S. 2 years ago on Google
    Really interesting Art Experience.. The Entire building was art...even the bathrooms and exterior...The Staff was available and friendly to educate and inform you about the artist... Very enjoyable

  • 3/5 Avv. Andrea B. 7 months ago on Google
    Philadelphia's Magic Gardens is a mesmerizing and unique urban art environment. This immersive mosaic art installation, created by artist Isaiah Zagar, transforms an ordinary space into a fantastical world of colorful tiles, glass bottles, bicycle wheels, and an array of found objects. Wandering through the labyrinthine pathways, you're surrounded by an ever-changing kaleidoscope of artistic expression. The gardens are not just a visual feast; they're a testament to the power of creativity and the transformation of space into a living artwork. It's a truly magical experience, offering a vibrant and unexpected oasis in the heart of the city.

  • 5/5 Kamil W. 1 year ago on Google
    I definitely feel like I missed some things during my initial exploration, so I would love to visit again. You have to purchase your tickes in advance to enter which is $15. It takes about 30 to 40 minutes to complete. Some places like the basement are blocked off unless you request a guided tour. It's a beautiful mosaic house with most of the environment being outdoors, so this is not a rainy day activity. Check out their indoor art section when you visit. The paintings I saw while there were absolutely beautiful. It was fun taking the time to spot all the hidden and not-so-hidden quotes scattered around the place :)

  • 4/5 Princess L. 1 year ago on Google
    It’s creative and there seems to be a lot of hardwork put out in this place but to call it magical but might have set my expectations too high. Some areas were closed when we visited so I’m not sure if this would have contributed to the magic that’s supposed to be in this place. We still had to pay the same rate despite it not being completely open. The outdoor area is definitely much better than the indoor and it started to look better towards the night than in the daytime. I suggest coming here in the late afternoon so you get to see how it transforms from it’s day look to it’s evening look. I appreciate the creativity but it wasn’t a good deal for me. A lower ticket rate would have been more appropriate for this place.

  • 5/5 Elizabeth Sara R. 9 months ago on Google
    After seeing the mosaic art throughout the city, I was thrilled to finally visit the Magic Gardens! It’s a must see destination when visiting Philly! You could probably spend about 30 minutes seeing it all.

  • 5/5 Alejandra J. 1 year ago on Google
    If you are around the area I recommend that you check this place out! Super excited that I finally got a chance to visit :D The mosaic designs are amazing to see, especially on a sunny day. You leave feeling inspired to create your own personal magic garden at home.

  • 5/5 SmoothDaddyG 1 year ago on Google
    Wander around and take pictures of this beautiful place. There is definitely some positive energy and inspiration here. Buy tickets before u go because u need to reserve time, but they might let u in a bit early if it’s not busy. They have like three clean restrooms too, they r even decorated. After visit we walked to reading terminal market to eat! Great place and area. U will love it.

  • 4/5 S M. 10 months ago on Google
    Magic Garden is one of those special places you hear about when stopping by South St. you need to make sure you get tickets but you’ll be sure to pass it if you haven’t just yet. I recommend going during a weekday and hopefully the weather isn’t too bad either since the exhibit is outside. Spending time in the garden can be short or long. There’s a lot to look at and you could really find lots of little nuggets in the garden. It’s not too bug of a space but definitely worth the stop to enhance your experience of South St overall. There’s also a cute gift shop attached next to it!


Call +1 215-733-0390 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✗ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • From the business
    • ✓️ Identifies as women-owned

Trends



Last updated:

Similar Tourist attractions nearby

Last updated:
()