1 denver Colorado's capital has a thriving street art scene with alleyways, warehouses, storefronts, the backs of hotels and sidewalks brightened by more than 200 murals and spray and stencil paintings. Most of the works – a mix of curated, permanent and temporary exhibits – are in the River North (RiNo) district, a one-mile radius of four north Denver neighbourhoods. Famous works include Larimer Boy/Girl, painted on fins attached to a building, which depicts different murals when viewed from either side. Walking tours that explain the stories behind the art are offered by local companies. 2 los angeles Since the 1970s the city's street artists – from muralists to graffiti 'taggers' – have had an eye-catching impact on the city's real estate. LA's streets are like a living museum with ever-changing exhibits as new artists paint over older murals with their own work. Take a guided walk around LA’s Arts District to discover more than 100 murals decorating walls and alleys. You can also see eclectic street art in other downtown neighbourhoods and in Venice Beach. 3 NEW YORK CITY Over the past 50 years or so the Big Apple has become an urban canvas, displaying the colourful creations of artists on outdoor surfaces across its five boroughs and numerous neighbourhoods. Among these is Brooklyn, where the Bushwick Collective features murals, street art, graffiti, music and food trucks and unveils new works at its annual Block Party each June. 4 philadelphia In 'Philly' every wall and rooftop is a potential blank canvas: around 4,000 stunning murals adorn buildings all over the city. Started in 1984 to help eradicate graffiti, Mural Arts Philadelphia allows artists to constructively showcase their talent Join a walking or trolley tour. MIAMI Formerly home to Caribbean immigrants and old warehouses, Wynwood is one of Miami's most happening districts – and it has America’s highest concentration of street art. Colourful murals by global artists cover the sides of buildings and walls in and around open-air art gallery Wynwood Walls. The Wynwood Art Walk is a monthly celebration featuring live music, artwork and food that continues late into the night. 6 chicago The street art scene in the Windy City has exploded in recent years and become so significant that an official mural registry has been created. New pieces pop up every week with some so esteemed that they are now as much part of Chicago's identity as its iconic sculptures and landmarks. Visitors should head to the northeast Chicago neighbourhood Wicker Park and Bucktown which boasts a large collection of murals, several of which are listed on the registry. Many works celebrate different heritages, the fight for equality, and pay homage to local and international 'icons'. main image: Wall mural in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York Inset: Larimer Boy/Girl, a three-dimensional canvas in Denver 24 visitusa.org.uk SIX OF THE BEST Street art cities 5 Peter ELLEGARD
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