A Look Into Austin's Ever Changing Outdoor Gallery

Tucked away on Baylor Street between 9th and 10th, you will find Austin’s biggest graffiti wall. Whether you identify it as The Hope Outdoor Gallery, Austin Graffiti Park or Baylor Street Art Wall, locals like to call it Castle Hill. Here’s a quick history of this ever-changing attraction.
Castle Hill is the result of a failed building development that was supposed to happen in the ‘80s combined with the imagination and creativity of artists in the area. This three-story outdoor art extravaganza started out as a place artists would sneak away to visit so that they could tag, paint and graffiti the walls. While some would interpret that as vandalism, the owners of the property saw it as an opportunity to ‘Keep Austin Weird.’ The name Castle Hill was given due to the castle found above it. In 2011, it was officially titled Hope Outdoor Gallery, making it one of the largest outdoor galleries in Texas.

Every time you visit Castle Hill, it’s never quite the same. You will see new inspirational messages and art every week, making it an attraction of which you will never be bored. While Castle Hill is a great place to appreciate local art, it’s also a great place to see all of Austin. If you decide to climb to the very top (make sure to be careful while climbing), you will be greeted with one of the best scenic views of Downtown Austin.

If you want to paint on Castle Hill, you’re going to need permission. It is considered trespassing if you paint on a wall without approval. You can email murals@hopecampaign.org if you want to participate in painting a piece. If you’re not much of a painter, no worries. Castle Hill is perfect for those who just love colorful art.