About the NW Art Trail

Discover the Northwest Art Trail

The Trail stretches along the 4000–5000 blocks of North Milwaukee Avenue, featuring more than ten inspiring sculptures by local artists, vibrant murals, renowned arts organizations, and unique creative experiences. With local shops and diverse restaurants along the route, the Trail invites you to explore, taste, and discover something new every time you visit.

Honoring History

The Northwest Art Trail is named for the Native American portage route that once carried people and canoes between the Chicago and Des Plaines Rivers—a key pathway that shaped settlement, travel, and trade long before Chicago existed.

Celebrating Local Artists

Arts Alive Chicago curated a wide selection of Chicago sculptors, working with local Chambers of Commerce to select styles, materials, and locations. Chamber members helped choose the final Trail Marker design and, in many cases, offered their buildings as permanent homes for markers. This Sculpture Trail brings lasting public art into neighborhoods, highlights local businesses, and attracts more visitors to the Northwest Side.

A Community Effort

Officially launched on October 4, 2025, this culture and community initiative was made possible through the dedication and vision of Arts Alive Chicago and the Office of Senator Robert Martwick, and supported by a capital grant from the State of Illinois. Special thanks to the Jefferson Park and Portage Park Chambers of Commerce, the Chicago Park District, the Chicago Transit Authority, the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, and the City of Chicago for their collaboration and support.

Engage with the Art

As you walk the Trail, notice connections between sculptures—both historic and new. Consider colors, themes, and materials, and reflect on the story the curators are telling. Ask yourself: Why here? Why now? What do these pieces make you feel or wonder?

NW Art Trail Marker

The NW Trail Marker was designed by the women-owned ceramic studios of Romy & Clare and was inspired by the EL CAMINO trail markers used in Spain while referencing the Native American use of bent trees to mark a trail (of which there is still a living example in Jeff Park.) It is intended to be a discreet point of discovery along the trail with natural colors and a craftsman style.