Nestled in the heart of the Inland Empire, Downtown Pomona’s Arts Colony stands as one of Southern California’s most vibrant hubspots for creative expression, grassroots community organizing, and historic preservation. Once a bustling commercial district in the early 20th century, this multi-block neighborhood centered along 2nd Street transformed into a thriving enclave of artist lofts, independent galleries, ceramic museums, and eclectic eateries.
Whether you are a longtime resident looking to reconnect with local culture or a weekend explorer visiting from nearby Los Angeles or Orange County, embarking on a self-guided walking tour is the absolute best way to soak in the neighborhood’s character. This comprehensive guide walks you through essential stops, vibrant street murals, local coffee joints, and helpful tips for timing your visit.
Preparing for Your Self-Guided Walking Tour
Before stepping out, a little planning ensures you make the most of your journey through the Arts Colony:
- Starting Location: Begin your walk around Thomas Plaza (located near 2nd Street and Garey Avenue). It provides ample street parking, nearby public parking lots, and easy access to pedestrian-friendly walkways.
- Best Timing: While galleries and local shops maintain independent business hours from Thursday through Sunday, visiting during late afternoon allows you to enjoy daylight street art, grab dinner, and experience evening gallery hours.
- Footwear & Essentials: The Arts Colony spans several historic blocks with brick sidewalks and cobblestone alleyways, so wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a camera or smartphone for photogenic spots.
Stop 1: Thomas Plaza & Historic 2nd Street
Start your walk at Thomas Plaza, the central outdoor gathering venue of the Arts Colony. Lined with palm trees, bench seating, and surrounded by restored 1920s architecture, the plaza sets the tone for Pomona’s artistic transformation.
As you stroll down 2nd Street, take a moment to admire how historic commercial spaces have been repurposed into creative environments. High ceilings, exposed brick walls, and large glass storefronts showcase continuous art installations, rotating pop-up exhibits, and working studios where local artists create in real time.
Stop 2: Cultural Anchor – The dA Center for the Arts
No trip through the Downtown Pomona Arts Colony is complete without visiting the dA Center for the Arts. As a foundational non-profit community arts organization in Pomona, the dA plays a vital role in providing accessible arts education, live poetry readings, musical performances, and curated gallery exhibitions.
Step inside to browse rotating exhibitions that highlight regional artists, Chicano art history, youth art programs, and contemporary mixed-media projects. The warm, community-driven atmosphere demonstrates how art functions as a civic bridge in Pomona.
Stop 3: Ceramic Craftsmanship at AMOCA
Just a short walk from 2nd Street on Garey Avenue lies the American Museum of Ceramic Art (AMOCA). Founded in 2003, AMOCA is one of the few museums in the United States dedicated exclusively to ceramic art and clay works.
Housed in a massive former bank building, AMOCA features thousands of ceramic pieces ranging from ancient pottery and folk traditions to modern sculpture and functional design. Alongside its expansive exhibition halls, the museum hosts studio spaces and clay classes, making it a world-class cultural centerpiece in the Inland Empire.
Stop 4: Public Art, Alleyway Murals & Architecture
As you navigate the corridors connecting 2nd Street with 3rd Street and Locust Street, step away from the main sidewalks into the pedestrian alleyways. Downtown Pomona is celebrated for its dense concentration of public street art and murals.
Key visual highlights along your stroll include:
- Chicano Heritage Murals: Powerful visual stories depicting Pomona’s rich agricultural history, community leaders, and cultural heritage painted on building facades.
- Contemporary Graffiti Art & Street Murals: Dynamic, colorful murals produced during local urban art festivals and community beautification projects.
- Architectural Details: Restored Art Deco facades, vintage neon signs, and original brickwork from Pomona’s early-20th-century commercial boom.
Stop 5: Refueling at Local Cafes & Eateries
Exploring galleries and photographing murals naturally builds an appetite. Luckily, the Arts Colony features an array of independent food spots and beverage hubs within easy walking distance:
| Spot Type | What to Expect | Vibe & Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Artisan Coffee & Tea | Handcrafted lattes, cold brews, and matcha drinks in locally owned cafes. | Cozy spaces ideal for reading, relaxing, or working amidst local art displays. |
| Casual Dining & Tacos | Authentic street tacos, artisanal pizza, vegan bites, and gourmet burgers. | Fast-casual dining with outdoor patio seating along 2nd Street. |
| Craft Breweries & Lounges | Locally brewed craft beers, ciders, and evening cocktails. | Lively evening spots featuring outdoor lighting, arcade games, and live music. |
The Highlight Experience: 2nd Saturday Art Walk
If you want to experience the Downtown Pomona Arts Colony at peak energy, plan your self-guided walk during the monthly 2nd Saturday Art Walk. Held on the second Saturday of every month from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, this community event opens up the neighborhood into a bustling night market and festival.
During the Art Walk, galleries stay open late for opening receptions, street artisan vendors set up booths along 2nd Street selling handmade jewelry and prints, and live bands and performance artists activate Thomas Plaza.
Summary Walk Itinerary
- Start: Park near Thomas Plaza (2nd St. & Garey Ave.).
- Explore: Walk west along 2nd Street, stepping into independent galleries and creative studios.
- Culture Visit: Stop into the dA Center for the Arts and walk over to AMOCA.
- Mural Hunt: Wander the pedestrian alleys between 2nd and 3rd streets to take photos of public street art.
- Refuel: Grab coffee, tacos, or a craft beverage at a nearby local cafe.
- Finish: End your walk with evening entertainment or live music along the plaza.
Downtown Pomona’s Arts Colony offers an authentic blend of history, community grit, and creative talent. Put on your walking shoes, bring your curiosity, and experience one of Southern California’s most rewarding artistic neighborhoods!