The Magic Gardens: Philadelphia’s Love Letter in Glass and Tile

A mosaic masterpiece in the heart of South Street.

Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens isn’t just a historical landmark — it’s a living tribute to imagination. Located in South Philly, this vibrant art environment transforms what was once a forgotten corner into a one-of-a-kind artistic oasis, filled with glass, tile, mirrors, and stories. It’s a must-see for locals and visitors alike, offering an immersive experience that reflects the city’s soul.

⚡Fast Facts: Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens at a Glance

Element	Details
Founded	2008 (after 14 years of creation)
Founder	Isaiah & Julia Zagar
Type	Nonprofit art museum & immersive mosaic environment
Location	1020 South Street, Philadelphia, PA
Signature Feature	3,000 sq. ft. indoor–outdoor mosaic labyrinth
Community Role	Art education, tours, workshops, and outreach programs

🎨 A Vision Born from Resilience

In 1968, Isaiah and Julia Zagar moved to South Street, a neighborhood on the brink of demolition. Where others saw decline, the Zagars saw potential. Julia opened Eye’s Gallery, a folk art shop still in operation today. Isaiah began covering the walls with colorful mosaics, an act of love that would reshape the area’s identity.

Legacy: Over 200 murals globally, with the Magic Gardens standing as his greatest creation.

🌿 Explore the Museum: An Immersive Art Experience

• Half a City Block: Two indoor galleries + a vast outdoor mosaic maze.
• Everywhere You Look: Walls, floors, ceilings — all covered in vibrant, handmade mosaics.
• Special Features: Rotating global art exhibits and surreal, dreamlike sculptures.

🏛️ Isaiah’s Studio: The Final Masterpiece

Just a mile away lies Isaiah’s final studio, a converted auto shop opened to the public in 2024. It’s three times the size of the museum — a living space filled with vibrant folk art, found-object chandeliers, and even a mosaic-covered alley leading inside.

Guided tours allow visitors to experience the space where Zagar’s creative journey began and continues. It’s not just a studio; it’s a continuation of his artistic world.

🌟 A Neighborhood Built on Creativity

• Pushback: In 2004, The Magic Gardens faced demolition. The community fought to preserve it.
• PMB Established: The nonprofit organization was created to maintain and protect Isaiah’s legacy.
• Ongoing Impact: School partnerships, workshops, and artist exhibitions keep creativity thriving in Philadelphia.

As one visitor wrote,
“It’s more than a museum — it’s proof that imagination can rebuild a neighborhood.”

🗺️ Visit Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens

Location:
1020 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147

Hours:
Open six days a week for tours, events, and general admission.

Tours:

• Morning Magic
• Guided Site Tours
• Group Visits (book online)

Website: www.phillymagicgardens.org

Instagram: @phillymagicgardens

Step inside, explore, and immerse yourself in this incredible mosaic world. The Magic Gardens isn’t just art — it’s the soul of Philadelphia.

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