Kankakee County Launches New Mural Trail to Boost Tourism

BREAKING: Kankakee County has just unveiled an exciting new attraction aimed at enhancing local tourism. The Kankakee County Mural Trail was launched last week by Visit Kankakee County, providing both residents and visitors a vibrant way to explore the area’s artistic culture.

This innovative trail features 17 stunning outdoor murals scattered across multiple communities, with 13 located throughout Kankakee. Each mural illustrates the rich story of local pride and creativity, inviting spectators to view the county through an artistic lens.

“Public art tells the story of who we are,” stated Angelina Gear, sales and marketing manager of Visit Kankakee County. “The mural trail celebrates the creativity and pride of our community while giving people a reason to explore our neighborhoods and discover something beautiful right around the corner.”

Participants can kick off their mural journey by downloading the free e-Atlas app, which provides a user-friendly guide to the trail. The app includes step-by-step navigation, detailed mural descriptions, and a progress tracker for adventurers. As new murals are added or updated, the e-Atlas app will have the latest details, ensuring a fresh experience every time. Visit playeatlas.com to download the app now.

Highlights of the trail feature:
– The history and stories behind each mural
– An interactive map with navigation and fun facts
– Fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to share your journey on social media

Local artist Michael Costanza is proud to contribute to this project alongside fellow artists Mary Bass and Fermin Barbosa. Their collaborative mural is prominently displayed in the 200 block of North Schuyler Avenue, right next to the iconic Paramount Theatre.

“Public art, especially in a place like Kankakee, is more than decorating a wall or street; it’s identity,” Costanza explained. “Being part of the mural trail means contributing to something that people experience in motion, in rhythm with their daily lives. Whether someone’s taking their kids to a movie or just passing by, it’s meaningful knowing that this mural becomes part of their landscape, even if for just a moment.”

Costanza emphasized the significance of this mural trail, stating, “Beyond that, being part of a broader mural trail is about legacy. It’s about leaving behind something that reflects the time we’re living through and the stories we’re still writing in Kankakee.”

With the launch of the Kankakee County Mural Trail, officials anticipate a boost in local tourism, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in the creativity and culture that defines Kankakee County. Don’t miss this chance to discover local artistry and capture memorable moments along the trail.