Embark on a South Walton Art Treasure Hunt!

Walton County is home to some extraordinary public art—if you know where to look. From murals that brighten up unexpected corners to sculptures hidden beneath the sea, this region is bursting with creativity waiting to be discovered. So, if you're up for a little adventure, consider this your treasure map to some of the most intriguing artistic gems around.

Clue #1: The Sunken Secrets of the Gulf

Our first stop is one you won't find on land. The Underwater Museum of Art (UMA), located just offshore from Grayton Beach State Park, is a submerged gallery featuring sculptures that double as artificial reefs. Accessible only by scuba diving, UMA is the first of its kind in the U.S., offering a glimpse into how art and marine life intertwine. If you're ready to take the plunge, local dive shops can help guide your exploration.

Clue #2: The Colorful Heart of Grayton Beach

Walk through the quirky streets of Grayton Beach, and you'll stumble upon a massive, ever-changing mural known as the Grayt Wall of Art. Located at the corner of Garfield Drive and Hotz Avenue, this vibrant artwork reflects the eclectic spirit of the town. If you visit more than once, you might notice something different—this "treasure" evolves over time as new artists leave their mark.

Clue #3: A Monarch's Pathway

Tucked along the Watersound Parkway, the Watersound® Monarch Art Trail is a winding outdoor exhibit celebrating one of nature's greatest travelers—the Monarch butterfly. As you explore this trail, you'll find striking sculptures that pay tribute to the butterfly's long migration, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape. A perfect spot for a peaceful stroll, this hidden gem is one of Walton County's most enchanting outdoor art displays.

Clue #4: A Passage Beneath the Road

Beneath the busy stretch of Highway 98 lies an unexpected burst of creativity. The Highway 98 Underpass Murals transform an otherwise ordinary walkway into a gallery of bold, expressive art. As you pass through, take a moment to admire the work of local artists who have turned this once-overlooked space into something truly special.

Clue #5: A Tribute to Tradition

At the Walton County Fairgrounds, a stunning mural tells the story of a century-old tradition. Created by artist Sarah Page, this larger-than-life artwork commemorates the Walton County Fair's 100-year history. It's a visual time capsule of community, culture, and celebration—worth tracking down during your artistic treasure hunt.

Bonus Quest: Become Part of the Story

If you're an artist, your work could become part of Walton County's ever-growing collection of public art. The Cultural Arts Alliance (CAA) regularly seeks new artists to contribute to future projects. Want to leave your creative mark on the community? Check out the latest open calls for artists here.

Upcoming Art Festivals in 2025

If you want to experience even more art in South Walton, mark your calendar for May 2025. The Art Month Walton 2025 lineup is full of offerings to celebrate creativity, innovation, and the beauty of self-expression, including Dine + Dive - a fundraiser for the Underwater Museum of Art, ArtsQuest Fine Arts Festival, Longleaf Writers Conference, Digital Graffiti at Alys Beach, Sinfonia Goes Pop!, performances of Legally Blonde by the Emerald Coast Theatre Company, Emerald Coast Storytellers events, and more. Check out the calendar below for a complete listing of Art Month Walton events.