What Makes Amherstburg Great: Art Alley
- October 1, 2026
Guest Content Creator: River Bookshop
Today Amherstburg is one of Ontario’s great small towns, but greatness doesn’t happen on its own. Nature, history, and human actions always play a part. Amherstburg’s location right beside the Detroit River originally made it an important place and adds to its beauty to this day. From the War of 1812, to Freedom seekers escaping slavery in the United States, and Rum Running – history has left its mark! But so have the creativity, hard work, and enthusiasm of its residents.
During 2026 we are going to shine a light on what we think makes Amherstburg great. Our hope is that this new series helps you get to know the town better, support its many businesses and attractions, and become a strong, positive champion of the town. Look for our first story in our next Buzz.
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WHAT MAKES AMHERSTBURG GREAT: ART ALLEY
“One mural can change how a whole neighbourhood sees itself” – Bristol Street Art Scene
“Few people go to art exhibitions. The power of street art is that it goes to people’s daily life to be seen” – Banksy
“Legacy isn’t built in museums – it’s sprayed in the back alleys” – Unknown
Amherstburg’s Art Alley (entrances off Dalhousie and Ramsay) really started with the David Creed’s mural on the side of River Bookshop in 2020.
In 2023, the Alley really took off with the launch of the annual Art Crawl and new murals by Indigenous artist Naomi Peters, 11 historic photos from the Marsh Collection, and the Beatles collage by local artists Dylan and Dennis White.
Today Amherstburg is getting known for its arts scene with over 60 installations across the town and more every few months. Go to the ArtAmherstburg.ca website to take a self-guided virtual tour of Amherstburg’s growing arts scene.
While not everyone loves graffiti art, it does have its benefits. Research would tell you that its rich benefits are cultural, financial, and social. Today, Amherstburg’s Art Alley is another example of what makes Amherstburg great and another reason to visit our beautiful heritage town.
In 2027, look for a very special mural to get unveiled on Emancipation Day. And if you want to be inspired by what is going on in the world, check out Bloomberg Asphalt Art.