Bubblegum alley

Exploring the colorful and controversial history of Bubblegum alley in San Luis Obispo

Bubblegum Alley, located in San Luis Obispo, California, is a unique and colorful attraction that draws visitors from all over the world. The alley, which is located between Higuera and Broad streets, is covered in layers of chewed gum that have been stuck to the walls by visitors for over 60 years.

Bubblegum alley

The history of Bubblegum alley is a bit of a mystery, but it is believed to have begun in the 1950s as a playful and harmless form of rebellion by local college students. The tradition of sticking gum to the walls caught on, and over the years, the alley has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The alley is approximately 75 feet long and 15 feet wide, and is lined with gum in every color imaginable. The gum is layered so thickly on the walls that it forms a kind of sculpture, with some sections standing several inches deep.

Visitors to Bubblegum alley are encouraged to add their own gum to the walls, and many do so with great creativity and humor. Some people spell out their names or initials, while others create intricate designs or even entire scenes.

Bubblegum Alley is a world-renowned attraction, having gained fame through various media outlets such as The Tonight Show, MTV, That’s Incredible!, Real People and PBS. The alley has also been covered by newspapers both nationally, such as the San Francisco Chronicle and internationally, including The Guardian in Manchester, United Kingdom.

Despite the fact that bubblegum alley is a popular tourist attraction, it is also a source of controversy. Some people view it as a form of vandalism and argue that it is unsanitary and unappealing. The alley is cleaned periodically, but the gum is difficult to remove and it quickly builds up again.

Despite the controversy, bubblegum alley remains a popular destination for visitors to San Luis Obispo. It is a unique and colorful attraction that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you love it or hate it, there’s no denying that it’s an interesting part of the city’s history and culture.

Address:
733 Higuera St,
San Luis Obispo,
CA 93401,
United States

Photo by Mike Lee/Flickr


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One response to “Exploring the colorful and controversial history of Bubblegum alley in San Luis Obispo”

  1. […] Bubblegum Alley in San Luis Obispo, California, is a unique attraction that pays homage to one of America’s favorite chewy treats. It shouldn’t be confused with Seattle’s Gum Wall. The alley, which is about 70 feet long and 15 feet high, is entirely covered in what could be thousands, or even millions, of gum wads (the tradition began in the early 1970s, and the number of gum wads is unknown). If you’re not grossed out by the idea, make a detour from Highway 101, snap a picture, or even contribute your own gum. You can find Bubblegum Alley down Higuera Street, located between the Ambiance Clothing Boutique and the Blast 825 Taproom. The attraction is accessible 24/7. […]

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