Bubblegum Alley

In the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo, California, lies a peculiar and fascinating landmark that has captured the imaginations of locals and tourists alike: Bubblegum Alley. This unique alleyway, stretching 70 feet in length and standing 15 feet tall, is adorned with thousands upon thousands of pieces of chewed bubblegum, transforming it into a vibrant, albeit sticky, urban art installation.

The Origins of Bubblegum Alley

The origins of Bubblegum Alley are somewhat shrouded in mystery, with various theories floating around about how this quirky tradition began. Some believe that it started after World War II as a graduation event for San Luis Obispo High School students. Others suggest that the tradition began in the late 1950s as a playful rivalry between students of San Luis Obispo High School and California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly). By the 1970s, the alley had become well-established as a local landmark, despite initial resistance from shop owners who found it unsanitary.

Throughout its history, Bubblegum Alley has undergone several cleanings, particularly in the 1970s, when efforts were made to remove the gum graffiti. However, these attempts were largely unsuccessful, and the gum continued to reappear. In 1996, the Downtown Business Improvement Association (BIA) made another attempt to clean the alley, but the gum remained resilient, cementing Bubblegum Alley’s status as a permanent fixture in San Luis Obispo.

A Global Curiosity

Bubblegum Alley has garnered attention from around the world, making appearances in numerous television shows, news programs, and newspapers. Renowned publications such as The New York Times and the Los Angeles Times have documented the mixed reactions of visitors, from delight to disgust. The alley has also been featured on popular TV shows like The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, That's Incredible!, and Real People. In 2006, MTV’s Call to Greatness filmed an episode in the alley, where record holder Susan Chewsy Suzy Williams attempted to break the world record for the largest bubblegum bubble.

In addition to its television fame, Bubblegum Alley has found its way into literature and music. It is mentioned in chapter seventeen of Lee Goldberg’s novel Mr. Monk on the Road, as well as in Megan McDonald’s book Judy Moody: Around the World in 8 and a Half Days. The alley even inspired a children's book titled Stuck: A Bubblegum Alley Adventure, published in 2021. Musicians have also paid homage to this sticky landmark, with Weird Al Yankovic mentioning it in his 1978 song Take Me Down, and Those Darn Accordions recording a song called Wall of Gum in 1999.

Controversy and Community

Despite its popularity, Bubblegum Alley has been a subject of controversy among locals. Some view it as an eyesore and a sanitary concern, while others embrace it as a unique and charming aspect of downtown San Luis Obispo. The Chamber of Commerce lists it as a “special attraction,” and it undoubtedly draws significant foot traffic to the area, benefiting local businesses.

Bill Hales, a local pub owner, takes responsibility for maintaining the alley by paying for monthly steam cleanings. This effort helps to manage the buildup of gum and addresses some of the cleanliness concerns. Deborah Holley, the administrator of the Downtown Business Improvement Association, acknowledges the challenges posed by the alley but also recognizes its value as a landmark that attracts visitors from near and far.

A Canvas for Creativity

Bubblegum Alley has not only captured the attention of tourists but also inspired professional artists. One notable example is Matthew Hoffman, who created a giant self-portrait titled Projectbubble Gum on the north-facing wall of the alley. This artwork, made entirely of bubblegum, depicts Hoffman blowing a bubble and required a tremendous amount of gum contributed by the community. Hoffman's project emphasizes the idea of community involvement and stewardship, as individuals who participated in the creation felt a sense of ownership and pride in their contribution.

The alley has also inspired poets, such as an Arroyo Grande poet known as M, who wrote a poem in defense of Bubblegum Alley. This poem was published in a 1986 article by Don Pieper in the Telegram-Tribune, titled An Ode to Gum Alley.

Visiting Bubblegum Alley

For those planning a visit to San Luis Obispo, Bubblegum Alley is a must-see attraction. Located in the 700 block of Higuera Street, this quirky landmark offers a unique and memorable experience. As you walk through the alley, you'll be surrounded by a colorful mosaic of chewed gum, each piece representing a small piece of history left behind by countless visitors.

While some may find it a bit gross, others appreciate the alley's whimsical charm and the sense of community it represents. It's a place where people from all walks of life come together to contribute to a living, ever-evolving piece of urban art. Whether you're a fan of unconventional attractions or simply looking for a fun and quirky photo opportunity, Bubblegum Alley is sure to leave a lasting impression.

In conclusion, Bubblegum Alley is more than just a sticky spectacle; it's a testament to the creativity, resilience, and sense of community that defines San Luis Obispo. This one-of-a-kind landmark invites visitors to embrace the unexpected and find beauty in the unconventional. So, grab a piece of gum, add your contribution to the wall, and become a part of this ever-growing, colorful tapestry in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo.