When I was exploring Portland with my two young kids in early 2022, we came across several whimsical spots such as a pint-sized art gallery, a duck exchange, and a toy car swap. In March of 2022 I made the Dinorama to bring some whimsy and joy to my neighborhood and also as an excuse to chat with and feature the other spots around town. My soon-to-be friend Grant created his tiny art swap, PDX FLAG, in August of 2022 and started sharing his biking adventures to the various spots like this around town. Dan from Poetry Pottery Box suggested someone create a biking/walking map and Rachael and Grant took on the challenge. Creating the map has really strengthened our Sidewalk Joy community, brought us all together, elevated the movement and inspired so many more installations across Portland and even worldwide!

When I started seeing spots being created and installed way outside of Portland, I had a crazy dream to unite us all in a larger community via a world map!

Oh yes, absolutely! Here’s an article I wrote about it.

The short(er) answer: I have lots of tips but please keep in mind I am not offering any legal advice. First off, check out the Worldwide Sidewalk Joy Map for inspiration. Look around your neighborhood to see what your community already has and/or could use. Next consider how you’d like to display your spot. Is it going in a post in the ground? On a fence? Here are some building and installation tips! You don’t have to build a structure from scratch, many spots are made from reused things like cabinets! Make sure to check with your town or city's regulations on these type of installations and if are planning to dig any holes make sure to call before you dig if applicable (it's the law where I live). Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any additional questions!

Here are more of my thoughts on the subject but a slightly shorter answer below!

This is a totally valid fear. It’s a personal decision to put out a spot of joy like this and of course it doesn’t feel great to think of anything happening to it. There’s no surefire way to prevent someone damaging your space or cleaning out your exchange. But, from my (Rachael’s) perspective I do think when you create a space like this, it’s very likely that the neighborhood will rally and love it like you do. I have heard time and time again about neighbors leaving kind notes about the installation, expressing to the curator how much the space brightens their day and I know so many folks who love to carry an extra toy or puzzle to help fill up exchanges. Personally I am so glad I took the plunge to make my spot. I never would have had so many wonderful memories, connections with neighbors, and just the joy of creating it had I not gone for it.

You may find it valuable to read this article about Morrison Street Mini’s experience with destruction and rebuilding their installation.

Fill out this form to get added to the map! The form has more details of what type of spots that go on the Sidewalk Joy Map.

The map is new and folks are just starting to hear about it so please check back often to see if I've added a spot near you. But I will say if you don't see something like this in your area, maybe you should consider making one!

Yes! Here are some other maps you will love:

• Little Free Libraries Worldwide

• Map of Free Little Art Galleries by Tyler Tork

• Map of Jigsaw Puzzle Libraries by the Puzzle Republic

• Map of Seattle Sidewalk Joy by LittleLibraryGuy

• Little Free Pantries by Mini Pantry Movement

• Free Blockbusters

• Seed Libraries and Garden Stands by Garden Stand Exchange Orgs