Where to Park at Art School 99 (Joy Street Studios, Somerville)
1. On-Site Building Lot (Right in Front)
As seen directly in the photo below, Joy Street Studios features an open paved surface lot located right in front of the building entrance.
Convenience: Steps away from the main entrance doors leading upstairs to Art School 99.
Availability: Spaces in this lot are typically available for studio artists, visitors, and students arriving for classes. Be sure to park within designated lines to keep drive aisles clear for fellow creators.
Entry into the building There is a highly secure system in place to enter the building. Additionally the second floor, where Art School 99 is located, has another level of security.
Access to the building is open from 7 AM to 7 PM on weekdays (Mon -Fri). Access is open 24 hours on weekends (Sat - Sun). If the front entrance is closed, the owner/artist who is a has invited you to the building can buzz you in.
2. Street Parking on Joy Street & Surrounding Blocks
If the front lot is full during peak class hours or community studio events, street parking is readily available:
Joy Street: There is on-street parking along Joy Street itself, where non-resident visitor parking is typically permitted for up to 2 hours (always verify posted street signs).
Nearby Side Streets: Additional parking can be found on neighboring side streets around the Brickbottom district, but take care to check whether curb space is designated for Somerville Resident Permit holders.
3. Special Events & Large Gatherings
During large neighborhood events—such as the annual Somerville Open Studios (SOS) or Brickbottom Open Studios—parking in the immediate lot fills quickly.
Visitors during these events are often directed to the nearby parking structure at 100 Chestnut Street, just a short 2- to 3-minute walk around the corner.
4. Taking Transit Instead?
Prefer to skip driving altogether?
MBTA Green Line: The studio is within easy walking distance of the East Somerville and Lechmere Green Line stations.
MBTA Orange Line / Buses: Sullivan Square Station is also nearby, offering fast bus connections along Washington Street and McGrath Highway.
See you in the studio! Don’t forget to check your class confirmation email or visit artschool99somerville.com for any specific room and entry instructions.
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