Placer Artists Tour
Some of the most interesting places in Placer County aren’t marked by bright signs or busy storefronts. They’re tucked behind garden gates, nestled in historic downtowns, hidden among the pines, or overlooking rolling foothills. They’re the studios where local artists spend countless hours painting, sculpting, weaving, photographing, woodworking, and creating.
For two weekends this November, those private creative spaces become open to everyone during the Annual Placer Artists Tour, offering visitors a rare opportunity to step inside the world of working artists.
Unlike a traditional art show, the Tour invites guests to experience art where it begins. Visitors can watch artists demonstrate their techniques, ask questions about their creative process, and discover the inspiration behind original works. It’s an opportunity to slow down, explore at your own pace, and enjoy conversations that simply aren’t possible in a gallery setting.
This year’s Tour is the largest in the event’s history, with 130 participating artists, schools, and galleries spread throughout Placer County. The variety is as impressive as the scenery, with every stop offering something different—from colorful paintings and handcrafted jewelry to ceramics, textiles, glass, photography, mixed media, wood, and sculpture.
Many Tour locations will also feature live music and hands-on art activities, making the event an enjoyable outing for families, longtime art enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique way to spend a fall weekend. Visitors often discover new communities while traveling from studio to studio, stopping to enjoy local cafés, wineries, and restaurants along the way.
To help plan the journey, the Tour’s digital Guidebook is available by scanning the event’s QR code at each location. It includes maps, artist profiles, and information about participating schools and galleries, making it easy to build a personalized itinerary. The Guidebook also identifies artists participating in the Encore Weekend and highlights Dine & Drink Partners offering special discounts for “Tour-ists”.
Whether you leave with a new painting, a handcrafted gift, or simply the memory of meeting the person behind the artwork, the Placer Artists Tour offers something increasingly rare—a chance to connect with creativity in a personal and meaningful way while supporting the artists who help make our community unique.
The Placer Artists Tour will be held November 6, 7, and 8, with an Encore Weekend November 13, 14, and 15. Studios are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and admission is free.
For artist profiles, maps, and complete Tour information, visit placerartiststour.org and start planning your own creative adventure.