Open Studios Art Tour
South County
October 4 & 5
North County
October 11 & 12
All County
October 18 & 19
Every October, more than 300 artists will open their studio doors to the public. Meet our local creatives, witness their artistic process and buy direct. Open Studios is a FREE, self-guided, countywide art tour. We invite you to experience the creativity of Santa Cruz County!
FAQ for Visitors
Check out Visit Santa Cruz County for hotel, dining, and tourist information to make the most of your Open Studios visit and enjoy all that Santa Cruz County has to offer.
Open Studios is held in artists' studios throughout Santa Cruz County. South County includes areas south of the Yacht Harbor covering Live Oak to Watsonville. North County includes areas north of the Yacht Harbor covering the city of Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, San Lorenzo Valley and the north coast.
A studio is where art is created, ranging from home rooms to warehouses. You’ll see a variety of art forms and equipment, from glass and metal studios to painting and printmaking.
Experience art in its creation phase, meet artists, and buy directly from them. It’s a great way to explore new parts of the county and connect with local creatives.
Everyone! No guide is needed, though it helps. Follow the green signs throughout Santa Cruz County during the first three weekends in October. It’s perfect for solo visits, family outings, or trips with friends. Check the Artist Guide and app for details on studio accessibility, artists giving demonstrations, Spanish speakers and who is on the tour for the first time.
Yes! The guide, app, and studio visits are all free. If you plan to purchase art directly from the artists, bring credit/debit cards and cash.
Pick up a free guide at Good Times locations or other participating spots, or view it online. [Available September 16]
Download it from iTunes or Google Play by searching “Open Studios Santa Cruz.” [Available September 16th]
You can mark your favorite artists in the app, map their location, and build a bespoke tour to suit your interests.
Search for “Santa Cruz County Open Studios.”
Ann Ostermann reflects on two decades of nurturing community creativity, highlighting the unmatched experience of meeting artists in their creative spaces.
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