Ontario’s fall art studio tour road trips
Studio Tour | Destination Ontario
On select weekends during the season, local artists and craftspeople welcome visitors into their studios to view and purchase their work.
Original paintings, fine jewellery, glass art, sculptures, quilts and pottery are just some of the treasures you will find. Plus, you’ll have the unique and rare opportunity to meet the artists, discover new talent and chat about their creative process.
With the kaleidoscope of colourful red, gold and amber foliage as a backdrop, set out on an inspiring studio tour road trip to some of Ontario’s prettiest and most artistic communities this fall.
Note:
- Some locations may not accept debit or credit card payments.
- Many of these routes are perfect for motorcycle touring, just consider the need for shipping the art you may be inspired to purchase.
Southeastern Ontario
Lennox and Addington (L&A) County Studio Tour
Don’t miss the first artists' studio tour in eastern Ontario’s Lennox and Addington County in over 20 years. Enjoy viewing local art and chat with creatives working in basketry, encaustic, glass, gourding, jewellery, luthier, mixed media, mosaics, painting, photography, pottery, textiles and woodworking. In addition to 19 studio stops, the Museum of Lennox and Addington in Napanee is also on the tour. Download the Toureka! app to create your own tour map.
When: Second weekend of September (September 7–8, 2024)
Where: Lennox and Addington County communities including Northbrook, Napanee, Tamworth and Amherst Island.
While here: Explore hamlets and towns, local markets and restaurants in the area, as well as rolling farmlands and vibrant forests and lakes.
Prince Edward County Studio Tour
Discover the work of over two dozen county artists plus guest artists during the PEC Studio Tour weekend. Use the online map or pick up a copy of the tour guide and look for the PEC studio tour signs as you explore the county.
When: End of September, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (September 20–22, 2024)
Where: Prince Edward County is located along the Lake Ontario shoreline between Ottawa and Toronto, approximately an hour’s drive west of Kingston.
While here: Enjoy the tranquility and solitude of the beach at Sandbanks Provincial Park after the summer throngs, tour vineyards and enjoy tasting flights at one of the many local wineries. Stop in at Oeno Gallery, Armstrong Glassworks, ANDARA Gallery and Base 31 for more local art. From country inns and boutique hotels to renovated motels and chic farmhouse B&B’s there’s a wide variety of bespoke accommodations.
Merrickville Arts Guild Studio Tour and Sale
The annual Merrickville Arts Guild studio tour has been a tradition since 1985. Local artists open their doors and welcome visitors into their studios.
There are 25 tour participants in 2024 working in various media, including printmaking, pottery, sculpture, glass blowing, photography, painting and woodwork. Purchase an original piece of art directly from the artist.
When: early October (October 5–6, 2024)
Where: village of Merrickville
While here: Follow a myriad of walking, cycling and paddling trails in and around the quaint village of Merrickville, known as the “Jewel of the Rideau.”
York, Durham and Headwaters
Uxbridge Studio Tour
Come for the art, stay for the hospitality, food, drink and sightseeing. Explore forests, farmlands and historic downtown Uxbridge during the height of the gorgeous fall season. Artists and artisans along this tour have been opening their doors to visitors for more than 35 years, check the map for artists’ studio locations.
When: Third weekend of September (September 14–15, 2024)
Where: In and around the Township of Uxbridge, in Durham Region, 1.5 hour drive northeast of Toronto.
While here: Known as the “Trail Capital of Canada,” Uxbridge welcomes you to explore local food and drink, unique accommodations, local attractions and nature trails.
Caledon Studio Tour
Be one of the first to tour the 18 stops and visit over 25 artists across the town of Caledon on the first-ever studio tour.
The self-guided tour invites you to experience the artistic process from behind the scenes and purchase artwork directly from the creators. Download the brochure to plan your route.
When: late September (September 21–22, 2024)
Where: throughout Caledon
While here: From glamping to luxurious resorting, find the perfect spot to stay during your visit. Squeeze in some hiking and time in nature to appreciate the fall colour at a nearby conservation area, including Belfountain or Terra Cotta.
Whitchurch-Stouffville Studio Tour
What began as a small artisan show has transformed into a popular annual event with over twenty venues showcasing the diverse work of over thirty talented local artists. Check the map to plan your route.
When: The weekend after Thanksgiving (October 19–20, 2024)
Where: In and around Whitechurch-Stouffville and Ballantrae.
While here: Explore the community of Stouffville, from small-town, main street shops and friendly pubs to county golf courses and nature trails.
Haliburton Highlands to the Ottawa Valley
Crown and Pumpkin Studio Tour
The annual juried tour winds its way through Mississippi Mills and the surrounding rural area to showcase the talent of local artists and artisans with a wide variety of arts and crafts to discover. And the fall colours are spectacular along the route.
When: Thanksgiving weekend, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. (October 12–13, 2024)
Where: In and around the communities of Almonte, Clayton and Pakenham
While here: In addition to arts and crafts, food and drink available along the self-guided tour include artisanal chocolate, honey, maple syrup and spirits.
Bancroft and Area Autumn Studio Tour
Celebrating over 30 years, artists and artisans in North Hastings once again welcome you to tour their gorgeous area, visit their working studios and view a wide variety of creative pieces of art, much of which is available for purchase.
When: Two weekends in September, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (September 21–22 and 28–29, 2024)
Where: In and around the town of Bancroft, located on the York River in Hastings Country, approximately a 2.5-hour drive west of Ottawa.
While here: Soak in the fall season by experiencing some of the rural highlights, stay at a bed and breakfast and visit local farms and farmers’ markets.
The Perth Autumn Studio Tour
Meet emerging and established craftspeople, makers and artists in the community and countryside around the historic town of Perth. Check the site for updated maps and details.
When: Usually on or just before Thanksgiving weekend (October 12–13, 2004)
Where: Centrally located between Ottawa and Kingston, in eastern Ontario, Perth is just over an hour's drive from Ottawa.
While here: Located on the Tay River, Perth is a scenic village with historic architecture and boutique shops, galleries and cafes. In between studio visits, follow a self-guided walking tour. There are a few options for places to stay in town, two local breweries and a distillery worth visiting.
The Studio Tour Haliburton Highlands
Another long-running tradition, this studio tour showcases the breadth of creativity and innovation in the area. Discover one-of-a-kind art and explore Ontario’s highlands lit up with fall colour. Plan your route with the studio map, which identifies the various artists’ mediums.
When: First two weekends in October (October 5–6 and 12–13, 2024)
Where: Haliburton Highlands includes the communities of Minden, Carnarvon, Haliburton and Eagle Lake.
While here: Find a cottage or resort, savour local eats and brews and explore your inner artists with creative, hands-on experiences.
Madawaska Valley Studio Tour
Visit local artists in their studio on a fall road trip through the Madawaska Valley. Experience live demonstrations, chat with the artists and makers and purchase a work of art that speaks to you.
Plan your route with the studio tour guide.
When: early October (October 5–6, 2024)
Where: Madawaska Valley
While here: Grumblin’ Granny’s in Barry’s is always a shopping adventure.
Kawarthas and Northumberland
Kawarthas Autumn Studio Tour
One of Ontario’s favourite recreation destinations, the Kawartha area is beautiful any time of year but really shines in fall. Hosted by the Art Gallery of Peterborough, self-drive to a variety of artists working in different media.
When: Last weekend in September (September 28–29, 2024)
Where: In the city and county of Peterborough-Kawartha region.
While here: Check out the area’s vibrant arts and culture and food and drink scene, and plan your studio tour itinerary with one of these fall colour drives.
Victoria County Studio Tour
Approximately 30 artists, artisans, craftspeople and designers will be participating this this year’s studio tour through the City of Kawartha Lakes. Enjoy the colourful autumn leaves, welcoming lakeside communities and innovative art.
When: Two weekends in late September and early October, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (September 28–29 and October 5–6, 2024)
Where: Approximately 1.5 hours drive northeast of Toronto, the area of Kawartha Lakes incorporates several communities, including Lindsay and connected lakes and waterways.
While here: Find traditional accommodations, as well as unique ways to stay, like on a houseboat. Bring along your binoculars, as the region is home to several birdwatching hotspots.
Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Wellington
Elora and Fergus Studio Tour
Over 30 participating artists and craftspeople in Elora and Fergus invite you to look behind the scenes and learn what goes into the creation of their art. Besides opportunities to visit their individual studios, there will be a show and sale at the Elora Centre for the Arts.
When: Two consecutive fall weekends, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (September 28–29 and October 5–6, 2024)
Where: Elora and Fergus are two neighbouring towns in Wellington County located along the Grand River. Check the studio maps to plot your route.
While here: Historic limestone architecture in the villages, the picturesque Grand River and the unique natural geological features of Elora Gorge are even more scenic with the dramatic fall colour. Treat yourself to country elegance at the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, enjoy a local brew at the Elora Brewing Company and explore Scottish traditions in Fergus.
Grey, Bruce and Simcoe
Owen Sound Community Artist Studio Tour
Celebrate the artistic spirit of Owen Sound. Throughout the weekend, local artists will be featured in participating studios around the city.
Located along the Niagara Escarpment on the shores of Georgian Bay, natural inspiration abounds, and the local art community is made up of photographers, painters, sculptors, woodworkers and so much more.
When: the third weekend in September (September 21–22, 2024)
Where: throughout the city of Owen Sound
While here: Enjoy accommodations with a touch of regal elegance at The Highland Manor Inn. The Tom Thomson Art Gallery is an interesting stop for Group of Seven fans. Take in the scenic fall colour on a hike to Inglis Falls or along the Niagara Escarpment on the Bruce Trail.
Autumn Leaves Studio Tour
For three days each fall, you’re invited into the art studios of some of Grey County’s finest local artists and artisans working in paint, pottery, photography, wood and metal. Download the tour map and look for studio signs along the country roads.
When: The weekend before Thanksgiving (October 4–5, 2024)
Where: Across Grey County from Hanover, Mount Forest and Dundalk up towards the southern shore of Georgian Bay, approximately two hours drive north of Toronto.
While here: Add culinary, drink and outdoor experiences from the Apple Pie Trail to your weekend road trip and book a country inn, cottage or boutique motel with maximum views of the fall foliage.
The Bay Studio Tour
The Bay Studio Tour takes place along the shores of Georgian Bay with over 30 artists displaying work including painting, sculpture, woodwork, glasswork, jewellery and mixed media at several locations. Print or use the interactive mobile-friendly map.
When: Early October (October 5–6, 2024)
Where: In and around the towns of Penetanguishene and Tiny, about a 45-minute drive north of Barrie.
While here: A hotel, resort or cottage in Midland or Simcoe County would make a great home base. Explore local restaurants and food shops with Midland Food Tours and visit one of the many lovely beaches.
Images Thanksgiving Studio Tour
From exceptional painting and photography to three-dimensional art, explore over a dozen studios over four days during this artist-run, juried event. Use the tour map to chart your route.
When: Thanksgiving weekend, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (October 11–14, 2024)
Where: Simcoe County, the self-guided tour covers Moonstone, Horseshoe Valley, the shores of Lake Simcoe and Orillia.
While here: Choose from inviting country inns and BnB’s, a downtown Barrie hotel or a full service resort like Horseshoe Valley Resort. Look out for the colourful designs along Simcoe’s Barn Quilt Trail and stop for a craft beer or a bottle of wine.
Hamilton, Halton and Brant
Fine Arts Society of Milton (FASM) Studio Tour
Take a fall road trip to Escarpment country in Halton County, visiting local artist studios along the way. Over 35 artists will display and sell diverse artwork in 16 locations.
When: last weekend of September (September 28–29, 2024)
Where: Halton area, including Milton, Kilbride and Carlisle
While here: The trails at Rattlesnake Conservation Area lead to incredible views, especially during the fall season. Find more things to do in the area.
Studio tours such as the Niagara-on-the-Lake Studio Tour also take place in the summer. Learn more about Ontario’s summer art festivals and events.
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Last updated: November 19, 2024