Every fall, I remember that the Fresh Art Fall Tour is happening and get excited all over again. Nothing is more relaxing to me than exploring my beautiful state on a breezy fall day and having the opportunity to step into artistic spaces. I love taking a look into local artists’ creative processes and being able to have access to where the magic happens. This Friday through Sunday, Oct. 5-7, grab a friend or take a solo adventure, and start your road trip through rural western Wisconsin. Each day from 10am-5pm, artists at 17 different sites will open up their galleries, homes, workshops, and property to showcase their art.

The artisanal craft tour takes you through Pepin, Pierce, and Buffalo counties. Backwaters Studio in Bay City has a beautiful outdoor fireplace, gathering space, and property teeming with wildlife alongside the owner’s photography and stoneware. The Flaming Fire Art Studio in Maiden Rock is also a high point. The yard is filled with outdoor ceramic art, and inside the studio they have paintings, jewelry, and ceramics. This location in the country is welcoming, and they often have wild rice soup that goes quick, so you’ll want to make sure to get there early. As another food option, you can check out the Harbor View Café in Pepin, with their famous chalkboard menu (which changes twice a day) and gorgeous view.

For more information about the 20th Annual Fresh Art Tour, check out freshart.org.