Frequently Asked Questions

How many studios are on the trail, and where are they located?

There are 16 studio locations on the 2026 trail map. Some studios include guest artists, so there may be multiple artists per location. Downloadable maps will be available on the website. Locations average 10-20 minutes apart.

What can I expect to see when I visit an artist studio?

Artist studios on the trail vary from home studios (sheds, garages, basements) to commercial spaces. Many are not open to the public outside this event. You will be able to meet the artists, see their workspace and purchase items directly from them. Refreshments may be available. 

Where do I start? Is there a route or recommended order to visit studios?

There is no official start point to the trail. Most people coming from off-Cape start at the Sagamore location. Those coming from mid-outer Cape start in Barnstable. Use our interactive map to plan the best route for you!

Can I do the trail in one day?

Yes, if you start early and plan to stay the day, you can visit all 16 locations. Studios are open 10am - 4pm Saturday and Sunday. However, it may be worth making a weekend of it so you can visit the many other pottery shops and galleries further into the Cape. 

Are the studios accessible?

Accessibility varies from studio to studio — some are fully accessible, while others are in older homes or working spaces with steps or uneven terrain. The map PDF will contain notes on accessibility.

What's the parking situation?

There are several commercial studios with large parking areas. However, most are at private residences with off-street parking or roadside space for a few cars. If you're visiting as part of a group, carpooling is a good idea. 

What ceramic styles and techniques will I find on the trail?

The trail is home to a wonderfully diverse community of makers. You'll find wheel-thrown and slipcast functional ware, hand-built sculpture, jewelry, raku and wood-fired pieces — all minutes apart.

Will there a holiday sale or winter market?

The trail is only one weekend, but many of our artists participate in holiday sales and winter markets. Some studios host their own holiday open houses in November and December, while others join larger artisan markets. When you find artists you like, join their mailing list or follow them on social media to hear about their upcoming events.

Do you do this every year? Who runs it?

The Cape Cod Pottery Trail began in 2025 and is an annual event occurring the last weekend of September. The trail is organized and run buy a handful of local artists who had an idea and committed to making it happen. The event is funded by sweat equity, participant fees and sponsorships. Interested in becoming a sponsor? Click here for details.

And there’s more!

  • Yes! The trail is free and open to the community. Many studios on the trail are working spaces in private homes — sheds, garages, and barns — with fragile work on display and uneven terrain underfoot. We ask that you leave pets at home, and that parents use their judgment about bringing young children.

  • Each artist handles their own sales, so payment options vary. Come prepared with both cash and a card. Many artists also accept Venmo or PayPal.

  • Most artists will pack up your work to take with you. Some artists, generally those who do functional ware, have the ability to ship

  • Coming soon! We are putting together resources on places to stay, eat, and shop in the area. The trail spans some beautiful parts of the Upper Cape, and there's no shortage of great spots to round out the experience.

  • It's more relaxed than a gallery and more personal than a shop. Artists are genuinely happy to talk about their work, their process, and what's on display. Feel free to ask questions, pick things up, and take your time. The whole point of the trail is to close the distance between the person who makes something and the person who takes it home.

  • Nope! Studios are low-pressure, welcoming spaces — you're free to browse, ask questions, or simply take in the creative environment. Many visitors come just to look and leave inspired. Of course, if you find something you love, buying directly from the artist is one of the best ways to support their work.

  • The trail kicks off with a ticketed preview party on Friday evening at Brick Kiln Farm (254 Brick Kiln Road, Falmouth). All participating artists will have work on display, and it's a great chance to meet the makers, plan your weekend route, and pick up a Pottery Passport. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance on this website. We recommend buying ahead — it's a popular event.

  • You can download the pottery passport from the website in September. It includes each location, and a place to collect stamps. Fill your passport and drop it off at your last stop, and be entered to win a prize of a handmade piece by one of our trail artists.