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Discover the Hot Shops Art Center Studio Tour in Nebraska

Located in Omaha, Nebraska, in the city’s north downtown district, the Hot Shops Art Center Studio Tour offers visitors a self-guided exploration of one of the Midwest’s largest artist studio complexes. Housed inside a historic industrial building, the center features working studios for glassblowers, painters, sculptors, ceramicists, and mixed-media artists.

Guests can walk through open studio floors, observe artists at work (depending on schedule), and explore gallery exhibitions showcasing contemporary art.

Why it’s special: The Hot Shops Art Center Studio Tour provides rare public access to active artist workspaces, allowing visitors to see creative processes unfold inside a repurposed industrial warehouse.

History & Story of Hot Shops Art Center

Established in 1999, the Hot Shops Art Center transformed a former Serta mattress factory into a vibrant arts community. The name “Hot Shops” reflects the building’s origins as an industrial production space and its continued energy as a hub for creative work.

Today, the multi-level facility houses dozens of artists and serves as a cornerstone of Omaha’s contemporary arts scene, hosting exhibitions and open house events throughout the year.

What You’ll See & Do on the Hot Shops Art Center Studio Tour

• Walk through multiple floors of working artist studios
• Watch live glassblowing and metalwork (schedule permitting)
• Explore rotating gallery exhibitions
• Speak directly with resident artists about their craft
• Browse original artwork available for purchase

Hands-On Elements: Observation-focused experience; occasional live demonstrations during special events.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography is permitted in public areas; ask artists before photographing inside studios.

Souvenirs & Extras: Original artwork, prints, sculptures, and handmade pieces available for purchase directly from artists.

Pricing of the Hot Shops Art Center Studio Tour

Adult price: $0 per adult (free)

General admission is free during regular public hours.

Visiting information for Hot Shops Art Center Studio Tour

Duration: 60–120 minutes

Age limits: All ages welcome

Accessibility: Elevator access available; some studio areas may have narrow industrial layouts

Working Hours: Tuesday–Saturday 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sunday–Monday Closed

Special open house events may have extended hours.

Nearby attractions to Hot Shops Art Center Studio Tour

• The Durham Museum
• Omaha Children’s Museum
• Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge

FAQs About Visiting the Hot Shops Art Center Studio Tour

Is this a guided tour or self-guided experience?
The experience is primarily self-guided, allowing visitors to explore open studios at their own pace.

Can visitors watch artists working?
Yes. Depending on the day and artist schedules, guests may observe glassblowing, painting, and other creative processes.

Is admission always free?
Yes. General admission during public hours is free.

Are artworks available for purchase?
Yes. Visitors can buy original art directly from the artists’ studios.

Is the building historically industrial?
Yes. The Hot Shops Art Center is located in a former mattress factory, giving it an authentic industrial atmosphere.