Red Wing Stoneware & Pottery Tour — Red Wing, Minnesota

Discover the Red Wing Stoneware & Pottery Tour in Minnesota

Located in Red Wing, Minnesota, the Red Wing Stoneware & Pottery Tour invites visitors to explore the legacy of one of America’s most iconic pottery producers. Hosted through the Pottery Museum of Red Wing, this guided experience focuses on historic production spaces, preserved kilns, and the craftsmanship behind Red Wing’s nationally recognized stoneware and pottery.

Why it’s special:
This is not a modern factory tour—it’s a deep dive into American industrial craftsmanship. Visitors explore original pottery buildings, learn traditional ceramic production methods, and see how Red Wing stoneware shaped the city’s identity for more than a century.

History/Story of Red Wing Stoneware

Red Wing’s pottery industry began in the late 1800s, when local clay deposits and river transportation made the city an ideal ceramics hub. Red Wing Stoneware became famous nationwide for its durable crocks, jugs, dinnerware, and art pottery. Although large-scale production has ended, the Pottery Museum preserves the tools, techniques, and stories that defined one of the most important pottery centers in U.S. history.

What You’ll See & Do on the Red Wing Stoneware & Pottery Tour

• Tour historic pottery buildings and production spaces

• Learn how stoneware and pottery were traditionally formed, fired, and glazed

• See preserved kilns, molds, and original equipment

• Explore exhibits featuring Red Wing pottery designs and marks

• Hear stories about potters, workers, and industrial life in Red Wing

Hands-On Elements: Demonstrations and interpretive exhibits
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed throughout museum and tour areas
Souvenirs & Extras: Museum shop with books, pottery pieces, and collectibles

Pricing of the Red Wing Stoneware & Pottery Tour

Museum tours require paid admission.
Pricing varies by age group and tour type.

Visiting information

Duration: Approximately 60–75 minutes
Format: Guided historic pottery and museum tour
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered seasonally, primarily May–October
Audience: History enthusiasts, families, craft lovers, cultural travelers
Accessibility: Partially accessible; historic buildings include stairs
Safety & Restrictions: Follow museum guidelines; children must be supervised
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Group tours available with advance reservation
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable walking shoes
Facilities: Museum exhibits, gift shop, restrooms, parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed during off-season and select holidays
Working hours:

• May–October: Tuesday–Saturday 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• November–April: Limited hours or closed

Nearby

• Mississippi River bluff overlooks

• Downtown Red Wing historic district

• Barn Bluff hiking trail

FAQs About Visiting Red Wing Stoneware & Pottery

Is this a working factory tour?
No. This is a historic pottery and museum tour focusing on preserved production spaces.

Are original pottery buildings included?
Yes. Tours include access to original stoneware production buildings and kilns.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes. The tour is family-friendly and educational.

Do I need to book in advance?
Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season.

Can I purchase Red Wing pottery on-site?
Yes. The museum shop offers pottery pieces and related collectibles.