One of my favorite spots to visit is Ojai, California. It has a laid back, almost hippie vibe (but not with the dirty feet, dancing in circles nonsense).
Coming up in a couple of weeks is their Ojai Studio Artists Tour. This event includes over 50 local (professional) artists who open their studios to visitors for a rare, behind-the-scenes look at their collections. It will be held over Columbus weekend, October 11-13.