Photo: Minnesota State Fair
Photo: Chris Ch G
Photo: Steve Kalderon
Minnesota State Fair
★4.7(14,627 reviews)$Activity
🕑 4-6 hours for a main fair visit, 2-3 hours for off-season events👶 Best for all ages. Toddlers and preschoolers love the animal barns and kiddie rides, elementary-aged kids enjoy the carnival games and exhibits, while tweens and teens gravitate toward the thrill rides and creative arts competitions. There's truly something for every family member.🧡 Saved by 70+ families
About
The Minnesota State Fair is one of the nation's largest and most beloved state fairs, offering an incredible mix of agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, live entertainment, and legendary fair food. While the main 12-day fair happens each August, the fairgrounds host family-friendly events year-round including craft shows, educational programs, and seasonal celebrations that give families reasons to visit in every season.
Highlights
- ✓The Miracle of Birth Center where kids can watch baby animals being born
- ✓Hundreds of carnival rides from gentle kiddie attractions to thrilling roller coasters
- ✓Agricultural exhibits featuring cows, pigs, chickens, horses, and other farm animals kids can see up close
- ✓Kid-friendly fair foods like mini donuts, corn dogs, cheese curds, and cookies
- ✓Free daily entertainment including parades, concerts, and educational demonstrations
Pro Tips
- 1.During the main fair in August, arrive right when gates open to beat the crowds and heat,mornings are perfect for visiting the animal barns when kids are most engaged
- 2.Download the official app before visiting to map out must-see attractions and locate family restrooms with changing stations
- 3.Bring a wagon or stroller even for older kids,the fairgrounds are massive (322 acres) and little legs tire quickly
- 4.Check the year-round events calendar for less crowded family experiences like the Pet Expo or Holidazzle events that offer fair fun without summer crowds
- 5.Save money by purchasing ride wristbands online in advance and packing your own water bottles to refill at fountains throughout the grounds
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings during the 12-day fair in late August/early September for smaller crowds, or attend one of the year-round events for a more relaxed experience. The final weekend of the fair is busiest, while opening weekend and weekdays offer easier navigation with kids.
What to Know
The main fair admission is around $17 for adults with kids 12 and under free (prices vary by event). Ample parking is available with shuttle service to gates. Hundreds of food vendors offer kid favorites alongside iconic fair foods, and the grounds are stroller-accessible with multiple family rest areas.
Seasonal Notes
The main Minnesota State Fair runs for 12 days ending on Labor Day each August/September. Year-round events include spring craft shows, summer concerts, fall harvest celebrations, and winter holiday markets. Check the official calendar as office hours listed don't reflect actual event times.
Nearby Eats
Head to the Midway area's Fat Lorenzo's for pizza the whole family will enjoy, or visit Keys Café & Bakery (multiple Twin Cities locations) for comfort food classics and fresh-baked treats that please picky eaters.
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