The Best Food at Valleyfair: What Is Worth Buying?

A trip to Valleyfair isn’t just about thrilling roller coasters and cooling off at Splash Soak City—it’s also about enjoying some delicious amusement park food! Whether you’re spending the entire day riding coasters or relaxing with your family, you’ll probably work up an appetite. Thankfully, Valleyfair offers far more than just hot dogs and popcorn.

From sweet treats to hearty meals, there are plenty of tasty options throughout the park. If you’re wondering what’s actually worth spending your money on, this guide highlights the best food, snacks, desserts, and money-saving dining tips to help you enjoy every bite of your visit.

Start Your Day with a Plan

Before you start buying snacks, think about how long you’ll be at the park. If you’re planning to stay from opening until closing, you’ll likely want at least one full meal, a refreshing drink, and maybe a sweet treat or two.

If you’re visiting with a larger family, looking at Valleyfair’s dining plans before your visit may help you save money. These plans can be especially worthwhile if everyone plans to eat inside the park.

Must-Try Entrées

Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders

It’s hard to go wrong with crispy chicken tenders and fries after spending the morning riding roller coasters. The portions are generous, making them one of the best values inside the park.

Why families love them:

Familiar favorite for picky eaters
Filling meal
Great for both kids and adults

BBQ Platters

If you’re looking for something a little more satisfying than burgers, try one of the BBQ meals. Smoked meats paired with baked beans, mac and cheese, or fries make for a hearty lunch.

Best for:

Parents
Hungry teenagers
Sharing family-style sides

Fresh Burgers and Fries

Sometimes the classics are exactly what you’re craving.

Valleyfair serves freshly prepared burgers topped with your favorite fixings alongside crispy fries. It’s a dependable option that appeals to almost everyone.

Pizza

Pizza is always a family favorite because it’s quick, easy to share, and usually available throughout the day.

It’s also one of the easier meals if everyone in your group wants something familiar before heading back out to the rides.

Panda Express

If your family enjoys Asian-inspired meals, Panda Express is a popular stop inside Valleyfair.

Orange Chicken remains one of the most popular choices, and the combination plates are filling enough for most adults and teens.

Best Snacks Around the Park

One of the best parts of visiting an amusement park is snacking throughout the day.

Soft Pretzels

Warm, buttery pretzels are one of the park’s most popular grab-and-go snacks.

Pair one with cheese for an afternoon pick-me-up before hopping back on your favorite roller coaster.

Fresh Popcorn

The smell alone is enough to convince many families to stop.

Popcorn is easy to carry while walking through the park and makes a great snack to share.

French Fries

Whether you enjoy classic fries or loaded varieties, they’re a great snack between attractions.

Many families order one basket to share while waiting for the next ride.

Save Room for Dessert

No Valleyfair visit feels complete without something sweet.

Funnel Cakes

If there’s one dessert you absolutely shouldn’t skip, it’s the funnel cake.

Freshly made and dusted with powdered sugar, it’s the perfect indulgence after a long day of walking.

Many locations also offer toppings like strawberries, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or ice cream.

Worth buying?
Absolutely! It’s large enough to share with family or friends.

Dippin’ Dots

Often called “the ice cream of the future,” Dippin’ Dots remain a favorite among kids and teens.

They’re especially refreshing during hot Minnesota afternoons.

Ice Cream

Whether you choose a cone, sundae, or frozen treat, ice cream is always a welcome break from the summer heat.

It’s also a fun excuse to sit down and relax before your next adventure.

Cinnabon

The smell of fresh cinnamon rolls is almost impossible to resist.

If you’re visiting in the morning or early afternoon, stopping for a warm cinnamon roll makes a delicious treat.

Don’t Forget the Drinks

Walking several miles around Valleyfair can leave everyone thirsty.

Instead of purchasing individual drinks throughout the day, consider a refillable drink program if your family plans to stay for several hours.

Refillable Souvenir Cups

Refillable drink cups are one of the smartest purchases for families visiting during the summer.

Depending on your group’s size and how long you’ll be at the park, unlimited or discounted refills can quickly pay for themselves.

This is especially helpful on hot days when staying hydrated is important.

Money-Saving Food Tips

Amusement park food can add up quickly, but there are several ways to stretch your budget.

Consider a Dining Plan

If you’re planning to eat lunch and dinner inside the park, a dining plan can often cost less than purchasing meals individually.

This option is especially valuable for season pass holders who visit multiple times throughout the summer.

Share Large Portions

Several meals and desserts are generously sized.

Items like:

Funnel cakes
Pizza
Fries
BBQ platters

can often be shared between two people.

Eat a Good Breakfast Before Arriving

Starting your day with a filling breakfast means you’ll be less tempted to buy snacks immediately after entering the park.

You’ll enjoy the rides first and save your food budget for the meals you really want.

Bring a Refillable Water Bottle

Valleyfair allows guests to bring an empty refillable water bottle or one factory-sealed bottle of water. Refilling it throughout the day helps you stay hydrated while saving money on bottled beverages.

Family Favorites

If you’re only planning to splurge on a few treats during your visit, these are some of the most popular choices:

Funnel Cake
Chicken Tenders
BBQ Platter
Fresh Burgers
Soft Pretzels
Dippin’ Dots
Cinnabon
Refillable Drink Cup

These foods have become Valleyfair traditions for many Minnesota families.

The food at Valleyfair is part of the overall experience. Whether you’re sharing a giant funnel cake after riding Wild Thing, grabbing chicken tenders before heading to Splash Soak City, or cooling off with Dippin’ Dots on a hot summer afternoon, the meals and snacks help create lasting family memories.

The key is to plan ahead. Consider purchasing dining plans if you’ll be eating multiple meals, take advantage of refillable drink options, and don’t be afraid to share larger portions to stretch your budget.

After all, the best days at Valleyfair are about more than the rides—they’re about laughing together, trying new foods, and making memories that your family will talk about long after summer ends.