Ultimate Minnesota State Fair Guide for Families: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

For many Minnesota families, the end of summer means one thing—the Minnesota State Fair! Known as “The Great Minnesota Get-Together,” the State Fair is one of the largest and most popular fairs in the country. Every year, families from across Minnesota and beyond gather in Falcon Heights to enjoy delicious food, exciting attractions, farm animals, live music, shopping, exhibits, and countless activities for all ages.

If it’s your first visit—or even if you’ve been going for years—having a plan can make your day much more enjoyable. With hundreds of acres to explore and thousands of things to see, it’s easy to become overwhelmed.

This guide will help you make the most of your family adventure at the Minnesota State Fair in 2026.

Where Is the Minnesota State Fair?

The Minnesota State Fairgrounds are located in Falcon Heights, just north of St. Paul. The fairgrounds are easily accessible from both Minneapolis and St. Paul, making it a convenient day trip for families throughout the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota.

The fair typically runs for 12 days, ending on Labor Day.

Arrive Early for the Best Experience

One of the biggest tips seasoned fairgoers will give you is to arrive early.

Getting there before the crowds build allows you to:

• Find easier parking
• Experience popular attractions with shorter lines
• Beat some of the afternoon heat
• Enjoy popular food vendors before they become crowded

Families with young children especially benefit from visiting earlier in the day.

Parking Options

Parking is available both on-site and in nearby neighborhoods, but it fills quickly on busy days.

Park & Ride Lots

Many families prefer using the free Park & Ride service offered throughout the Twin Cities.

Benefits include:

• Free parking
• Air-conditioned buses
• Convenient drop-off near the gates
• Less walking from your vehicle

For many visitors, Park & Ride is the easiest and least stressful way to reach the fair.

Paid Parking

Private lots surrounding the fairgrounds are another option if you prefer driving directly to the entrance.

Prices vary depending on location and demand.

Which Gate Should You Use?

The Minnesota State Fair has several entrances.

While any gate will get you inside, choosing the one closest to the attractions you want to visit can save a surprising amount of walking.

Before leaving home, take a look at the fair map and decide where you’d like to begin your day.

Kid-Friendly Attractions

The Minnesota State Fair isn’t just about food—there are countless activities designed specifically for families.

Some favorites include:

Miracle of Birth Center

This exhibit gives children the opportunity to see baby farm animals, including newborn calves, piglets, chicks, ducklings, lambs, and goats.

Watching new animals being born is often one of the most memorable experiences for young visitors.

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Little Farm Hands

Kids become “farmers for the day” as they complete fun agricultural activities while learning where food comes from.

At the end, they receive a small reward for their hard work.

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Animal Barns

The livestock barns remain one of the fair’s biggest attractions.

Families can see:

• Dairy cows
• Horses
• Sheep
• Goats
• Rabbits
• Poultry
• Llamas
• Alpacas
• Pigs

Even teens often enjoy visiting the barns, especially if they don’t spend much time around farm animals.

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Giant Slide

One of the most iconic State Fair traditions is taking a ride down the Giant Slide on a burlap sack.

It’s a simple activity that generations of Minnesota families look forward to every year.

Free Entertainment

One of the best things about the Minnesota State Fair is how much entertainment is included with admission.

Throughout the fairgrounds you’ll find:

• Live music
• Dance performances
• Marching bands
• Animal demonstrations
• Cultural performances
• Comedy acts
• Educational exhibits
• Cooking demonstrations

Take time to explore the daily schedule—you may discover something unexpected that becomes your family’s favorite part of the day.

Family-Friendly Rides and Games

The Mighty Midway features rides for thrill-seekers, while Kidway offers attractions designed for younger children.

Families can enjoy:

• Ferris wheels
• Carousels
• Kiddie rides
• Classic carnival games
• Prize-winning challenges

If your children enjoy amusement rides, purchasing ride tickets in advance may help save time.

Bring a Stroller (Even for Bigger Kids)

If you’re visiting with toddlers or preschoolers, bringing a stroller is essential.

The fairgrounds are enormous, and even children who normally walk long distances often become tired after several hours.

A stroller also provides:

• Storage for purchases
• A place for naps
• Easier transportation through crowds

If you’re visiting with older children, consider bringing a lightweight wagon if it’s allowed under current fair policies, or plan for frequent rest breaks.

What to Pack

A little preparation goes a long way.

Bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen
• Refillable water bottle
• Portable phone charger
• Hand sanitizer
• Hats
• Sunglasses
• Small backpack
• Rain poncho if needed

Minnesota weather can change quickly, so it’s always smart to check the forecast before leaving home.

Plan Your Food Stops

While everyone has their favorite State Fair foods, it’s impossible to try everything in one visit.

Instead of grabbing the first thing you see, make a list of your must-try foods before arriving.

Some classic favorites include:

• Cheese curds
• Fresh cookies
• Sweet corn
• Corn dogs
• Fresh lemonade
• Mini donuts
• Milkshakes
• Fresh-cut French fries

Trying one new food each year is a fun tradition many families enjoy.

Take Breaks Throughout the Day

It’s easy to underestimate how much walking you’ll do.

Many families easily log six to ten miles during a full day at the fair.

Take time to:

• Sit in shaded areas
• Watch entertainment
• Drink water
• Rest between attractions

Everyone will enjoy the day much more if they don’t try to rush from one exhibit to the next.

Download the State Fair App

Before arriving, download the official Minnesota State Fair app.

It allows you to:

• View maps
• Find food vendors
• Search attractions
• Build a personalized schedule
• Locate restrooms
• Find first aid stations

Having everything on your phone makes navigating the fair much easier.

Create Family Traditions

One of the reasons families return year after year is because of the traditions they build together.

Maybe it’s taking the same family photo every summer, sharing a bucket of Sweet Martha’s Cookies, riding the Giant Slide, or visiting your favorite animal barn first.

These small traditions often become the memories children remember long after they’ve grown up.

The Minnesota State Fair truly lives up to its nickname as The Great Minnesota Get-Together. With delicious food, fascinating exhibits, exciting rides, adorable farm animals, live entertainment, shopping, and activities for every age, it’s easy to understand why so many families make it an annual tradition.

The key to enjoying your visit is planning ahead. Arrive early, wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and don’t try to see everything in one day. Instead, focus on making memories with your family, trying a few new experiences, and enjoying the unique atmosphere that makes the Minnesota State Fair one of the state’s most beloved events.

Whether you’re introducing your children to the fair for the very first time or continuing a family tradition that spans generations, you’ll leave with full stomachs, tired feet, and memories you’ll cherish until next summer.