Pony rides for the kids, danceable music, and extravagant shows sure to delight are just some of the not-to-be-missed attractions of the Georgia State Fair. Held at the Atlanta Motor Speedway, the sheer ambiance of the venue sets the stage for the event. Excitement guaranteed to thrill and musical acts performing country, rap, soul, and more will have attendees shimmying to the beat.
Excite your kiddos with a visit to the exotic animals, baby burros, and buffaloes, and let them be entertained by the racing pigs. Teens love to feel adrenaline and will be game for watching daredevil acts put on by experienced aerialists and stunt artists. The family can then head over to a hands-on exhibit to feel the flutter of a gentle butterfly.
Combine an exhilarating week at the fair with an exceptional time of togetherness in the RV. Choose a campground that suits every family member. Enjoy walks and hikes, try your hand at fishing, study the stars, and sleep to the sounds of nature. Your rig is your home away from home, a place to make unforgettable memories. Set the coordinates and head to Georgia State Fair.
Tickets to Georgia State Fair are well worth the money; all events and shows are included in one low price. Tickets can range from $4 to $8, with the midway ticket running around $20. Children 4 and under are free, and seniors enjoy a reduced rate. There are special event days where the midway is priced much lower, and groups such as the military and disabled have price advantages. Visit www.georgiastatefair.org for details on the fun. Tickets cannot be pre-ordered; purchase them when you arrive at the gates.
Head to Henry County, south of Atlanta. The town of Hampton is where the Atlanta Motor Speedway is located. I-75 will put you in the right direction. You will pass through residential and commercial areas but can still see a bit of the beautiful countryside as well. Fair staff will be ready to direct traffic as you approach.
There is limited parking for RVs at the Georgia State Fair. After calling ahead as required to get information about parking your RV, arrive early to secure a spot for non-camp related parking. Parking, if coming in your tow vehicle, is plentiful and inexpensive. Knowledgeable traffic and parking personnel can assist if you have questions.
There is no public transportation direct to Georgia State Fair, but you can take a bus with the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority and then rideshare or taxi from the closest stop to the speedway. This is a popular option for those who would rather not drive to the fair and park.
There is no opportunity to camp at Georgia State Fair, but head south or northwest to towns such as Lovejoy, Irondale, and Griffin to find what you need. If you are willing to drive an hour or so further to Lithia Springs, you will find state parks with beach and riverside camping.
Pull through sites, full hookup ,and internet are typical of the campgrounds near Hampton. If you prefer to leave the internet at home and have a back to nature experience, you can easily find that, too. A few campgrounds close to the venue offer hiking trails that will satisfy the urge for exercise. Campgrounds further away from Georgia State Fair will allow you the luxury of a truly nature-bound stay with waterfalls, fishing, and chances to try your hand at canoeing or kayaking.
The fair is a festival for the feet; be sure to wear your best walking shoes and pack an extra pair in your personal bag or backpack. Your feet will appreciate the change of cushioning. Have the little ones do the same and be prepared to give them a piggyback ride if need be.
September into October is a lovely time of year in Georgia. Fair apparel will be jeans and a t-shirt. Pack shorts in the RV closet as well though, as an Indian Summer may bring a warm spell where the jeans would be too warm. A sweater is almost always needed in the evening. Your favorite hat is a must to protect your neck and ears from the sun. Make sure the family all sport a hat that is comfy and allows for good vision.
Have the family pack their personal bags lightly so that tired shoulders are not a part of the fair-time equation. Sunglasses, a refillable water bottle (empty upon arrival at the fair), and a camera are very desirable items. You can tote chairs if you like, but coolers filled with outside food and drink are not allowed inside the Georgia State Fair.
Take advantage of the tasty variety of drink options at the fair and keep the family hydrated. While the kids may think they are not thirsty, have them take a break from the fun for a moment’s shade and a cold drink. When you have them sitting still for a few minutes, reapply the sunscreen. The Georgia sun has beautiful and powerful rays.
The State of Georgia provides inspiration for tasty campfire cooking. For a meal after camp is set up, smoky meat or vegan sausages, chili, foil packet potatoes, and corn on the cob make delicious fare and are easy to prepare around the fire. Breakfast before heading to the fairgrounds is quick and easy with a pita filled with brie and jam, melted in a pan. Stock the RV with all you will need for indoor or outdoor cooking to include briquets and propane.
Hampton, Henry County has several restaurants that prepare yummy southern dishes. Fans of barbecue can have that craving sated with a plate of ribs. Chicken and steak tacos are another popular item for hungry travelers. If you want to venture into Atlanta, you can sample everything from Sichuan to Mexican cuisine.
Support local artisans by visiting their booths and purchasing unique and beautiful crafts carefully designed to showcase Georgia. As for food, you won’t go hungry while at the Georgia State Fair; there are plenty of vendors preparing satisfying fair food to suit the taste of every family member. ATMs can be found on site to ensure you have cash on hand.
Local police officers and safety staff members will make certain the venue is a safe and orderly one. Georgia State Fair is a family-oriented event; disorderly patrons will be removed from the fairgrounds. At a venue like the fairgrounds, children can often get distracted and wander off. Set the rules early on and have the little ones stay close to older family members every step of the way.
Be prepared for all weather events by taking advantage of the space in the RV to pack rain boots, jackets, and umbrellas. Warm weather will usually grace the fair too, so be sure to include lightweight clothing on your packing list along with sweaters for the cool nights. Pack warm blankets in case fall temperatures take a dip at bedtime.
The Fair Office is open during the fair for inquiries and assistance if needed. Service dogs are welcome on the grounds; remember a certification vest for easy identification as no other pets are allowed. Back at camp, keep a topped up first aid kit in the event of a bump or scrape while out on the trail or canoe.