The Minnesota State Fair was established back in 1859, and over time has grown in popularity. Every year, almost two million people from all over the country visit this fair to enjoy a world-class showcase of agriculture, talent, art, horses, livestock, and a plethora of creative activities and competitions. In addition, there are hundreds of food items, free entertainment shows, amazing concert series, exhibitions for both adults and kids, and hundreds of vendors.
Located in the Falcon Heights region of Saint Paul, Minnesota, the Minnesota State Fair typically lasts for 12 days, before and during Labor Day. If all of these activities are not enough, the Minnesota State Fair offers convenience for RV campers with onsite options. Close to the venue is a vast campground area, decently equipped with individual electric hookups and shared water and dumping setups.
Lake Elmo Park Reserve offers canoeing, hiking, and family-friendly spaces as well as additional options for camping near the fair. Fort Snelling State Park draws visitors for bird watching, fishing, and plenty of outdoor adventuring near Saint Paul.
The simplest method of getting the tickets would be to purchase them online. Guests can also get tickets by phone or at the fairgrounds ticket office. If you are looking for a discount, make sure to purchase your tickets at least two days before the Minnesota Fair starts or purchase pre-fair ride and attractions tickets alongside a standard admission ticket. Get tickets for your Minnesota State Fair adventure in advance to take advantage of the best deals.
The Minnesota State Fair's exact location is 1265 Snelling Ave. N., Saint Paul, MN 55108. When coming from Minneapolis, the ride lasts about 15 minutes. If you are coming from Rochester, the journey may take around an hour and a half. Motorists coming from the north or south may take I-35. If coming from the east or west I-94 will bring you near the fairground.
When it comes to parking, there are a number of options. For automobile and vehicle parking, the fairgrounds parking lots are typically open from early morning to late at night (hours may vary on Labor Day). A parking fee is paid in cash upon entry to the lot. The same goes for RV vehicles.
For guests coming on a motorcycle, the lot is available on Como Avenue, which is located in the vicinity of the International Institute. Parking a non-motorized bike is free in one of the Free Bike Corrals.
If you decide to take a walk in the area surrounding the festival, you will have options for supplementing your journey. As far as public transportation is concerned, visitors can rely on Metro Transit, which features Express Bus service in the Minneapolis and Saint Paul regions. For bus routes and schedules, make sure to visit the website for Metro Transit.
The Minnesota Fair Campground uses a reservation system. If you want to stay at the campground, you need to complete and confirm your reservation before you arrive. Only adults can reserve a designated space. For persons under 18 years of age, the supervision of a parent or guardian is required.
When applying for a reservation, try to include a range of days that you might wish to attend, as this may help you get a spot. Weekend days are harder to get. Campsites reservations are assigned on a first-come, first-serve online basis and by RV size. Daily camping rates are typically determined by the campsite's width, as well as the type of camping unit.
There needs to be at least a 7-foot separation between units, and slide-out campers wider than 14' are not permitted. Be sure to measure the size of your rig for proper communication when applying for a campsite. For electric connectivity, campers need to use cords compliant with Minnesota State Fair campground regulations. Riding bicycles, motorcycles, and skateboards is not allowed.
If campsites are sold out or if you prefer to stay in a separate area, you might want to check out a couple of the nearby campgrounds within a 25-mile radius of Falcon Heights. Campgrounds in the area typically offer ample parking space and beautiful scenery but may be more basic when it comes to amenities and hookups. Minneapolis Northwest KOA Journey offers amenities to fit for any adventure, including full hookups, family activities, and sites for the most extensive camping setups within a 30-minute drive from the fairgrounds.
If you wish to explore the Minnesota State Fair without having to weave through thousands of fairgoers, you can spend a few bucks on a trolley, Skyglider, or Skyride. For those who need extra assistance, strollers, wagons, wheelchairs, and scooters are available on site as well and can be paid with cash, credit, or debit cards.
Despite taking place at the end of August and the beginning of September, don't forget that this fair is located in Minnesota, a northern state. While daytime is typically warm, nights can be a bit chilly. Therefore, make sure to bring a variety of clothes, appropriate for both warm and slightly colder weather.
Campers may want to bring a cozy sleeping bag and pillow, a small backpack for day trips, and perhaps a camera to capture all the attractions the Minnesota State Fair has to offer. Keep in mind, though, that you will not be allowed to record live music performances. Since external food lockers are not available, RV guests can easily take advantage of their interior space for food storage. Lastly, keep in mind that grilling is allowed at the fair campground, but open flame fires are not.
The Minnesota State Fair mostly consists of outdoor activities and attractions. Therefore, it would be wise to bring a variety of items that can protect you from sunshine, insects, allergies, and other environmental hazards. If you have any special medical needs, make sure to notify the fair's medical staff before your arrival. For smokers, there are also designated smoking areas, conveniently situated all around the fairgrounds.
Can't imagine a good camping trip without barbecuing? Well, you are in luck, because grilling is allowed at this state fair campground. Guests can bring cooking equipment and food to the campsite. However, if you run out of supplies, there is a general store at the fair and larger grocery options under five miles from the fairgrounds. However, if you have any favorite foods, you may want to bring these with you as choices may be limited during busy times.
If you would like to explore some of the local food options, there are a plethora of establishments near the fairgrounds. Whether you need a quick bite or you want to treat yourself to some exquisite French cuisine, the local restaurants will surely satisfy all your food cravings. Campers may want to consider local restaurant options on the way in or out of the fair since driving to restaurants in the area may be simplest.
If you would like to get a taste of what the Minnesota State Fair has to offer, you can pick from hundreds of vendors who provide all kinds of food and beverage choices. Food selections vary from year to year, but you can be sure there will be something new to try along with a few fair favorites for your crew.
Before entering the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, all visitors are subjected to bag checks at all entry gates. In addition to bags, all packages, coolers, and purses will be checked at each of the entrance gates. Prohibited items include fireworks, drones, alcoholic drinks, hoverboards, skates, bikes, drones, and, of course, weapons.
In late August and early September, warm days are to be expected. However, since this event takes place in Minnesota, don't be surprised by somewhat chilly nights or a sudden burst of rain. Remember to check the local weather forecast as you pack your clothes and other necessities. Scheduled events will commence rain or shine and tickets are not refundable. Fair maps will denote which buildings will serve as shelters in the event of adverse weather conditions.
The Minnesota State Fair is very dedicated to the well-being of its visitors. For your medical needs, there are two first-aid stations, which are located on the east side and west side of the fairgrounds. Baby changing stations and several breastfeeding facilities are available to help families thoroughly enjoy the fair. Pharmacy and emergency medical services are available at multiple locations within a 20-minute drive of the fairground.
