The Minnesota State Fair runs for 12 days each August in St. Paul
The Minnesota State Fair takes place at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds in St. Paul, typically opening in mid-August and running through Labor Day. The fairgrounds sit at 1265 North Snelling Avenue, about three miles north of downtown St. Paul. The fair is free to enter — you pay only for parking, food, rides, and games once you're inside.
The fair operates daily from 6 a.m. to midnight during its run. Attendance usually peaks on weekends and the final few days, so if you prefer smaller crowds, weekday mornings tend to be quieter. The fair operates rain or shine, though severe weather occasionally closes specific outdoor attractions.
Key Takeaways
- Admission is free, but parking costs $15 per vehicle at the fairgrounds lot, or you can use paid street parking or transit.
- The fair runs 12 days in mid-August through Labor Day, with peak crowds on weekends and the final week.
- Food, rides, games, and attractions all charge separately — budget for what matters most to you rather than assuming one price covers everything.
- The fairgrounds has a shuttle system, but it's large enough that comfortable shoes and a plan for which areas to visit first will save time and frustration.
- You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks into the fairgrounds, which saves money if you're staying all day.
Parking and getting to the fairgrounds
Parking at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds lot costs $15 per vehicle. The lot fills up on busy days, especially afternoons and evenings on weekends. If the main lot is full, staff direct you to overflow lots, which may be farther from the entrance.
If you want to avoid the parking fee, you can park on nearby residential streets for free, though spots fill quickly on popular days. Public transit is another option — Metro Transit bus routes 3, 21, and 84 serve the fairgrounds area. The light rail Green Line also stops near the fairgrounds, about a 10-minute walk from the main entrance.
Once inside, the fairgrounds are large. A free shuttle system runs between different sections, but walking is often faster for short distances. Wear comfortable shoes — the fair covers roughly 320 acres, and you'll cover significant ground even if you stick to one area.
What costs money inside the fair
Admission itself is free, but nearly everything else charges separately. Food vendors throughout the fairgrounds sell items ranging from $5 to $20 per serving — the famous Minnesota State Fair foods like cheese curds, corn dogs, and sweet Martha's cookies are popular but not cheap. You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks into the fairgrounds, which many families do to save money.
Rides and games operate on a ticket system. Individual ride tickets cost $1 to $3 each, and most rides require 3 to 8 tickets. Unlimited ride wristbands are available for around $50 to $60, depending on the day and time — they're cheaper during certain hours and on slower days. Carnival games charge $2 to $5 per play.
Some attractions and exhibits are free to view — livestock shows, craft competitions, educational booths, and some stage performances don't charge admission. The fair publishes a daily schedule showing which performances and events are free.
Main attractions and areas of the fairgrounds
The fairgrounds are divided into sections, each with different types of attractions. The Midway is the largest area, with rides, games, and food vendors. The Livestock Barns house cattle, sheep, pigs, and poultry exhibits, plus daily shows and demonstrations. The Creative Activities Building displays crafts, baking, and art entries from the public competition.
The Grandstand hosts concerts, tractor pulls, and other paid performances — tickets for these events range from $10 to $40 and are sold separately from fair admission. The Education Building features exhibits from companies, nonprofits, and government agencies. The Horticulture Building displays flowers, plants, and gardening exhibits.
The fair also has a petting zoo, a pony ride area, and a kids' zone with smaller rides and attractions designed for younger children. A map of the fairgrounds is available at the entrance and on the Minnesota State Fair website.
What to bring and what to know before you go
Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a hat or sunglasses — you'll spend hours outdoors. The fairgrounds can get very hot in August, so bring water or plan to buy it there. A small backpack or crossbody bag is useful for carrying items, though large bags are subject to search at the entrance.
The fairgrounds do not allow glass bottles, weapons, or pets (except service animals). Alcohol is not permitted in the fairgrounds, though beer and wine are sold at certain vendor areas. Smoking is prohibited in most indoor areas but allowed in designated outdoor zones.
If you plan to stay all day, consider bringing a phone charger or portable battery. Cell service can be spotty in crowded areas, so plan to meet up with your group at a specific location and time rather than relying on texting. The fairgrounds have restrooms throughout, but lines can be long during peak hours.
Planning your visit by day and time
Weekday mornings, especially Tuesday through Thursday, are the quietest times to visit. Rides have shorter lines, food vendors move faster, and you can see exhibits without pushing through crowds. Weekends and the final three days of the fair draw the largest crowds, with peak times between noon and 9 p.m.
If you're interested in livestock shows or competitions, check the fair's schedule in advance — these events happen at specific times and fill up quickly. The fair publishes a daily schedule online and prints copies at the entrance. Many people plan their visit around one or two specific events rather than trying to see everything.
If you're visiting with children, the early morning hours are often best — kids have more energy, lines are shorter, and the fairgrounds are cooler. If you're going for the evening entertainment and concerts, plan to arrive in late afternoon so you can eat dinner and explore before the Grandstand shows start.
Food and budget planning
The Minnesota State Fair is known for its food vendors and unique offerings. Expect to pay $8 to $15 for a single entree (like a corn dog or cheese curds), $3 to $6 for a side or snack, and $4 to $8 for a beverage. Desserts like sweet Martha's cookies or mini donuts run $5 to $8.
If you're visiting as a family or group, food costs add up quickly. Many people budget $20 to $40 per person for food alone. Bringing your own snacks and lunch can cut this significantly. The fairgrounds have picnic areas where you can eat food you've brought, though they can be crowded during peak hours.
Some food vendors offer combo deals or discounts during certain hours. The fair's website and app sometimes list vendor specials. If you're on a tight budget, focus on free attractions and exhibits, bring your own food, and skip or limit rides and games.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a discount day or time to visit?
The fair does not have a standard discount admission day, since admission is already free. Some vendors and attractions offer discounts during specific hours — check the fair's website or app for current deals. Unlimited ride wristbands are cheaper during certain times of day and on slower weekdays.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes. You can bring your own non-alcoholic food and drinks into the fairgrounds. Glass bottles are not permitted, and alcohol is prohibited. Many families bring coolers with sandwiches, snacks, and water to save money on food costs.
What if I want to see a Grandstand concert or show?
Grandstand events require separate paid tickets, which you can buy in advance online or at the gate on the day of the event. Prices vary by performer or event, typically ranging from $10 to $40. Check the fair's website for the schedule and ticket availability.
Is the fairgrounds accessible for people with mobility issues?
The fairgrounds have accessible parking, restrooms, and pathways throughout most areas. Wheelchair and mobility device rentals are available at the entrance. Some rides and attractions have accessibility restrictions — staff at each attraction can tell you whether it's accessible for your needs.
What should I do if I lose someone in my group?
Agree on a specific meeting location and time before you split up — the fairgrounds are large and cell service can be unreliable. The information booth near the main entrance is a common meeting spot. If someone is missing, staff can help you page them or contact security.