Best Things to Do at the Minnesota State Fair 2025
It’s almost time for the Great Minnesota Get-Together. Can you smell the cheese curds yet? Some people don’t understand the love, or the need to go every single year. I am not one of them.
That’s like saying you’re never going to a Target again because you’ve seen it all. Trust me, there is always something new to discover. Here are some of my favorite things to do at the Minnesota State Fair, in case you’re hesitant to go again.
Best Things to Do at the Minnesota State Fair
The 4H Animals
Start your day seeing the largest and the smallest animals in one place. Begin your visit at the CHS Miracle of Birth Center. This place gets very busy, so get there early.
I am partial to the side with all the new babies. They have cows, sheep, goats, pigs, chicks and my personal favorite, the ducks.
Many times, volunteers will hold them so you can get a closer look, and sometimes get a quick pet in. You can watch animals giving birth in a viewing area with video screens.
After seeing the smallest animals, head over to the species barns.
Onsite you will see prize-winning animals across categories. The biggest pig is always a crowd favorite. The Piglets and the Largest Boar have their own section of the Swine Barn.
Watch your step as you walk through this part of the fair. Staff clean often, but you never know what is fresh.
The Music
The best free entertainment is at the Leinie Lodge Bandshell. They have acts running all day with a bigger act at night.
Many bands stick around after to sign merch. The venue seats about 3,000 with room for more to stand behind. It feels intimate.
If you want a headliner, the Grandstand is where to go. They book amazing acts each night. After the show, hang in your seat and watch the fireworks.
Entertainment
There is tons of great entertainment, and I’m not talking about people watching. Catch the All-Star Stunt Dogs Splash Show, or the Timberworks Lumberjack Show at the North Woods area.
Peek at the latest cars, or watch the butter carver of Princess Kay of the Milky Way.
You can also join competitions. They host ice cream eating and cottage cheese eating contests. All great reasons to visit the Minnesota State Fair.
Learn something new
The MN State Fairgrounds has great exhibits. It’s all about learning.
For history, check out: Historic Streetcar Arch, History & Heritage Center, History Walking Tour, Minnesota Newspaper Museum and Old Iron Show.
Kid favorites: Agriculture Horticulture & Bee, Aisle of Breeds, Alphabet Forest, CHS Miracle of Birth Center, The Common Table: Minnesota Eats, The DIRT Demo Stage, EquiMania!™, Goat Booth, Kemps Little Farm Hands, Ag-Vestigator Education Station, Math On-A-Stick, Moo Booth, Baa Booth, Oink Booth, Thank A Farmer Magic Show.
Shopping – Great Deals
In most merchandise areas, you’ll find salespeople pitching their As Seen On TV wares. It’s fun to watch demos and see what extra deals you can get.
My husband and I have a rule. If you see something you like, tell the other person. Next year, if you can find it again and still want it, go for it. If you can’t find it, it wasn’t meant to be. It helps with impulse buys.
Now, if you want something unique or custom-made, check a few spots. I always start at the International Bazaar. It is on the south side of Judson Ave between Underwood and Cooper Street.
You’ll find international-themed merchandise, food, and music. Another favorite is West End Market.
They re-did the venue and have one-of-a-kind items. Think upcycled candles and home décor made from factory parts.
Sometimes the weather doesn’t cooperate. But there are a few ways you can cool off at the Great MN Get-Together. Check out these tips!
Games and Rides
The Kidway opens at 9 a.m. and runs until around 10:30 p.m. The Mighty Midway opens at 10 a.m. and is open until midnight, except Labor Day when it closes at 11 p.m.
Once the sun goes down, the crowds migrate there. Just follow the bright lights and giant stuffed animals.
The 156-foot Great Big Wheel Ferris wheel remains a favorite and makes for amazing skyline views.
Some of my favorite rides are not in the Midway. The Space Tower is a family tradition, and my kids love the Giant Slide.
Try classics like Ye Old Mill, or hop the SkyGlider to the other side of the fair.
Bottom line: keep your eyes open; you’ll stumble into something fun.
Food
What is the MN State Fair without fair food? Some years I plan my entire visit around the booths.
I love The Perfect Pickle’s fried pickle chips. Stick with the Perfect Pickle if you are just starting. They are so popular they have a second location on Machinery Hill.
Pickles and ice cream might sound odd, but they are on opposite sides of the fair. I wouldn’t eat them together. My husband’s favorite is the Pork Chop on a Stick.
A trip to the Minnesota State Fair is not complete without the Dairy Building. Check out Princess Kay of the Milky Way butter sculptures while you’re there.
New vendors and new foods are announced each summer. Watch the official list for 2025 releases.
Curious what wild concoctions are debuting? Watch the official New This Year page for 2025 food and vendor updates.
The Free Stuff
Ok, let’s face it, the Minnesota State Fair has so much going on, there is great free stuff to snag. The number of bags I leave with is always wild.
Some booths hand out items with no strings attached. Others may ask you to share a story, fill something out, or do a quick activity.
Last season I picked up seed packets outside the Agriculture Horticulture Building. Thanks, Bremer Bank! We also got sporks from the Friends of the BWCA for sharing our favorite camping story.
FAQ’s About the MN State Fair
When is the 2025 Minnesota State Fair?
The Minnesota State Fair is Aug. 21 – Labor Day, Sept. 1, 2025. It’s always the last 12 days of summer, ending on Labor Day.
Where is the Minnesota State Fair held?
The Minnesota State Fair is held on the State Fairgrounds in St. Paul. The official address is 1265 Snelling Ave N, Saint Paul, MN 55108.
What time does the fair open and close?
Fairgrounds hours are 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. (7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Labor Day). Most booths open at 9 a.m. Barns typically open at 8 a.m. A few breakfast vendors open earlier.
What are the ticket prices and where can I buy them?
Recent gate prices have been about $18 for adults and $16 for kids 5–12. Children 4 and under are free. Buy in advance online or at Cub Foods for a discount before the fair opens. Check the official site for the latest pricing.
If I buy a Grandstand ticket, do I also need a fair admission ticket?
Yes. A Grandstand ticket is for the show only. You also need a separate admission ticket to enter the fair.
Where can I park at the Minnesota State Fair?
State Fair parking lots are limited and fill fast. Onsite parking has recently been around $20. Private lots near the gates can run higher. See the official map for lots and live updates during the fair.
How can I find Park & Ride locations?
There are two options: Free Park & Ride lots run by the fair, and Metro Transit Express which typically costs a small round-trip fare.
What is the bag policy?
Bags are allowed. Keep zippers open at security for faster screening. All entrances have metal detectors. Glass containers and alcohol from outside are not allowed.
What hotels are near the fairgrounds?
Good nearby options include Hampton Inn & Suites Minneapolis University Area, Best Western Plus Como Park Hotel, Graduate Minneapolis, and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Roseville.
Is there a map of the fairgrounds?
Yes. Grab the digital map or pick one up at any Information Booth.
Are pets allowed?
No. Only service animals are permitted.
How can I find the schedule?
See the daily schedule online or at Information Booths. The full schedule is published a few weeks before opening day.
Are there concerts?
Yes. There are Grandstand headliners (ticketed) and free shows throughout the fairgrounds, including the Leinie Lodge Bandshell.
How do I get discount tickets?
Buy early. Prices usually go up when the fair opens and outside retailers stop sales. Watch for seasonal promos and check Cub Foods for discounts on admission, the Blue Ribbon Bargain Book, and Midway/Kidway tickets.
How many tickets do rides and games take?
Kidway rides usually take 4–6 tickets. Mighty Midway rides 4–7 tickets. Games of skill often take 3–6 tickets.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, except alcohol. Coolers are not allowed on the grounds. Some rides and buses do not allow food or drinks.
Can I leave and come back the same day?
Yes. Get your hand stamped when you exit for same-day re-entry.
Do most vendors take credit cards?
Many do, some are cash only, and a few add a card fee or offer cash discounts. Bring some cash just in case. ATMs are on site.
Have Fun at the Minnesota State Fair
With over two million visitors each year, arrive early. Weekdays are best. I like Monday through Thursday.
Whenever you go, come prepared and enjoy the last days of summer at the Fair.
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