Every summer, nearly 2 million people visit the Minnesota State Fair. The Fair is an #OnlyinMN tradition for many Minnesotans and visitors alike.
With nearly 500 food items, 30 carnival rides, and more than 900 free performances, there’s plenty to keep you busy throughout the Fair’s 12-day run.
There’s more to celebrate this summer than ever before. Get ready for the “Great Minnesota Get-Back-Together” with this 25 must-dos.
1. RIDE THE GIANT SLIDE
Grab a mat and ride the iconic Giant Slide at the Minnesota State Fair.
2. FLOAT THROUGH ‘YE OLD MILL’
For an old-school good time, board a boat and float through Ye Old Mill. This State Fair staple has been in operation for more than 100 years.
3. CHILL OUT ON A RELAXING RIDE
Summer days at the State Fair can get pretty hot, so take a minute to cool off on the River Raft Ride or enjoy the Great Wheel, one of the tallest traveling Ferris wheels in North America.
4. EXPERIENCE A NEW ATTRACTION OR EXHIBIT
From new shops to support to thrilling attractions, you will find something different to experience year after year. This year, take a ride on the new Riptide rollercoaster or watch artists create new murals at the Joyful World Mural Park. Find the full list of new attractions(opens in new window) and exhibits for 2021.
5. RISE ABOVE THE CROWDS
Get a bird’s-eye view of the fair by taking a ride on the SkyGlider or Skyride. It’s a great way to get around the fairgrounds when you get tired of walking.
6. GO INTO SPACE
See new heights and great views of the fairgrounds and the Twin Cities by going up in the iconic Space Tower.
7. WATCH THE PARADE
Watch the daily parade(opens in new window) at 2 p.m. featuring the high school band competition, floats, animals, visiting royalty, and more.
8. ENJOY FINE ART
Stroll through the Fine Arts building to see unique pieces by Minnesota artists.
9. ATTEND A FREE CONCERT
Catch some live music at the Leine Lodge Bandshell(opens in new window), International Bazaar, or Schell’s Stage at Schilling Amphitheater(opens in new window).
10. SEE THE BUTTER SCULPTURES
Watch Princess Kay of the Milky Way and the court have their likenesses carved into a 90-pound block of butter in the Dairy Building.
11. SEE HUGE SHOWS AT THE GRANDSTAND
See a popular show at the Grandstand(opens in new window). Past artists include The Doobie Brothers, Weird Al, Darci Lynne Farmer of America’s Got Talent and many more.
12. LAUGH WHILE YOU LEARN
Discover Minnesota’s history with the hilarious History-On-A-Schtick show at the Schell’s Stage.
13. TRY ALL THE NEW FOODS
Every year, State Fair food vendors try to one-up each other with a mix of over-the-top new foods meant to impress and delight your palate. Come with a group and try to taste them all! This year will feature bison bites, cucumber jalapeño limeade, Cajun cheese curds, caramelized banana pudding and more. See the full list of funky foods for 2021(opens in new window).
14. EAT A BUCKET OF COOKIES
Dunk a warm Sweet Martha’s Cookie (or 12) into a cup of ice cold milk from the All You Can Drink Milk booth.
15. SIP MINNESOTA-MADE DRINKS
There are more than 300 Minnesota beers(opens in new window), wines and ciders on the fairgrounds for you to try. Some Fair favorites are Lift Bridge Brewery’s Mini Donut Beer and the flight of Minnesota wines at Minnesota Wine Country.
16. TAKE IN THE SCENERY
Watch a variety of Minnesota fish swimming in the pond or climb to the top of the fire tower at the DNR Building.
17. APPRECIATE AGRICULTURE
Celebrate Minnesota’s agricultural significance by seeing the prize-winning and giant vegetables in the Agriculture Horticulture Building(opens in new window) or learn about a variety of topics in the 4-H building.
18. SEEK OUT SEED ART
Gaze at the incredible crop art in the Agriculture-Horticulture building. Art and crops collide to create unique pieces made of seeds, corn husks and more. This state fair tradition has been going on since 1965.
19. WATCH LUMBERJACKS AT WORK
Channel the spirit of Paul Bunyan at the Timberworks Lumberjack Show with daily shows at the North Woods area.
20. EAT CURDS
Share some piping hot cheese curds with your friends or family.
21. SEE THE STUNT DOGS
See former rescue dogs perform new tricks at the All-Star Stunt Dogs Splash at the North Woods.
22. WATCH LLAMAS DRESS TO IMPRESS
Watch the popular Llama Costume Contest to see 4-H kids and their llamas in coordinating costumes.
23. APPRECIATE THE GIFT OF LIFE
Walk through the CHS Miracle of Birth Center(opens in new window) to see and pet adorable baby pigs, cows, goats and chicks—you may even witness a live birth.
24. GO UPSCALE
Shop ‘til you drop at the West End Market(opens in new window), Veranda and more. The new Veranda area in the Grandstand features boutique-style shopping showcasing vintage, upcycled, handmade and made-in-Minnesota goods.
25. EAT FOOD ON A STICK
