Know Before You Go

Visiting the Minnesota State Fair

June 16

Minnesota State Fair: How to Save Money, Plus Where to Stay & Park

The Minnesota State Fair is one of the highlights of summer and we couldn’t be more excited for it.

Whether you go for the food, the rides, the animals, or the music, there is something for everyone. This year’s fair will be another year with record-setting attendance so now is the time to start planning your trip. Keep reading to find tips on where to stay, how to buy tickets, and more.

Minnesota State Fair – Where to Stay

West End Market - Minnesota State Fair

For many out-of-towners booking a hotel is a must. Roseville hotels are so close you can almost taste the cheese curds. This allows you to have a short drive or shuttle ride to and from the fair. Plus, many local hotels offer amenities like an indoor pool for the kiddos and free breakfast. There are also a ton of things to do while in town – be sure to see everything Roseville has to offer.

Roseville is as close as you can possibly get to the fair. Now is the time to book your stay as the hotels will almost certainly fill up. Check out the following hotels just minutes from the fairgrounds:

Save on Admission

Plan ahead and buy your tickets before August 2oth to get in on savings. Regularly priced adult tickets at the gate are $20 and seniors (65+) and kids (5-12) are $18, but if you purchase in advance, you can get tickets for $17. Kids 4 and under are always free! Click here to purchase your tickets online today or see options to buy tickets in person in advance.

There are also multiple Deal Days throughout the fair, which will get you discounted admission at the gate for kids, seniors, and military. There are also deal days forride and game discounts. Purchase a Blue Ribbon Bargain Book for $5 to get 100 coupons with huge savings on food, merchandise and attractions valid all 12 days of the fair!

Purchase Grandstand Tickets Before They Sell Out

As one of the most attended fairs in the country, the grandstand concerts at the Minnesota State Fair consistently draw large crowds and often sell out quickly. These concerts are a highlight of the fair, showcasing an exciting lineup of popular artists from various genres. Check out the lineup today, and make sure to buy your tickets early to guarantee you don’t miss out on an unforgettable experience! This year's shows include Def Leppard, Hank Williams Jr., Melissa Etheridge, Old Dominion, Meghan Trainor and more!

Where to Park

There are several free park-and-ride lots available throughout Roseville, with many conveniently located near hotels for easy access. These lots are a great option for those looking to avoid the hassle of driving directly to the event. The park and ride map will be updated for 2025 as we get closer to fair time.

On-site parking is available for a fee of $20, but it's important to note that these lots tend to fill up quickly in the morning.

To ensure you have the best experience, visit the state fair's website to find comprehensive information on all transportation and parking options, including shuttle services and public transit routes that can help you plan your visit effectively.

See You at the Minnesota State Fair!

As you prepare for your visit to the Minnesota State Fair, remember that the experience is not just about enjoying the attractions and entertainment but also about creating lasting memories whether you indulge in unique food offerings, explore the various exhibits, or enjoy live performances.

We hope this guide helps you make the most of your time at the fair, ensuring a fun and memorable experience. Safe travels, and we look forward to seeing you at this year's Minnesota State Fair!

More About the State Fair

Minnesota State Fair – Must-Sees

Did you read our article on where to stay, park, and how to save? If not go read it! Once you are done, it’s now time to talk about all the fantastic attractions you must see at the Minnesota State Fair! By following our tips on how to stay as close to the Fair as possible, you will have much more time to see and do everything at the Fair.

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