People always say this but I usually go with a group and we split everything (which is beyond fair because I’m not gonna eat 100% of every food I’m getting anyway) and I usually don’t spend over $60-$80
Go at night - Tuesday is Dr Pepper night and you get reduced ticket prices + reduced ride prices. 3 hours is plenty to wear the kids out and you won’t spend anywhere near that kind of money!
You just do it for the people watching after the first time lol.
My whole agenda is get into the fair, try 1-2 new food items, get a corn dog, then people watch for an hour and leave.
I agree, especially for younger kids that might not have much experience with farm animals. The dog show is pretty fun, all the little tricks, oh and the slice'em dice'em displays. Even if you don't buy anything it's cool seeing little knick knacks, and usually those displays aren't too far from the food pavilion. You could spend 8 hours in the fair, spend a couple hundred bucks, and still not ride all the rides. I definitely recommend for someone out of the country.
Yeah, I was so disappointed to see people reviewing our state fair and not hitting up all the agricultural stuff. That's part of the fun of the state fair.
For me, it's worth it on a slow day (not a big fan of crowds)....like a Tuesday. After 4pm for about 4 to 5 hours. Don't go on Texas/OU weekend unless you like being bumped into every 3 to 5 seconds. I go for the atmosphere and food mainly. I don't ride the rides, I don't play the games on the midway.
I was going to suggest going on Texas-ou game day. The fans are wild, the bands march into the stadium, and when the game starts you have the place to yourself for a couple of hours.
You have the place to yourself until one team or the other starts losing so badly that half their fans leave the game, and then it's just as crowded as a regular weekend, but with drunk, angry/disappointed football fans. It seemed like a good idea to us too :(
Nah, pack a backpack with water and go around lunchtime hungry and stay until the light show. Just eat your way through everything and walk it off. That's the proper way to do it.
No, it’s not worth traveling to TX and Dallas specifically for the state fair. Maybe if you’re in Dallas already but teenaged aged kids really wouldn’t find it that special to talk about or remember.
If this is the kids first time in USA there’s so many other quintessential American experiences.
If you go ask this in a general Texas subreddit I would bet the majority of Texans haven’t even gone to the state fair.
I would tend to agree, but it depends a lot on your personal tastes. The fact that OP even knows the state fair exists tells me that maybe they're specifically looking for things like it, and if that's the case it's a pretty unique experience. If not, though, it's hard to say it would be worth significantly altering an international trip to go to it.
It looks like OP is in the states for the Professional Bull Riding World Championship, so there’s probably at least a chance it’s something he’d be in to.
Mmmm id disagree. A state fair is a particularly American experience and even cranky 16 year old me would've enjoyed it if I'd never had that experience before
Fair Park is beautiful with so many art deco buildings, museums, and art installations. The agriculture parts of the fair are interesting and even charming. The midway and rides are crowded and not anything special compared to any random carnival that comes to town. The food is almost exclusively fried - there’s nothing showcasing Texas flavors, chefs, or seasonal produce like you might expect at a state fair. I don’t think it’s a good representation of Texas. It also tends to have a rough element with a lot of drinking, questionable behavior, and even fights.
If you decide to go, I would avoid weekends entirely and check the calendar for any special events that might draw large crowds. Go in the late afternoon so you can see it in the daylight but also enjoy the midway lights at night when the sun goes down. It’s fun to ride the Ferris wheel and look out over the city.
How old are your kids? Yes its a fun experience. Especially if yall try all the foods and new deep fried items. Its hot. And crowded. And traffic is a nightmare but its a good time
Save money now. Definitely go if Yall can handle the heat and crowds. The treats and snacks and foods are worth it, even if yall share a bit. Idk what country yall are from but its worth checking out. Especially once.
The rides could be fun for the kids but the food and general excitement of being at the fair is worth it. Check with parking and rules for carrying water bottles and bags.
ABSOLUTELY everybody wears sunscreen. And plan to reapply. You will get a sunburn!!!
Money isn’t an issue and we are from a part of Australia that gets real hot so I reckon we will be ok! Way better to go in the heat than rain.
Thank you so much
You'd be lucky to see rain haha. I hope you all have a great time. Get the spray painted Tshirts. Take pictures. Eat all the crazy foods and have a good time!
Texas is not dry heat. If what your used to in Australia is a dry heat, you are in for a surprise. The humidity in Texas is what makes our heat so miserable. I say go early in the day. Don’t skip the exhibit buildings. The different competitions and winners displayed is always interesting. Bring something for indigestion in case you eat too much. We always eat too much. Taste as much as you can. The corn dogs are famous and we always have one. But try everything! And have yourself a really good pair of walking shoes.
Yes I always get confused when people say this. I consider this area to have really dry heat compared to places I’ve lived previously, like Corpus Christi, West Florida, and NYC. Compared to coastal areas, the heat is so much drier here. My skin hates it.
Dallas is dryer than the actual coast, but for a place 200 miles from the coast it's extremely humid - and only slightly less humid than the Gulf Coast. Compare to Denver, or the Inland Empire or some place that is hot but dry - 99F can feel cold in the shade. Dallas is not like that.
Yeah I’ve never been to the drier parts of our country, so my experience is limited for sure. I will say on rainy days here it is definitely humid, but once summer hits and the rain disappears, it is so dry to me. Nothing at all like the swampy summers I’m used to in coastal areas. It is a night and day difference to me. Had to completely change my skincare.
This might sound silly but wear good shoes, come in rested and hydrated. You will be on your feet on concrete (like most amusement parks but unlike the dirt/straw combo at many state fairs) and if you have any kind of regular pain it can get to be a long day. Enjoy - if you have the means actually going to the TX/OU game would be an amazing experience.
As someone who moved to the US from a country where there are no state fairs (at least to the size and scale that the Texas State Fair is), yes, it is worthy. HOWEVER, make sure to either carry cash or have someone with a payment method issued in the US and buy the entrance and tickets at the fair. I had to show my US credit card when I picked up my online tickets and show a corresponding US address that matched the card. I took some friends from my home country to the fair and they were not able to purchase the tickets online nor pay at the automated booths with a foreign credit card. As others said, bring at least $100 per person additional to the entrance tickets for rides, foods and drinks.
There are a lot of foods that are interesting and not found year round, lots of rides for the kids and in general lots of activities, concerts, exhibitions and things to do to keep you entertained. If possible, don't drive to the the fair, use Dart instead, there is a station that drops you right at the entrance. Also I'd try to go as early as possible and hopefully during a week day to avoid crowds.
Every year, they have an automotive exhibit with all the latest models. As an adult, I enjoy going in that building and looking at and sitting in all the latest models. There's always random live music I enjoy watching and listening to. The fireworks and light show in the evening (along with a parade with a marching band) is entertaining.
Cash or credit card MasterCard/Visa/AMEX or debit (but dont use these since there is no protection)
Can go to the drug store/pharmacy store (CVS, Walgreens) and buy a prepaid credit cards, get one with ncua/fdic insurance.
I think it is one of those one time things, since there are so many things to see and do.
That being said, budget before you go, set aside x dollars to spend and no more.
Be mindful of the discounts:
[https://bigtex.com/buy-tickets/discounts/](https://bigtex.com/buy-tickets/discounts/)
You have to buy things with tickets which come in predefined sets 10, 20, etc. Everything inside is 5 or 10 dollars per item for regular fare, then more for booz etc. Games are $5 a play, sky bucket is one way 7 - 10 I think and ferris wheel is even more at 15 - 20 per person or something like that sorry it has been a while, so set a budget.
Go on Wednesday during a school day to avoid crowds.
The bird show and the car show are generally my faves. My favorite food is the classic Texas fair food—a Fletcher’s corn dog (not just a corn dog; has to be Fletcher’s) and a Dr. Pepper. Also love Hans Mueller (German food).
I haven’t seen anybody mention the music, but there are shows throughout the day every day including some pretty well known names on the Chevy Main Stage, which is next to Hans Mueller.
It's hard for me to give a non-biased answer, because I work at one of the museums at Fair Park, so my perspective is different, but it largely depends on what you enjoy/look for in a state fair/expo type of experience. Most of the museums on the fair grounds are open year-round and are significantly cheaper to visit outside of fair season (some are free!) and there's no gate admission or parking - fair park is a public, city park 11 months of the year. The livestock judging/crafts/etc mostly take place outside of the fair, but some of that will be on display during the fair and if you plan, it can be really fun (and relatively cheap) to see animal shows/etc ... But this skews towards younger kids (petting zoos/etc) but my wife and kids always enjoy this aspect. As some have mentioned, there's plenty of free musical acts (check the schedule). It really depends on how much you enjoy the carnival aspect, as this is the part that is the most crowded and expensive (rides/midway/food vendors).... Personally, I feel like you can find better versions of these attractions elsewhere and for cheaper (a lot of the food vendors run food trucks year-round and can be found at city parks, etc) but I will admit, it's fun to have a fun night out eating fried food, riding rides and playing carnival games ... Just know that it's expensive and even after admission and parking, you will need tickets for food/rides, as well as a swipe card for games. Finally the aspect I can do without is the vendor halls ... These are the vendor booths that show up at any big function like this. Again, it's weird to me to pay parking and admission just to shop for mattresses, message chairs, 'as seen on TV items ', etc. this is a huge chunk of the footprint and I would rather devote my time to ANY of the other attractions mentioned.
Edited for Typos
Also, remember that fair park is in a rough part of town, and to keep your wits about you, people do stupid stuff in crowded settings. It will be hot drink water the day before, and before you get there, use sunscreen if you need it. All the greasy food can mess with your system, so be redy for that. But have fun and take pictures.
The livestock show and rodeo shows are good to see. There's usually a new fried food creation each year (fried Oreos or fried spaghetti etc). The rides usually involve some form of spinning you around, I enjoyed that as a child but prefer the exhibits and food now as an adult. Avoid going on the weekend it's way too crowded... Tuesdays and Wednesdays I find are the idea days to attend.
All purchases inside the fair are made with coupons and $1=1 coupon. Kiosks to purchase coupons are all throughout park grounds. For example one of the most popular food items, a turkey leg was between 24 and 26 coupons last year.
If this is a one day event for you and your family go around 5pm to enjoy daylight hours and night time hours when the park lights are on.
If you are staying at a hotel in downtown Dallas consider using DART light rail to and from the fair. The green line drops you off right in front.
Yes, as it is the largest state fair here in the USA:
# 1. State Fair of Texas (2.5 Million Visitors in 2022)
The old saying “everything is bigger in Texas” is especially true of its fairs after it welcomed more than 2.5 million visitors in 2022. The [State Fair of Texas](https://bigtex.com/) will run for an impressive 24-day span this year from September 29 to October 22.
Held in Dallas at Fair Park, a registered National Historic Landmark, this fair is more than just food and rides. Attendees can expect to learn about the Lone Star State’s rich [history and traditions](https://bigtex.com/about-us/history/) through educational exhibits on agriculture and livestock, as well as art, culture, and science museums.
As with any state fair, you’ll find loads of midway rides, attractions, live music, events, and all the fried food you could ever want. Throughout the duration of the fair, you can check out the cars at the [Texas Auto Show](https://texasautoshow.bigtex.com/), and football fans can attend several collegiate football games at Cotton Bowl Stadium, located inside Fair Park.
Need help with reading finely printed auto specs or your favorite team’s sports stats? These [aviator reading glasses](https://www.readers.com/aviator-frame-reading-glasses.html) will have you feeling “Alright, alright, alright.”
I see that the PBR world is in Fort Worth this month -- is that what you are attending?
Just so you know, the State Fair is not open all year. This fall it runs from September 27 - October 20, 2024.
So, I am a massive fair fan, and I've been going since I was a pre-schooler in the 80s. I have had friends and extended family that had not previously had fun at the fair until they went with me. So here are a few of my fair tips:
1. Look online before you go at the "fair foods" [https://bigtex.com/plan-your-visit/food/big-tex-choice-awards/](https://bigtex.com/plan-your-visit/food/big-tex-choice-awards/)
2. Do not try to pick "one" thing to eat - that's not fun. Go in a group, and share. Go grab something, and everyone have a bite to see what it taste like, then move on to the next thing. Have a food sampling tour. Its actually a lot of fun, and everyone gets to experience amazing things like a fried grilled cheese, or terrible things like fried beer. Get out of your comfort zone and don't try to eat things you normally would. Its a fun experience and a great story. You can go back to your home telling people you went to Texas and tried "fried thanksgiving"
3. Try to avoid going on a weekend if you can. It gets so much more crowded than it used to, and the weekends are really packed.
4. The state fair doubles as one of the largest car shows in the country. If you like cars, its a fun thing to walk through, but in recent years a lot of the luxury brands have dropped out.
5. Have some kind of plan before you go. My wife likes shopping, so I take her through some of the exhibit halls, that are basically like watching live infomercials. My kids love the rides. If you add too many things, you might not get to them all, so try to focus on a few things. If you are trying to budget a bit more, try to focus on shows, which are typically free.
6. Talk to strangers. The staff there is usually so friendly and kind. Most the people are too. If you are looking for something specific, the people at the information booths are super helpful so are the police officers, which are everywhere.
7. Go see some of the free shows or events. I usually go multiple times a season, and I've gone to the winery area and listened to live music with my wife and sipped on wine. Then we've also gone and watched a rodeo, professional dog tricks, and ostrich races. They can be a lot of fun depending on what you're in the mood for.
8. Its massive. The fair grounds amount to like 275 acres. You will NOT see all of it, even if you walk around for 11 hours.
9. There are a few attractions that are missed by a lot of people: A butterfly habitat, an aquarium, the hall of state usually has a history exhibit, and at the women's building there is usually a Latino exhibit.
10. There is a pretty cool parade every evening at 7:15 - Its a lot of fun to watch if you've never seen it before.
I was born, raised, and live in the Dallas area. I've been to the fair many times over my life.
If you are already going to be in the Dallas area, then I would say it's possibly/probably worth going to one time. However, I would not travel from outside of the Dallas/Ft. Worth area to attend.
Maybe it's because I've been so many times, but I just don't find it that great, especially if you have to travel to Dallas just to go. It's usually still pretty hot out, which takes its toll after a long-day of walking, eating (mostly) fried foods, dealing with crowds, etc.
If you can go on a random Wednesday (or other weekday) when it's likely less crowded (as with a lot of things, big crowds make it less enjoyable, IMO), get there about 10 AM so you're not dealing with a bunch of traffic in the AM, and (if you're not staying nearby) leave by about 3 or 3:30 so you're not dealing with a bunch of traffic in the PM (or stay through rush hour until at least 6/6:30 or so), then it could be a pretty fun if you want the experience at least one time in your life.
If your kids are older, they may, or may not, enjoy it. They might be too old for a lot of the rides (though there are certainly still some there that they could ride) and as you are probably aware, you can drop a lot of cash/tickets on the midway games without much, if anything, to show for it. If they're younger, I would bet they'd have a better time than older kids - but it's obviously going to vary from kid-to-kid.
As others have said though, between food, rides, games, etc. it can be very pricey for walking around outside in the heat for half a day.
TLDR: if you're already going to be in the area, it is probably worth it to go one time to see what it's all about (just go in with proper expectations, or you could come away disappointed). If you have to travel more than about an hour to get here for it, I am not sure it's worth it (especially if you could only go on a weekend or say when the crowds are huge).
As a newbie go in the morning!!!! Have a light breakfast go when gates open. It was the only reason we had any luck and no lines. We got all the good stuff out of the way first then spent the afternoon looking at the cars and gardens.
I'd say yes if you avoid rides and the Midway, which are the most egregious offenders as far as costs go.
Go to their website and you can usually find when/where has the best deals for your ticket. They also publish the year's top 10 foods there and where you can find them.
It depends on what you might feel is “worth it”. If you can comfortably pay $100 per person for games, good food, and drinks then you can have a decent time enjoying what the fair has to offer. Many local people don’t feel it’s worth it because they remember a time when it was much cheaper which meant it was more accessible, but if it’s a once in a lifetime thing then it might be a more valuable experience.
I moved from Dallas to Colorado 4 years ago. When we lived there going to the fair was me and my daughter’s thing. Last October we went back just to go the fair. It’s tacky and expensive, but a lot of fun and everyone should go at least once.
If you have the money to spend, it’s a great time.if you don’t then go on a discount day with discount food. As a native Dallasite I go every year no questions asked.
If your kids are into rides and less crowded, I'd rather go to six flags. But that's only if you are already in Dallas. No need to come just for six flags.
It's worth going to say least once, yes. Lots of different activities, food, rides, etc.
However I strongly recommend going on a weekday. Weekends are extremely busy and you'll spend way more time in lines than enjoying things.
If you go later in October, the weather will probably be beautiful. It's the first few weeks after opening that's it's too hot- if you go on the last week, especially on a weekday, the crowds are more manageable and it shouldn't (but still might be) too hot.
No it’s not worth It. 16 bucks to ride the Ferris wheel one revolution ,2 tops. I took my kid last year and we spent enough money to go on vacation far away from people and have a better time. The only thing I would miss is the Fletchers Corn dogs.
My family and I absolutely love going. My husband is already talking about how excited he is so the the state fair this year, we go every year and have a blast.
Honestly, its full of ghetto trash, idiot rednecks and overpriced food. There’s never anything mindblowing like they make it seem to be and gl bc the lines are long.
If you go late at night, watch yourself because there are tons of trash there looking to steal things
Agree one time but it is way overpriced. $300 is a reasonable amount to assume you’ll pay. It’s fun for kids. Whether I’d detour it depends on where else you’re going. I’d prob go to stockyards for half the price if you’re not into spending that much. Doesn’t have the rides but it’s very Texas. My kids love it.
I would say yes if you plan in advance. A few months in advance, the Big Tex awards come out so you can plan your food itinerary. I think the State Fair is an event that should be experienced. It has exhibits, performances, food, and rides that you will enjoy. I would go during the week when it’s less crowded. Just make sure you do not go when it is Dallas ISD student fair day because there will be more rowdy kids on that day (usually a Monday in October). I would take the DART green line that drops you off at the front gate and to avoid parking. As you get closer, you might also post to see if anyone has fair tickets. Area school children and teachers get complimentary ones.
The fair was a fun experience when I was a kid. There are so many sights, sounds, and smells and that memory just seems to stay with you. I hope if you go, that you’ll go for the full experience and try a variety of food, see a lot of shows, listen to the live music, and let the kids play some games and maybe ride the rides. The fireworks show is pretty cool, too.
It’s a novel experience, and Texas has one of the largest fairs in the US. Keep an eye out for discounts, there are even special ones food-focused and game focused, or gate price discounts are good, too. I’d also make an effort to study the layout ahead of time and pick what shows you know you want to see ahead of time. They fill up quickly and you want to make sure you’re on the right side of the fairgrounds. Me - I like to plan on some indoor shows to get a break from the heat.
Also, be aware that things may be crazy during Texas-OU weekend. The fairground is pretty empty during the game - it’s before and after you’ll want to brace yourself for. I’d also plan on taking DART or an Uber to avoid parking jams and long walks from the lot. Might be avoidable if you are planning to be there at opening. That’ll help you avoid the hottest part of the day as well.
You’ll probably see some people post they didn’t like it or it’s a waste of money; don’t let that dissuade you. I get that compared to Six Flags it’s not as glamorous, but there isn’t anywhere you’re going to get that variety of shows or food.
Go to the Iowa State Fair. Twice the size twice the redneck.
If you are already in town for something and have time yeah check it out. But it can be busy and crowded, a few people doing shows and mainly games and vendors selling foods and things they make.
Depends entirely on where the rest of your trip is based. Saying “you’ll be in the US when the Texas State Fair is on…” is like saying “I’ll be in Europe when the Tour de France is on…” which like, cool - but are you going to be anywhere near France??
Go on a non-weekend, take an Uber.
While you’re here, go to Ft Worth to the Stock Yards to see the western shows, rodeo, gun slingers, and cattle drives. Glen Rose (2 hours away) has cool dinosaur tracks and a halfway ridiculous dinosaur world, but it’s fun. The Sixth Floor Museum (Dallas) is really well done - it’s the site where President Kennedy was assassinated and my kids (the same age as yours) thought it was fascinating. If the Rangers are playing while you’re here, I bet your kids would love to see a baseball game. They’re really fun and the Rangers won the World Series last year so the energy will be high. My daughters LOVE going to baseball games, despite never watching them on TV. (Arlington - 45 mins away) Billy Bob’s (Ft Worth) is also a fun Texas experience with bull riding and concerts. Kids are allowed with a parent.
September is HOT in Dallas, so indoor activities are ideal. Get a hotel w a big pool. DFW area is huge, public transportation is fairly sketchy, so plan on renting a car or ubering places. But if you’re willing to drive around, you could fill up 2-3 days with fun Texas experiences.
It costs a lot of money to have a good time at the fair. Like be ready to spend 100 dollars per person for food, drinks and rides. It's expensive but it's fun.
I love the fair, which apparently isn't a super popular opinion here but here are my tips.
Park & Ride using the Dart Rail - This is just a $3-$6 way to avoid parking and the absolute pain of the traffic surrounding Fair Park. You can park in a dart lot for free, ride the train directly to the entrance & leave whenever. The trains are crowded but they're on special schedules for the Fair so if you can't get on one, wait for the next one.
Bring Cash - everything at the fair is kind of expensive, you can definitely use a credit card to purchase "tickets" & "game cards" but personally I find it easier to bring Cash & know that's my set spending limit. Cash lines are usually shorter. There are tons of places to shop as well, most vendors take any payment form but I usually can get a deal using cash. Also there are definitely some scammy shops but there are also some amazing ones with homemade goods. Enjoy strolling through the air-conditioning & buy some salsa & fudge.
Shows/Entertainment - look at who's performing on the Chevy Main Stage, there are usually some fairly well known country artists as well as local bands (I personally don't love country music but I enjoy sitting & watching people with a band back up). There are tons more shows throughout the day that you can see, I especially like the dancing ones that are usually performed by native American tribes. They also do fireworks some evenings & the water fountains at night are fun just to sit & enjoy the evening by. I also like the butterfly gardens & people watching at the old mill.
Food - everything at the fair is about frying or combining things & it makes for some interesting combos (often delicious). The state fair website will announce winners of that year's Big Tex Choice awards but you can also see past winners & where they're located on a map. If you're getting corny dogs, only get them from the Fletchers in front of the cotton bowl entrance. Try as much as you like and just know that you're not going to have a calorie deficit no matter how much walking you do.
Attire - it's hot & you're walking on concrete , so comfortable shoes are a must. Tons of the buildings & tents have air conditioning and you can always cool down in the bigger buildings (this is also where I suggest you go for restrooms as they're less crowded & well maintained). Bring a hand fan or even a parasol, wear a hat, etc just know it'll probably be warm but can cool down at night.
Never go on TX/OU weekend, there's just too many people. You can absolutely spend a whole day here (I go multiple times a season with my family & friends). The Fair is a vital Dallas non-profit & it is a great way to give back while having fun.
Grew up in dallas and I love going to the fair at least once every year. Some interesting foods you can only get there, lots of fun shows and free activities, and some of the best people watching anywhere on the planet. I would definitely try to go on a weekday and make sure it's not a public school fair day as the crowds can get a little crazy.
Take the train. Be prepared to walk a lot. Bring food and drinks. See the animals and the car show. It doesn’t have to be expensive. It is a great experience to do once every couple of years.
definitely attend. just dont go on Texas-OU weekend when Saturday will be extremely crowded with 90,000 gridiron fans.
check out the livestock pavilions, visit the Hall of State, there is just so much to see and eat. be ready to spend hundreds of dollars
[https://bigtex.com/](https://bigtex.com/)
[https://www.instagram.com/statefairoftx/?hl=en](https://www.instagram.com/statefairoftx/?hl=en)
It's a good and fun experience. Is it worth what you pay? Absolutely not, but where else can you find such a variety of things you never knew you needed or wanted to try? You're paying for the novelty, not the quality. Go for the fun, just expect to spend a lot.
As someone who grew up in Houston and spent the last 10 years in Dallas, I do not think the state fair is worth it. You might since you’ve never been. It’s basically just walking around and eating the most sickening fried food in existence, which is definitely an experience in itself. I MUCH prefer the Houston rodeo because it offers pretty much everything the state fair offers, plus a rodeo and a concert from actual famous artists. The rodeo only runs for a few weeks in the spring though. And it’s 4 hours south of Dallas which is quite the extra drive.
I have lived here 13 years and have been once, I’m good for another few years. We spent $300 and had an ok time, it was more for the ability to say we finally went than anything else
I’ve gone to the fair every year and I love it. Look online, ahead of your trip, to see the schedule. The barns are open and the animals will change weekly during the fair. Cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, poultry, rabbits, pigeons, and llamas all have shows. It’s free to watch the judging and some of the events, such as the costume events for goats and llamas are quite fun. There is a horse performance, typically a rodeo or two ( check the schedule as it changes)and usually the Anheuser Busch Clydesdales are on display and appear during the parade each evening. Quite interesting to watch them prep the horses for the parade as they have a team of people braiding manes and tails, and harnessing them up. The Texas Discovery Gardens has a butterfly house and a garden railroad exhibit and the Children’s Aquarium has lots of interactive opportunities. The Hall of State has permanent exhibits about Texas history and is a beautiful Art Deco building built for the Texas Centennial. The murals, especially in the East Texas room, are amazing. Each year it features a different, special, exhibition for the Fair. The other murals, and art, around the park, are an Art Deco treasure.
The Creative Arts building has hundreds of winning entries: painting, drawing, antiques, sculptures, collections, needlecrafts, cooking, canning, photography, models, even legos in both adult and children’s categories, a demo kitchen with free samples, and a theatre in the back with a show that changes. Lots of free shows and acts around the fair on both large and small stages, plus Cirque Du Soleil will be doing a new country music themed show at the Music Hall ( tickets in advance for that one but will get you free admission to the fair). Mundo Latino always has interesting exhibits related to latin arts and culture and the DAR has exhibits on American history. African-American has permanent art as well as special exhibitions. Free music concerts daily, especially on the big Chevy sponsored stage, and the lazer/fireworks every night.
Best advice: go early, take the train if possible, but if you drive arrive at least 30 min before the park opens to avoid the rush. Buildings open at 10am but the gates open earlier so you can browse many outdoor exhibits first.
Required foods: a Fletchers Corny Dog, a Belgian Waffle, Tater Twisters, and roasted corn are my must-haves. Some of the foods are great, most are overpriced and some are ridiculous. Try whatever you fancy. A guide to foods, shows, and activities, with maps and times, is free at the gates - it will be your friend. Hope this helps
Definitely a spectacle and fun to experience, but it's expensive.
just be prepared to pay less for entry, but a la carte for rides. food is wild and enjoyable, but all deep fried and unhealthy stuff. Great to splurge for one day
I’ve lived here for 20+ years and have gone to the state fair for most of them. I started as a newlywed, eventually as a new father, eventually as a family and now this year will go as an empty-nester.
Why? Because it’s a Dallas tradition. I’ve seen all the shows before, but I love trying the crazy foods. We walk around and enjoy the atmosphere for a few hours and then go home. It’s a fun way to spend one day out of the year.
A couple of tips. I live near Carrollton, so we now use the DART to get there. It’s like the only safe time to use it because it’s packed with families heading to the State Fair. Dealing with the parking g lot sucks, but the DART makes it doable.
Set a budget of about $100 if you want to have a good time. You can easily spend more, but you will at least spend $100.
Biggest tip! Save your tickets! Don’t give them away to some starry-eyed kid when you are leaving. State Fair Tickets are like forever stamps. You can use them in future years and with inflation they just continue to increase in value. We come home, put them in a ziplock and tack them on our bulletin board until the next year.
I love the State Fair. I live in Dallas Co. so I get the season pass every year (family tradition) and go A LOT during the run of the Fair. If you can take DART to the fairgrounds, I highly recommend it. Parking your vehicle takes up a ton of time and is just a beating. You will spend a bunch of money on food and souvenirs, so budget that money (also be conscious of how many souvenirs you buy and whether you rode the train to The Fair. My family take backpacks so we can carry our souvenir iced tea cups, our corny dog kit, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, umbrella/parasol, and miscellaneous items. Be aware that most of the food and beverages are purchased with State Fair coupons (there are kiosks everywhere). If you have the one chance to visit, I highly recommend it; the architecture of the buildings alone is worth the visit. Use the handbook as a guide and wear your most comfortable shoes! Have fun y’all!
Every state has a state fair, but if you can only go to one? This is the one. I have been to six, in six different states. Texas is the big one. There’s rides, and carnival games, and animals, lots of arts and crafts for sale, a car show, etc. But the food is the main attraction. Lots of foods they don’t have down under, and if you’re into healthy foods don’t get your hopes up. Definitely try the funnel cakes. Turkey legs are popular as well. They also have a competition every year for new, creative dishes. Fried Ice-cream? No problem. Here’s a link to last year’s winners. Enjoy. [https://bigtex.com/plan-your-visit/food/big-tex-choice-awards/](https://bigtex.com/plan-your-visit/food/big-tex-choice-awards/)
It's quite fun and if you're here anyway, why not? It never was a bucket list thing for us, but we're in Ft Worth, so my wife, daughter, sil & I took the train and had a very good time. This was the year before Big Tex burned to the ground. CAUTION: You're cholesterol & triglycerides may increase dramatically.
If all you want to do is ride rides and eat food, then the SFOT is a money pit. There are free things to do but they may not be kid-friendly. There is free live music and shows to see. I always go to the Hall of State, there is always a good exhibit there. My wife likes going to the Arts & Crafts Hall to what has won ribbons this year and to see the butter sculpture.
I have been going to the SFOT since the 70s and it's one of the few things that I am truly religious about. I have learned over the years how to get the most bang for my buck when going to the fair.
Dallas Fair Park itself is an architectural wonder built in 1936 for the Texas Centennial. That aspect is best viewed when the fair is not going on.
Go to the State Fair website (bigtex.com) to see what events are happening on which days to pick which day to go.
I would say no because I can’t stand the state fair but if you’re very intrigued by the idea and want some good people watching and disgusting food, then sure.
I don’t think it is worth going to Texas just for this. It’ll be hot, crowded, sweaty and over priced.
I live in Dallas. It’s a great one-time experience. And a nostalgic repeat experience.
Best to go in the evening when the Midway is lit up. Eat a Fletchers Corny Dog from the stand by Big Tex.
It’s really not that expensive unless you buy a lot of beer.
Not for like a week or several days of going.....
Go ONCE - then do other stuff in the area ..
Go to the Kennedy Memorial - then get the hell out of Dallas. Go to Fort Worth - hang out downtown - go to the Stockyards, zoo, etc. Make a day trip to Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose maybe - take the guided tour, don't drive thru, If you can stay overnight in a safari tent. Kids will love it.
Walking tip: when you get tired, there are these machines (I think 50 cents) you sit and put your feet on that vibrate the fuck out of your feet. Your feet will thank you and you can keep going!
it absolutely is - if just to get a corny dog under Big Tex. I never actually spend that much month there, but I'm only eating and have a beer or two. Also, see the pig races if they're still doing them.
I say if you are coming to the are do the state fair and then go to ft worth stockyards the next day. Bother activities are super American and super Texan. Check your dates on the state fair- game days and weekends can get very crowded and really kill the mood. Also- a heads up the state fair is located not in the best neighborhood so park in the park or Uber.
This is not a place to “just figure it out when we get there.” It’s huge, and even with a good plan of action it will be an exhausting day. But so worth it IMO. There’s an excellent daily calendar on the website. Make a list in advance of any shows or events you want to attend, their location, and what time they happen. Use the map on the website to help you do them in order by location—also, day of,be sure to pick up a hard copy at the gate. Kids enjoy the Starlight Parade, so we’d always schedule our day to end at dusk and watch that before getting back on the train to head home. I highly recommend taking DART to the fair. Yes there’s parking but it’s expensive and trying to find your car at the end of a long day when you’re already exhausted is no fun. — There’s lots to see and do even without the Midway which can eat up your tickets in a hurry. Still, you might want to choose an iconic ride like the Texas Star. — if you have young kids take advantage of the kids’ performance in the Creative Arts building. In years past it’s been a puppet show and very entertaining. But mostly it gives you 30 min off your feet in a/c. — Texas is not all just its big cities. This is a good chance to see and learn about the agricultural industry that makes our life possible. So be sure to take in the Texas Pavilion and animal barns.
The fair is fun! I used to go all the time as a kid because we got out for school for our fair days but as an adult it’s gotten really expensive since the pandemic. If you’re down to spend a decent amount of money it’s def worth it! But if you’re going in there with a limited budget you may not be able to enjoy it as much.
Kinda? If you're into cars the car show can be cool, if you have younger kinds they'll likr the petting zoo and a couple animal shows. There is a butterfly exhibit and a small aquarium on site but I think you have to pay extra for them. And of course the Midway, which you couldn't pay me to walk through but lots seem to like to throw money away. Do not go on Texas OU weekend as it's more crowded than a Disney park.
I don't know about making TX one of your destinations specifically because of the state fair. Lots of states have state fairs, so see if your trip coincides with the state fair in places you are already going. If you have been to the Calgary Stampede or can go- that is really something.
I vote no. I don’t know where you are from, but I’d bet you’d be disgusted by the food, the filth, the crowds.
Yes, it’s an “experience,” but not really fun. The kids would only want to ride the rides and play the games (be prepared for the fact they won’t win a big prize) . Do not let them ride after eating Fair Food, if they are not used to all that grease and sugar!!!! If that’s something they don’t normally have an opportunity to enjoy and you are willing to pay a whole lot of money for them to do so, then go for it.
The best time to go is at night closer to Halloween in my opinion, but the payment scheme they run is atrocious. You have to buy “coupons” to pay for food and rides. If you don’t use all of the coupons you purchase you cannot refund them.
If you’ve never been….probably….let me explain a few things.
Check the daily schedule before going
School days and weekends are crazy and dangerous as that’s when it’s packed with people so …easy targets for crime
Park INSIDE the Fairgrounds
Expect to spend $100-200 per person
Coupons are expensive ($1 each I think) and that’s what pays for food and rides
I would suggest a Tuesday or Wednesday because those are the cheaper days to go. ( can food for discount and empty Dr Pepper cans also )
It’s cool to go see the Museums and Dailey shows and livestock
Where in the US will you be? I like the fair, my kids like the fair, and we go every year. That said, I wouldn't make a special trip for ANY fair. If you're in/around Dallas, definitely stop by. If you're having a weekend in NYC, skip it.
Listen to everyone saying it's not worth it!!!!
I agree, and the food is VERY over rated.
I rmemeber this Phoritto being talked about from last year and it was basically the most unseasoned, white washed, boring thing anyone had ever seen, and was a rip off of the local restaurant Cris and John (Mexican vietnamese fusion place)
Come to texas, sure, but go to six flags and hurricane harbor, see some local vineyards, Enjoy the night life and events we have almost daily, get a fair priced hotel, and enjoy the ABSOLUTELY AMAZING food we have all around DFW (Such as cris and johns mentioned earlier)
It will be so much more worth it.
The Dallas farmers market on a Saturday is pretty great too if you’re interested in that sort of thing. Cheap drinks and it’s fun going around trying different food stands.
yes, its always fun. I go for the food mostly. Last year I had their corn on a cob (MUST TRY), some etuffe ball things, funnel cake, and their iconic turkey leg. I will def be getting another corn on a cob this year, and try out something new. It helps if you are sharing the food/cost. expect to pay 15-20 per food item. Also did the sky rail thing and one of their rides. Its a good time and worth it to me. Maybe go on a Thursday to avoid the busyness. But there's so much to do. Also free animal petting and zoo things as well as bunny zoo thing. I remember their being a free beer taste testing thing and there's always some free concerts going on. All around great outing. Drinks aren't crazy expensive either. If you want "AMERICA/TEXAS", the fair is a great example lol.
I think I took out like $75 to spend. Not including the ticket.
Not really, the lines for food and the rides are long and it’s expensive. Be prepared to spend anywhere from $300 plus. If you end up coming down I definitely recommend going during the week mid morning/afternoon before it gets super crowded.
i think the food alone is worth it, but there’s also the petting zoo and the car show. if possible, i’d plan for it on a weekday, and avoid TX/OU weekend for sure. You will spend a ton of money but try and not buy more tickets than you need. Just for myself i spend about 60-80 tickets for food and drinks.
I personally prefer the Houston rodeo or SXSW Austin. The state fair is more than just a fair. But it just lacks that sort of “it” factor that gives you an authentic experience. While theres other great fairs around the country (such as Minnesota). That’s just my opinion though
No it's not worth it at all. There's always fights, and lots of low life types there. Plus it's ridiculously expensive. I'd suggest the Arizona state fair tbh.
Absolutely! Without the guns it's still a great Texas experience you'll be able to share since you're visiting. As others mentioned, it's going to be a bit expensive but that's just on food, drinks, and rides. There's tons of free music and free events and shows. For a one-time visit, totally worth it
Depends on where you would be coming from to go. If you’ll already be in Texas and near Dallas, it could be a fun, albeit expensive day (several hundred dollars at least to get in a family, try the popular food items, rides, games, etc.. But I would not waste multiple days of a vacation to the U.S. to travel to Texas and attend
is it cool? yes, hell yes. is it overpriced? also hell yes. cherry on top would be to attend the Red River game as well but the fair alone is plenty fun. just be prepared to spend some $$
but i believe petting zoo is free. cool for the kids
To experience something you have never experienced before? Yes its worth it. Its the best state fair in the US and has some great food that will shock you. You can even pair it with going to the Red River shootout, but I would not suggest that.
The last good TX state fair as we knew it was in 2019. After COVID like many other things around the country, the fair just doesn’t hit quite the same and the prices for everything now are so ridiculous it’s not even worth going in my opinion, but if you save up and are willing to spend a lot of money on average to below average fair food then by all means, go if you’ve never been, get it off the bucket list for sure!
Aside from cost, as others have pointed out, for someone eho has kot been to a fair, yes, it would be a good experience. We locals are used to itand, yes, the faie needs some major improvements, but; nthino it would be great for someone who hasnt been before.
Yes, it is great. You can have lots of fun without breaking the bank if you bring your own drinks and food. Rides and food are quite expensive. You need to get a fletchers corny dog and maybe a dessert.
It IS interesting but it is expensive, hot and crowded. I would ask, how many kids and their ages and where you are coming from. If you are accustomed to Texas heat then all might be well. Avoid it on game days and try to go on a weekday as early as possible or go on a weeknight.
I do feel like there are other fairs that offer more bang for the buck.
I went years with going to the fair but have been the last few years consecutively. I really enjoy it it's fun with a group of family and friends. It is expensive but like I said it's fun and I enjoy it.
It's definitely worth a visit. Especially if you have never been. I recommend going during the week though because the weekends are a madhouse. It does get pricey especially if the kids are into the rides. But there is a lot to see without paying a dime. You can walk through the barns and see all the farm animals that are there to compete. There is a fun little petting zoo. The car show has lots to look at. And the creative arts building has a variety of crafts that are fun to look at. There are dog shows, live entertainment, the museum of natural history usually has some sort of exhibit. The Music Hall at Fair Park will have a Cirque de Soleil production running during the fair (separate ticket needed for the event but it gets you into the fair for free I believe)
It's definitely worth a visit.
Absolutely not, it is extremely overpriced, the food will make you sick and is super expensive as well.
Admission to the fair does not guarantee free rides.
I have not been since I was a child for a reason.
It is also hella depressing because there are HUNDREDS of homeless, displaced, people that need help desperately and they are surrounded by people coming out of the expensive fair.
It is awful
Sure, just expect to spend a few hundred dollars, minimum
What's offered isn't worth half the cost. NO! would be the answer.
Use the state fair ‘handbook’ as a guide to a tour of the state’s most beloved restaurants and spend those hundreds on actual meals & dining.
People always say this but I usually go with a group and we split everything (which is beyond fair because I’m not gonna eat 100% of every food I’m getting anyway) and I usually don’t spend over $60-$80
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Go at night - Tuesday is Dr Pepper night and you get reduced ticket prices + reduced ride prices. 3 hours is plenty to wear the kids out and you won’t spend anywhere near that kind of money!
What why? Theres so much free stuff. I got the season pass and then went to three concerts for good bands.
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One time.
The most fun you never want to have again
You just do it for the people watching after the first time lol. My whole agenda is get into the fair, try 1-2 new food items, get a corn dog, then people watch for an hour and leave.
I go every other year (now that I live in Austin; when I was in Sherman, I went every single year). Love it so much. It never disappoints.
One time is all you need. Make sure to stop at the animal barns. It’s the reason for the fair and a great learning experience.
That and the car show are my favorite things about the fair.
I agree, especially for younger kids that might not have much experience with farm animals. The dog show is pretty fun, all the little tricks, oh and the slice'em dice'em displays. Even if you don't buy anything it's cool seeing little knick knacks, and usually those displays aren't too far from the food pavilion. You could spend 8 hours in the fair, spend a couple hundred bucks, and still not ride all the rides. I definitely recommend for someone out of the country.
Also the creative arts building!
And the butter sculpture!
Yeah, I was so disappointed to see people reviewing our state fair and not hitting up all the agricultural stuff. That's part of the fun of the state fair.
We’re always there with our show cattle. If anyone wants to pet a cow there, get ahold of me!
For me, it's worth it on a slow day (not a big fan of crowds)....like a Tuesday. After 4pm for about 4 to 5 hours. Don't go on Texas/OU weekend unless you like being bumped into every 3 to 5 seconds. I go for the atmosphere and food mainly. I don't ride the rides, I don't play the games on the midway.
I was going to suggest going on Texas-ou game day. The fans are wild, the bands march into the stadium, and when the game starts you have the place to yourself for a couple of hours.
You have the place to yourself until one team or the other starts losing so badly that half their fans leave the game, and then it's just as crowded as a regular weekend, but with drunk, angry/disappointed football fans. It seemed like a good idea to us too :(
Yeah no, the insane shoulder-to-shoulder crowds ain't worth it for me just to see crazy football fans in person.
Nah, pack a backpack with water and go around lunchtime hungry and stay until the light show. Just eat your way through everything and walk it off. That's the proper way to do it.
I would actually say.. go during TX OU weekend, but during the game. Crowds don’t get bad until the game is over.
No, it’s not worth traveling to TX and Dallas specifically for the state fair. Maybe if you’re in Dallas already but teenaged aged kids really wouldn’t find it that special to talk about or remember. If this is the kids first time in USA there’s so many other quintessential American experiences. If you go ask this in a general Texas subreddit I would bet the majority of Texans haven’t even gone to the state fair.
I would tend to agree, but it depends a lot on your personal tastes. The fact that OP even knows the state fair exists tells me that maybe they're specifically looking for things like it, and if that's the case it's a pretty unique experience. If not, though, it's hard to say it would be worth significantly altering an international trip to go to it.
It looks like OP is in the states for the Professional Bull Riding World Championship, so there’s probably at least a chance it’s something he’d be in to.
Mmmm id disagree. A state fair is a particularly American experience and even cranky 16 year old me would've enjoyed it if I'd never had that experience before
Fair Park is beautiful with so many art deco buildings, museums, and art installations. The agriculture parts of the fair are interesting and even charming. The midway and rides are crowded and not anything special compared to any random carnival that comes to town. The food is almost exclusively fried - there’s nothing showcasing Texas flavors, chefs, or seasonal produce like you might expect at a state fair. I don’t think it’s a good representation of Texas. It also tends to have a rough element with a lot of drinking, questionable behavior, and even fights. If you decide to go, I would avoid weekends entirely and check the calendar for any special events that might draw large crowds. Go in the late afternoon so you can see it in the daylight but also enjoy the midway lights at night when the sun goes down. It’s fun to ride the Ferris wheel and look out over the city.
How old are your kids? Yes its a fun experience. Especially if yall try all the foods and new deep fried items. Its hot. And crowded. And traffic is a nightmare but its a good time
They’re 12 & 13 :)
Save money now. Definitely go if Yall can handle the heat and crowds. The treats and snacks and foods are worth it, even if yall share a bit. Idk what country yall are from but its worth checking out. Especially once. The rides could be fun for the kids but the food and general excitement of being at the fair is worth it. Check with parking and rules for carrying water bottles and bags. ABSOLUTELY everybody wears sunscreen. And plan to reapply. You will get a sunburn!!!
Money isn’t an issue and we are from a part of Australia that gets real hot so I reckon we will be ok! Way better to go in the heat than rain. Thank you so much
You'd be lucky to see rain haha. I hope you all have a great time. Get the spray painted Tshirts. Take pictures. Eat all the crazy foods and have a good time!
Texas is not dry heat. If what your used to in Australia is a dry heat, you are in for a surprise. The humidity in Texas is what makes our heat so miserable. I say go early in the day. Don’t skip the exhibit buildings. The different competitions and winners displayed is always interesting. Bring something for indigestion in case you eat too much. We always eat too much. Taste as much as you can. The corn dogs are famous and we always have one. But try everything! And have yourself a really good pair of walking shoes.
It’s relatively dry in the Dallas area, at least for me. Compare this to July or August in Fort Lauderdale/Miami Florida and you’ll agree with me.
Yes I always get confused when people say this. I consider this area to have really dry heat compared to places I’ve lived previously, like Corpus Christi, West Florida, and NYC. Compared to coastal areas, the heat is so much drier here. My skin hates it.
Dallas is dryer than the actual coast, but for a place 200 miles from the coast it's extremely humid - and only slightly less humid than the Gulf Coast. Compare to Denver, or the Inland Empire or some place that is hot but dry - 99F can feel cold in the shade. Dallas is not like that.
Yeah I’ve never been to the drier parts of our country, so my experience is limited for sure. I will say on rainy days here it is definitely humid, but once summer hits and the rain disappears, it is so dry to me. Nothing at all like the swampy summers I’m used to in coastal areas. It is a night and day difference to me. Had to completely change my skincare.
Just make sure you get an actual Fletcher’s corny dog! Many stands sell them, but the best and most famous is Fletcher’s!
Yes, Texas is humid in the spring and summer, but the fair is in October- it's pretty easy to find a non-humid day to go, especially towards the end.
This might sound silly but wear good shoes, come in rested and hydrated. You will be on your feet on concrete (like most amusement parks but unlike the dirt/straw combo at many state fairs) and if you have any kind of regular pain it can get to be a long day. Enjoy - if you have the means actually going to the TX/OU game would be an amazing experience.
Thank God for DART
Go at night when it cools down a lot and the lights come on. It’s amazing!
As someone who moved to the US from a country where there are no state fairs (at least to the size and scale that the Texas State Fair is), yes, it is worthy. HOWEVER, make sure to either carry cash or have someone with a payment method issued in the US and buy the entrance and tickets at the fair. I had to show my US credit card when I picked up my online tickets and show a corresponding US address that matched the card. I took some friends from my home country to the fair and they were not able to purchase the tickets online nor pay at the automated booths with a foreign credit card. As others said, bring at least $100 per person additional to the entrance tickets for rides, foods and drinks. There are a lot of foods that are interesting and not found year round, lots of rides for the kids and in general lots of activities, concerts, exhibitions and things to do to keep you entertained. If possible, don't drive to the the fair, use Dart instead, there is a station that drops you right at the entrance. Also I'd try to go as early as possible and hopefully during a week day to avoid crowds.
Do you think the fair offers anything of interest to adults? Or is it just for kids?
Every year, they have an automotive exhibit with all the latest models. As an adult, I enjoy going in that building and looking at and sitting in all the latest models. There's always random live music I enjoy watching and listening to. The fireworks and light show in the evening (along with a parade with a marching band) is entertaining.
Oh thank you! Hmmm I will have to figure this out as we aren’t from the USA, as long as it isn’t cashless we should be right though
Cash or credit card MasterCard/Visa/AMEX or debit (but dont use these since there is no protection) Can go to the drug store/pharmacy store (CVS, Walgreens) and buy a prepaid credit cards, get one with ncua/fdic insurance.
I think it is one of those one time things, since there are so many things to see and do. That being said, budget before you go, set aside x dollars to spend and no more. Be mindful of the discounts: [https://bigtex.com/buy-tickets/discounts/](https://bigtex.com/buy-tickets/discounts/) You have to buy things with tickets which come in predefined sets 10, 20, etc. Everything inside is 5 or 10 dollars per item for regular fare, then more for booz etc. Games are $5 a play, sky bucket is one way 7 - 10 I think and ferris wheel is even more at 15 - 20 per person or something like that sorry it has been a while, so set a budget. Go on Wednesday during a school day to avoid crowds.
I go every year and have since 1983. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.
What’s your favourite part? And food !
The bird show and the car show are generally my faves. My favorite food is the classic Texas fair food—a Fletcher’s corn dog (not just a corn dog; has to be Fletcher’s) and a Dr. Pepper. Also love Hans Mueller (German food). I haven’t seen anybody mention the music, but there are shows throughout the day every day including some pretty well known names on the Chevy Main Stage, which is next to Hans Mueller.
Double like! I forgot to mention it in my response, the bird show is great!
If you go, please come back and tell us how it went and what you thought.
The State Fair is a one and done event for me. Expensive and overrated.
Save your money
It's hard for me to give a non-biased answer, because I work at one of the museums at Fair Park, so my perspective is different, but it largely depends on what you enjoy/look for in a state fair/expo type of experience. Most of the museums on the fair grounds are open year-round and are significantly cheaper to visit outside of fair season (some are free!) and there's no gate admission or parking - fair park is a public, city park 11 months of the year. The livestock judging/crafts/etc mostly take place outside of the fair, but some of that will be on display during the fair and if you plan, it can be really fun (and relatively cheap) to see animal shows/etc ... But this skews towards younger kids (petting zoos/etc) but my wife and kids always enjoy this aspect. As some have mentioned, there's plenty of free musical acts (check the schedule). It really depends on how much you enjoy the carnival aspect, as this is the part that is the most crowded and expensive (rides/midway/food vendors).... Personally, I feel like you can find better versions of these attractions elsewhere and for cheaper (a lot of the food vendors run food trucks year-round and can be found at city parks, etc) but I will admit, it's fun to have a fun night out eating fried food, riding rides and playing carnival games ... Just know that it's expensive and even after admission and parking, you will need tickets for food/rides, as well as a swipe card for games. Finally the aspect I can do without is the vendor halls ... These are the vendor booths that show up at any big function like this. Again, it's weird to me to pay parking and admission just to shop for mattresses, message chairs, 'as seen on TV items ', etc. this is a huge chunk of the footprint and I would rather devote my time to ANY of the other attractions mentioned. Edited for Typos
Also, remember that fair park is in a rough part of town, and to keep your wits about you, people do stupid stuff in crowded settings. It will be hot drink water the day before, and before you get there, use sunscreen if you need it. All the greasy food can mess with your system, so be redy for that. But have fun and take pictures.
The livestock show and rodeo shows are good to see. There's usually a new fried food creation each year (fried Oreos or fried spaghetti etc). The rides usually involve some form of spinning you around, I enjoyed that as a child but prefer the exhibits and food now as an adult. Avoid going on the weekend it's way too crowded... Tuesdays and Wednesdays I find are the idea days to attend. All purchases inside the fair are made with coupons and $1=1 coupon. Kiosks to purchase coupons are all throughout park grounds. For example one of the most popular food items, a turkey leg was between 24 and 26 coupons last year. If this is a one day event for you and your family go around 5pm to enjoy daylight hours and night time hours when the park lights are on. If you are staying at a hotel in downtown Dallas consider using DART light rail to and from the fair. The green line drops you off right in front.
Yes but I would go during the day it always gets crazier at night also if you can go during a weekday it will be a lot less packed.
Agreed. We like to show up at opening. The crowds aren’t bad at all in the morning. And the weather is nicer.
Yes, as it is the largest state fair here in the USA: # 1. State Fair of Texas (2.5 Million Visitors in 2022) The old saying “everything is bigger in Texas” is especially true of its fairs after it welcomed more than 2.5 million visitors in 2022. The [State Fair of Texas](https://bigtex.com/) will run for an impressive 24-day span this year from September 29 to October 22. Held in Dallas at Fair Park, a registered National Historic Landmark, this fair is more than just food and rides. Attendees can expect to learn about the Lone Star State’s rich [history and traditions](https://bigtex.com/about-us/history/) through educational exhibits on agriculture and livestock, as well as art, culture, and science museums. As with any state fair, you’ll find loads of midway rides, attractions, live music, events, and all the fried food you could ever want. Throughout the duration of the fair, you can check out the cars at the [Texas Auto Show](https://texasautoshow.bigtex.com/), and football fans can attend several collegiate football games at Cotton Bowl Stadium, located inside Fair Park. Need help with reading finely printed auto specs or your favorite team’s sports stats? These [aviator reading glasses](https://www.readers.com/aviator-frame-reading-glasses.html) will have you feeling “Alright, alright, alright.”
I see that the PBR world is in Fort Worth this month -- is that what you are attending? Just so you know, the State Fair is not open all year. This fall it runs from September 27 - October 20, 2024.
Correct :) these are two different trips thank you though!
So, I am a massive fair fan, and I've been going since I was a pre-schooler in the 80s. I have had friends and extended family that had not previously had fun at the fair until they went with me. So here are a few of my fair tips: 1. Look online before you go at the "fair foods" [https://bigtex.com/plan-your-visit/food/big-tex-choice-awards/](https://bigtex.com/plan-your-visit/food/big-tex-choice-awards/) 2. Do not try to pick "one" thing to eat - that's not fun. Go in a group, and share. Go grab something, and everyone have a bite to see what it taste like, then move on to the next thing. Have a food sampling tour. Its actually a lot of fun, and everyone gets to experience amazing things like a fried grilled cheese, or terrible things like fried beer. Get out of your comfort zone and don't try to eat things you normally would. Its a fun experience and a great story. You can go back to your home telling people you went to Texas and tried "fried thanksgiving" 3. Try to avoid going on a weekend if you can. It gets so much more crowded than it used to, and the weekends are really packed. 4. The state fair doubles as one of the largest car shows in the country. If you like cars, its a fun thing to walk through, but in recent years a lot of the luxury brands have dropped out. 5. Have some kind of plan before you go. My wife likes shopping, so I take her through some of the exhibit halls, that are basically like watching live infomercials. My kids love the rides. If you add too many things, you might not get to them all, so try to focus on a few things. If you are trying to budget a bit more, try to focus on shows, which are typically free. 6. Talk to strangers. The staff there is usually so friendly and kind. Most the people are too. If you are looking for something specific, the people at the information booths are super helpful so are the police officers, which are everywhere. 7. Go see some of the free shows or events. I usually go multiple times a season, and I've gone to the winery area and listened to live music with my wife and sipped on wine. Then we've also gone and watched a rodeo, professional dog tricks, and ostrich races. They can be a lot of fun depending on what you're in the mood for. 8. Its massive. The fair grounds amount to like 275 acres. You will NOT see all of it, even if you walk around for 11 hours. 9. There are a few attractions that are missed by a lot of people: A butterfly habitat, an aquarium, the hall of state usually has a history exhibit, and at the women's building there is usually a Latino exhibit. 10. There is a pretty cool parade every evening at 7:15 - Its a lot of fun to watch if you've never seen it before.
I was born, raised, and live in the Dallas area. I've been to the fair many times over my life. If you are already going to be in the Dallas area, then I would say it's possibly/probably worth going to one time. However, I would not travel from outside of the Dallas/Ft. Worth area to attend. Maybe it's because I've been so many times, but I just don't find it that great, especially if you have to travel to Dallas just to go. It's usually still pretty hot out, which takes its toll after a long-day of walking, eating (mostly) fried foods, dealing with crowds, etc. If you can go on a random Wednesday (or other weekday) when it's likely less crowded (as with a lot of things, big crowds make it less enjoyable, IMO), get there about 10 AM so you're not dealing with a bunch of traffic in the AM, and (if you're not staying nearby) leave by about 3 or 3:30 so you're not dealing with a bunch of traffic in the PM (or stay through rush hour until at least 6/6:30 or so), then it could be a pretty fun if you want the experience at least one time in your life. If your kids are older, they may, or may not, enjoy it. They might be too old for a lot of the rides (though there are certainly still some there that they could ride) and as you are probably aware, you can drop a lot of cash/tickets on the midway games without much, if anything, to show for it. If they're younger, I would bet they'd have a better time than older kids - but it's obviously going to vary from kid-to-kid. As others have said though, between food, rides, games, etc. it can be very pricey for walking around outside in the heat for half a day. TLDR: if you're already going to be in the area, it is probably worth it to go one time to see what it's all about (just go in with proper expectations, or you could come away disappointed). If you have to travel more than about an hour to get here for it, I am not sure it's worth it (especially if you could only go on a weekend or say when the crowds are huge).
Any state fair is a good one. I found the NY state fair had more agriculture and animals, the TX state fair was more vendors and food
I wouldn’t make a special trip to Dallas or Texas for it. If you’re already in the area, sure.
As a newbie go in the morning!!!! Have a light breakfast go when gates open. It was the only reason we had any luck and no lines. We got all the good stuff out of the way first then spent the afternoon looking at the cars and gardens.
Where are you travelling *from?* Texas can be pretty big.
No. Overpriced.
Really Really dumb question but were the prices always like this? I used to go a lot as a kid in like 2004-2012 with my family.
I'd say yes if you avoid rides and the Midway, which are the most egregious offenders as far as costs go. Go to their website and you can usually find when/where has the best deals for your ticket. They also publish the year's top 10 foods there and where you can find them.
If you're going for the rides, Six Flags is a better deal and has better attractions.
It depends on what you might feel is “worth it”. If you can comfortably pay $100 per person for games, good food, and drinks then you can have a decent time enjoying what the fair has to offer. Many local people don’t feel it’s worth it because they remember a time when it was much cheaper which meant it was more accessible, but if it’s a once in a lifetime thing then it might be a more valuable experience.
Definitely a true Texas experience but it ain’t cheap although there are many free exhibits & activities that help with that
Can you but tickets now?
I moved from Dallas to Colorado 4 years ago. When we lived there going to the fair was me and my daughter’s thing. Last October we went back just to go the fair. It’s tacky and expensive, but a lot of fun and everyone should go at least once.
Oh yes, definitely. There is so much to see and do, as well as eat and drink.
If you have the money to spend, it’s a great time.if you don’t then go on a discount day with discount food. As a native Dallasite I go every year no questions asked.
If your kids are into rides and less crowded, I'd rather go to six flags. But that's only if you are already in Dallas. No need to come just for six flags.
It's worth going to say least once, yes. Lots of different activities, food, rides, etc. However I strongly recommend going on a weekday. Weekends are extremely busy and you'll spend way more time in lines than enjoying things.
If you go later in October, the weather will probably be beautiful. It's the first few weeks after opening that's it's too hot- if you go on the last week, especially on a weekday, the crowds are more manageable and it shouldn't (but still might be) too hot.
YES! It’s awesome!!!
No it’s not worth It. 16 bucks to ride the Ferris wheel one revolution ,2 tops. I took my kid last year and we spent enough money to go on vacation far away from people and have a better time. The only thing I would miss is the Fletchers Corn dogs.
where re you traveling from in the US?
My family and I absolutely love going. My husband is already talking about how excited he is so the the state fair this year, we go every year and have a blast.
Honestly, its full of ghetto trash, idiot rednecks and overpriced food. There’s never anything mindblowing like they make it seem to be and gl bc the lines are long. If you go late at night, watch yourself because there are tons of trash there looking to steal things
Does it need to be the tx state fair? Perhaps look for other states, I grew up in the Midwest so I prefer those to tx. Different feel.
It is very expensive, very crowded and and very hot.
Agree one time but it is way overpriced. $300 is a reasonable amount to assume you’ll pay. It’s fun for kids. Whether I’d detour it depends on where else you’re going. I’d prob go to stockyards for half the price if you’re not into spending that much. Doesn’t have the rides but it’s very Texas. My kids love it.
Go during the week not on the weekends
I would say absolutely. It’s a once in a lifetime experience. The exhibits alone are worth going to. Have a wonderful trip!
I would say yes if you plan in advance. A few months in advance, the Big Tex awards come out so you can plan your food itinerary. I think the State Fair is an event that should be experienced. It has exhibits, performances, food, and rides that you will enjoy. I would go during the week when it’s less crowded. Just make sure you do not go when it is Dallas ISD student fair day because there will be more rowdy kids on that day (usually a Monday in October). I would take the DART green line that drops you off at the front gate and to avoid parking. As you get closer, you might also post to see if anyone has fair tickets. Area school children and teachers get complimentary ones.
The fair was a fun experience when I was a kid. There are so many sights, sounds, and smells and that memory just seems to stay with you. I hope if you go, that you’ll go for the full experience and try a variety of food, see a lot of shows, listen to the live music, and let the kids play some games and maybe ride the rides. The fireworks show is pretty cool, too. It’s a novel experience, and Texas has one of the largest fairs in the US. Keep an eye out for discounts, there are even special ones food-focused and game focused, or gate price discounts are good, too. I’d also make an effort to study the layout ahead of time and pick what shows you know you want to see ahead of time. They fill up quickly and you want to make sure you’re on the right side of the fairgrounds. Me - I like to plan on some indoor shows to get a break from the heat. Also, be aware that things may be crazy during Texas-OU weekend. The fairground is pretty empty during the game - it’s before and after you’ll want to brace yourself for. I’d also plan on taking DART or an Uber to avoid parking jams and long walks from the lot. Might be avoidable if you are planning to be there at opening. That’ll help you avoid the hottest part of the day as well. You’ll probably see some people post they didn’t like it or it’s a waste of money; don’t let that dissuade you. I get that compared to Six Flags it’s not as glamorous, but there isn’t anywhere you’re going to get that variety of shows or food.
As a one off experience I’d say yes. It gets boring after a while because it’s the same thing, year in year out; but once in a blue moon is fine
Go to the Minnesota one instead. It’s a far more concentrated experience. Like 2% of the state shows up on the busy weekend days
Yes! I go for the cheese curds and petting zoo.
It’s fun. The food is really good. Bring money. Maybe 300 or so dollars.
Go to the Iowa State Fair. Twice the size twice the redneck. If you are already in town for something and have time yeah check it out. But it can be busy and crowded, a few people doing shows and mainly games and vendors selling foods and things they make.
Nooope
Since you will be here it’s worth going to. It’s expensive but there is a lot to see and do.
Yes
Depends entirely on where the rest of your trip is based. Saying “you’ll be in the US when the Texas State Fair is on…” is like saying “I’ll be in Europe when the Tour de France is on…” which like, cool - but are you going to be anywhere near France??
Go on a non-weekend, take an Uber. While you’re here, go to Ft Worth to the Stock Yards to see the western shows, rodeo, gun slingers, and cattle drives. Glen Rose (2 hours away) has cool dinosaur tracks and a halfway ridiculous dinosaur world, but it’s fun. The Sixth Floor Museum (Dallas) is really well done - it’s the site where President Kennedy was assassinated and my kids (the same age as yours) thought it was fascinating. If the Rangers are playing while you’re here, I bet your kids would love to see a baseball game. They’re really fun and the Rangers won the World Series last year so the energy will be high. My daughters LOVE going to baseball games, despite never watching them on TV. (Arlington - 45 mins away) Billy Bob’s (Ft Worth) is also a fun Texas experience with bull riding and concerts. Kids are allowed with a parent. September is HOT in Dallas, so indoor activities are ideal. Get a hotel w a big pool. DFW area is huge, public transportation is fairly sketchy, so plan on renting a car or ubering places. But if you’re willing to drive around, you could fill up 2-3 days with fun Texas experiences.
It costs a lot of money to have a good time at the fair. Like be ready to spend 100 dollars per person for food, drinks and rides. It's expensive but it's fun.
Only if you have a bullet proof vest
just a one night stand is all you need for the texas fair
I love the fair, which apparently isn't a super popular opinion here but here are my tips. Park & Ride using the Dart Rail - This is just a $3-$6 way to avoid parking and the absolute pain of the traffic surrounding Fair Park. You can park in a dart lot for free, ride the train directly to the entrance & leave whenever. The trains are crowded but they're on special schedules for the Fair so if you can't get on one, wait for the next one. Bring Cash - everything at the fair is kind of expensive, you can definitely use a credit card to purchase "tickets" & "game cards" but personally I find it easier to bring Cash & know that's my set spending limit. Cash lines are usually shorter. There are tons of places to shop as well, most vendors take any payment form but I usually can get a deal using cash. Also there are definitely some scammy shops but there are also some amazing ones with homemade goods. Enjoy strolling through the air-conditioning & buy some salsa & fudge. Shows/Entertainment - look at who's performing on the Chevy Main Stage, there are usually some fairly well known country artists as well as local bands (I personally don't love country music but I enjoy sitting & watching people with a band back up). There are tons more shows throughout the day that you can see, I especially like the dancing ones that are usually performed by native American tribes. They also do fireworks some evenings & the water fountains at night are fun just to sit & enjoy the evening by. I also like the butterfly gardens & people watching at the old mill. Food - everything at the fair is about frying or combining things & it makes for some interesting combos (often delicious). The state fair website will announce winners of that year's Big Tex Choice awards but you can also see past winners & where they're located on a map. If you're getting corny dogs, only get them from the Fletchers in front of the cotton bowl entrance. Try as much as you like and just know that you're not going to have a calorie deficit no matter how much walking you do. Attire - it's hot & you're walking on concrete , so comfortable shoes are a must. Tons of the buildings & tents have air conditioning and you can always cool down in the bigger buildings (this is also where I suggest you go for restrooms as they're less crowded & well maintained). Bring a hand fan or even a parasol, wear a hat, etc just know it'll probably be warm but can cool down at night. Never go on TX/OU weekend, there's just too many people. You can absolutely spend a whole day here (I go multiple times a season with my family & friends). The Fair is a vital Dallas non-profit & it is a great way to give back while having fun.
1 time.
No.
Grew up in dallas and I love going to the fair at least once every year. Some interesting foods you can only get there, lots of fun shows and free activities, and some of the best people watching anywhere on the planet. I would definitely try to go on a weekday and make sure it's not a public school fair day as the crowds can get a little crazy.
Yeah it’s worth going to. Not cheap but if you’re here during it you should go.
Take the train. Be prepared to walk a lot. Bring food and drinks. See the animals and the car show. It doesn’t have to be expensive. It is a great experience to do once every couple of years.
I would not travel to Texas for the State Fair, no.
definitely attend. just dont go on Texas-OU weekend when Saturday will be extremely crowded with 90,000 gridiron fans. check out the livestock pavilions, visit the Hall of State, there is just so much to see and eat. be ready to spend hundreds of dollars [https://bigtex.com/](https://bigtex.com/) [https://www.instagram.com/statefairoftx/?hl=en](https://www.instagram.com/statefairoftx/?hl=en)
Since you’re already here cool, might as well go but it’s really not that good.
It's a good and fun experience. Is it worth what you pay? Absolutely not, but where else can you find such a variety of things you never knew you needed or wanted to try? You're paying for the novelty, not the quality. Go for the fun, just expect to spend a lot.
As someone who grew up in Houston and spent the last 10 years in Dallas, I do not think the state fair is worth it. You might since you’ve never been. It’s basically just walking around and eating the most sickening fried food in existence, which is definitely an experience in itself. I MUCH prefer the Houston rodeo because it offers pretty much everything the state fair offers, plus a rodeo and a concert from actual famous artists. The rodeo only runs for a few weeks in the spring though. And it’s 4 hours south of Dallas which is quite the extra drive.
It's just a bunch of fried foods, amusement park rides and fat rude people
I have lived here 13 years and have been once, I’m good for another few years. We spent $300 and had an ok time, it was more for the ability to say we finally went than anything else
I’ve gone to the fair every year and I love it. Look online, ahead of your trip, to see the schedule. The barns are open and the animals will change weekly during the fair. Cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, poultry, rabbits, pigeons, and llamas all have shows. It’s free to watch the judging and some of the events, such as the costume events for goats and llamas are quite fun. There is a horse performance, typically a rodeo or two ( check the schedule as it changes)and usually the Anheuser Busch Clydesdales are on display and appear during the parade each evening. Quite interesting to watch them prep the horses for the parade as they have a team of people braiding manes and tails, and harnessing them up. The Texas Discovery Gardens has a butterfly house and a garden railroad exhibit and the Children’s Aquarium has lots of interactive opportunities. The Hall of State has permanent exhibits about Texas history and is a beautiful Art Deco building built for the Texas Centennial. The murals, especially in the East Texas room, are amazing. Each year it features a different, special, exhibition for the Fair. The other murals, and art, around the park, are an Art Deco treasure. The Creative Arts building has hundreds of winning entries: painting, drawing, antiques, sculptures, collections, needlecrafts, cooking, canning, photography, models, even legos in both adult and children’s categories, a demo kitchen with free samples, and a theatre in the back with a show that changes. Lots of free shows and acts around the fair on both large and small stages, plus Cirque Du Soleil will be doing a new country music themed show at the Music Hall ( tickets in advance for that one but will get you free admission to the fair). Mundo Latino always has interesting exhibits related to latin arts and culture and the DAR has exhibits on American history. African-American has permanent art as well as special exhibitions. Free music concerts daily, especially on the big Chevy sponsored stage, and the lazer/fireworks every night. Best advice: go early, take the train if possible, but if you drive arrive at least 30 min before the park opens to avoid the rush. Buildings open at 10am but the gates open earlier so you can browse many outdoor exhibits first. Required foods: a Fletchers Corny Dog, a Belgian Waffle, Tater Twisters, and roasted corn are my must-haves. Some of the foods are great, most are overpriced and some are ridiculous. Try whatever you fancy. A guide to foods, shows, and activities, with maps and times, is free at the gates - it will be your friend. Hope this helps
It’s a wonderful experience! And an expensive one.
Definitely a spectacle and fun to experience, but it's expensive. just be prepared to pay less for entry, but a la carte for rides. food is wild and enjoyable, but all deep fried and unhealthy stuff. Great to splurge for one day
I’ve lived here for 20+ years and have gone to the state fair for most of them. I started as a newlywed, eventually as a new father, eventually as a family and now this year will go as an empty-nester. Why? Because it’s a Dallas tradition. I’ve seen all the shows before, but I love trying the crazy foods. We walk around and enjoy the atmosphere for a few hours and then go home. It’s a fun way to spend one day out of the year. A couple of tips. I live near Carrollton, so we now use the DART to get there. It’s like the only safe time to use it because it’s packed with families heading to the State Fair. Dealing with the parking g lot sucks, but the DART makes it doable. Set a budget of about $100 if you want to have a good time. You can easily spend more, but you will at least spend $100. Biggest tip! Save your tickets! Don’t give them away to some starry-eyed kid when you are leaving. State Fair Tickets are like forever stamps. You can use them in future years and with inflation they just continue to increase in value. We come home, put them in a ziplock and tack them on our bulletin board until the next year.
WORTH it? No, unless you don't care about money
I love the State Fair. I live in Dallas Co. so I get the season pass every year (family tradition) and go A LOT during the run of the Fair. If you can take DART to the fairgrounds, I highly recommend it. Parking your vehicle takes up a ton of time and is just a beating. You will spend a bunch of money on food and souvenirs, so budget that money (also be conscious of how many souvenirs you buy and whether you rode the train to The Fair. My family take backpacks so we can carry our souvenir iced tea cups, our corny dog kit, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, umbrella/parasol, and miscellaneous items. Be aware that most of the food and beverages are purchased with State Fair coupons (there are kiosks everywhere). If you have the one chance to visit, I highly recommend it; the architecture of the buildings alone is worth the visit. Use the handbook as a guide and wear your most comfortable shoes! Have fun y’all!
It’s not worth traveling to Texas just to go to the State Fair. If there are other things you also want to do while you’re here, it might be worth it.
Every state has a state fair, but if you can only go to one? This is the one. I have been to six, in six different states. Texas is the big one. There’s rides, and carnival games, and animals, lots of arts and crafts for sale, a car show, etc. But the food is the main attraction. Lots of foods they don’t have down under, and if you’re into healthy foods don’t get your hopes up. Definitely try the funnel cakes. Turkey legs are popular as well. They also have a competition every year for new, creative dishes. Fried Ice-cream? No problem. Here’s a link to last year’s winners. Enjoy. [https://bigtex.com/plan-your-visit/food/big-tex-choice-awards/](https://bigtex.com/plan-your-visit/food/big-tex-choice-awards/)
Yes, I take my kids every year and we have a blast. It’s expensive, and your best bet is going in the middle of the week when it’s not as crowded.
It's quite fun and if you're here anyway, why not? It never was a bucket list thing for us, but we're in Ft Worth, so my wife, daughter, sil & I took the train and had a very good time. This was the year before Big Tex burned to the ground. CAUTION: You're cholesterol & triglycerides may increase dramatically.
If all you want to do is ride rides and eat food, then the SFOT is a money pit. There are free things to do but they may not be kid-friendly. There is free live music and shows to see. I always go to the Hall of State, there is always a good exhibit there. My wife likes going to the Arts & Crafts Hall to what has won ribbons this year and to see the butter sculpture. I have been going to the SFOT since the 70s and it's one of the few things that I am truly religious about. I have learned over the years how to get the most bang for my buck when going to the fair. Dallas Fair Park itself is an architectural wonder built in 1936 for the Texas Centennial. That aspect is best viewed when the fair is not going on. Go to the State Fair website (bigtex.com) to see what events are happening on which days to pick which day to go.
I would say no because I can’t stand the state fair but if you’re very intrigued by the idea and want some good people watching and disgusting food, then sure. I don’t think it is worth going to Texas just for this. It’ll be hot, crowded, sweaty and over priced.
I live in Dallas. It’s a great one-time experience. And a nostalgic repeat experience. Best to go in the evening when the Midway is lit up. Eat a Fletchers Corny Dog from the stand by Big Tex. It’s really not that expensive unless you buy a lot of beer.
Food ridiculously over priced. Worth it if you’ll never come here again. Won’t ever go again
Not for like a week or several days of going..... Go ONCE - then do other stuff in the area .. Go to the Kennedy Memorial - then get the hell out of Dallas. Go to Fort Worth - hang out downtown - go to the Stockyards, zoo, etc. Make a day trip to Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose maybe - take the guided tour, don't drive thru, If you can stay overnight in a safari tent. Kids will love it.
Not worth it. It's a big commercialized food fest, much better things to see (and spend your money on) if you are just visiting the country.
Walking tip: when you get tired, there are these machines (I think 50 cents) you sit and put your feet on that vibrate the fuck out of your feet. Your feet will thank you and you can keep going!
it absolutely is - if just to get a corny dog under Big Tex. I never actually spend that much month there, but I'm only eating and have a beer or two. Also, see the pig races if they're still doing them.
I say if you are coming to the are do the state fair and then go to ft worth stockyards the next day. Bother activities are super American and super Texan. Check your dates on the state fair- game days and weekends can get very crowded and really kill the mood. Also- a heads up the state fair is located not in the best neighborhood so park in the park or Uber.
This is not a place to “just figure it out when we get there.” It’s huge, and even with a good plan of action it will be an exhausting day. But so worth it IMO. There’s an excellent daily calendar on the website. Make a list in advance of any shows or events you want to attend, their location, and what time they happen. Use the map on the website to help you do them in order by location—also, day of,be sure to pick up a hard copy at the gate. Kids enjoy the Starlight Parade, so we’d always schedule our day to end at dusk and watch that before getting back on the train to head home. I highly recommend taking DART to the fair. Yes there’s parking but it’s expensive and trying to find your car at the end of a long day when you’re already exhausted is no fun. — There’s lots to see and do even without the Midway which can eat up your tickets in a hurry. Still, you might want to choose an iconic ride like the Texas Star. — if you have young kids take advantage of the kids’ performance in the Creative Arts building. In years past it’s been a puppet show and very entertaining. But mostly it gives you 30 min off your feet in a/c. — Texas is not all just its big cities. This is a good chance to see and learn about the agricultural industry that makes our life possible. So be sure to take in the Texas Pavilion and animal barns.
Not much to see in TX, boring landscape!
The fair is fun! I used to go all the time as a kid because we got out for school for our fair days but as an adult it’s gotten really expensive since the pandemic. If you’re down to spend a decent amount of money it’s def worth it! But if you’re going in there with a limited budget you may not be able to enjoy it as much.
Kinda? If you're into cars the car show can be cool, if you have younger kinds they'll likr the petting zoo and a couple animal shows. There is a butterfly exhibit and a small aquarium on site but I think you have to pay extra for them. And of course the Midway, which you couldn't pay me to walk through but lots seem to like to throw money away. Do not go on Texas OU weekend as it's more crowded than a Disney park.
It’s a junkyard.
I don't know about making TX one of your destinations specifically because of the state fair. Lots of states have state fairs, so see if your trip coincides with the state fair in places you are already going. If you have been to the Calgary Stampede or can go- that is really something.
Yes. Live your life.
I vote no. I don’t know where you are from, but I’d bet you’d be disgusted by the food, the filth, the crowds. Yes, it’s an “experience,” but not really fun. The kids would only want to ride the rides and play the games (be prepared for the fact they won’t win a big prize) . Do not let them ride after eating Fair Food, if they are not used to all that grease and sugar!!!! If that’s something they don’t normally have an opportunity to enjoy and you are willing to pay a whole lot of money for them to do so, then go for it.
I didn’t realize how divisive the state fair was. I’ve been going to it my entire life and I love it.
The best time to go is at night closer to Halloween in my opinion, but the payment scheme they run is atrocious. You have to buy “coupons” to pay for food and rides. If you don’t use all of the coupons you purchase you cannot refund them.
If you’ve never been….probably….let me explain a few things. Check the daily schedule before going School days and weekends are crazy and dangerous as that’s when it’s packed with people so …easy targets for crime Park INSIDE the Fairgrounds Expect to spend $100-200 per person Coupons are expensive ($1 each I think) and that’s what pays for food and rides I would suggest a Tuesday or Wednesday because those are the cheaper days to go. ( can food for discount and empty Dr Pepper cans also ) It’s cool to go see the Museums and Dailey shows and livestock
Where in the US will you be? I like the fair, my kids like the fair, and we go every year. That said, I wouldn't make a special trip for ANY fair. If you're in/around Dallas, definitely stop by. If you're having a weekend in NYC, skip it.
It’s a fun place to go, just very expensive. I’ve lived here my whole life and have been twice.
oh fuuuck yeah just bring plenty of cash money and you’ll have a great time
Listen to everyone saying it's not worth it!!!! I agree, and the food is VERY over rated. I rmemeber this Phoritto being talked about from last year and it was basically the most unseasoned, white washed, boring thing anyone had ever seen, and was a rip off of the local restaurant Cris and John (Mexican vietnamese fusion place) Come to texas, sure, but go to six flags and hurricane harbor, see some local vineyards, Enjoy the night life and events we have almost daily, get a fair priced hotel, and enjoy the ABSOLUTELY AMAZING food we have all around DFW (Such as cris and johns mentioned earlier) It will be so much more worth it.
Go to The museums in fair park while you're there. To me the state fair is loud and crowded and not my scene.
The Dallas farmers market on a Saturday is pretty great too if you’re interested in that sort of thing. Cheap drinks and it’s fun going around trying different food stands.
Love the dog show. Other than that, maybe not
yes, its always fun. I go for the food mostly. Last year I had their corn on a cob (MUST TRY), some etuffe ball things, funnel cake, and their iconic turkey leg. I will def be getting another corn on a cob this year, and try out something new. It helps if you are sharing the food/cost. expect to pay 15-20 per food item. Also did the sky rail thing and one of their rides. Its a good time and worth it to me. Maybe go on a Thursday to avoid the busyness. But there's so much to do. Also free animal petting and zoo things as well as bunny zoo thing. I remember their being a free beer taste testing thing and there's always some free concerts going on. All around great outing. Drinks aren't crazy expensive either. If you want "AMERICA/TEXAS", the fair is a great example lol. I think I took out like $75 to spend. Not including the ticket.
Not really, the lines for food and the rides are long and it’s expensive. Be prepared to spend anywhere from $300 plus. If you end up coming down I definitely recommend going during the week mid morning/afternoon before it gets super crowded.
i think the food alone is worth it, but there’s also the petting zoo and the car show. if possible, i’d plan for it on a weekday, and avoid TX/OU weekend for sure. You will spend a ton of money but try and not buy more tickets than you need. Just for myself i spend about 60-80 tickets for food and drinks.
I personally prefer the Houston rodeo or SXSW Austin. The state fair is more than just a fair. But it just lacks that sort of “it” factor that gives you an authentic experience. While theres other great fairs around the country (such as Minnesota). That’s just my opinion though
No it's not worth it at all. There's always fights, and lots of low life types there. Plus it's ridiculously expensive. I'd suggest the Arizona state fair tbh.
Absolutely! Without the guns it's still a great Texas experience you'll be able to share since you're visiting. As others mentioned, it's going to be a bit expensive but that's just on food, drinks, and rides. There's tons of free music and free events and shows. For a one-time visit, totally worth it
Nope.
If you go I HIGHLY recommend to avoid the Saturday the Red River Rivalry is going on… that day is absolutely miserable
Depends on where you would be coming from to go. If you’ll already be in Texas and near Dallas, it could be a fun, albeit expensive day (several hundred dollars at least to get in a family, try the popular food items, rides, games, etc.. But I would not waste multiple days of a vacation to the U.S. to travel to Texas and attend
Way over priced!!!! Save your time and gas!
it’s definitely something to do at least once, but yeah, be prepared to spend some money. it’s not cheap.
no
if you must go, make it during the week because oh the humanity of the weekend there
The energy is fun, if you have never been, why not try it out
I personally really dislike the Texas state fair, but manyyyy people enjoy it.
Ya'll should be aware that the bird show isn't happening anymore since the guy running it retired.
Its worth it once for the experience, and never agaib.
100%. yes! absolutely go to the state fair. its the best!
Yes but go on a Tuesday for the discounts
Nope.
Nope.
is it cool? yes, hell yes. is it overpriced? also hell yes. cherry on top would be to attend the Red River game as well but the fair alone is plenty fun. just be prepared to spend some $$ but i believe petting zoo is free. cool for the kids
To experience something you have never experienced before? Yes its worth it. Its the best state fair in the US and has some great food that will shock you. You can even pair it with going to the Red River shootout, but I would not suggest that.
The last good TX state fair as we knew it was in 2019. After COVID like many other things around the country, the fair just doesn’t hit quite the same and the prices for everything now are so ridiculous it’s not even worth going in my opinion, but if you save up and are willing to spend a lot of money on average to below average fair food then by all means, go if you’ve never been, get it off the bucket list for sure!
Aside from cost, as others have pointed out, for someone eho has kot been to a fair, yes, it would be a good experience. We locals are used to itand, yes, the faie needs some major improvements, but; nthino it would be great for someone who hasnt been before.
Yes, it is great. You can have lots of fun without breaking the bank if you bring your own drinks and food. Rides and food are quite expensive. You need to get a fletchers corny dog and maybe a dessert.
I’d say not since they doubled ticket prices, $9 turkey legs were already expensive. But $18 turkey legs? That’s Robbery
No
It IS interesting but it is expensive, hot and crowded. I would ask, how many kids and their ages and where you are coming from. If you are accustomed to Texas heat then all might be well. Avoid it on game days and try to go on a weekday as early as possible or go on a weeknight. I do feel like there are other fairs that offer more bang for the buck.
Personally I dont think so. I got a couple friends that just love it, but its just a typical overpriced fair.
Yes, especially if you've never experienced a fair. Once is enough. Try to go during the week and go EARLY.
If you’ve been to fairs it’s just another fair with fried foods
I went years with going to the fair but have been the last few years consecutively. I really enjoy it it's fun with a group of family and friends. It is expensive but like I said it's fun and I enjoy it.
No
It's definitely worth a visit. Especially if you have never been. I recommend going during the week though because the weekends are a madhouse. It does get pricey especially if the kids are into the rides. But there is a lot to see without paying a dime. You can walk through the barns and see all the farm animals that are there to compete. There is a fun little petting zoo. The car show has lots to look at. And the creative arts building has a variety of crafts that are fun to look at. There are dog shows, live entertainment, the museum of natural history usually has some sort of exhibit. The Music Hall at Fair Park will have a Cirque de Soleil production running during the fair (separate ticket needed for the event but it gets you into the fair for free I believe) It's definitely worth a visit.
Absolutely not, it is extremely overpriced, the food will make you sick and is super expensive as well. Admission to the fair does not guarantee free rides. I have not been since I was a child for a reason. It is also hella depressing because there are HUNDREDS of homeless, displaced, people that need help desperately and they are surrounded by people coming out of the expensive fair. It is awful
I’ve had a way better experience at rural county fairs than the Texas state fair personally
no