July 18, 2024
Before I moved to Des Moines, I had never been to a state fair before. Sure, I grew up just one state east in Illinois, but we lived close enough to the city that agricultural contests and friends in 4-H were never part of my reality. Then I relocated to Iowa and was introduced to the Iowa State Fair.
While I’ve never been one for big crowds and still don’t have the stamina to spend days on end at the fairgrounds, I do look forward to spending an afternoon at the fair each August. In fact, Josh and I went on our first date at the Iowa State Fair in 2015 and even signed our marriage license at the fair in 2021. But that’s a story for a different day.
Over the years, a funny thing has happened. I’ve slowly become someone who defends the Iowa State Fair. Sure, there are plenty of stomach-churning deep fried foods and the midway’s carnival rides are over-priced. But, like roadside attractions, there’s something so kitschy and comforting about this annual event that I can’t help but love it.
Naturally, in my years visiting the Iowa State Fair I’ve collected quite the list of must-eat foods, must-see attractions and hidden gems within the fairgrounds. If you’re a beginner (and, let’s be honest, even if you’re not), the fair can be overwhelming.
So I’ve created an essential list of things to do at the Iowa State Fair that won’t leave you in a corndog-induced coma. Because, after all, nothing compares to the Iowa State Fair.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Table of Contents
Where to Stay Near the Iowa State Fair
The Iowa State Fair is the state’s biggest event, which means that hotels and accommodations can book out months in advance. Luckily Des Moines has tons of options for places to stay, whether you want to be within walking distance to the Iowa State Fairgrounds or a bit further away from the hustle and bustle.
Things to Do at the Iowa State Fair
Behold the Butter Cow
Whether you’re a fair first-timer or a seasoned veteran, the butter cow is an essential stop at the Iowa State Fair. Don’t overthink it though. This is exactly what it sounds like — a cow molded from butter. J.K. Daniels sculpted the fair’s first butter cow in 1911. Today, Sarah Pratt of West Des Moines is the fair’s fifth butter sculptor.
While a real cow may weigh upward of 1,000 pounds, the Butter Cow’s wood, metal, wire, and steel mesh frame is topped with about 600 pounds of low moisture, pure cream Iowa butter.
Fun Fact: Each year, a large amount of the butter is recycled and can be reused for up to 10 years.
Ride the Sky Glider
Even if carnival rides aren’t your favorite, the Sky Glider is an Iowa State Fair must. It’s also a great way to relax for a bit and see the fair from a different perspective, especially if you happen to be riding during the fireworks show. If you’re going to shell out for one carnival ride, the Sky Glider is worth the price at $4 one-way or $7 round trip.
Pro Tip: There are two separate Sky Glider lines at the Iowa State Fair. I recommend the one that starts at the midway near Ye Old Mill and runs up the hill toward Pioneer Hall.
Learn About State Fair History
Did you know that the Iowa State Fair has its own museum? Take a break from the crowds (and enjoy some air conditioning) with a visit to the Ralph H. Deets Historical Museum. Here you’ll learn about the fair’s history, unique oddities and growth over the years.
Plus, the wraparound porch of the museum has a smattering of rocking chairs that are perfect for unwinding and listening to the bluegrass music from Pioneer Hall.
Want to know even more Iowa State Fair secrets? You can learn about the story of Baby Mine, the fair’s former elephant, inSecret Iowa: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure.
Gush Over the Baby Animals
As someone who didn’t grow up on a farm or really near agriculture at all, I don’t have a huge interest in the fair’s various animal barns or 4-H showings. But put me in a room with dozens of different baby animals and I’m in heaven.
Especially if you have younger kids, the Animal Learning Center, located near the Little Hands on the Farm area, will be a popular spot. Don’t miss the chick incubator or the newly-born piglets!
Find Artistic Inspiration
You might be surprised to learn that the state fair has an artistic component, but one of my favorite places to spend time is the annual photography exhibition. I’m also mildly obsessed with the miniatures displays located just down the hall.
An added bonus? The Cultural Center is wonderfully air conditioned.
Relax in the Discovery Garden
As a self-proclaimed plant nerd, I’m always on the lookout for intriguing landscaping. At the fairgrounds, you’ll find some of the prettiest blooms and most innovative installations in the Discovery Garden just outside of the Agriculture Building.
Find More Secret Iowa Places
Want to explore even more offbeat places around Iowa? Even at some of the state’s most well-known places, you’ll discover hidden histories and unique stories that are not often shared. Order your copy of the book, Secret Iowa: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscuretoday!
Order Now
What to Eat at the Iowa State Fair
Something On A Stick
If there’s another thing the Iowa State Fair is known for it’s any and every type of food on a stick. While it’s no longer available, there was even deep fried butter on a stick a few years ago.
This year the fair will more than 55 different foods on a stick. The list includes peanut butter and jelly, smoothies, caprese salad and more. One of my favorites is the now-defunct Fair Square, but there are still plenty of treats to enjoy. You can see a complete list of all the Iowa State Fair foods on a stick here.
Bauder’s Peppermint Ice Cream Bar
Let’s be honest. One of the main draws of the fair is its outlandish culinary creations. While there’s a lot to enjoy, my sweet tooth typically wins out on fair day.
Personally, my favorite treat is the Bauder’s Pharmacy Peppermint Ice Cream Bar. This frozen treat is a delicious, gooey mess of brownie, chocolate fudge and homemade peppermint ice cream sure to satisfy your cravings and cool you off in the August heat.
Iowa Craft Beer Tent
The state fair is all about Iowa grown produce and Iowa raised livestock. So it makes sense that there also be a place to Iowa brewed craft beers. Head to the Iowa Craft Beer tent, grab a cold one and you may discover a new local favorite! And be sure to keep an eye out for the unique fair-exclusive brews that some of the state’s top breweries collaborate on every year.
Fried Cheese Curds
Sure, you’ve probably had fried cheese curds. But the specialty curds from Brad & Harry’s Cheese Curds take things to the next level. While they no longer have my favorite garlic cheese curds, the new-for-2023 dill pickle curds are a suitable replacement.
Honey Lemonade
A refreshing lemonade is the hallmark of the fair. But before you spend your money on a giant (and let’s be honest, mediocre) lemonade shake-up, head to the Agriculture Building for a real treat. Head to the second floor (just above the Butter Cow) to the Iowa Honey Producers booth and grab yourself a cold cup of honey lemonade.
The best part? A large glass is only $3.
Parlo Pizza
It’s no secret that the Iowa State Fair can get a little crowded. One of my favorite places to escape the throngs is on the hill near Pioneer Hall overlooking the fairgrounds.
This part of the fairgrounds is also conveniently home to the Iowa Wine Experience and Parlo Pizza. This wood-fired pizza is the perfect pairing to some Iowa wines and a great break from some of the fair’s deep-fried fare.
Plan Your Day at the 2023 Iowa State Fair
Getting to the Iowa State Fair
Driving Directions
The Iowa State Fairgrounds are located about 10 minutes east of downtown Des Moines at the intersection of East 30th Street and East University Avenue. From I-235, take the E. University Avenue exit and head east toward the Fair.
Parking at the Iowa State Fair
While you can pay to park at the Iowa State Fairgrounds or on the lawns of residents in the surrounding neighborhood, one of the most cost-effective parking and transportation options is to take the DART shuttle.
With convenient park and ride locations like the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines’ East Village, riding the shuttle is hassle-free and only costs $2 for adults and $1 for kids (ages 6-10) and seniors.
Pro Tip: Round-trip fares for the DART shuttle are cash only so be sure to plan ahead. You can find more information about the fair shuttles here.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Iowa State Fair
What are the dates for Iowa State Fair 2024?
The 2024 Iowa State Fair will be held August 8 – 18, 2024.
How much are tickets for the Iowa State Fair?
Tickets for the 2024 Iowa State Fair cost $16 for adults (ages 12 and up) and $10 for children (ages 6–11). Children ages five and under can get into the Iowa State Fair for free.
Let's Be Social
Want even more offbeat adventures, roadside attractions and world's largest things? Follow Olio in Iowa on your favorite social media platforms, and tag #OlioOnTheRoad when you have quirky adventures of your own.
Share Your Thoughts
I would love to hear from you! Have you been to the Iowa State Fair? What are your favorite fair traditions, things to do or places to eat?
Related Posts
Three Short Bike Rides Around the Des Moines Metro
In honor of National Bike Month, I’m compiling some of my favorite routes, tips, and trips for bike-related travel. Stay tuned throughout the month for even more bike-related content! The best part about sharing some…
17 May 2017
That Time We (Technically) Got Married at the Iowa State Fair
Seven years ago my husband, Josh, and I had our first date at the Iowa State Fair. He is a native Iowan who grew up going to the fair from dawn until well past dusk….
19 Aug 2022
5 Spring Break Inspired Weekend Getaways
Ever since I can remember, all of my classmates and I desperately looked forward to spring break. Not only did it mean a week off school, but spring break always seemed to signify the impending,…
2
10 Mar 2017
Road Trip 2013: Des Moines to Cheyenne
After more than 52 hours in the car, seven days of togetherness and more pounds of gummy bears than I would like to admit, I’m back in Des Moines. Our road trip to San Francisco was a phenomenal success and I can’t wait to share all of our adventures…
1
25 Mar 2013
The 2020 Iowa Caucus Tourist’s Guide to Des Moines
With the Iowa Caucuses less than a week away, I’ve decided to share some of my favorite places to eat, shop, and spend time in Des Moines if you happen to be passing through during caucus season…
6
20 Jan 2020
Des Moines Essentials: Autumn Edition
Sure, summer is swell. But I’ve always been a shameless lover of autumn, especially in Des Moines. Whether it’s breathing in the first crisp mornings orunpacking favorite sweaters, there’s something extra special about this time…
30 Sep 2016
Celebrating Hollywood in the Heartland
Since I’m not an Iowa native, I didn’t grow up visiting the State of Iowa Historical Building or the Iowa Capitol on countless school trips, and for one reason or another, I’d never gotten around to going. That is, until recently.
Before the haze of hectic holiday plans hit, I took the afternoon to explore the Historical Building and visit its temporary Hollywood in the Heartland exhibit…
06 Jan 2015
The Best Places to Shop for Gifts in Des Moines
We’ve all been there. You need a gift for someone, but don’t know where to turn. You could head to Target or order something off of Amazon. But why not take the time to support…
19 Nov 2023
How to Support Iowa Businesses by Shopping Small This Spring
There are so many reasons to celebrate in the spring! This year, those celebrations may look a bit different. But somehow that makes them even more special and worth commemorating.
24 Apr 2020
Summer in the City: Des Moines Edition
As the snow melts and the trees begin to bloom, there’s a certain energy that returns to the air, especially in a place with harsh winters like Iowa. But no more so than in the early days of summer. As a kid, that meant never wearing shoes, devouring endless books for summer reading, picking raspberries in the backyard, and escaping to the lake for a long weekend.
Even though I no longer have summers off, I try to approach summer with the same sense of excitement. And while I’m not a big fan of the oppressive humidity or buzzing mosquitos that accompany the season, there are a lot of things I absolutely adore about Des Moines in the summer.
1
20 Jun 2016
Discovering the Birthplace of Des Moines
Unless you spend an inordinately large amount of time along Des Moines’ southern riverfront or happen have the same running route as I do, you’ve probably never noticed the tiny log cabin just off the parking lot of Principal Park. I first happened upon it a few years back while taking advantage of the downtown trail systems training for a half marathon, and since then it’s been one of my favorite hidden gems…
09 Feb 2015
The Ultimate Guide to Des Moines Breweries
In the past few years, I’ve noticed there are a surprising number of places to enjoy a craft beer in Des Moines (and even more across Iowa). In fact, the newly opened Iowa Taproom showcases 120 taps from more than 20 Iowa breweries.
In honor of Des Moines Beer Week, I decided to compile some of my favorite local spots into an ultimate guide to breweries in Des Moines and the surrounding area.
7
14 Jun 2017
Reply
Yes! That’s always how I feel too. I feel like I go home every year wanting to raise baby goats!
Tamara Kuhn
June 25, 2018 at 6:50 pm
Reply
My mom always enjoyed the old-fashioned hymn sing at the church on the hill. The chainsaw wood carver was fun to watch along with the chip-throwing contests, and hog-calling contests—hilarious fun. Then there are the fiddlers, accordion, and harmonica players. I enjoy the horse shows, tractor pulls. And, of course, all the 4-H projects from technology to food & nutrition, to fashion shows. There always something new you’ve never tried before. Car races, log lifting contests, big name entertainment, and tons of “free” entertainment. Red Skelton (who made people laugh and cry), Dolly Pardon, Merle Haggard, Kansas, and so many more.
Cheryl Tuttle
August 9, 2019 at 4:15 pm
Reply
I have so many must haves, it’s hard to remember them all, but here are a few:
– shaken lemonades…some places are better than others, but it’s hard to go wrong with any of them
– pork chop on a stick…it’s not really a stick…you’re just hanging on to the bone, but that just makes it better in my opinion
– the mac and cheese at the bbq place near the sweet corn…sorry I can’t remember the name of the vendor, but IT IS A MUST HAVE! the corn is pretty good too
– it’s not a trip to the fair if you don’t go to the chicken and bunny barn…last year there were no chickens and i cannot wait to see them this year
– the quilt and sewing displays are something i never miss…on the way, i usually take my granddaughter to get all of the temporary tattoos in the Varied Industries Building (also air conditioned and a wonderful respite when it gets too hot)
– speaking of the granddaughter, she loves the fountains near the building with the butter cow…be sure to bring a change of clothes for kiddos!
– Avenue of the Breeds is another must see with many varieties and breeds of animals and the most gorgeous horses you’ll ever see.
– I usually make it to the craft beer tent, but the coldest beer (and best place to sit down for a meal…get the brisket) is Stockman’s. THE COLDEST BEER!
– Jalepeno Pete’s is a great place to people watch, the food is pretty decent and the entertainment is the best free stuff at the fair where you can still keep ordering drinks and having a good time.
– do not miss the 4-H barn with all of the awesome stuff kids have made…you can’t believe how talented they are
Things to skip:
– the Midway…and whatever you do, even if you go down midway to people watch, DO NOT EAT THE FOOD ON THE MIDWAY…this is not the good stuff
– all the other rides
Leave a comment
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
