Illinois State Fairgrounds
A sprawling fairground hosting the annual Illinois State Fair, plus major events like Clydesdale shows and motorsports.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Illinois State Fairgrounds
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling fairground hosting the annual Illinois State Fair, plus major events like Clydesdale shows and motorsports.
"It's that times 100. Phenomenal lot of happy people. Lot of interesting people. Lot of friendly people."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The fairgrounds are huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so prioritize comfort.
🗺️ Grab a Map
Save yourself time and energy by getting a map at an info booth to plan your route.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Butter Cow
Dairy Building
A must-see iconic sculpture crafted from butter, a long-standing tradition at the fair.
Grandstand Concerts
Grandstand
Experience live music from various artists. Check the schedule for your favorite performers.
World Clydesdale Show
Illinois State Fairgrounds
Witness the majestic Clydesdale horses in various competitions and showcases.
USAC Silver Crown Racing
Springfield Mile
Feel the thunder of high-speed racing at the historic Springfield Mile track.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for Extensive Walking
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The fairgrounds are huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so prioritize comfort.
🗺️ Grab a Map
Save yourself time and energy by getting a map at an info booth to plan your route.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring your own water or utilize free water stations to combat the heat.
💰 Bring Cash
Some vendors may charge extra for credit card use; cash is king for concessions.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The fairgrounds are huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so prioritize comfort.
🗺️ Grab a Map
Save yourself time and energy by getting a map at an info booth to plan your route.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring your own water or utilize free water stations to combat the heat.
💰 Bring Cash
Some vendors may charge extra for credit card use; cash is king for concessions.
☀️ Seek Shade
Limited shade is available, so wear hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking can be challenging by mid-morning; aim to arrive early for better spots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Illinois State Fair for its vastness, variety of food, and entertainment, calling it a 'fantastic' experience that's 'times 100' compared to smaller fairs. However, many note the extensive walking required, limited shade, and occasional difficulty finding parking. Some also mention a lack of diverse vegetarian options among food vendors.
"The state fair is quite large. So, be prepared to walk, walk, walk. Get there early. There are many parking lots, but by 9am, it was a challenge finding a spot and it wasn’t close by.
The price to park was average at $5. Price for entrance was good at $10pp but we only paid $3pp as seniors. A bargain!
This fair is over 350 acres, so plenty of walking to see stuff. Go to an information booth as soon as you can and get a map. This will save you lots of walking and searching for exhibits, etc. We didn’t know about the maps until too late, and had walked back and forth a lot.
Plenty of food for all, wine area, beer area, ice cream. You’ll want something cold to eat or drink, as it was extremely hot. No trees, walking on hard surfaces, no grass. The only shade was along some of the exhibit buildings. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, shade hats. Use strollers or wagons for young children that might tire quickly from walking. The midway was not open all morning and even at 12:30 when we left. Bring water if you wish, they were giving out water at a few tents from churches. Seeing the huge sculpted Butter Cow in the dairy building is a must. They have Prairie Farms ice cream and milkshakes. Small line to wait for it.
We had a nice time, but will try for a cooler day next time."
Andrea A
"Such a fun experience.. lots of rides, food and walking. I went to the African food stand and being vegetarian I asked for the meat to be removed and she was able to accommodate me as she makes your order fresh.. I found most places pre-made foods so wasn't able to take the meat products out which was a little disappointing. Not many vegetarian options other than fries, corn and pizza."
C F Davis
"This was my first time at the State Fair, it was fantastic. It's so big. There's so much to see. It's a lot of walking. You got to wear the right shoes lol. But way better than a county fair or Carnival. It's that times 100. Phenomenal lot of happy people. Lot of interesting people. Lot of friendly people. Very helpful staff. Thank you to our first responders and State Police. Local police also helpful. We had so much to carry back to the car and we got a police officer to drive us and thank God we did cuz I think it was a half a mile from where we were!!"
Estelle Litke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Illinois State Fairgrounds are located in Springfield, Illinois. Driving is the most common method, with ample parking available, though it can fill up quickly. Public transportation options within Springfield may be limited, so check local transit schedules if you're not driving.
While specific public transit routes directly to the fairgrounds can vary, it's best to check with the local Springfield transit authority for the most up-to-date information. Some visitors opt for ride-sharing services.
There are numerous parking lots surrounding the fairgrounds. Parking fees are typically around $5, and arriving early is recommended to secure a convenient spot.
Yes, ride-sharing services are generally available for drop-off and pick-up at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, which can be a convenient option if you prefer not to drive or deal with parking.
Accessible parking is usually available at the fairgrounds. It's advisable to arrive early or contact the fair organizers in advance for specific details regarding accessible parking locations and availability.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but general admission is often around $10 per person, with discounts available for seniors. Keep an eye out for special promotions or early bird ticket offers.
Yes, discounts for seniors are often available, sometimes significantly reducing the admission price. Check the official Illinois State Fair website for current pricing and any age-based discounts for children.
Purchasing tickets in advance is often recommended, especially for popular events like concerts, to secure your spot and potentially save money. Check the official fair website for advance ticket sales.
The Illinois State Fair typically runs for about 10 days in August. Operating hours for the fairgrounds and specific attractions may vary daily, so it's best to consult the official schedule for the most accurate times.
Yes, concerts and special events held at the Grandstand usually require a separate ticket in addition to general fair admission. Check the event schedule and ticketing information for details.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the iconic Butter Cow in the Dairy Building, explore the livestock exhibits, enjoy the carnival rides, and check out the live performances at the Grandstand. The World Clydesdale Show and racing events are also major draws.
While there are many food vendors, vegetarian and vegan options can be limited. Some visitors have found success by asking for modifications, but options like fries, corn, and pizza are more common.
Expect a wide variety of fair food, including deep-fried treats, smoked meats, burgers, and unique items like gator bites and mango nachos. There are also beverage options like ice cream and milkshakes.
Shade is limited, primarily found along some exhibit buildings. It's crucial to wear sun protection and stay hydrated.
ATMs are typically available on the fairgrounds, but it's always a good idea to bring some cash, as some vendors may have additional charges for credit card transactions.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant atmosphere with shots of the carnival rides, food stalls, livestock, and the iconic Butter Cow. The Grandstand and any live performances offer great photo opportunities.
Absolutely! The World Clydesdale Show provides fantastic opportunities to photograph these magnificent animals. Be respectful of the animals and handlers.
Look out for themed areas or characters, like 'Corndog Abe' mentioned by the Lincoln Museum, which can provide fun and memorable photo ops.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photography conditions. Golden hour can be particularly beautiful.
Drone usage is typically restricted at large public events like the state fair for safety and privacy reasons. Always check the official fair rules and regulations regarding drone operation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many food options are available, but for picky eaters, familiar choices like pizza and corn are usually present. Look for free water stations to keep everyone hydrated, and plan your visit to include breaks in shaded areas or exhibit buildings to escape the summer heat. The fair also supports the Special Olympics, offering a chance for kids to see and participate in inclusive activities.
🚗 Budget Travelers
Focus on free attractions like the livestock exhibits, Butter Cow, and exploring the grounds. Many live performances at the Grandstand may require separate tickets, so check the schedule and pricing carefully if entertainment is a priority. Visiting on a weekday can also mean fewer crowds and potentially shorter lines for attractions.
🏇 Motorsports Enthusiasts
+1These events offer high-speed action and a chance to see professional racers compete. It's advisable to check the specific event schedules and ticketing information well in advance, as these are popular draws. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere and the roar of engines!
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Illinois State Fair Experience
Beyond the typical fair attractions, the grounds also host significant special events throughout the year. These include the World Clydesdale Show, a prestigious event celebrating these magnificent horses, and high-octane motorsports like USAC Silver Crown racing at the historic Springfield Mile. These events draw unique crowds and add to the fairgrounds' versatility as a venue.
+1Community feedback highlights both the immense fun and the practical challenges of attending. While the variety of food and entertainment is a major draw, attendees should be prepared for extensive walking, potential heat, and the need for cash for some vendors. Despite these considerations, many visitors find the fair to be a fantastic, family-friendly experience that's a step above smaller county fairs.
Navigating the Fairgrounds: Tips from Attendees
Parking is another key consideration. While there are many lots, they can fill up quickly, especially on peak days. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a decent spot. For those who prefer not to drive, ride-sharing services are an option, though checking local public transportation schedules is also advised.
During the summer fair, the heat can be intense with limited natural shade. Visitors are advised to wear sun protection, bring water, or utilize the water stations provided. Some attendees also suggest bringing strollers or wagons for young children who might tire easily from the extensive walking.
Beyond the August Fair: Year-Round Events
+1For motorsports fans, the Springfield Mile within the fairgrounds is a legendary venue for American Flat Track racing and USAC Silver Crown racing. These events bring a different kind of excitement and energy to the grounds, drawing large crowds of racing aficionados.
+1Historical connections are also present, with the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum often having a presence at the fair, highlighting Lincoln's ties to the region and the fairgrounds themselves. This demonstrates the fairgrounds' role in preserving and celebrating Illinois history and culture.
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