What Makes It Guide-Worthy: True to the saying that everything’s bigger in Texas, the Texas State Fair is one of the country’s biggest, boldest and most boot-scootin’ blowouts. The annual 24-day celebration of the Lone Star spirit is the longest-running state fair in the country and, with more than 2.5 million guests annually, one of the largest. A cross-section of culture, cuisine and commerce, the fairgrounds feature more than 70 rides, 50 fried foods and 100 live music performances. Join in the revelry and delight in the quirky joys of pig racing, the celebrity goat-milking contest and the chance to try a top local delicacy: deep-fried butter.
When to Book: Tickets for the Texas State Fair do not sell out and are available in advance or at the front gate. Season passes and VIP packages are offered in limited quantities, with upper-tier VIP passes often selling out quickly. The fair has a dedicated base of enthusiasts who travel from afar. Book your hotel at least six months out for the best rates and availability, as rooms are in high demand and often limited.
Must-See & Do: Brimming with classic Americana flair, the Texas State Fair delights with thrills, eats and good ol’ Texas fun. Highlights include:
Getting Your Bearings: Snap a photo with Big Tex, the fair’s iconic 55-foot-tall greeter who has welcomed visitors since 1952. The fair spans 277 acres but is well laid out with wide paths and ample signage. Download the official State Fair of Texas app for event schedules, details on unique foods and helpful features like locating the nearest restroom.
Delight in the Olympics of Food: There is no shortage of innovation and inspiration when it comes to deep-fried delights at the Texas State Fair. Beyond deep-fried butter, we’re talking deep-fried seafood gumbo balls, deep-fried pho and even deep-fried Coke. Every year before the fair begins, a panel of judges from the Big Tex Choice Awards declares the best new tastes. Then, it’s a mad dash to experience the newly crowned creations. Promising contenders to take home this year’s top prizes include the Crab & Mozzarella Arancini, Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake and the Hot Honeycomb Lemonade Shake Up.
All the Fun to Be Had: The fair offers something for everyone. Thrill seekers can visit The Midway, home to more than 70 rides, including the Texas Star Ferris Wheel, one of the tallest in North America at 212 feet. Explore butter sculptures, pickle-jar dioramas and quirky quilts at the Creative Arts Pavilion. Over at the Livestock Birthing Barn, witness the birth of baby pigs, goats and calves in a calm, educational setting. Each night ends with a dazzling fireworks display featuring dancers, acrobats, synchronized pyrotechnics and special effects.
Where to Stay: After a long day exploring the fair, having a nice hotel to retreat to is important. Here are three of the best hotels in the area.
Premier: The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas, Marriott: The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas, is one of the most luxurious, top-rated hotels in the city. Its accommodations and location make for an excellent home base for fairgoers, located a quick 10-minute drive from the grounds. The hotel’s Texas charm emanates through its warm, attentive service and locally inspired artwork and décor.
Mid-Range: Canopy by Hilton Dallas Uptown, Hilton: A quick 10-minute drive from the fairgrounds, Canopy by Hilton Dallas Uptown is a stylish boutique hotel in the heart of the vibrant Uptown neighborhood. Unwind after a day at the fair with a nightcap at the hotel's rooftop lounge with panoramic views of the Dallas skyline.
Budget-Friendly: Hampton Inn & Suites Dallas Downtown, Hilton: The Hampton Inn & Suites Dallas Downtown is an ideal value stay in downtown Dallas, especially as it’s only a 10-minute drive from the fair. The modern high-rise hotel is pet-friendly, with top amenities that include a complimentary hot breakfast (a nice alternative from the fair’s deep-fried offerings) and an indoor pool.
SideQuest: For a change of pace from the fair, plan to spend a day at the Dallas Zoo. Bring the whole family and check out the zoo’s 2,000-plus animals, including elephants, giraffes and cheetahs.
