FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn. — Editor's note: The status of state fair parking lots is updated throughout the day. Click here for the latest.
One of the biggest challenges of a trip to the Minnesota State Fair - besides finding room for that last cheese curd - is finding a place to park your vehicle.
Fair organizers are quick to push express buses or park-and-rides as a stress-free and economical option, but if you insist on driving to the Great Minnesota Get-Together, there are options. All operate on a first-come-first-serve basis and tend to fill up fast.
Fair officials said all on-site parking was full before 11 a.m. on 2024's opening day, with many of the free Park & Ride lots also full before noon.
Vehicles
The fair lots open at 6 a.m. and cost $20 per vehicle. Check out your options on the state fair map. There are lots off Como, Randle and Hoyt Avenues, and adjacent to Dan Elmer Way. The status of those lots (full, open) is frequently updated on the website, and lots reopen throughout the day when people leave and spots again become available.
Motorcycles
Those who ride a motorcycle to the Minnesota State Fair have their own lot off Como near the International Institute. Parking here is $15, or you can leave your bike at one of the conventional lots for $20.
Non-motorized Bikes/Scooters
Fairgoers who get to the grounds on a non-motorized, non-licensed bike or scooter can park for free in one of three bike corrals. Here's where you find them.
- South Bike Lot: Loop Gate (#9) on Como Avenue
- North Bike Lot: North End Gate (#2)
- West Bike Lot: Randall Ave-Buford Gate (#16)
Visitors also have the option of parking and locking their bicycles at select Park & Ride lots and taking a free bus to and from Falcon Heights.
Park & Ride
As stated earlier, fair officials strongly encourage guests to use the extensive network of 31 free Park & Ride locations. You can find them on the Minnesota State Fair website.
Express Buses/Metro Transit, MVTA, Southwest Transit
State fair express bus service offers free parking at suburban locations across the metro, followed by a direct ride to the fairgrounds for a small fee. Check the website for lot locations, drop sites and hours.