Iowa State Fair is an iconic historic event, Iowa’s first fair was started in Fairfield in October 1854. It is an 11 day industrial and agriculture event held annually in August at Des Moines, and it is known for its culture, entertainment and a mix of stunning attractions, food and activities.
This state fair has its various iconic attractions like 600 pound butter cow plus the Grandstand concert lineup, the Giant slide and Ye old mill. Visitors can enjoy live music, fair food like corn dogs, fried treats and stunning agricultural competitions. One of the main reasons behind this fair is to showcase the agriculture and livestock of their state, so it offers amazing different contests like largest board, ram, bull and rabbit. Whether you’re interested in live music, fair food or if you want to experience unique competition then this Iowa state fair is perfect for you, offering one of a kind experience.
Top Iowa State Fair Attractions
The Iowa State Fair is truly surrounded with amazing attractions. Over a million visitors visit this place to experience iconic attractions such as The Butter Cow, Livestock Exhibits and Competitions, Midway Rides and Games, The Grandstand Concerts.
The Butter Cow
This is the most iconic attraction at Iowa State Fair, the first butter cow was displayed in 1903 at Ohio State Fair but lowa state fair began this tradition in 1911 by J.K. Daniels. This stunning cow structure is totally made with butter and represents Iowa’s dairy industry. The butter cow was crafted from roughly 500-600 pounds of butter every year over a metal wood frame by skilled artists.
Livestock Exhibits and Competitions
The Iowa Livestock Exhibits and Competition presents amazing agriculture competitions including one of the most famous Super Bull, Big Boar, and Big Ram contests. Visitors can witness pigs, sheep and some rare breeds of animals from prize-winning cattle. These stunning events are held in the Cattle Barn which presents Sale of Champions, Beef Shows, Swine Shows, Sheep Shows, Meat Goat Shows and Beef Shows.
Midway Rides and Games
The Iowa Fair Midway, it offers a magnificent place to enjoy rides and games which are divided into certain parts such as Thrillville & Thrill Zone for kids it focuses on high speed and jaw dropping rides. Key Midway rides and game areas include Thrill Town focus on high quality rides and games especially designed for children. This place also includes some amazing classic attractions like The iconic Giant Slide, Ye Old Mill, and the Sky Glider.
The Grandstand Concerts
The Grandstand concert at Iowa State Fair is known for hosting premier, large concerts featuring everything from country and rock to pop and comedy. Situated at Des Moines fairgrounds with seating capacity of around 16000, this place offers famous artists performances which makes it a popular spot of concert lovers.
Famous Iowa State Fair Food You Must Try
The Iowa State Fair is quite famous for its food which makes this fair a must visit for food lovers. This state fair offers an American flavor with a creative touch and presents an amazing mix of food items such as corn dogs and amazing tasteful pork chops. The Iowa State Fair is known for representing more than 500 items. One of the biggest highlights is food on a stick where you can find deep fried desserts served on skewers. Visitors can experience local food which reflects Iowa’s agricultural heritage and include some other items like cheese curds and fresh lemonade. In this event every year they introduce new unique items for visitors which add some extra charm and prepare this place as a must visit place. For dessert lovers there is a unique item called fried oreos, it’s a unique kind of cookie dipped in a batter.
Why Is Iowa State Fair Food So Popular ?
The Iowa State Fair is known for its unique attractions, traditions and creativity, most of the food items served on stick that’s why its a called a unique fair for food and dessert lovers. Whether you are visiting this place for fun or to enjoy the food, it offers different amazing things for all kinds of visitors. Amazing fun activities for kids, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can experience amazing Innovations like The Food on a Stick Tradition, Celebration of Local Agriculture, Comfort Food with a Twist, and as well as Cultural Experience.
Where to Stay Near the Iowa State Fair
This place offers many perfect nearby hotels, which definitely increase your experience and make your trip more comfortable and stress free. Nearby hotels such as Econo Lodge Fairgrounds, Embassy Suites Downtown, and Holiday Inn Mercy Area.
Econo Lodge Fairgrounds
Econo Lodge Fairgrounds is one of the best hotel near Iowa state fair and this hotel is quite famous because of its pocket friendly prices. This hotel offers all essential amenities with comfortable and cozy rooms plus it’s just a minute away from the Iowa state fair which makes it an ideal choice for visitors.
Embassy Suites Downtown
Embassy Suites Downtown is a very unique and luxury segment of hotel, it comes with spacious two rooms suites including complimentary breakfast. They offer modern amenities for your comfort which include indoor pool and Gym. If you want to experience a comfortable and peaceful environment this hotel is perfect for you.
Holiday Inn Mercy Area
Holiday Inn Mercy Area is known for its convenience and comfort where visitors can access both places the Iowa state fairgrounds and Mercy medical center easily. This hotel offers all essential and modern amenities like each room comes with free WiFi and a separate workspace. It also comes with a restaurant and a fitness center which makes this hotel an ideal choice for families and especially for fair visitors.
How to Get to the Iowa State Fair
Iowa State Fair is located in Des Moines, it’s quite easy to access this location because this place has multiple transportation options. There are many ways you can reach the fairground such as you can go with the option of ride sharing, public transport and you can also drive your own vehicle. If you are driving, there are multiple ways through which you can reach Iowa fair via major highways and that location has ample space for parking so visitors don’t have to worry about parking space. Visitors who want to enhance their experience and really want to add comfort in their journey can hire a charter bus rental service which comes with all essential amenities and this option is especially convenient for families. Charter bus offers certified and trained drivers so you don’t have to worry about parking space and traffic, they have full knowledge about the best routes.
Conclusion
Iowa State Fair is the most amazing place which offers a perfect mix of history, culture, entertainment, food and family friendly activities. The Butter Cow, Livestock Exhibits and Competitions, Midway Rides and Games, The Grandstand Concerts are iconic attractions that the visitors can experience. The main attractions in this fair include such iconic attractions as 600 pound butter cow plus the concert list of the Grandstand, the Giant Slide, and Ye Old Mill. Making your trip even more comfortable and wonderful. The very first step is to choose the best nearby accommodations such as Econo Lodge Fairgrounds, Embassy Suites Downtown, and Holiday Inn Mercy Area. Second is that you have chosen the best means of transportation like public transport, private vehicle and charter bus rental. These toy things will definitely make your trip to the Iowa State Fair smooth and memorable.
