
Insider's Guide to the Minnesota State Fair
Find out everything you need to know about the Minnesota State Fair with helpful links to specific information.
MoreAt the Minnesota State Fair, you can probably find your favorite food deep-fried or on a stick somewhere on the fairgrounds.
By no means a full listing, here are 9 foods we recommend you don’t miss plus a few other tidbits of useful information.
See also: The First Foods to Try at the 2021 Minnesota State Fair
For many, the Minnesota State Fair’s new food listing is one of the most anticipated announcements of the year. From international flavors like bison-filled ravioli, and Sashimi tuna tacos to crazy delicious combos like the buffalo chicken doughnuts topped with bacon bits or fried chicken and macaroni and cheese on a waffle, there are options for adventurous eaters and traditionalists alike. We’ll leave it up to you to decide if they’re rising stars or foodie flops. For 2021, we've narrowed down 3 can’t miss spots, and the new dishes they’re offering for 2021.
Crazy combos aren't just for the food. The Minnesota State Fair announces 56 brand-new beverages premiering or found only at the 2021 fair. Check out the complete list of new drinks here.
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the numerous Saint Paul ties at the Great Minnesota Get-Together. If you’re looking for a taste of the Capital City, plan a stop at these spots.
Brought to you by the Saint Paul-based Minnesota Historical Society, History On-A-Schtick packs all of Minnesota's history into a fun-filled 30-minute performance. Shows run daily in the West End Market's Schilling Amphitheater. Location: Schilling Amphitheater, West End Market, G23
Some of Saint Paul’s best stores bring the best of other cultures to the city, and you’ll also find them in the International Bazaar. El Burrito Mercado, Irish on Grand and many others are represented throughout the market. Location: T-31
West 7th’s Mancini’s Char House is an icon and their State Fair location, Mancini's al Fresco, lives up to the reputation. Early morning fair-goers should take advantage of fresh Italian breakfast options, but everyone should make a stop for cannolis. Location: Carnes between Nelson and Underwood, P-26
Did you know Sweet Martha herself hails from Saint Paul? Support one of our hometown heroes with a cup—or a bucket. Locations: North side of West Dan Patch, between Ligget & Chambers, K-24; South side of Carnes between Nelson & Underwood, P-27; West side of Underwood between Lee & Randall, R-13
How could we write about Saint Paul at the fair and not include the craft beer scene? Summit, Urban Growler, Tin Whiskers and more of your local favorites are sure to be represented at one of the fair’s best beer stops, the Ball Park Café. Location: East side of Underwood St. between Dan Patch & Carnes, R-25
Whether you prefer Groveland Tap for a late-night beer or Highland Grill for a hearty brunch, the Blue Plate Restaurants are an integral part of the Saint Paul dining scene. Blue Barn is the group’s State Fair establishment, known for serving up some of the most beloved dishes on the grounds. Location: West End Market, east side, south of the History & Heritage Center, H-24
All bunch of capital city sports teams in one place. Gear up at Fan Central with the Minnesota RollerGirls, St. Paul Saints and United FC (plus many other Minnesota teams, too). Location: FAN Central, Q-25.
Find the Minnesota Wild in its new location on the North End.
For more information on Minnesota State Fair attractions, click here. There are a few tricks of the trade when it comes to navigating the Minnesota State Fair. Hop over to our Minnesota State Fair Pro Tips page to learn more.