First-timer’s guide to Indiana State Fair 2023
Whether you're a die-hard fairgoer or 2023 is your first year, there's something for everyone at Indiana’s annual state fair!
Get ready for a day filled with excitement, unique exhibits, and all things Hoosier. We’ve got everything you need to know, plus some pro tips from our CityMoms, in this ultimate first-timer’s guide.
DYK? The Indiana State Fair is one of the largest and most popular fairs in the United States.
First-timer’s guide to Indiana State Fair 2023:
Fair Admission and Hours
To enter the fairgrounds, you'll need a general admission ticket. Here's what you need to know:
Don't miss $3 Thursdays - $3 admission, $3 Midway rides, and $3 concessions at every food stand - it’s the most affordable way to spend the day!
General admission tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the gate for $14.
(Keep in mind that there is a convenience fee for purchasing tickets online.)
Children 5 and under are FREE!
The fair runs from July 28-August 20, is open daily at 9 am (closing hours vary), and is closed Mondays & Tuesdays. Click here for full fair hours.
Looking for more fair savings? Check out these deals and 100 free things to do.
CityMom pro tip:
“It can be a lot of walking for the under 5 crowd, so bring a stroller. But I’m pretty sure everything is paved, so it’s very easy. If you have a massive stroller, I’ve been given rides on the wheelchair-accessible tram before. I’m not sure if this is a protocol or if the guy just felt sorry for me! Bring all the sunscreen and all the water!” - Katy W.
Must-See Attractions
Once you're inside the Indiana State Fair, there's plenty to see and do. Here are some of the must-see attractions:
NEW in 2023: Celebrating Basketball with countless exhibits honoring the legacy of basketball in Indiana. Take it one step further and sign-up for a basketball clinic!
Pioneer Village: Take a step back in time and explore this recreation of an early American town.
MHS Family Fun Park: Enjoy kid-friendly activities and entertainment for fairgoers of all ages. From the NEW splash pad to the Otter Adventure, you could spend the entire day here!
CityMom pro tip:
“Mini golf in the FFA building is free and fun, and there’s a great playground there. OH, and go see Mighty Mike if he’s there again—such a fun show! The diving show was great last year too. We like to line these up with eating and a chance to sit.” - Melissa R.
WATCH NOW: We chat the first-timers guide on Indy Now.
Midway Wristbands
For a full day of thrilling rides and attractions, consider purchasing Midway Wristbands. You can also purchase tickets for $1.50, but if you’ve got thrill-seekers in your crew, the wristband is for you! Here's what you need to know:
Midway Wristbands give you unlimited access to all the Midway attractions and can be purchased at the fairgrounds. Cost: $40*
(Regardless of age, all riders must have either a wristband or tickets to ride Midway and Kiddie Land rides.)
Midway Hours: Closed Mondays & Tuesdays, Weds 12pm-10pm, Thurs 12pm-11pm, Fri-Sun 11am-11pm, Sunday August 20 (last day of the fair!) 11am-10pm.
(Find Midway on the West end of Main Street).
Kiddie Land: Think of this as a mini-Midway with rides and games best suited for the youngest of first-timers, where they can ride the carousel or test their bravery on their first rollercoaster.
(Find Kiddie Land on the East end of Main Street).
CityMom pro tip:
“Get there as soon as it opens to beat the heat and crowds.” - Amanda C.
Live Entertainment
The Indiana State Fair offers a variety of live entertainment options. Here are some highlights:
Hoosier Lottery Grandstand: Catch live music performances and other exciting events like demolition derby, cheerleading competitions, and rodeo!
Hoosier Lottery Free Stage: Catch free concerts by a variety of artists.
Backyard Stage: Experience live entertainment in a more intimate setting. Check out some of the fun scheduled here.
CityMom pro tip:
“I always prefer to go on a weekday (especially if your kids aren't in school yet) after others have started school to avoid crowds. I bribe my kids with ice cream on the way out if they're good while we walk around; it's a good way to end the trip for everyone.” - Katie F.
Fair Food
One of the highlights of any fair is the delicious food, and the Indiana State Fair is no exception. Don't miss out on these tasty treats:
Pickle Pizza took the 2022 Fair by storm - but we bet the Nutellaphant Ear or Elote Street Corn Pizza will be pretty popular this year!
Taste of the Fair: Indulge in a variety of classic fair foods, from corn dogs and funnel cakes to deep-fried delights.
Dairy Bar: An annual must! Keep little hands busy with a scoop of ice cream or the signature milkshake.
CityMom pro tip:
“Tip: if you hate having to decide between a huge elephant ear or funnel cake, then choose to go on Thursdays when there are smaller portioned deals. You can try different foods without overspending or running out of room in the tummy!” - Daviana J.
“Must-haves: frosted flake chicken and pineapple whip.” - Amber C.
Free Things to Do
There are plenty of free attractions and exhibits at the Indiana State Fair. Here are some suggestions:
Butterfly Garden: Immerse yourself in the beauty of these delicate creatures in the DNR Building.
Parakeet Encounter: Get up close and personal with these colorful birds.
DNR Building: Learn about Indiana's natural resources and conservation efforts.
Dairy Barn: Meet and learn about your favorite barnyard animals.
Momma Town: A great way to delight little ones with baby bunnies, hatching, chicks, and more at the Expo Hall.
The Wonder Trail: Pick up a map to this self-guided fairground tour at Animal Town or ask the fair officials at an Information Booth.
CityMom pro tip:
“Use an entrance off 42nd Street to do all the interactive activities. Don’t miss the bubbles, Little Hands on the Farm, and pony rides. We also like to sip cocktails by the big Ferris wheel while my daughter plays with the outdoor toys set up. There are so many free activities on the north end of the fairgrounds we barely make it to the rides or animals. I think that is way more enjoyable than fighting the large crowds walking between the food and games.“ - Chelsea M.
Getting There and Parking
Getting to the Indiana State Fair is easy. The fairgrounds are conveniently located off 38th Street (where you will find the South Lot) and Fall Creek Parkway. Here's what you need to know:
Parking is $10 per car for the day in any State Fair EZ Park parking lot, including at the Indiana School for the Deaf found on 42nd Street.
If you're not driving, public transportation options are available to get you to the fairgrounds.
Biking? Save $1 off Fair admission with the Pedal & Park promotion. Use one of the free secured bicycle racks available off the Monon Trail north of 38th Street.
CityMom pro tip:
“From a former DNR employee (me): If you’re going to be anywhere near the animal barns, wear close-toed shoes. DNR bldg has clean bathrooms and good AC. If you need to rest away from crowds go to the DNR amphitheater. If you want to rest, get a free trolley ride, and learn a little something, DNR does a history/architecture tour of the fairgrounds. Check the program to see when the tours are.“ - Amy B.
Accommodations & Accessbility
If you need accommodations during your visit to the Indiana State Fair, here are some options to consider:
There are plenty of hotels located near the fairgrounds, offering convenient access to the event.
Camping on the fairgrounds infield is also available for those who want to stay right in the heart of the action.
Don’t stress diaper changes with the inclusion of Hoosier-developed Pluie, the first self-sanitizing changing tables now in fairground restrooms.
CityMom pro tip:
“Check out a map of the fairgrounds to get a game plan. Then, park closest to where you want to enter. There are tons of interactive lessons or demonstrations throughout that my kids and I find to be enjoyable. I like to park at the Indiana School for the Deaf and enter at Gate 12, then head left around the track.“ - Lee Ann R.
Don't Miss What's New in 2023
New interactive exhibits and displays showcasing the rich history and culture of Indiana.
Shoot your shot at Hoopfest: a Basketball Amusement Park
Upgraded parking and transportation options for a smoother fair experience.
Improved accessibility and accommodations for fairgoers with specific needs.
Innovative use of technology to enhance the fairgoer experience.
Don’t miss the Mercantile to pick up Fair merch and other unique items only found once a year.
Learn more about all of the incredible new offerings at the Indiana State Fair in 2023.
Don't miss the special opening day festivities and discounts to kick off the fair with a bang! And make sure to get your advance tickets to avoid missing out on any fun celebrating this year’s theme, Celebrating Basketball: The State that Grew the Game.
