What To Look for at the Minnesota State Fair (Aug 27-Sept 7)

The Minnesota State Fair has been named as the best state fair in the United States by Business Insider.com and regularly makes the top-ten lists of noted sources such as Travel Channel, Fodor's Travel and Forbes. Fortunately, this nationally acclaimed event is just minutes away from your Springs Apartments home. Still not convinced? Here is just some of what you can look forward to at this year's fair.

Adventure Park

Sure, the fair has a traditional midway with classic rides like the Ferris wheel, Zipper and Crazy Mouse roller coaster. But the real thrills come at Adventure Park and attractions such as Turbo Bungy, Climbing Wall and Sling Shot. Other supercharged amusement rides at the fair include the Giant Slide, Haunted House and River Raft.

CHS Miracle of Birth Center

This unique attraction is often cited as one of the features that sets Minnesota's fair above the others. There is no charge to visit the exhibit, which is the site of nearly 200 live births of calves, lambs, goats and piglets. It's a fascinating way for adults and kids alike to learn about veterinary science, the birthing process and the importance of animals in our world.

Little Farm Hands

Kids gain a new appreciation of agriculture when they get a chance to "work" at this interactive exhibit. Tasks to be completed include feeding chickens, milking cows and driving hay wagons. The experience goes all the way through the process to the "sale" of goods and "purchase" of finished products.

Eco Experience

The fair does a great job of blending education and entertainment in attractions like the one-of-a-kind Eco Experience. Get information about green solutions such as solar-powered heaters and electric cars or attend seminars on recycling, wind power and other current topics.

Giant Sing Along

The Giant Sing Along is karaoke on steroids. During the year fair-goers submit their song requests, which are then compiled and narrowed down to the top five selections. Each day during the fair, you can gather with other guests and sing along with the winning tunes.

Musical Entertainment

When it comes to the grandstand shows, the fair draws the cream of the crop. This year's lineup includes country superstars Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban, top-of-the-charts pop singer Meghan Trainor, classic rock legends Lynyrd Skynyrd and Def Leppard, and the iconic pairing of Merle Haggard and Kris Kristofferson. Garrison Keillor and "A Prairie Home Companion" will also be making their traditional appearance. 

Food, Food and…Food

What would the fair be without outrageously delicious food? Or maybe it's deliciously outrageous. Either way, this year's new treats include butter chicken samosas, Italian dessert nachos, mac & cheese cupcakes, stuffed Italian meat on a stick and deep-fried ribs. Bon appétit!

The Minnesota State Fair runs from August 27 through September 7. Fairgrounds are open daily from 6 a.m. - midnight and guests can enter the gates until 10 p.m. Admission is $13 for adults and $11 for kids ages 5-12.