Arizona State Fair

ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT

Held every October in Phoenix, the Arizona State Fair is famous for its La Grande XL Wheel, one of the largest transportable Ferris wheels in the country. The 2026 event will feature the fair’s “A State of Wonder” theme, which focuses on immersive entertainment and larger-than-life attractions. Visitors can enjoy dozens of midway rides, giant slides, spinning thrill rides, family attractions, livestock competitions, and agricultural exhibits featuring sheep, goats, cattle, pigs, poultry, and more. Evening entertainment is another major highlight, with concerts and live performances taking place throughout the fair.

ON-SITE AMENITIES

There are plenty of amenities on-site at the fair. You can choose from more than 100 food booths, with every kind of food imaginable. Guests may bring one factory-sealed bottle of water or an empty refillable water container, but glass containers and alcohol are prohibited. There's a lost and found center at the security office, and there are guest services and information booths around the fairgrounds to answer your questions and give directions. Additionally, conveniences like ample parking, refillable water stations, shuttle services, and clean restrooms help ensure that your experience is comfortable and hassle-free.

LOCATION

The Arizona State Fairgrounds is located at 1826 W. McDowell Rd., Phoenix, AZ, 85007. Doing an RV trip here is a great idea when you want to combine fair festivities with desert sightseeing. The fairgrounds are only about 20 minutes from Camelback Mountain and Papago Park, two of the city's top attractions for hiking and outdoor adventure lovers.

FAQs About RVing to the Arizona State Fair

Where is the best place to park my RV during the Arizona State Fair?

Trying to maneuver an RV through the heavy Phoenix traffic can make your travels stressful. This is why most people attending the fair park their RVs at a nearby campground. If you want to park your rig at the fair, go to the West Lot. Just keep in mind that you can't park or camp overnight.

Is it better to come in a smaller Class C camper?

Yes. You'll find it much easier to navigate the downtown Phoenix and fairground areas in a smaller rig. You won't have to worry as much about oversized vehicle restrictions causing issues with parking.

Can I bring a pull-behind travel trailer to the Arizona State Fair?

Yes, you can bring a travel trailer to the fair, but you must go to the West Lot for parking. Leaving your rig at a nearby campground and using a personal vehicle or rideshare service usually provides the easiest way to get back and forth to the fair.

What is the closest RV campground to the Arizona State Fair?

Plaza Verde RV & Mobile Home Park is only 2.3 miles from the fairgrounds. The campground offers full hookups and spacious sites for rigs up to 40 feet.

LINEUP

The lineup for the fair has not been announced yet, but the "A State of Wonder" theme is sure to deliver plenty of exciting entertainment. You can expect live shows from magicians, comedians, acrobatic performers, and more, many of which occur on stage at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Be sure to check the event's Concerts page for the latest announcements.

RVING AT THE EVENT

There's a designated lot (West Lot) for larger vehicles, like RVs, including Class A motorhomes and travel trailers, but you can't camp overnight. This parking area fills up fast, so it's important to arrive as early as possible. A lot of RV travelers use the fair as part of a multi-day adventure in Phoenix and camp nearby.

Where to Camp Near the Arizona State Fair

If you book a spot at the Desert's Edge RV Park, you'll be about 25 minutes from the fairgrounds. Guests have access to pull-through sites, full hookups, a swimming pool, and shaded camping areas. There are also double-lot options available for those traveling in large fifth wheels or oversized motorhomes. Another nearby option is Plaza Verde RV & Mobile Home Park, which is located only a few miles from the fairgrounds and offers full hookups and spacious RV sites. Covered Wagon RV Park is one of the only RV parks directly located in Central Phoenix. It puts you only six to seven miles from the fairgrounds. It's another site with a swimming pool and full hookup options for RVs.

RV Rental Tips for the Arizona State Fair

Most of the major highways and bridges throughout the area are standard heights, but not all of them. Sticking to the major commercial arteries will give you plenty of clearance for driving to and from the fairgrounds. Booking your campsite as early as possible is crucial to getting the one you want since most campgrounds fill up months in advance.

WHERE TO STAY

For a comfortable stay, one option to consider is the Hampton Inn Phoenix Airport North, which offers modern amenities and is just a short drive from the fairgrounds. Alternatively, if you're looking for a personalized stay, several local bed-and-breakfasts provide a cozy setting and a taste of Arizona’s charming hospitality. The Hermosa Inn offers an upscale boutique atmosphere with its luxury casitas.

HOW TO GET THERE

Getting to the Arizona State Fairgrounds is easy and convenient from several directions. • From Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport: Take I-10 West toward central Phoenix and follow signs for the Arizona State Fairgrounds. • From Tucson: Take I-10 West into Phoenix. • From Flagstaff: Take I-17 South into Phoenix. • From Las Vegas: Take US-93 South into the Phoenix area. • From Los Angeles: Take I-10 East directly into Phoenix. • From Albuquerque: Take I-40 West to I-17 South into Phoenix.

PARKING

Parking at the Arizona State Fair is designed to be as convenient as possible. With several designated lots surrounding the fairgrounds, you’re likely to find a spot fairly easily, even during peak times. Be sure to arrive early to secure the best possible spot, and remember to follow the clearly marked signs and attendant instructions when getting in and out of the lots. Shuttle options are available at several nearby Park & Ride areas, including the Phoenix College and State Capitol lots. These shuttles reduce traffic and parking congestion by providing direct access to the fairgrounds.

TICKETS & PRICING

Ticket prices can be found on the event's Know Before You Go FAQ page. The prices below include taxes and fees: • Kids under 4: Free • Children (5-12): $12 • Adults (13+): $20 • Seniors (62+): $14 • Military with ID: $12 • First responders with ID: $12 The event's website also offers special deals, like two general admission tickets for $15, so be sure to check for limited-time promotions.

WRAP UP

The Arizona State Fair combines carnival rides, live entertainment, food vendors, and agricultural exhibits in one location each fall in Phoenix. RV travel is a convenient way to experience the fair because it allows visitors to stay near the fairgrounds while also exploring other destinations throughout the Phoenix area. Whether you spend your time attending concerts, visiting exhibits, or relaxing at your campground, the fair offers a wide variety of activities for visitors of all ages. For updates and event information, follow the Arizona State Fair on Instagram and X. You can use RVshare to start planning your camping getaway with a budget-friendly RV rental in Phoenix.

3-Day RV Itinerary for the Arizona State Fair

• Day 1: Set up the RV and relax around the campground Arrive around lunchtime on your first day to give yourself plenty of daylight to set up the RV and get settled in. Spend the evening using one of these campfire recipes to keep everyone fed and happy. Listen to the desert wildlife and peaceful nighttime sounds as you drift off to sleep. • Day 2: Explore the fairgrounds and evening entertainment The fair opens at noon and closes at 9 p.m. or 10 p.m. Your second day is the perfect time to explore the festivities and take a ride on the La Grande XL Wheel. After you grab a giant turkey leg and funnel cake, head back to the RV for some relaxation and time for swimming. Come evening, go back to the fairgrounds to watch a show at the Veterans Memorial Coliseum. • Day 3: Discover Phoenix and enjoy the fair at night Use this day to explore more of Phoenix, like the nearby Desert Botanical Garden, or take some time to revisit your favorite vendor and food booths at the fair. Wait until the sun goes down to ride the carnival rides; this provides the best views with all the bright lights and views of the city skyline.

Please note, this is not the official source of the event information. While we try to be as comprehensive as possible, some details may have changed since the time this article was written. Please confirm final details with the official event page .

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