Great American State Fair

ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT

The Great American State Fair features live performances, including daily musical acts, concerts on the National Mall, and shows by military ensembles. There's also classic carnival rides, including the restored 1947 Smithsonian carousel. Additionally, you will discover cultural programs and outdoor movie screenings throughout the event.

ON-SITE AMENITIES

A variety of food and beverages are available for purchase throughout the fairgrounds from local vendors. There are also many opportunities to try regional treats from around the country. This includes offerings like Texas steaks and Maine lobster rolls.

LOCATION

The best way to visit the Great American State Fair with an RV is to leave your camper at a nearby RV park or suburban transit station and take the Metro rail or bus into the city. Because this event is free, it draws large crowds. Try to arrive early each day of your visit. For those looking for a break from the city and crowds, visit one of the nearby outdoor recreational areas. Rock Creek Park is a 4.4-square-mile urban area with 32 miles of hiking trails, golf, and paved roads for bicycling. There's also Theodore Roosevelt Island. This 89-acre island park features wooded trails, beautiful views of the Potomac River, and a massive monument.

LINEUP

The Great American State Fair line-up features daily programming themes. These include everything from "land and prosperity" to "heritage and legacy." There's also a special Independence Day celebration with fireworks on the fourth.

RVING AT THE EVENT

There is no camping on-site at the Great American State Fair. Since it's held on the National Mall, on-site RV parking is not available due to limited space and city restrictions. You can, however, find several nearby campsites and RV parks suitable for everything from travel trailers to Class C RVs.

Where to Camp Near the Great American State Fair

The Washington D.C./Capitol KOA Holiday campground is an easy drive from the National Mall. Pull-thru and back-in sites are available with full hookups for RVs up to 70 feet in length. Guests appreciate the on-site pool, convenient Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities. There's even a fully stocked KOA camp store where you can find all of the essentials. Activities for children include the jumping pillow, a giant chess game, a basketball court, and outdoor movie nights.

RV Rental Tips for the Great American State Fair

You'll want to book your campsite early, as spots are sure to fill quickly. Furthermore, you can browse RV rentals near the Great American State Fair to find the perfect one for your needs. When packing for your trip, plan on hot, humid weather. Washington, D.C., typically experiences highs in the 90s or 100s at this time of year. Pop-up afternoon thunderstorms are common, but things usually dry out quickly.

WHERE TO STAY

If you are not RVing to the event, the Hilton Garden Inn Washington D.C. Downtown is a pet-friendly hotel. Guests will enjoy the on-site restaurant and snacks from the 24/7 shop. Amenities include an indoor pool, fitness center, and business center. The Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center has pet-friendly and connecting rooms available. Guests enjoy a free hot breakfast, and the on-site bar serves drinks. Amenities include a fitness center, free Wi-Fi, and streaming entertainment.

HOW TO GET THERE

From Arlington, Virginia: Start on Washington Blvd. Take a slight right onto the US-50 E ramp to Washington. Continue to follow US-50 E to the National Mall. From Silver Spring, Maryland: Follow 16th Street NW. Turn left on 17th Street NW.

PARKING

Parking near the National Mall is limited. Guests are strongly encouraged to use rideshare or public transit. You can plan your trip by using the WMATA Trip Planner.

TICKETS & PRICING

This event is free and open to the public. You can get tickets online through pre-registration. Walk-ups are also allowed, depending on capacity limitations.

WRAP UP

The Great American State Fair gives RV travelers a chance to take part in the country's 250th birthday festivities in an engaging, family-friendly setting. While in the area, you can also explore nearby landmarks, museums, and outdoor spaces throughout the capital region, making it a well-rounded stop for a Washington, D.C. trip.

5-Day RV Itinerary for the Great American State Fair

• Day 1: Arrive at your campsite and set up your RV. Explore some of the area attractions outside of the National Mall. At the end of the day, whip up a meal in your RV before heading to bed. • Day 2: Spend your morning exploring the Northeast and Southeast pavilions. Have lunch at one of the coast-to-coast culinary spots. Afterward, avoid the heat by touring the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. • Day 3: Explore the Midwest and Southwest pavilions in the morning. Next, head to the U.S. National Archives to see the original Declaration of Independence. Spend your evening experiencing the giant Ferris wheel and the other family-friendly carnival rides. • Day 4: Start the day by visiting the Pacific states and territories pavilions. Take a walk around the Tidal Basin in the afternoon and see the Lincoln Memorial, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. Head back to the fairgrounds in the evening for the live concerts and big-screen presentations. • Day 5: Take a moment to enjoy your breakfast in your RV before heading out. Pack everything up and leave your campsite clean. If you head out early enough, you may want to enjoy one of the area's scenic drives on your journey home, such as the George Washington Memorial Parkway.

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