Iowa State Fair

ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT

There's always something to do at the fair! Check out many talented acts on the numerous free stages spread throughout the fairgrounds. These include musical entertainment, talent shows, and other fun, family-friendly activities. Be sure to take a stroll through the livestock barns and get a glimpse of the industry that makes Iowa stand out in agriculture. Don't forget to stop by and see the famous butter cow as well. The Varied Industry Building features an array of companies with many marketing freebies available to stock up on. And don't forget the Thrill Zones for amusement rides and the giant slide that has people, young and old, squealing in delight!

ON-SITE AMENITIES

Dozens of food and beverage vendors are on-site at the fair and ready to serve you up novelty creations and Iowa staples alike! Water filling stations are available throughout the fairgrounds. Restrooms, including accessible ones, are located throughout the fairgrounds. First-aid stations and a lost-and-found are also available.

LOCATION

The Iowa State Fair is held at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. The address is 3000 East Grand Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50317. The fairgrounds are paved in some areas and have grassy areas in others. Under rainy conditions, it could become muddy. You should consider taking rain boots, a poncho, and an umbrella.

FAQs About RVing to the Iowa State Fair

Can you bring an RV to the Iowa State Fair?

Yes, RV camping is available at the Iowa State Fair. You must park your RV at the designated campground and buy a camping pass. Our packing checklist blog offers recommendations for what to bring with you to the fair.

Where can you park an RV for the Iowa State Fair?

Currently, the only place you can park an RV at the Iowa State Fair is the campground. There aren’t any parking spaces dedicated to RVs.

Are there RV hookups at the Iowa State Fair?

Yes, you will find full hookup RV camping spots at the Iowa State Fair. There are currently 2,300 camping spots available at the campground.

Is the Iowa State Fair family-friendly?

Yes, the Iowa State Fair caters to families and offers many activities for families. You’ll find Thrill Town and Thrill Ville rides that are great for kids. There are also carnival games and rides that are ideal for children.

LINEUP

The 2026 Iowa State Fair lineup includes HARDY, Rod Stewart, Lainey Wilson, Staind, TLC with Salt-N-Pepa, and Alabama.

RVING AT THE EVENT

RVing at the Iowa State Fair offers a convenient way to enjoy the fair and make new friends. You can go to the fair as soon as it opens each day or plan a limited trip with your friends or family. It offers many activities and events that are perfect for creating lasting memories.

Where to Camp Near the Iowa State Fair

RVing near the Iowa State Fair is possible if you don’t want to stay on-site. These options begin with Yellow Banks Park, which is just over four miles from the venue. The campground offers 30- and 50-amp electric connections, showers, and scenic views. Adventureland Campground is a little over 5 miles from the venue. It offers 30- and 50-amp electric with full hookup sites, showers, restrooms, RV facilities, a dog run, and a swimming pool.

RV Rental Tips for the Iowa State Fair

Reserve your RV camping pass in advance and ensure you arrive early to get the best camping spot. The campground offers 2,300 sites with full hookups and bathhouses. Your RV must be under 30 feet in length to stay at this campground. If you need recommendations, you can read through our Class C and travel trailer guides.

WHERE TO STAY

Dozens of reasonably priced hotels sit in close proximity to the Iowa State Fairgrounds. Homewood Suites Des Moines Airport has a fitness center and an indoor pool. Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collection by Hilton, provides a fitness center, restaurant, bar, room service, and family rooms. Baymont by Wyndham Des Moines Airport features a heated indoor pool, hot tub, and dry sauna, and rooms start at less than $100 a night. All these accommodations include free Wi-Fi. RVers will need to check with the hotels directly for details on RV parking.

HOW TO GET THERE

From the north: Take I-35 to I-235, and take exit 10A. Head east on East University Avenue for approximately 4 miles to the fairgrounds. From the south: From I-35, take IA 5/US65 to exit 79. Head west on East University Avenue for approximately 4 miles to the fairgrounds. From the east: Take I-80 to exit 141. Travel south on Highway 65 to Exit 79. Head west on East University Avenue for approximately 3 miles to the fairgrounds. From the west: Take I-235 to exit 10A. Head east on East University for approximately 4 miles to the fairgrounds.

PARKING

Official state fair parking is available on-site for a fee. These lots fill most days quickly. Many nearby residents open up their driveways and yards for paid parking within walking distance of the fairgrounds. Additionally, the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) offers a Park & Ride program where you can park your vehicle at an area school or other public place and purchase a round-trip bus ticket to and from the gates.

TICKETS & PRICING

Advance tickets for the Iowa State Fair cost $11 for adults and $7 for children, making it a great option for families looking to save before arriving. If you wait to purchase tickets at the gate, admission increases to $16 for adults and $10 for children. Buying tickets ahead of time can help you skip long entry lines and make your arrival a little smoother. For more information about admission, schedules, and attractions, visit the event’s official website.

WRAP UP

Whether this is your first time or you're a seasoned visitor, the Iowa State Fair always has something new for you to experience. Learn more about the culture and heritage of the Hawkeye State, enjoy family fun in the park, and try out new foods every year. For more information, check out the event’s Facebook page.

3-Day RV Itinerary for the Iowa State Fair

● Day 1: Enjoy Fair Classics and the Iconic Butter Cow: Arrive early to your RV camping spot and set up your RV. Next, use the campground shuttle to go to the John Deere Agriculture Building. You’ll see the famous Butter Cow, weighing 600 lbs. Stop by the Iowa Pork Producers for a quick lunch. Pork chops on a stick are their specialty. In the afternoon, go on the Grand Avenue Sky Glider to ensure scenic views over the fairgrounds. Visit the Varied Industries Building to cool off and pick up promotional giveaways. By evening, you can go to the Bill Riley Talent Search to enjoy free entertainment. ● Day 2: Animal, Rides, and Local Flavor: Start your morning off at the livestock barns. You will see huge bulls and boars. If you’re traveling with kids, go to the Little Hands on the Farm. By mid-day, take a ride to the Ye Old Mill and go on the Giant Slide. In the afternoon, you can sample fair foods and cheese. If you enjoy art and photography, go to the Cultural Center to see their exhibit. In the evening, go see the free concert at the Susan Knapp Amphitheater. ● Day 3: Agriculture, Crafts, and Finales: Start your morning by watching the chainsaw carvers at the Expo Hill. Next, go to the Hot Glass Academy to see glassblowing demonstrations. Stop at your favorite food vendor and grab lunch. In the afternoon, you will have a terrific opportunity to enjoy Iowa-produced craft beer. In the evening, enjoy the headliners scheduled for the night.

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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