MN State Fairgrounds

Went to the flea market & Gem & Mineral show - both happened simultaneously on the same day. Both shows were amazing to see with almost an endless selection of items to see/buy. Loved both and these are both must-see/visit events if you’re into cool, vintage collectibles of many genres/eras - or gems, minerals of almost an unlimited selection - simply incredible!

Another amazing experience! So much interesting information and beautiful displays in the horticulture center! And crop art! The energy center had fascinating information as well! And a great friend won a huge stuffed animal on his 1st try at the games! Food was fabulous!

Had a blast at the fair this year! We even went on one of the hottest days and still had fun. Maybe would have been nice to have a fan or something! Anyway, staples here are the corn on a cob, sweet Martha's cookies, or anything that is on a stick or deep fried. We didn't have any food that was bad and it was all very affordable. I would recommend getting to the fair by bus as it's only $5 / person and a 15-20 minute ride. I usually try to avoid parking at the fair. Bloomington 30th Street was a good place to park near MOA. We also go to County Road 73 or Maple Grove which have pretty good sized ramps too.

We tend to go almost every year. We usually arrive around 8-8:15am to avoid the longer lines at either the Blue Barn or Nordic Waffles for breakfast and to plan out our day. On hot days there are misters that are running to keep you cool. There are many stands and a couple actual restaurants like O'Gara and the Hanger. This year we wanted to try many foods so went on the fair website and marked on the paper map where there was food we wanted to try.

Lots of great food, we went on loke the warmest day so not the best plan. Still, we were able to find water filling stations and buildings to cool down in. I highly recommend trying the Mn State Fair. This year, my fav was the pickle cheese curd tacos!