Iowa State Fair 2023

Des Moines, Iowa

Iowa State Fair 2023: Nothing Compares

The Iowa State Fair is an International acclaimed event that takes place in Iowa’s capital each year. It is the single largest event in Iowa and one of the largest and well-known state fairs in the United States. The fair boasts nearly 200 food stands, as well as a range of live and free entertainment, rides, pageants and more. 

“One of the oldest and largest agricultural expositions in the country” 

Home to nearly 200 local food vendors, you can find just about anything on a stick at the Iowa State Fair. A number of food vendors also feature a variety of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. From musical legends to up-and-coming artists, the Iowa State Fair features countless hours of entertainment, all free of charge with gate admission.

You can find everything from pop to rock, folk, country, rock n’ roll and more. In addition to the complimentary entertainment, there are also a number of ticketed grandstand events from world-renowned talent such as Chris Stapleton.

Where to view the Iowa State Fair

The Iowa State Fair will take place at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa. You can find the event at East 30th Street and East University Avenue, 50317 Des Moines, Iowa. 

How to get around Des Moines

The nearest major airport is Des Moines International Airport, located approximately 10 minutes south of the city centre. You can travel directly between the airport and the city centre on bus route 8. When travelling around Des Moines, the city offers a range of public transport options to make getting around quick and easy. 

You can find a range of bus services located throughout the city, as well as a free Downtown DSM shuttle, which runs from one side of the city to the other, six days a week. For regional travel, the city is connected via Amtrak (train) and Greyhound and Jefferson (bus) lines.

You can travel to the event by car as well as public transport, with direct bus services travelling to and from the Fairgrounds. You can also get around via the free tram, that travels throughout the fair. Parking is also available at the fairgrounds. You can park in the official Fair’s lots for free and ride the DART’s State Fair Park & Ride shuttle to and from the event.

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Where to stay for the Iowa State Fair

The Iowa State Fair offers camping on site for those who want the full fair experience. Campers must register for a spot and designated areas are available for caravans/camper vans. There is also a wide range of accommodation options available nearby as well as throughout the city.

The nearest option is Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Fairgrounds, located a ten-minute walk from the event grounds. Other popular nearby hotels include WoodSpring Suites Des Moines Pleasant Hill and Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill.

A variety of apartments and guest houses are also available in the area surrounding the event. 

Things to do in Des Moines

Iowa’s capital of Des Moines offers a range of things to see and do. The city features a number of popular outdoor attractions, including the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and the Blank Park Zoo. In addition to the attractions, you can also find the official Des Moines Downtown Farmer’s Market, which takes place each Saturday from 7 am – 12 pm.

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The market welcomes almost 300 vendors, who travel from across the state; featuring everything from arts and craft to Iowa-raised meat culture, locally grown produce and more.

The city is also known for it’s frequently visited wineries, Other popular attractions include the Science Centre of Iowa & Blank IMAX Dome Theater, the Des Moines Art Centre and the Iowa State Capital.

Iowa State Fair 2023 Dates

The Iowa State Fair will take place from August 10-20, 2023.