The New York State Fair often marks the end of summer in Central New York. It’s an opportunity to hold onto summer one last time before returning to school and embracing the fall season. We’ve put together a few itineraries to help you make the most of your time at the NYS Fairgrounds.

 

 

For the Couple Looking to have a Fair Date

 

The NYS Fair can be a great opportunity for a date with your significant other. There is always something new to do together at the fair!

Mid-Morning:

As you enter under the nine arches of the famous gates at the NYS Fairgrounds, make your first stop at Recess Coffee, where you can properly caffeinate for the exciting day you have planned.

Stop by the State Park at the Fair to check out the Birds of Prey exhibit and see majestic birds up close and personal as they fly over the audience in an interactive exhibit. The exhibit is open from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm daily, with 3 different show times. At 11:00 am, watch a captivating mind-reading show with Jon Stetson, "America's Master Mentalist," for a comedy and magic-filled morning. On Friday, August 22, at the Main Gate be a part of watching the Pride Day Flag Raising, then check out the rest of the Pride Day promotions.

Early Afternoon:

Next, head to the Dairy Products Building for your 25-cent milk at the Milk Bar, check out the Butter sculpture, and grab cookies from The Bake Lab (The Sweet Praxis) for a delicious, sweet treat. At this point, you may be getting a bit hungry, so head over to the Horticultural Building and split a famous $1 baked potato from the potato booth, a tradition that has been running at the State Fair since 1841. 

Early Evening:

Head over to the Micron Center of Progress Building that houses the famous attraction, the Sand Sculpture! Be amazed at the hand-carved sculpture and be in awe with your partner about the talent and skill that goes into making this nearly 180-ton sand sculpture. After that, stop by one of the many food trucks or food stands throughout the fairgrounds for a delicious bite.

Evening/Nighttime:

Don’t forget to stop by one of the 1911 locations for a fun, specialty adult beverage (they have 3 locations!). The Beak & Skiff stand offers cider donuts, candy apples, slushies, and a full food menu. 

End your day at Suburban Park or Chevy Court concerts like Lil John, All Time Low, Neon Trees, and more. They are the perfect way to enjoy free entertainment and end your time at the fair! Check out the full concert lineup here for Suburban Park and here for Chevy Court and have a day you’ll always remember.  

 

 

For the Families Looking to Have Their Final Summer Fun

 

Squeeze in one last summer hurrah at the NYS Fair with the entire family. Check out how to plan a whole day of fun.

Mid-Morning:

Begin at the Horse Barns or check out the 4H Youth Building. Head to the Family Fun Zone behind the Exposition Center to the Animal Encounters Petting Zoo with zebras, cows, sheep, llamas, and more, open daily from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm.  For more entertainment, watch the Hollywood Racing Pigs competition daily at 12:15 pm. Take part in Family Fishing Day on Friday, August 22 or Friday, August 29, from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm at the pond in the New York Experience Area, near Suburban Park. No fishing license is required, and loaner rods are available. All ages and abilities are welcome to fish!

Early Afternoon:

The Dinosaur Expedition in the Exposition Center is a must-see exhibit for the whole family, which features true-to-life replicas of dinosaurs. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back to prehistoric times as you take photos and have dinosaur dance parties.  Every hour includes a fossil dig and story time. On Saturday, August 23, at Chevy Court, listen to KIDS BOP at 1:00 pm, performing their KIDZ BOP LIVE Certified BOP Tour. These concerts are free with fair admission. If you attend Sensory Friendly Day on Wednesday, August 27, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, the rides on the Midway will operate without lights, sounds, music, and announcements will be limited.

Early Evening:

Grab ride tickets or an all-day wristband to enjoy the many rides and attractions on the Wade Shows Midway, open daily. Enjoy Candyland USA, the Carousel, Dragon Wagon, Mirror Maze, Tea Cups, and more. Please note wristbands are not recommended for children under 36” in height since there are a limited number of rides they can safely be on. Those with children under 48” should also check height requirements on their website before purchasing wristbands.

Evening/Nighttime:

Head back to the Family Fun Zone and stop by Circus Hollywood at 7:00 pm and watch the performers under The Big Top as they amaze everyone in your family with their tricks and skills. Additional performances are at 11:00 am and 2:00 pm daily. On your way out, make sure to grab a photo and tag #VisitSyr for a chance to be featured on our social media!

 

 

The Great NYS Fair Adventurer

 

Whether you arrived with a group and wanted to do your own thing or are checking the NYS Fair out on your own time, there’s plenty to do for the solo attendee!

Mid-Morning:

The Horticulture Building holds multiple demonstrations. Learn about container gardens, habitat gardening, ticks, and more. Watch Flower designs, Gladiolus, Dahlias, and more being judged and marvel at the beautiful flowers and foliage. Check out the Taste NY Marketplace featuring local products from NYS and the New York Maple Center while visiting the Horticulture Building.

Early Afternoon:

Inside the Wegmans Art & Home Center, watch demonstrations, view different culinary competition results, and performances at the Empire Theater. While you’re there, view culinary, crafts, and fine arts exhibits. Take a break in the shade at the State Park at the Fair or watch the Canine / Bomb Disposal Team Demonstration at 1:15 pm at the New York State Police Exhibit.

Early Evening:

Head over to the Iroquois Indian Village to enjoy culture and heritage with a 2,300 square foot 16th-century replica of a Bark Longhouse and traditional social dances at 4:00 pm. Check out the Pan-African Village for authentic African dance, drumming, and singing. Before you leave, get food from The Eatery and explore the New York Experience behind the Midway.

Evening/Nighttime:

Outside of the Dairy Products Building, watch street performer “Groovy” Guy Collins during the first 6 days of the fair at 5:00 pm or Hilby, The Skinny German Juggle Boy, beginning on August 26, who is an Ithaca native, also at 5:00 pm. Before heading out, catch various parades like Pride Day Parade on Friday, August 22, Law Enforcement Day Parade on Monday, August 25, Fire, Rescue, & EMS Parade on Tuesday, August 26, and Armed Forces Day Parade on Thursday, August 28. Each parade starts at 6:00 pm, stepping off from the Exposition Center, moving along Broadway, and circling back around Central Park back to the Exposition Center.

 

No matter your interests or who you go with, the Great New York State Fair has something for everyone to enjoy. Get ready to experience all the NYS Fair has to offer this year. We’ll see you there!

 

Explore more to do at the NYS Fair