It’s that time of the year, planning a trip to the Minnesota State Fair. What better way then by riding your bike. Riding from home, parking a few miles away, or incorporating the Metro Transit for a multi-modal commute can take the hassle factor out of visiting the fair. Plus, the Fair has expanded the space for free bicycle parking. It is also a great way to burn-off those extra calories from all of the fun things to eat on a stick. In St. Paul, this year the fair run from August 24th, through Labor Day, September 4th. HaveFunBiking plans to be out there on opening day to review the latest in interesting bicycle related opportunities hope to see you out there.
A hassle -free way to get to the Minnesota State Fair
Riding your bike to the Minnesota State Fair cyclist can choose between three secure bike corrals to park their bike while visiting the Great Minnesota Get Together.
As in the past, riding your bike to the fair can be fun and lessen the congestion getting there. Avoid the hassle of State Fair traffic inconveniences and limited parking options. This year, take the bus, ride your bike or both by multi modal commuting. Each day, those who commute by bicycle to the fair ground, from 6 a.m. to midnight each day, will find three (3) secure bike locations. They are located at:
South Bike Lot: Como-Snelling Gate (#6) A popular location, this bike corral has added 100 addition spot for daily bike paring here.
North Bike Lot: Hoyt-Snelling Gate (#2)
West Bike Lot: Randall Ave-Buford Gate (#16)
Here is a map, from St Paul Smart Trips, showing the best bicycle routes to ride your bike comfortably to the fair.
Bike related things to do and see at the Minnesota State Fair
At the Minnesota State Fair , check the latest in environmentally friendly exhibits in the Eco Progress Center.
Now that you are at the fair walking around you can think about what you might want to purchase. Maybe a headband that can open up as a bonnet under your helmet to help keep the sweat of your eyes or the sun from the top of your head? You will find out where to purchase this item and other fun things on the new Minnesota State Fair App, that is free – see below.
Need a new Minnesota Bike Map? In the Education Building, look for the Minnesota Department of Transportation booth where you will find the latest maps free of charge. They are usually available up in one of the bike exhibits up on the Eco Building, also.
Didn’t get a printed copy of our 2017 Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide? Pick up a copy at the Minnesota DNR Information Center, while supplies last.
Like parades?
At the Minnesota State Fair parade, its fun to see the uni-cyclists riding among the floats and marching bands.
Each day at 2 p.m. on Cosgrove Street you can watch the Minnesota State Fair Parade. If you are lucky you might see the Twin Cities Unicyclists Club preforming. These single wheeled bicyclists always do some fun tricks as they pedal along the parade route. Besides the cyclists on one-wheel you will see many different floats and marching bands. As the parade ends near the Eco Progress Center you can check out the latest exhibits in environmental friendly living.
Fun foods at the Minnesota State Fair to try
You will find plenty of fun foods to try at this years Minnesota State Fair.
Every year there are many fun and wacky foods entrees to try at the fair. This year is no exception looking at the latest published list of new foods to try. Item that caught my attention that, I might have to try, included: the Bacon Fluffernutter (say that ten times), the triple truffle trooter, Memphis Tochos and a cup of maple cream nitro cold press coffee. And that’s for starters, besides all the tried and true treats I normally only indulge in once a year.
See the latest in action biking stunts?
Take a load off your feet and watch the BMX’ers perform some stunts, at the X-Zone.
Up on Machinery Hill you will find the X-Zone. Here watch some BMX’ers preform some high-rising stunts right in front of you on the amazing exhibition course they have laid out.
Interested in fat biking?
Located in the Ramberg Senior Center, kiddie-corner from the Haunted House, you will find out what Team Fat Bike is all about. Visit their brightly colored e-bike assisted models on display at the fair. From folding bikes, beach cruisers, mountain extreme bikes, classic step-threw and more you will see. Check them out, they may be a little easier to pedal and more fun!
New Minnesota State Fair App
Download the Minnesota State Fair App. It’s absolutely free and features their famous Food Finder, Fun Finder and Merchandise Search tools to help you find your favorites at The Great Minnesota Get-Together. Available now absolutely free at the Apple App Store or Google Play store.
Hope this helps you plan for your next visit to the Minnesota State Fair. If we missed something you may have discovered? Please let us know, we would like to add it to our preview article, coming later this week. Please leave a comment below.
Thanks and Have Fun at the Minnesota State Fair!
