Went to the fair Oct 6,19 and enjoyed myself all day with the family. It was our first time at the Texas State Fair. There is plenty of family fun to be had and plenty of attractions and food. It's a huge area and plenty to see and do no matter the difference in taste among family members. The grip I have is the need to use coupons and cards for food, rides & games. It is very inconvenient to have to get coupons every other booth you visit because you end up spending an average of 18-25 coupons per item. You also have to get a preloaded card to play games, which is just another added step and not to mention a waste of paper/plastic. It's just very annoying to carry sheets of coupons all day & keep track of how many you have and guesstimate how many your going to need. I was in the military and have been to the fairs in Des Moines Iowa (the best I've been to), San Diego CA, Minnesota MN, & Raleigh NC. None of them use coupons for food and rides. Needless to say I would probably be back again but I wouldn't go out of my way to get to Dallas to attend the fair. read more

Fair Park - Big Tex! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Dallas, Texas

The most disappointing thing is that the one event that represents Texas was a embarrassment. The Texas bbq featured here was the biggest joke of all. I apologize to everyone trying Texas bbq for the first time cause you sure as hell won't find it here. read more

I really love Fair Park - the old buildings, wide fairways - it's just a pleasant place to come. I'm not sure which is my favorite time to visit the park: during the State Fair or during special events like running races. Bathrooms are dated but plentiful, as is parking. What I don't like are the times when they charge you to park for coming to do race packet pickup and so on, but that's a minor thing. read more

Fair park fourth... Over Priced... NOT photographer friendly I attended the "festivities" for the Fourth of July at Fair Park and found them to be very UNSATISFACTORY.... As usual the midway was open for rides, games and food, however, the price of admission has been upped to $8 , that's just for the "privilege" of walking around in the July heat. All activities on the Midway can only be accessed through use of a money card. Since you are basically a prisoner of the Midway, the food prices are much higher than you would pay if you were given freedom of choice, the prices of the rides are also higher this year and the ultimate insult is the fact that since you cannot pay by credit card directly you are FORCED TO PAY $2 for a card that gives you the privilege of giving them money. Long John Silver could not have come up with a more foolproof method of extortion you've invested $8 per person for nothing, you are forced to pay $2 to be allowed to give them money, and when the Cotton Bowl is opened to allow you to view fireworks after climbing the stairway to the entrance I was informed that I was not allowed to bring in a camera tripod. In past years this has NEVER been a problem but obviously some Tin Horned administrator with nothing better to do than to irritate people has dreamed up this idiotic rule to prove that he had the power to piss people off. As a result I was forced to video the fireworks across a parking lot with the added distraction of the parking lot lights. Up until yesterday this had been a yearly event for my family and myself... NO MORE... NEVER AGAIN. and as for the one star rating, FAIR PARK OWES ME STARS BECAUSE THE RATING WAS SO GENEROUS. read more

Am I in Dallas or North Korea? Fair Park is an otherworldly spot outside a traditional city. Stark buildings with so many different design influences makes you think you're in a different part of the world. The Art Deco movement lives on. They have a fountain show every 15 minutes, at least on Saturdays, which is fun to see, but it's a bit sad. The announcer is straight out of a Worlds Fair in the 60s. It's a fun element for children and adults alike. The park is just neat. Definitely worth the trip. read more

Love going to the State Fair of Texas on opening day. Start your day early with a Fletcher's Corn Dog. We love the car show, fair foods, and craft building. read more

I love Fair park especially during the State Fair. No point of writing a review so I'll just give you an awesome tip. By the Main stage between that and the animal petting area there's a store not a lot of people know about called lucky something, if you want to buy water, sodas, chips or anything for that matter go there its at regular store prices so you can save a couple of bucks at the Fair. No coupons needed they take cash or credit. You're welcome. read more

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My family and I really enjoy the Jurassic Quest event. This was our second year to go. My boyfriend has a 3 year old that just loves dinosaurs and he loved all the dinosaurs and bounce house. We also have the green scree. Picture from both years. We will make this an annual family event. read more

Whenever I think about Fair Park I think of the annual State Fair of Texas, the time when this place seems to get the most use. Other than that I have been to Fair Park for the end of a half-marathon and for the Taste of Dallas. I know that they hold concerts and other events here, but I don't think this massive park is living up to its full potential other than during the State Fair. During normal times this place is deserted and downright scary like an abandoned amusement park. Fair Park has the potential to be a go to spot almost every day of the year for both tourists and DFW residents, not just an "I'm going to an event here" type of location. Given the mostly mild weather and the easy access by using the DART, Fair Park could be used for exercise, tours, and year round restaurants. I got all these crazy ideas about what Fair Park could be after visiting San Diego and seeing how nice Balboa Park is. I can see Fair Park being just as nice.I think there are a few museums here and a restaurant, but Fair Park still seems abandoned. This place shouldn't only come to life for 24 days in the fall. When I have been here for special events only a certain section of the park is being used, not the whole thing. read more

Poor planning; no signage for Uber/Lyft pick up. Poor coordination for bathroom breaks during Dallas summer musicals. Ushers nonexistent. Might as well just watch stuff at home and not stimulate local economy. read more

I love Fair Park. I come here most years for the State Fair of Texas. Such fun. I could post a million pictures, but hey, they are all over the internet. I had nothing to compare this with until I went to the Houston Rodeo. I used to think of Fair park as a 5 star, but after visiting the rodeo, I realize they are missing one thing here: good home cooked food. The rodeo had a whole area dedicated to local restaurants serving their best ever everything. I love Fair Food, especially the Fletchers corny dogs. I love fried everything, but wish they did have also the local eateries highlighted like Houston. Otherwise, a lot of fun. Recommended. read more

Neat park! It was a little old and the parking situation was less than stellar. They also charge quite a bit for parking! So make sure you have cash. They have swans that you can rent and ride across the lake, fair rides of all kinds and an old mill with a working water wheel. My daughter loved the statues like the one of the giant elephant and it have several beautiful spots to take some really neat pictures. It was a nice day spent walking around and enjoying the weather and the sites read more

I just love Fair Park because it is the perfect place to hold any huge outdoor event. The architecture of the buildings are beautiful, and I just love the layout. The Texas State Fair is always held here, and if you haven't gone, what are you waiting for? TX State Fair is just something to do once a year where you try out all of unhealthiest foods and go to the auto show, etc. I recently went to partake in the Taste of Dallas and had a good time. You can take the train here, or pay $10 to park. read more

A mysterious place to me. I always wonder what happens in these grand buildings when there aren't events. If it just looks like a deserted wondrous ancient city. I really do have more questions than answers about this place. Like, are the museums open on a daily basis? Who takes care of the peacocks that are perennially caged there? Is it a park that is open to the public when nothing else is happening? I've only ever come here for the big events, like the Great Texas Beerfest which is held in the automotive building and the state fair. The grounds are nice but I sure wish there were more clearly marked water fountains. During the state fair, they actually turn off the water fountains so you're forced to buy water! How irresponsible and greedy is that?! read more

Who doesn't like the home of the biggest and best state fair in the country? Throughout the year, they also have other ongoing events that are always a great time. Parking is plentiful but can be pretty pricey. Public transportation is easy to use to get there. The surrounding location of Fair Park is rather seedy, so be aware of your surroundings. The Fair Park area is nice and well manicured. No matter what time of year you go, there is sure to be something fun to do and see. read more

A very cool fair just plan a head and take out a small load prior to going. It will cost you only an Arm and small toe for parking the gate and oh ya don't forget that awesome fried food every 10 steps! This place is huge bring a good pair of walking shoes. read more

Who's going to write a negative review of Fair Park?! Seriously... no one. yet. And I'm joining that list of no ones. Now... just a forewarning. If you search on Google Maps, and it brings up "Fair Park, TX," you will end up in a very bad part of Dallas. This happened to me, and I locked my doors and got out. No biggie. Google Maps is getting better at this sort of thing, so it's ok. Obviously the fair is the biggest thing that happens here, but there are also a few other events throughout the year that bring people like me in. Particularly, this art festival we went to. It was great! All artists were unique and ones that we haven't seen before. I like going to art festivals, but sometimes I just run into the whole "I can do that" thing, in which case, your art isn't good enough! Anywho, Fair Park is a pretty stinkin awesome place. The architecture, the environment, etc, etc... it's all good. Go here if you get a chance. I'm sure you'll enjoy yourself! read more

I've only been to Fair park once, for the north texas irish festival, and it was great! The park itself has tons of space, large sidewalks for big crowds to teem across without causing pedestrian traffic jams, and many places to 'pull over' and lean against a half wall or sit on a concrete bench. The buildings around the main pool area were of good size, with high ceilings to diffuse the heat. Lots of shady spots to nip into, as well as ares where you can bask in the sun. Bathrooms were clean, well stocked and easy to locate. The built in concession stands/restaurants were reasonably priced and had a good amount of variety. Alcohol was sold at most of the food concession stands and tents, which made getting a full meal a lot easier (fewer lines to stand in too). Compared to the Irving convention center, this place wins hands down! read more

Fair Park - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Dallas, Texas

I've been here for many various festivals and of course the fair. It's a great usage of space. They can hold thousands upon thousands of people in an area with relatively affordable parking near by and lots to see and do. My last time I was here I was here for a rave/dance festival: Lights All Nights. It was a blast! It's nice to wonder around totally trashed but be confined and well lit so you don't end up hurting yourself. read more

Oh so rarely do I go to the Fairgrounds. Just concerts and the State Fair. But on those rare occasions I venture to South East Dallas, I always have a blast. From what I have gathered in all my years, there are no better Turkey Legs than the one located in the fairgrounds in September and October. None. And from what I have gathered in all my years, it's not a bad venue for LAN, either. Except for the friggid cold. But...well some people need it colder outside for LAN. nudge nudge. nudge. nudge nudge nudge. Fairgrounds. A+. Always kept clean. will come every year until I'm not here anymore. read more

The COVID 19 Vaccine Clinic at Fair Park is not a professional, clean or sterile environment for anyone to get their Johnson and Johnson COVID 19 Vaccine. They wait tie is very lengthy, up to two hours. The Nurses giving the vaccine are unprofessional. Several of the staff members where eating at the table where the vaccine supplies were kept. This was not what one would see if they went to a clinic at a doctors office, CVS or Walgreens to receive any type of vaccine. read more

Great atmosphere! Was here for Fair Park Fourth (4th of July Celebration). There were thousands of people and long lines and expensive (delicious) food, but it's still definitely a good time. read more

Fair Park - 4th of July Celebration at Fair Park - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Dallas, Texas

Great, huge park outside of downtown for dog-walking, bike-riding, and fountain-playing. It's pretty neat especially in NOT State Fair season when you have entire sections of the park to yourself. I only wish there were fewer parking lots, and more park. read more

Time Line for 1st Shot Vaccinations as of January 26, 2021: 8:10am - Found end of single file vehicle line half way over bridge on Fitzhugh (behind the fair grounds) & got in line. 9:15am - Arrived at turn-in for designated Gate 5. 9:20am - Parked and filled out paperwork (3 pages) given in parking lot. 9:35am - On golf cart (with 4 others) to go to Women's Building. 9:45am - Temperature taken & wait in folding chair for "2nd Shot" card (provided) with date of return printed on back. 10:00am - Sent to Table for shot. Very fast, only wanted to know which arm. 10:01am - Sent to adjacent building for 15 min wait after shot (seated). 10:16am - Dismissed to outdoor area for golf cart pick-up. 10:30am - Arrived near my vehicle and exited parking with no lines or delays. I was not asked when my scheduled appointment time was. Everything except the golf cart ride was socially distant. There were portable toilets in the parking lots for use before the golf carts and also indoor restrooms after the shot while waiting for dismissal. read more

For Texas, it's a good fairground/plaza. There are a number of buildings around and a big pool/fountain thing in the middle of it all. I am told the place was created back in the 40s, which is old for Texas. There are a few big statues around, they're showing signs of wear and tear and could use a touch up. There's also some weird / old greek kinda stylized art-deco paintings that look a little.... off? I don't know. I'm being picky. What I don't get, is the lack of shade. This is Texas. Even I know, in my short time here, that the sun is utterly unrelenting on any given day. Shade. Make places with more shade. Trees, those wooden trellis things, SOMEthing. You also can't tell where any of the buildings are - I didn't see any signs telling you what direction to go for what building. Or the buildings have names on them then in smaller type underneath "Now know as the Transportation building". Well which is it??? You can't have TWO names! Pick one! I went here for the Taste Of Dallas thing which was all right. The weather was terrible which allowed me to actually park relatively close and not wait in lines all day. It's kind of a nice space to have - it's just confusing where to go, where to park, what direction to head in after you've parked, etc. read more

I have onky visited Fair Park during the Texas State Fair. This is the perfect location to hold this iconic event! The DART pulls up right to the main entrance. You can't beat that! read more

Love this park. It's always great to stroll through Fair park in October especially during the State fair of Texas. read more

Fair Park - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Dallas, Texas

What's there to say that is negative about Fair Park? I have great memories, of the fair and museums and all sorts of fun goings-on. Some of the facilities could use some updating, but all in all it is a wonderful place to be. I also would like to see the parking little more organized for valet. Still, I know that they do their best with all of the business. read more

State fair amazing here. Hint if you're coming from outside the city though: park at the end of one of the dart lines then ride it in. Can get crowded but it is cheaper and easier than perking there read more

Finally (after several years) went to the state fair. Was a bit disappointed after all the hype and the surrounding areas were a bit too ghetto for my taste. I was lucky enough to have vip access to the special entrances that city employees get that the general public doesn't get to see or take advantage of. Fair was nice and crowded, with a sea of food vendors, swarms of kids, coupon stands every where and was nicely laid out. car show was a bit separated and was kinda oddly presented (i.e. nissan was all the way across where the toyota section was) but I did like how they had a truck on top of walk ways and throughout the park. Was nice overall. highly recommend for anyone to try once, but keep an eye for diabetes-inducing fried food and lots of walking. I didnt ride the rides, but people survived them so that's cool. Also, the new big tex is creepy. lol read more

I was here recently for a comic convention in the Embarcadero building. Surely you already know it's not in a great area of Dallas, but Fair Park can't do much about that, can it? Parking was a bit far away from the building, not really sure why we couldn't park in the closer lot. Also, there was a cop monitoring the parking lot the whole time, which is good, yet disconcerting. Upon closer inspection, I was surprised to see the buildings at Fair Park are not well maintained at all. First thought was it had a real dystopian, apocalyptic look. One of the metal letters spelling "Embarcadero" was missing. Paint was wearing off and chipping. The parking lot was full of potholes and uneven ground on which someone might trip and die. You'd think with the Texas State Fair here every year, they would want to keep the grounds up, and would have the funds to do so. Apparently the park received $72 million in 2006 for repairs and improvements -- where exactly did that end up? Inside the Embarcadero building, it was old. Like never been updated once in its life old. Bathroom stall doors were bright blue and covered in graffiti. It was an okay location for a convention, but I wouldn't want to spend much time here in this dilapidated fairgrounds when the fair isn't in town. read more

Went there for the Chinese Lantern Festival...... the only complaint i have is the price for parking, $15 for parking just for the festival.... The festival wasnt the greatest thing on earth, i think $5 bucks would've been ok ....... read more

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Back like I never left. Off to explore more food!!!! Gotta learn to pace yourself here....tummy aches do happen after all the goodness settles in your belly read more

Fair Park - Lets get it - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Dallas, Texas

Fair Park is a great place that offers a lot of different things to do and is home to events of all sizes. The park's rich history makes this destination educational and the architecture brilliance makes it visibly pleasing! Fair Park has been designated a Great Place in America by the American Planning Association (APA) for 2011. Fair Park is home to the African-American Museum, Museum of Nature and Science, Texas Museum of Automotive History, the South Dallas Cultural Center, and Children's Aquarium just to name a few! These museums and others ensure a fun-filled day that is great for the entire family! Take your kids to the Children's Aquarium and feed stingrays. If these are not enough try checking out an annual event. Fair Park host the State Fair of Texas, Dog Bowl, North Texas Irish Festival, and the TicketCity Bowl just to name a few. On top of that, there are smaller events such as the Rock and Roll Marathon, Arts District Wine Stroll, or the weekly Criteriums! There is guaranteed to be an event for nearly any interest. Still not enough? Check out Crafts Village, an open-air emporium with 20 booths of crafts from the locals. What better way is there to spend a day with the family? As I mentioned, Fair Park is a great place to visit. Offering a large amount of activities and beautiful scenery this park is a must see. If you are in the Dallas area definitely plan for a full day there with your family! read more

fair park is a gem. it's an absolute gem. what can i really say to explain the greatness? fair park is the largest collection of period art deco buildings.. i think in the us? i could be full of it. there are a lot. it is GREAT to visit during the state fair of texas. it is carnival to the max. fried foods, petting zoos, midway games and everything else in between. but fair park is just as amazing during the off season.. which is most of the year. there's a great collection of museums in the park. the children's aquarium has been recently renovated and has a really big nice outdoor touch pool with rays and horseshoe crabs! the texas discovery gardens has a butterfly house that is just fabulous. i love visiting here in the winter.. because it's always tropical in the butterfly house. i'm also a big fan of the lagoon area. there are tons of turtles that live on the sculpture. i'm a sucker. i just love it. read more

Came here for the Jurassic Quest event hosted here at fair park. It was only here for Valentine's Day weekend. Very educational and fun day. We loved having something to do for the whole family for Valentine's together. Half was bouncy houses in dinosaur theme. There was an activity center to make arts and crafts of Dinosaurs and a make your own fossil area. Face painting, real looking dinosaur rides, and a Dino fossil dig. The other half of the building had large reproductions of different dinosaurs that moved and made sounds and some actually would bleed..(yick)! Kids thought it was cool. Can't forget to mention the lemonade and other carnie food available for concessions as well as a large area of Dino everything you can imagine souvenirs. A little pricey at $20 for adults and $25 for vip kids ticket(otherwise you buy tickets for everything) but a fun day had by all. Would probably go again next year if they have it. read more

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I was sent an email on Saturday March 13th to arrive at Fair Park Fairgrounds Gate 2 on Monday the 15th at 8 am. When I arrived at Fair Park there was a line a few miles long and I was discouraged thinking I would be here at least 4 hours. However, as soon as they began giving shots at 8 am, the line moved very quickly. The whole procedure was very well organized, with plenty of volunteers and the police posted at intersections to prevent cutting in line. From the time I pulled into line and pulled out of the last holding area was less than 45 minutes. The army was administering the vaccines with volunteers directing and directing traffic. Everyone was friendly, helpful and courteous. A fine example of planning, organization and efficiency. Make sure you have your QR code downloaded on your phone to show as you arrive. You will be given a card scheduling your second vaccine. Very good experience! read more

I was here for Taste of Dallas. It was ok, not a bad event for a group or a date. Things in Taste of Dallas is pretty cheap around 3 dollars for a small plate of food, there is famous restaurant like Texas de Brazil, so around 15 dollars you will be full. There is a admission fee of 12 dollars, but if you go to walgreen you get to get the ticket for only 8 dollars and is right off Martin Luther King station. Also, if you go on Sunday(the end of the festival) you can buy the food for a discount. read more

Even in the "off season" when no fair is being held, this is a neat place to take a bike ride or walk around. My teenage daughter really enjoyed having a picnic next to the lake and wandering around exploring for an hour or two before we headed into the city. We felt there was a lot more in Fair Park than we had realized from our research and that we might have planned to see more of it if we had known. They offer year-round bike rentals out front near the parking areas. read more

We live next to the park and go here quite often. Our kids love this place. It often has a lot of different entertainment, so the kids never bored there. Besides the events the park itself is quite picturesque. We usually spend a half of the day here on weekends, and sometimes the whole day. I give to Fair Park five of five. read more