Fair Park

City park · Wheatley Place

Fair Park

City park · Wheatley Place

1

3809 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX 75210

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Highlights

Fair Park in Dallas, a sprawling 1930s Art Deco gem, blends world-class cultural venues, sports, an amusement park, and the iconic Texas State Fair.  

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3809 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX 75210 Get directions

fairparkdallas.com
@fairparkdallas

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3809 Grand Ave, Dallas, TX 75210 Get directions

+1 214 670 8400
fairparkdallas.com
@fairparkdallas

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Jul 30, 2025

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@goop

"The Texas State Fair is everything you might expect: country-and-western shows, livestock competitions, roller coasters, and food booths that will fry just about anything. Less expected are the tiny homes exposition, where every dwelling is less than 300 square feet, and the vegan-food pavilion. Open for only three weeks a year, the fairgrounds are filled with ornate Art Deco buildings built in the 1930s, and there’s also a lake you can paddle across in a swan boat. "

The Dallas Guide
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Mone Dots

Google
The fireworks were awesome! The park was a huge historic place with many activities for people of all ages. The DJ was also a great experience with the ability to sing and dance in a crowd . The only downside was leaving the parking lot. We waited for over 45 minutes to get out, due to heavy traffic and lack of directing traffic.

C S Johnson-Valdez

Google
The bridal expo was great. They had a lot of vendors in attendance trying to get you to book with them on the spot with a small discount. Everyone was personable and took time to explain what they offer

Eric Ledlum

Google
fuzzy sucks. other option better. actually lost a tooth on their burrito. sound is good. good venue. great for gatherings

kom

Google
A truly beautiful park! Immaculately clean picnic areas, scenic walking trails, a fun play zone for kids, and the perfect spot for outdoor picnics.

George Thomas Rey

Google
On March 2, 2025, Saturday, my wife and I went to the Irish Festival. It was nice as always. There was music and dances. There were a lot of places to eat and I mean a lot. There were a lot of 'kiosks' to buy such as jewelry, clothing, swords, knives, painting, art crafts, photos, etc. A lot of people brought their Irish dogs to the festival too. There were dogs bigger than us. I recommend it.

Moaid AL-Razhy

Google
Nice place, very large and great infrastructure, but unfortunately not so well cared for.

Christina Humes

Google
Went for the Monster Truck show and had a great time. Parking, food, and attraction lines were organized and spaced out well. Show was enjoyable and worth the VIP pass.

Melanie R Norman

Google
Visited the children's aquarium and the discovery nature . We never have been. brought my 10 month old and 3 yo. We loved it
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Guy H.

Yelp
Fair Park originated in 1886 when the Dallas State Fair Assoc was chartered by the State of Texas. 80 acres of cotton field was selected east of Dallas for the fair grounds. And so the beginning of a great place,great stories and great people was born. Little did those original founders realize almost 150 years later the site would be expanded and still enjoyed. In 1936 the Texas Centennial was celebrated here. Dozens of new Art Deco buildings were constructed to house the exposition. Today most of these buildings still stand,have been restored or refurbished and act as exhibit and activity locations throughout the year and during the Great State Fair of Texas every fall. In 1955 the Fair Park Coliseum was built to house the Dallas Black Hawks ice hockey team and Dallas Chaparrals basketball team. I attended several rock concerts in this 8500 seat venue in the 1970s. So,after a lifetime of memories out here,today I find myself attending a Monster Truck event. My first ever at something like this and I'll have to admit,exciting. Loud,crowded and fun! I encourage everyone new to Dallas to search Fair Park for activities to attend. Between the two music venues, football stadium, aquarium and other buildings... always something going on to interest everyone.
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Drina R.

Yelp
The 27 Texas Black Invitational video is a must-watch for anyone who loves high-energy events and vibrant celebrations. Filmed at the Fair Park Coliseum, it captures the essence of a fantastic gathering with impressive visuals and a lively atmosphere. The production does an excellent job showcasing the event's fun and excitement, from engaging performances to enthusiastic crowds. Whether you're reliving the experience or watching it for the first time, this video brilliantly conveys the joy and energy of the Invitational. Highly recommended for a great dose of entertainment and community spirit!
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John B.

Yelp
The park that surrounds the football stadium is something of a concrete jungle, with a variety of esoteric museums and event spaces and only moderate greenery or natural features. Its hours are also rather limited and structured around events. Sight unseen, I expected the park to be a bit more of an attraction unto itself, but while there were some interesting things there, it was not a particularly relaxing space.
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AJ B.

Yelp
We came for the food only and got to also enjoy the parade! The food was excellent. I had fried chicken and fries, Biscoff cheesecake, watermelon Agua Fresca, a pickle, chocolate covered strawberries, and lemonade! Everything was good not one thing was off! Loved the parade and all the lights. Super cool that I got to see big Tex, but hearing him talk and seeing him move definitely gave me nightmares. It was crowded and busy was hard to get inside and to find when we left. The food was worth it.
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Alexis B.

Yelp
I have such mixed feelings about Fair Park! Most people only think of Fair Park as the park that hosts the Texas State Fair each year. But the rest of the year? It's still there, folks. And it's architecturally one of the most interesting sites in the city! But just not taken care of or made a focus! Fair Park was opened in 1886 with the Dallas State Fair. Several buildings were built in the park between 1900 and 1930. But when Dallas hosted a world's fair commemorating the anniversary of the Texas Republic in 1936, architects and artists came to Dallas to add amazing Art Deco architecture and design elements to the park. Some of the buildings and murals have been restored, but mostly the site is as it was when created for the world's fair. In fact, it's the only intact and unaltered pre-1950s world fair site in the country.) I really wanted to take an architecture tour of Fair Park, but I couldn't find one offered for when I was visiting Dallas a few weeks ago. So my brother and I decided to make our own. We hopped on the DART, because there's a Fair Park station that drops you just in front of the park, and then we just wandered around the park, taking in the architecture and taking lots of photos! There is really incredible architecture, art, and history at Fair Park, but I just wish that the city or a nonprofit would invest in the park as more than the site of the fair. Most of the buildings are empty 11 months of the year, and the park feels like a creepy graveyard (no people around)! I wish that there an architecture museum in one of the buildings offering tours or an art museum or that the Women's Museum was still open! Maybe an Art Deco-themed restaurant!? There is so much wasted opportunity at this site. But all that being said, it is still worth a walk around if you're interesting in art, architecture, or Dallas history! Maybe one day it will be more!
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Kristina H.

Yelp
We came for a visit to the Childrens's Aquarium and parking was free. We still had to go through the gate where they were taking money but once we told them our destination they pointed us to the correct lot. It was right across from the Texas Discovery Gardens. The Aquarium costed $40 for two adults and one child, so we weren't sure what to expect since that is half less than what the Dallas aquarium charges. We were actually really impressed! There was a pond of "doctor fish" who eat your dead skin and tickle while in the process! My little loved those the most. There was an alligator turtle which was HUGE, we didn't expect it to be so massive. Oh! There were moonjellies and seahorses, lionfish, eels, pufferfish, and stingrays! So many colorful and interesting sea life animals. When you enter the building and veer to the left, there is a coloring station for children to create their own sea animal. And when they finish they can scan it and have it virtually swim with other childrens' sea animals, it was so cool. The perfect touch to engage littles. We walked to the back of the building which lead outdoors to a stingray exhibit where there were also sharks swimming around! It was amazing to see these animals in person. We also got to pet the stingrays, they were like puppies just begging for a good petting. The most adorable thing I've experienced! There is a hand washing station to rinse before touching them. I noticed there is a birthday room if you want to host a party. And also a gift shop! We enjoyed our family outing together.
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Sheilicha S.

Yelp
We'd never been to the state fair but I'd been told so much about it. The foods were a plethora of to choose from. It was crowded as heck on a week day. Overall we had a great time. We found great parking on a side street in a private lot Thanks to the owner. She was very friendly and we felt comfortable leaving my daughters car in her possession of her property. The state fair offered some awesome Toll perk deals but because it was a third party deal I couldn't utilize them. We did find out that bringing in can goods would give us a better deal though. God works mysteriously that's for sure. We ended up paying $5 a piece to enter in my glam-baby was free (she's under a year old). Overall we ate great foods and drank. For dessert we shared ice cream (my glam-baby and me) We will wait till next year and try visiting again.
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Eliza L.

Yelp
It's cool enjoy fair it was a lot of walking need better security an staff know what they talking about
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R S.

Yelp
I have visited Fair Park under different situations. One of the first times I went there was a festival. It was partially indoor and it was nice. There were lot's of vendors and some entertainment. I have since returned to go to some of their museums. Unfortunately, one was closed due to no electricity. So, I will have to review their museums in a separate post. If you want to walk around try a cooler day. Dallas is really hot. The last time we went we needed umbrellas. Be sure to find out what's going on there. One time I was there and they had a set up for one of those extreme competition reality shows. They had a huge obstacle course set up outdoors. I'm sure it would have been fun to watch if I had known the schedule and bought tickets.
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Lewis H.

Yelp
Went to The Rolling Stones concert I have never seen worse traffic planning. Took forever to get in, very disorganized. Like they want cars to stay away. Paid 40 to park and so did thousands of others, you would think the could hire people to actually direct traffic
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Paul D.

Yelp
Once again I am back at the State Fair of Texas stuck in traffic trying to get in to park. Luckily it was early and paid extra to valet park. This is definitely well worth it where it is near the entrance and has its own exit. Otherwise you are guided down to the end of the Fair Park to a large surface lot and have to take a shuttle back to the gate. This fair pretty much has everything from music, rides, stock show, food, shopping, and games. You can easily spend a day here and suggest arriving early. If there are any shows you like to see then plan your day otherwise can just explore by walking around the Cotton Bowl Stadium. You will need tickets to purchase food and drinks but usually not a problem buying them here. The carnival and rides use different tickets. I have noticed prices for food has increased since the last time I was here. The atmosphere is similar to a rodeo and if rainy then it may get a little muddy in some places. There is a huge car show inside two buildings which is a great way to escape the heat. The museums on the grounds are also open to the public. There are lots of rides and unique fried carnival food. Vendors selling practically everything from sheets to farm equipment are scattered everywhere. Stock show competitions and winners are on display. GO TEXAN exhibition showing of products grown and made in Texas. This area always has free samples where I saw ice cream, salsa, chips, and other snacks. There is also a store in here. And last a huge outdoor stage with big acts during the evening. There is also a light show at night at the fountains. If here during the Texas vs Oklahoma game then will experience the day with the highest attendance and gets should to shoulder in many places. But if never been here this it is a must to experience
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Joanna M.

Yelp
Went to the Coldplay concert last Friday. It was the biggest mess I've ever seen. We spent 1.5 hours waiting in traffic to even get in. I just had ACL reconstruction surgery and we had to walk 3 miles round trip. The trams were slow. We were told we could park in gate 2, 13 or 15 and 2 and 13 was closed. After leaving, we waited another 2 hours to get back to our car. The shuttle tram had gotten in an accident. There were little to none pedi cabs and Ubers couldn't enter the area either. I felt trapped. We ended up getting home at 1:45am
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Ray F.

Yelp
I love this place and always have. It is kind of divey and with some effort (and dollars), it could be a must go to place. My most recent trip was for a concert at the Starplex. The parking lots are large, pretty easy to get into and not too bad to get out of. If you get there early enough, there is room to tailgate and have a pre-event party. There are some large trees with shade, but not too many. The other areas of the park make for great events be it the state Fair, Irish Festival, numerous 5ks and runs, and the smaller museums and exhibits. The music hall is absolutely a great place as well (and get there early to feast in the buffet). I've been to a few very swanky events at the Hall of State building which has some amazing murals. The Old Mill Inn is another gem. The fountain at the Esplanade can be captivating and refreshing if you are down wind from it on a hot day. The park and most events within it are FANTASTIC for kids. I was one of those once (and still am when I'm out there). Fair Park is an heirloom to long time Dallasites that grow up and attend events within it. If you haven't been, go to a few events there and you'll see what I mean.

Pat J.

Yelp
Happening right now at the Texas Black Invitational Rodeo. We got here early, to get seated, get our food, and be ready for the parade at 6:30. We'll, no parade happened. Not just that. the announcer got on the mic and said the show will start at 7:30 instead of 7:00, so the people who decided to come late can get here. SHM. Who can't tell time these days. It's on watch. Your phone. Tablet, car etc. SHM
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Penny S.

Yelp
Fair Park is the original location of the State of Texas Centennial in 1936. Most of the buildings are from that era. A walk along the Esplanade is a lesson in the history of Texas and the six flags that have flown over the state, as well as an art deco architectural treasure. It's also the location of the annual State Fair of Texas, the largest state fair in the country. There are many other festivals and events there throughout the year. The neighborhood looks sketchy, but I've never had any problems there.
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Nick N.

Yelp
Once a year where you should feel guilty about spending $18 or worse $36 for two people to enter the fair and $15 to park And then pay $7 for a jalapeno cheese corndog $6 for a regular corndog $14 for a turkey leg $6 for lemonade $12 for roasted corns But you do it anyway No judgement at the fair lol See you next year so we can do it again!
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Anthony A.

Yelp
The park could be much better managed and utilized but every time I walk around or drive around it just reminds me how much lack of green space exist in the city. From the cotton bowl to the museums to general space the park is very under utilized. I hope in the city Of Dallas master plan there are ideas too repurpose this large swath of land in the heart of the city too better serve the community and neighborhood it sits in
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Anj L.

Yelp
My husband and I visited the Fair Park today for the first time. Yes, for the first time! We have lived here for almost ten years and really never had a good reason to head over there. Until today. We went to the Earth Day fair and had a great time. We were both a little frustrated at the beginning because finding the place is difficult because the GPS was taking us to dead ends and blocked roads. We could see the park but just couldn't reach it! Finally found the parking. $10 for parking, which I thought was a little steep, but entry to the park was free, so that helped. As soon as we entered the park, we were offered boxed water, which is much better for the environment. TONS of vendors and educational exhibits. We had planted basil in our backyard and some little varmint has been helping himself to the yummy leaves. Lo and behold, Master Gardeners had a booth! After explaining my predicament, they suggested I use either moth balls or cinnamon scented pine cones. And guess what, I just happened to have some of these pine cones in our home! There were lots of speakers to explain how important caring for our Earth really is. And lots of goodies getting passed out, from plants, veggie seeds, reusable totes, and the like. I highly recommend attending tomorrow, since it is the last day. Great for all ages!
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Monie H.

Yelp
Best known for the Texas State Fair, many fun events are actually held here. The grounds and pond always appear as though there is no city team that actually cares for this space. With a little upkeep, the Fair park grounds could be really beautiful, but of course you and everyone else is just here for some fun times, so you won't notice the unkempt grounds that much. It's a small "park" (when excluding the museums and other buildings), but hosts some huge events. The hubby and I literally got stuck in gigantic crowd during the State Fair one year. We eventually made it out alive, but a little wonky from almost being smashed to bits by a gigantic crowd. Event parking is always at least $10. When you have to park in a lot far away from an event, there is usually a little train/trolley to take you from the lot to the event gates. If you live in DTown, you'll eventually end up enjoying some local revelry here.
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Richa T.

Yelp
Great place to spend a busy afternoon! They always have numerous events that I love to check out: - Texas State Fair - Taste of Dallas - Numerous Football games Definitely plan ahead because the parking is ridiculous. If you can take the metro, always preferable. They also have an incredibly beautiful park around the corner and it's an all around fun place to explore!
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Tyler L.

Yelp
I visited this place during a visit to Dallas. Unfortunately, it was empty when I went as there were no events going on. It was still obvious to see that this is a great events space. In fact, this place was originally built in 1936 for a world's fair. Within the park are several very old and historical buildings that have been restored to their former glory. The Museum of Nature and Science and the African American Museum are located within as well. The massive 70 year old Cotton Bowl is here too, for college football games. And there is an amusement park inside too.
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Kimberly M.

Yelp
I love the fair!!! My husband and I go every year! You have to start early. Be there around 9:45am. They open at 10:00. Plus you have to find parking so come early!!! The crowds start at 12:00 and then the lines are really bad! We go to the fair just for the food!!! It's once a year and you have groups of people inventing food and drinks for one time a year! These people have such creative and flavorful items!!! We tried so many different things over the years that you cannot have anywhere else in the USA! Like brisket cupcake (yes it was amazing), bacon margarita, cookie fries, fried Frito pie, fried Texas sheet cake, tamale donut, funnel cake queso burger. You can not be afraid of the items at the fair!!!!! You only live once!!!! Now the shopping! Great shopping options. There is like 3 buildings you can shop at. There's everything to clothing to spices. I buy all my spices and honeys here for thanksgiving dinner. Plus there's a lot of cute gifts you can buy for everyone! The fair can be expensive but you can go on the fairs website and get some great deals! Plus if you get all your tickets before you go that would save you the trip to wait in line!!
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Jasmine H.

Yelp
Only real down fall is parking. you can park for free in the gates ONLY if there are no major events taking place. otherwise it cost money or you have to find a place to park outside the park. pay whomever is there and hope your vehicle will be safe. then walk over through busy streets and traffic. the water gardens are gorgeous! the turtles are adorable! the museums are fantastic! the statues and sculptures are picture perfect. the cotton bowl is huge. lots to see and do. go visit at least once.
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Alicia M.

Yelp
Jurassic Quest hosted an event here and our family had a wonderful time. :) We will visit again next year for sure! The dinosaurs move and make sounds and it was even entertaining for the adults :)
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Kevin S.

Yelp
This visit was for the Paws in the Park event on Dec 1st. Been to Fair Park many times before, so I knew the layout. Nice to see the fountains/buildings are in better shape than a few years ago. Easy to walk around, but the parking could have been organized a little better. I'll be back next time there is an event I want to see/visit.
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Charlotte J.

Yelp
Fair Park is quite the place. It has gardens, museums, a stadium, a giant ferris wheel/midway...it's the most impressive fair grounds I've ever seen, by a long shot. I've attended several events here (not the least of which was the State Fair of Texas) and the only issues I've encountered are the crazy crowds, traffic and parking. If you can take the DART to any event you're attending here, definitely do it. You'll save yourself time and much heartache. On my most recent visit to Fair Park, my boyfriend and I went to the Leonhardt Lagoon to ride the swan paddle boats. According to their website, they're open 11:30 to 5:30 every Saturday and Sunday between March and late July, and they cost $10 for 10 minutes on the lagoon. It seemed pricey, but fun, and we were excited to give it a try. There was a note on their website that mentioned they were closed for maintenance for one weekend about a month ago, but other than that no indication of closure. There was no phone number to call to confirm. Unfortunately, after battling traffic and soccer crowds to get there, we arrived to find the paddle boats locked up with a sign that said "Closed for Maintenance". This was very disappointing, and I wish there had been a way for us to find this out before driving out there. Fair Park is beautiful and impressive, and they put on some really spectacular events. But it needs better management and communication with the public.

A L.

Yelp
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.
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Angi T.

Yelp
Sights and sounds of EarthX. I was working so I took my break to look around. This was a great family friendly event. It started on Friday and ended Sunday. Free admission if you downloaded the app or $5.00. There were exhibits inside and outside of the park. So much to do and free plants, shoelaces made from recycled plastic, giveaways, beer and food. Vegans and Vegetarians were hopefully happy to have food options with no worries. Good Stuff. They also had live music rotating throughout the park. Saturday was a wash but Sunday... the day couldn't been better. I saw some high schoolers competing in a mock hacking competition. They were totally invested in the game. The biggest draw seemed to be the Tiny Houses. The lines stayed consistent and lots of folks were interested in taking that close peek in. That was a great Earth Day experience.
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J J.

Yelp
I love Fair Park for so many reasons. First and foremost, it is beautiful. The Art Deco architecture is possibly my favorite style, and the examples abound at Fair Park. Most of what you see now was built in 1936 for the Texas Centennial Exposition. Thankfully much of these historic buildings have been restored over the years. There is a lot of different reasons to go. I saw a number of World Cup games there when I was young. Been to the Cotton Bowl 5 or 6 times. And obviously we all love Texas-OU weekend, and the State Fair in general. Overall it is a giant facility, like almost 300 acres, and I am far from having seen all of it. But every time I go, for whatever reason, I really enjoy myself. Here's to hoping they can figure out a way to keep the shootout here in the future. Without it the State Fair nor the game will ever be the same. Also, now that the train drops you right at the entrance, you can avoid parking in some shady dudes front yard. That's a big plus.
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Gabriela C.

Yelp
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.
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James C.

Yelp
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.
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Misty D.

Yelp
I've been to the State Fair a number of times, Taste of Dallas twice, the Aquarium, Music Hall, and several other events at Fair Park. The only negative experience I ever had there was Taste of Dallas last year was WAY TOO HOT outside, but there were all of the buildings to escape into and they were filled with food, vendors, attractions, and air conditioning. I highly recommend taking part in any event or attraction that piques your interest. I would like to get to the Discovery Gardens.
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Brad N.

Yelp
Like others have said, well, what do you say BAD about Fair Park? It is what it is, a little old (OK, a LOT old), but it's decently maintained, and face it, you're not coming here for Fair Park, you're coming because something else is there. This has been a banner year for me, because I've been there three times (State Fair, Chinese Lantern Festival and North Texas Irish Festival). The walkways are very wide and smooth, suitable for walking, strollers, wheelchairs etc. There are good handicap accommodations as well, with ramps in most places. It's not the most well lit place at night (although, for things like the State Fair, the attractions have many lights), but it's OK. One rub for me is that they charged $10 for parking on the lightly attended opening night of the Irish Festival; seriously? Getting here by DART rail is easy and cheap as an alternative. Bottom line: there's a lot of history in this place, come here and enjoy it!
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Shannah H.

Yelp
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.
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Jim M.

Yelp
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.
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Mary S.

Yelp
Parking $10 but cheaper if you park and take the train, half price at Kroger ahead of time, general adm. $15. Coupons cash or c. Card. Foot long corny dog 12 coupons. beer 12, bottled water 7, example of prices. Lots of shows, rides & games..you could do one day or see the whole thing over several days. They had the Landry display out with all of his memoribilia and the car show, dog show. Skipped the long lines for the latest deep fried whatever.
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Lori H.

Yelp
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.
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Kim W.

Yelp
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.
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Luci H.

Yelp
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.
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Robert B.

Yelp
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.
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Chris L.

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

Yelp
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.
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Carrie R.

Yelp
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

J. G.

Yelp
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.
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Casey G.

Yelp
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.

Elle A.

Yelp
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.
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Chalea A.

Yelp
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.
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Lauren W.

Yelp
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
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Andrew T.

Yelp
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.