We Visited Iowa and Minnesota State Fairs to Find the Better One

The Great State Fair Showdown: Iowa vs. Minnesota

The annual state fairs in Minnesota and Iowa are more than just events; they are cultural touchstones that bring communities together through agriculture, food, and entertainment. As a journalist with decades of experience covering both fairs, I’ve witnessed the passionate loyalty of fairgoers from each state. This article delves into the comparison between the Iowa State Fair and the Minnesota State Fair, exploring their unique offerings, traditions, and what makes each one special.

A Mission to Compare

In 2023, during a reunion of Des Moines Register alumni, a retired editor challenged me to write an ultimate comparison between the Iowa and Minnesota State Fairs. With my background covering both fairs—ten years in Iowa and nearly twenty in Minnesota—I accepted the task. Alongside Deb Wiley, a fifth-generation Iowan, and Adell Crowe, a journalist from Washington, D.C., we embarked on a journey to evaluate which fair truly reigns supreme.

Our mission was not just about ranking the fairs but understanding what makes each one stand out. We visited the last day of the Iowa State Fair and the first day of the Minnesota State Fair in 2024, experiencing different weather conditions and crowd dynamics. Despite these differences, we found both fairs to be rich in tradition and excitement.

The Fairgrounds: A Tale of Two Spaces

Iowa’s fairgrounds span 445 acres, offering a more rural feel compared to Minnesota’s 332-acre grounds. Both fairs have historic buildings, including the iconic Administration Building in Iowa and the Art Deco Agriculture Horticulture Building in Minnesota. While Iowa has newer structures, Minnesota’s fairgrounds reflect a more urban vibe due to its larger metropolitan draw.

Both fairs feature rustic attractions like the Ye Old Mill and Giant Slide. They also include educational exhibits, such as the Department of Natural Resources’ booths. However, the scale and layout of the fairgrounds differ, with Minnesota attracting larger crowds due to its proximity to major cities.

Attractions and Competitions

Each fair boasts a variety of attractions, from talent shows and live music to competitions and exhibits. The giant boar contests at both fairs are highlights, with Iowa setting a record for the heaviest boar in 2024. Minnesota’s boar, Squeaky, weighed in at 1,240 pounds, but Iowa’s win was a clear victory.

Both fairs offer similar vendor booths, with Peachey’s Donuts drawing long lines at each. Iowa’s Barksdale’s State Fair Cookies and Minnesota’s Sweet Martha’s are favorites among visitors. The fine arts competitions at both fairs showcase local talent, with Iowa’s photography salon and Minnesota’s juried art show being particularly notable.

Quilts, cakes, and crafts are also featured prominently, with Iowa’s quilts having a better display area and Minnesota incorporating them into interactive displays. The parades at both fairs add to the festive atmosphere, with Iowa’s downtown Des Moines parade and Minnesota’s daily parade through the fairgrounds.

Butter Sculptures and Crop Art

One of the most iconic features of the Iowa State Fair is its butter sculptures. The life-sized butter cow, created by Sarah Pratt, is a highlight, with this year’s sculpture featuring Jimmy Fallon and Johnny Carson. Minnesota’s crop art exhibit, which uses local grains to create intricate mosaics, is another standout, with over 200,000 visitors annually.

Both fairs have butter sculpting events, with Minnesota’s live demonstrations and Iowa’s elaborate creations capturing attention. The Smithsonian American Art Museum will feature both the butter cow and crop art in an upcoming exhibition, highlighting their cultural significance.

Food: A Central Focus

Food is a major draw at both fairs, with deep-fried and skewered treats dominating the menu. Minnesota’s Pronto Pup, a cakelike hot dog, is a favorite, while Iowa’s pork chop on a stick and sweet corn in a cup are must-tries. Each fair offers a variety of ethnic foods, with Minnesota featuring items like momos and Korean corn dogs, and Iowa showcasing pork belly bites and wine slushies.

Minnesota’s craft beer scene is vibrant, with new brews each year, while Iowa’s Craft Beer Tent offers a concentrated selection from local breweries. Both fairs provide a wide range of food options, with Minnesota having more stands and Iowa offering more items on a stick.

The Verdict: It’s All About Preference

After our extensive visit, it became clear that neither fair is inherently better than the other. Each has its own charm, traditions, and unique offerings. The choice ultimately depends on personal preferences, whether it’s the thrill of the Midwest or the diversity of Minnesota’s fair.

Tips for Visitors

For those planning a visit, here are some key details:

Iowa State Fair: - Dates: August 7-17, 2025 - Ticket prices: $11 for ages 12 and up, $7 for ages 6-11 (until August 6) - Parking: Onsite fee, nearby streets, or DART Park & Ride - Must-see: Butter cow, Avenue of Breeds, and Ag Building

Minnesota State Fair: - Dates: August 21-September 1, 2025 - Ticket prices: $20 at the gate for adults - Parking: Onsite $25, free buses from park-n-ride locations - Must-see: Crop art, live butter sculpting, and Dairy Building

Reflections from a First-Time Fairgoer

As a first-time visitor, I was amazed by the energy and community spirit at both fairs. The crowds were friendly and welcoming, guiding visitors to the best food and attractions. Rain didn’t dampen the experience, as ponchos provided protection and added to the fun.

The fair environment encouraged exploration, with smells of fried delights leading to new discoveries. From coffee to seed art, there was something for everyone. Even the livestock barns offered a unique experience, with well-groomed animals and helpful handlers.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a lifelong fairgoer or a first-timer, the Iowa and Minnesota State Fairs offer unforgettable experiences. Each fair reflects the culture and values of its state, making them essential destinations for anyone looking to enjoy the best of American agriculture and tradition.