Introduction:
The Texas State Fair is one of the largest and most iconic events in the country. Every year, visitors flock to Fair Park in Dallas for thrilling rides, incredible food, and unique cultural events. However, planning ahead can make your visit even more enjoyable. In this guide, we’ll cover where to stay, the latest food options, must-see events, and why Solterra Texas could be the perfect place to call home if you’re extending your stay in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Where to Stay for the Texas State Fair
While many visitors choose to make the Texas State Fair a day trip, staying in the Dallas-Fort Worth area for a few nights allows you to fully enjoy everything the fair has to offer. With so many options available, here are some top hotel choices:
- Omni Dallas Hotel: Located in downtown Dallas, this luxurious hotel is just minutes from Fair Park, providing easy access to all the fair activities. Additionally, it’s perfect for those wanting a premium stay close to the action.
- The Adolphus Hotel: A historic hotel that offers both elegance and comfort. Moreover, it’s ideal for visitors who wish to stay near the top attractions in downtown Dallas.
- HALL Arts Hotel: This chic and modern choice is situated in the heart of the Dallas Arts District. It offers a unique, artistic atmosphere while being close to the fair, making it an excellent option for those who appreciate creative surroundings.
- The Statler: This hotel blends retro charm with modern amenities. It offers easy access to both the fair and the vibrant nightlife of downtown Dallas.
- Dallas Marriott Downtown: For those looking for a sophisticated stay with top-notch services, this hotel is a fantastic choice. It offers comfort and convenience near Fair Park, making it ideal for fairgoers.
- Solterra Texas: Finally, if you’re looking for more than just a hotel stay, consider exploring Solterra Texas. With new homes available, it’s the perfect location for those who want to extend their time in DFW and explore what this vibrant community has to offer.
New Foods to Try at the Texas State Fair 2024
One of the most exciting aspects of the Texas State Fair is the food. Every year, visitors look forward to inventive, delicious creations, and 2024 is no exception. This year’s Big Tex Choice Awards semi-finalists include both savory and sweet entries, making it easy to find something you’ll love. From fried delights to indulgent desserts, these are the must-try foods that are making waves this year.
Savory Options:
- Deep Fried Crispy Vietnamese Crepes: These crispy crepes are stuffed with savory meat, shrimp, and fresh veggies. They are served with fragrant herbs and a dipping sauce, making every bite satisfying and flavorful.
- Dominican Fritura Dog: This unique corn dog is filled with Dominican queso frito and salami frito. It’s drizzled with a secret Dominican sauce and topped with crushed garlic plantain chips for extra crunch.
- The Drowning Taquitos: Hand-rolled, deep-fried taquitos stuffed with tender chicken are served in a cup and topped with rich sauces, guacamole salsa, and Cotija cheese. Each bite brings bold flavors of Mexico.
- Fat Bacon Pickle Fries: Battered and fried dill pickles are dusted with ranch pepper seasoning, then topped with maple bacon chunks, queso, and jalapeños. This spicy, cheesy treat is a must-try for pickle lovers.
- Oktoberfest Pizza: This pizza combines German sausage, sautéed onions, crispy potatoes, and sauerkraut on a spicy mustard-infused cream sauce. It’s the perfect fusion of pizza and German flavors.
Sweet Treats:
- Caramel Macchiato Fritters: Coffee cake balls filled with caramel, dipped in beignet batter, and fried to perfection. They’re topped with whipped cream and espresso for an indulgent coffee-flavored treat.
- Cookie Butter Nachos: Cinnamon sugar-dusted tortilla chips topped with cookie butter cheesecake filling, cream cheese icing, and caramel sauce. This sweet twist on nachos is sure to satisfy your cravings.
- It’s Bananas…B-A-N-A-N-A-S: A banana-flavored milkshake topped with banana pudding, Nilla wafers, chocolate-covered bananas, and caramel drizzle. It’s a blend of fruity, creamy, and crunchy textures.
- Tropical Two-Step Punch: Cool down with this punch, which combines citrus, passionfruit, and mango flavors. Available in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions, it’s perfect for hot Texas days.
Since 2005, the Big Tex Choice Awards contest has solidified the State Fair of Texas as the top Fair for great food creations
Family Fun & Shows at the Texas State Fair 2024
The Texas State Fair is known for being the most Texan place on Earth, and nothing is more Texan than having fun! Every day, families can enjoy tons of free activities and exhibits with their admission ticket. Here are some of the new, enhanced, and returning attractions you won’t want to miss this year.
New This Year
- Billy Kidd Show: Prepare to be amazed as Billy performs close-up magic tricks that will leave audiences stunned. With every sleight of hand, she weaves her charismatic charm into her performance, keeping everyone guessing.
- Location: Fringe Stage
- Bryan Berg the Card Stacker: Watch Guinness World Record-Holder Bryan Berg as he creates massive card structures featuring Texas icons. It’s an incredible spectacle that defies gravity.
- Location: Hall of State
- Cirque du Soleil: Songblazers: Enjoy a breathtaking combination of acrobatics and country music in this unique theatrical performance. Presented in partnership with Broadway Dallas, each ticket to Songblazers includes free fair admission.
- Location: Music Hall at Fair Park
- Dino Time with Professor T. Rex: Take a journey back to the prehistoric era with the Dinosaurs at the Lagoon exhibit, featuring ten life-sized dinosaurs, a kids’ play area, and bilingual educational entertainment.
- Location: Leonhardt Lagoon
- Pint-Sized Parade: Don’t miss this family-friendly parade featuring Showstoppers characters dancing and performing lively routines along the parade route.
- Location: Starts near the Lagoon and ends at the Hall of State steps.
Returning Favorites
- Dinosaurs at the Lagoon: In addition to the new exhibit, this fan-favorite is back with even more life-sized dinosaurs for kids to explore.
- Starlight Parade: The Kroger Starlight Parade returns with new, spectacular floats that light up the skyline every night of the fair.
- Time: Every night at 7:15 p.m.
- Mattress Firm Illumination Sensation: Celebrate the 25th year of this nightly fireworks show, set to high-energy pop music and performances by dancers and acrobats.
- Location: Esplanade, nightly at 8:00 p.m.
Helpful Tips for Parents
For parents looking to make the most of the fair with their kids, be sure to plan your visit around the daily shows and attractions. Many are free and scheduled throughout the day, so there’s always something exciting happening for the whole family.
The State Fair of Texas is a collection of small businesses, from more than 80 food and beverage concessionaires to nearly 50 ride and game owners, to more than 100 exhibitors
How to Get to the Texas State Fair
If you’re staying in Dallas or nearby areas like Solterra Texas, here’s how you can easily get to the fair:
- By Car: Fair Park is conveniently located off I-30, and parking is available in several lots. Plan to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- Public Transportation: The Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) offers a State Fair Shuttle, which makes getting to the fair a breeze. The Green Line stops right at Fair Park Station.
Plan Your Visit
Make the most of your Texas State Fair visit by planning ahead:
- Dates: The 2024 Texas State Fair runs from September 27 to October 20.
- Tickets: You can purchase your tickets online in advance to avoid lines. There are also special discount days for families, military, and seniors.
Conclusion:
The Texas State Fair is more than just a local tradition—it’s a celebration of Texas culture, food, and entertainment. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, make sure you check out the latest food creations, attend the can’t-miss events, and explore the surrounding Dallas area. Don’t forget to consider Solterra Texas for a longer stay or even a new home base, offering a welcoming community just a short drive from the excitement of the fairgrounds. Follow us for more updates on the Texas State Fair and everything happening around Solterra Texas!