If you’ve never road-tripped to a state fair, this might be your sign. These events aren’t just for locals; they’re full-on summer adventures.

We’ve picked the state fairs that, in our eyes, are totally worth the miles, along with nearby spots where you can recharge once you down your last corn dog.

Iowa State Fair – Des Moines, Iowa

If you only go to one state fair in your life, make it Iowa. This fair is massive, not just in size, but in tradition, creativity, and good old-fashioned fun.

You can’t talk about the Iowa State Fair without mentioning the famous butter cow, a life-sized sculpture carved entirely out of butter that has drawn crowds since the early 1900s.

But there’s more than dairy art. Think of every deep-fried food imaginable, then double it. Twinkies, Oreos, butter, pickles—all fried and served on a stick.

The fair also hosts livestock shows, art competitions, antique tractor displays, and nightly concerts from national acts.

The energy is unmatched, especially when the sun starts to set and the midway lights up.

Where to stay: The Surety Hotel in downtown Des Moines blends historic charm with modern comfort. It’s a quick drive from the fairgrounds, and you’ll appreciate the soft beds and quiet atmosphere after a full day of food, sun, and funnel cake.

Texas State Fair – Dallas, Texas

Everything really is bigger in Texas, and this fair proves it. With over 24 consecutive days of events, the Texas State Fair is more like a full-on festival than a weekend trip.

The moment you see Big Tex, the 55-foot-tall talking cowboy that welcomes you at the gate, you’ll know you’re in for something memorable.

This fair is known for pushing the limits of food creativity. They’ve deep-fried butter, Dr. Pepper, Coke, lasagna, and even Thanksgiving dinner.

Beyond the food, there’s a massive auto show, pig races, stunt shows, and live music on multiple stages.

It’s loud, fun, and full of surprises around every corner.

Where to stay: Book a room at the Lorenzo Hotel. It’s close to Fair Park and filled with bold art and playful design. After a long day surrounded by crowds and excitement, this stylish hotel is the perfect place to relax and recharge.

Minnesota State Fair – St. Paul, Minnesota

Locals call it “The Great Minnesota Get-Together,” and they’re not kidding. This state fair brings in over two million visitors each year, making it one of the most attended in the country. 

There’s something uniquely Midwestern about its charm, with big crowds, polite energy, and enough cheese curds to feed a small army.

You’ll find everything from seed art to llama costume contests. The food scene is a highlight, with hundreds of vendors offering wild creations like hot dish on a stick, deep-fried candy bars, and fresh dairy served straight from the farm.

There’s also live music every night, parades every afternoon, and a giant slide you can’t leave without riding.

Where to stay: The Celeste Hotel, a restored convent in downtown St. Paul, offers a peaceful stay with lots of character. It’s close enough to the fairgrounds to be convenient, but far enough to escape the crowds when you need a break.

Alaska State Fair – Palmer, Alaska

Held in late August, the Alaska State Fair offers a totally different experience than the big fairs in the Lower 48. It’s surrounded by snow-capped mountains, cool breezes, and a strong sense of community pride.

And yes, the vegetables are massive. You haven’t seen a cabbage until you’ve seen a 100-pounder with its own cheering section.

The fair features a mix of local music, traditional crafts, cultural showcases, and competitions that celebrate Alaska’s unique spirit. You might see log rolling, chainsaw carving, or a whole barn full of champion chickens.

And because the fairgrounds are set in the scenic Matanuska Valley, the views are almost as impressive as the events themselves.

Where to stay: Check into the Colony Inn in Palmer. This small inn is cozy, walkable, and packed with charm. It’s the kind of place where the front desk staff might share their favorite food stand recommendation or tell you which day to see the giant pumpkin.

North Carolina State Fair – Raleigh, North Carolina

The North Carolina State Fair mixes modern thrills with deep Southern roots. It’s the kind of place where you can ride a spinning coaster one minute and then sip fresh apple cider while watching a blacksmith at work the next.

Agriculture takes center stage here. There are barns full of cows, sheep, goats, and chickens, along with prize-winning pies, jams, and quilts entered into competition by locals from across the state.

You can also expect nonstop entertainment, from bluegrass bands to motorcycle stunt shows.

And of course, there’s the food. Barbecue reigns supreme, but you’ll also find fair favorites like kettle corn, fried candy bars, and bacon-wrapped everything.

Where to stay: The StateView Hotel is calm, comfortable, and located right on the edge of NC State’s campus. It’s a peaceful spot that feels tucked away, even though it’s just minutes from the fairgrounds.

Ohio State Fair – Columbus, Ohio

The Ohio State Fair is one of the oldest in the country, dating back to 1850, and it has kept growing ever since. Held at the Ohio Expo Center, it offers a strong balance of tradition and modern flair.

You’ll find livestock barns and 4-H competitions right alongside laser light shows and high-flying BMX tricks.

It’s one of the few fairs that truly feels like it has something for every age. There are educational exhibits for kids, tribute concerts for nostalgic adults, and food that draws crowds from all over the Midwest.

Favorites include fried buckeyes, deep-fried grilled cheese, and pulled pork sandwiches slow-cooked over open flames.

Where to stay: Try the Graduate Columbus, a playful boutique hotel in the heart of the Short North Arts District. It’s full of Ohio pride, just like the fair itself, and only a short ride from the fairgrounds.

Washington State Fair – Puyallup, Washington

Locals don’t call it the state fair; they just say, “We’re going to Puyallup.” That’s how deeply this fair is woven into Washington culture.

It’s big, busy, and packed with energy, offering rodeos, concerts, petting zoos, and enough scones to keep your hands sticky all day long.

The fairgrounds are filled with classic rides, agricultural exhibits, and creative competitions in everything from flower arranging to baking.

The setting in the Pacific Northwest gives it a cozy, pine-scented charm, especially when the fog rolls in during the cooler days.

Where to stay: Hotel Murano in nearby Tacoma offers stylish rooms and an easy drive to the fair. You’ll appreciate the peace and quiet after a full day of fairground walking and nonstop snacking.

Wisconsin State Fair – West Allis, Wisconsin

Cheese curds and cream puffs take the spotlight at the Wisconsin State Fair.

Held just outside Milwaukee, this event blends Midwestern hospitality with bold flavors and a strong farming tradition. It has one of the largest dairy showcases in the country, and the Cream Puff Pavilion is a must-visit for any first-timer.

There are also pig races, lumberjack shows, classic rides, and a sky glider that gives you a birds-eye view of the fairgrounds.

Music fans will enjoy nightly performances, ranging from country legends to local bands on the rise.

Where to stay: Book a room at The Iron Horse Hotel in Milwaukee. It’s trendy, full of character, and less than 20 minutes from the fairgrounds, making it a great spot to rest and recharge.

Arizona State Fair – Phoenix, Arizona

Held in the fall to escape the summer heat, the Arizona State Fair is a celebration of desert life, carnival thrills, and multicultural flavor.

With its bright lights, giant midway, and rows of international food stands, it feels more like a festival than a traditional fair, but still includes classics like livestock exhibits and baking contests.

It also has one of the longest midways in the country, offering rides, games, and food from one end to the other.

Try a Sonoran hot dog, a fry bread taco, or one of the fair’s signature cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven.

Where to stay: The FOUND:RE Phoenix is a trendy art-filled hotel downtown, close to the fairgrounds and filled with personality. It’s a cool place to unwind after a full day of lights and noise.

Indiana State Fair – Indianapolis, Indiana

The Indiana State Fair has a strong reputation for being both family-friendly and deeply rooted in the state’s agricultural pride.

Held in late summer, it features everything from 4-H exhibits and tractor displays to concerts and midway thrills.

One of the biggest draws is the food. Indiana goes big on dairy, so expect milkshakes, grilled cheese, and plenty of cheesy snacks.

But it’s not just about indulgence. The fair also includes interactive STEM exhibits, art shows, and a historical village that brings the past to life.

Where to stay: The Bottleworks Hotel in Indianapolis offers stylish rooms inside a renovated Coca-Cola bottling plant. It’s unique, comfortable, and located close to the fairgrounds and other local attractions.

What Decade Do You Really Belong In?

Do you feel most at home at a pie contest, a rodeo, or under a Ferris wheel with a funnel cake in hand? Your perfect state fair moment might say more about you than you think, including which decade your heart belongs to.

Take our Decade DNA Quiz to discover whether your personality was made to be a 1950s fairgoer, a 1970s thrill-seeker, or if it belongs to another classic American era.

Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA. (Your Vintage Roots Are Showing)

20 Classic American Motels That Look Like They’re Straight Out of the ‘60s

Whether you’re into neon lights, kidney-shaped pools, or tiki flair, these classic American motels will transport you straight back to the swinging ‘60s, no time machine required.

Best of all? They’re still operating today.

20 Classic American Motels That Look Like They’re Straight Out of the ‘60s

15 “Polite” Things Passengers Do That Flight Attendants Secretly Hate

Flight attendants love polite and considerate passengers, but sometimes good intentions turn into less-than-ideal behaviors. If you want to be seen as an all-star passenger, make sure you avoid these in-flight habits. 

15 “Polite” Things Passengers Do That Flight Attendants Secretly Hate

Whether you’re chatting with a neighbor in Illinois or emailing someone across the country, how you say something can matter just as much as what you say.

Many everyday phrases are often said without malice. But they can make people feel brushed off or misunderstood.

These are some of the common expressions you’re probably using that are doing more harm than good.

“I’m Just Being Honest”

This phrase is often used to excuse harsh opinions. It sounds like the speaker is trying to be upfront, but it usually follows something blunt or hurtful. 

Saying “I’m just being honest” doesn’t soften the blow; it just draws attention to the insult.

Most people don’t mind honesty when it’s kind or constructive. But this phrase often feels like a warning that what comes next won’t be thoughtful at all.

It’s better to offer feedback with empathy and skip the disclaimer entirely.

“With All Due Respect”

On the surface, this sounds polite. But in conversation, it usually means the exact opposite.

When someone says “with all due respect,” what follows is often criticism, disagreement, or a verbal jab.

The phrase has become so tied to confrontation that it rarely lands the way people intend. It can make others feel talked down to or dismissed.

If you truly respect someone, it’s better to say what you mean in a straightforward, respectful tone without the extra buildup.

“Calm Down”

Few things feel more irritating than being told to calm down, especially in the middle of feeling upset. It’s a phrase that instantly makes emotions worse.

Instead of helping, it sends the message that someone’s feelings aren’t valid.

Most people aren’t trying to escalate things. They just want to be heard. Saying “calm down” tends to shut that down instead.

A better approach is to listen or ask questions. That usually does more to lower tension than ordering someone to change their mood.

“It’s Not That Serious”

This phrase is often used to brush off someone’s feelings or concerns. Even if the issue seems small to one person, it might feel big to someone else.

Saying “it’s not that serious” makes the other person feel like they’re being silly or dramatic.

It’s also a quick way to end a conversation without solving anything.

If something doesn’t seem like a big deal, it’s still worth hearing the other person out. Their reaction might make more sense than it seems at first.

“I Don’t Mean to Be Rude, But…”

This line is almost always followed by something rude. It sets people up to expect an insult, even if that’s not the goal.

The phrase also suggests that the speaker knows they’re about to cross a line and does it anyway.

If something truly needs to be said, it can be done clearly and politely without announcing it first.

Leaving this phrase out can make a comment feel more natural and less confrontational.

“You Look Tired”

This might sound like concern, but it usually doesn’t land that way.

Most people hear this and think they must look bad, worn out, or older than usual. It’s rarely received as a compliment.

Unless someone brings it up themselves, it’s better to avoid making comments about how they look. Even well-meaning observations can come across as judgment.

If you’re worried about someone, asking how they’re doing is usually a kinder way to check in.

“Must Be Nice”

This phrase often carries a hint of jealousy or resentment. It might seem casual, but it can easily sound sarcastic or passive-aggressive.

Instead of celebrating someone else’s good news, it puts a cold spin on it.

Most people don’t know how to respond when they hear this. It can make them feel uncomfortable for sharing something positive.

If you admire something someone has or gets to do, it’s fine to say so. But “must be nice” tends to come off as more bitter than kind.

“Whatever”

This one-word reply might seem like a harmless way to end a conversation, but it often feels dismissive.

It gives the impression that the speaker doesn’t care or doesn’t want to engage any further.

Even if it’s meant to keep the peace, it can leave the other person feeling shut down or ignored.

Taking a moment to respond with a full sentence or even just a clearer thought can keep the conversation respectful, even during disagreement.

“No Offense”

When someone starts a sentence with “no offense,” it usually means offense is about to be taken.

It’s often used to say something blunt or negative without seeming mean, but the phrase doesn’t soften the message.

Instead, it can make the speaker sound like they’re dodging responsibility for what they’re about to say.

If the goal is to be kind, it’s best to skip this phrase and find a more respectful way to share your thoughts.

“If You’d Just Listened…”

This phrase quickly shifts blame and puts the other person on defense.

It suggests that the issue at hand is entirely their fault and that any problem could have been avoided if they had paid attention.

Even if there’s truth behind it, the way it’s said matters. People don’t respond well to being scolded or talked down to.

A more helpful approach is to revisit the facts calmly without making it personal.

“That’s Not My Problem”

This response might be honest, but it can sound cold and uncaring.

It sends the message that the speaker has no interest in helping or showing any empathy.

Even in situations where you aren’t responsible, there are usually gentler ways to say it.

A simple “I’m not sure how to help” or “Let me point you in the right direction” keeps the conversation more respectful without taking on someone else’s issue.

“Relax”

Telling someone to relax rarely has the intended effect. Instead of calming the situation, it often makes things more tense.

It can sound like you’re brushing off someone’s emotions or saying they’re overreacting.

Even if things feel dramatic or heated, people don’t like being told how to feel.

Acknowledging what they’re going through or giving them space to talk usually works much better.

“You Always…” or “You Never…”

These absolute phrases tend to make people feel boxed in. Saying someone “always” does something or “never” does something else leaves no room for understanding or change.

It often triggers defensiveness instead of discussion.

Even if you’re frustrated, using more specific examples can help. Phrases like “It felt like this happened again” or “I’ve noticed this a few times” are more accurate and easier to talk through.

Blanket statements usually cause more harm than good.

“I Guess You’re Just Sensitive”

This phrase shifts the blame to the other person’s feelings. It implies that any hurt or frustration is their fault for reacting, not yours for what was said.

It can make someone feel dismissed, embarrassed, or even ashamed for speaking up.

Even if the reaction seems strong, it’s worth trying to understand where it’s coming from.

Validating someone’s feelings doesn’t mean you have to agree, it just means you’re listening.

“I Thought You Knew”

This might seem like a simple explanation, but it can sound accusatory.

It suggests that the other person missed something obvious or failed to keep up.

Whether it’s about plans, expectations, or information, this phrase can make someone feel left out or out of the loop.

A better approach is to clarify without placing blame. That way, the conversation stays focused on the solution instead of pointing fingers.

“You’re Overthinking It”

People often say this to try to be helpful, but it rarely feels that way to the person on the receiving end.

It implies that their thoughts or concerns are unnecessary, which can feel insulting.

Most of the time, people know they’re overanalyzing, they just want to feel heard.

Rather than shutting the conversation down, try asking what’s on their mind. That small shift can make a big difference.

“That’s Just How I Am”

At first, this phrase might sound like self-acceptance. But in conversation, it often feels like an excuse.

It can signal that the person isn’t open to feedback or growth, even when their behavior is hurtful.

Using this line can make others feel like their concerns don’t matter. It shuts down the chance for understanding or compromise.

Everyone has their quirks, but being willing to reflect and adjust shows respect for the people around you.

“It Could Be Worse”

This is meant to offer comfort, but it often has the opposite effect. Telling someone their situation “could be worse” minimizes what they’re going through.

It might be true, but it doesn’t make the current problem feel any smaller.

Most people just want to feel heard when they’re struggling.

Instead of comparing problems, try saying something like “That sounds really tough” or “I’m here for you.” That response is usually more helpful.

Your Decade DNA Quiz

Do your favorite phrases belong in the 1940s, the 1980s, or somewhere in between?

Take our Decade DNA Quiz to find out what classic American era your personality was made for. It’s quick, fun, and might just explain why you talk the way you do.

Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA. (Your Vintage Roots Are Showing)

24 “Compliments” That Are Actually Condescending

Some Americans have mastered the art of a double-edged nice comment. Others, more well-intentioned, don’t mean to say something judgmental but end up there just the same.

“Bless Her Heart.” 24 Compliments That Are Actually Condescending

25 Things From the Past We Took for Granted

Do our modern gadgets truly simplify our lives, or do they add unnecessary complexity? These are the things about the old days that Americans long to have back.

25 Things From the Past We Took for Granted. Now We Want Them Back

There was something special about walking into your grandparents’ kitchen. The smell hit you first. Maybe it was bacon grease, maybe cinnamon, or something bubbling on the stove that had been there all day.

The linoleum was worn, the chairs squeaked, and the counters held a coffee can full of utensils. Nothing was fancy, but everything felt right.

Let’s open the creaky cabinet doors and revisit the things that made your grandparents’ kitchen the coziest room in their Florida home.

A Cookie Tin (That Rarely Had Cookies)

At first glance, it seemed like a treat was in store. That blue tin on top of the fridge or deep in the pantry practically shouted “butter cookies!” with its festive lid and royal-looking design.

But open it up? Nope. No cookies.

Instead, you’d find a chaotic treasure trove of things like safety pins, measuring tape, expired coupons, thimbles, and more spools of thread than anyone needed.

Some tins held stamps. Others held old receipts or rubber bands that had hardened over time. You never really knew what was inside, but that was half the fun.

That cookie tin meant resourcefulness, practicality, and a touch of mystery. And even if you grumbled at the lack of sweets, you secretly hoped it would always be there.

A Tablecloth That Lived Through Every Holiday

This wasn’t some seasonal decor piece pulled out once a year. It was the tablecloth. The one that showed up at every birthday, every Thanksgiving, every potluck, and every pancake breakfast.

It might’ve been lace, gingham, floral, or faded beyond recognition. But it held history in every fiber.

It had jelly stains from grandkids, gravy drips from Sunday roast, and little scorch marks from hot Pyrex dishes.

Sometimes it was covered with a clear plastic protector that stuck to your arms in summer. Other times, it was layered with paper napkins, old placemats, and a salt shaker in the center that hadn’t been filled since the ’80s.

But that tablecloth meant the table was ready. And when you saw it laid out, you knew good food, better company, and at least one game of cards were about to happen.

A Crock of Bacon Grease by the Stove

Forget olive oil or fancy sprays. Your grandparents had their own secret weapon sitting right there next to the stove. It was usually in an old soup can, a ceramic pot, or a little metal container with a lid that never quite closed right.

That bacon grease was gold. It seasoned cast iron skillets, gave green beans their punch, and made cornbread crispy in all the right places.

Nothing was wasted.

Spoon some into the pan, and you’d smell the past: Breakfast with eggs and toast, Saturday mornings with the radio on, and the sizzling sound of something delicious in the works.

It may not have been the healthiest habit, but it was a flavorful one. And somehow, that little crock made the whole kitchen feel alive.

A Coffee Percolator That Never Stopped Working

Somehow, your grandparents’ coffee tasted better than any café in town. And it came from a dented, chrome percolator that looked like it belonged in a museum.

You could hear it working from the other room. It bubbled and hissed like it had a mind of its own. That smell, rich, roasted, and a little bit burnt, meant the day had officially started.

The cord was always warm. The glass knob on top fogged up. And if you asked for hot chocolate instead, they’d pour a little coffee in it anyway.

It didn’t have buttons or settings, and no one ever seemed to clean it properly.

But that percolator never failed. It was the heartbeat of the kitchen, one cup at a time.

Mismatched Coffee Mugs That All Had a Story

Open the cabinet, and it was like a time capsule of mugs. None matched, and that was the point. There was one from a cruise in the ’70s. One with Garfield squinting at you. Another had a chip that everyone avoided but never threw away.

These mugs weren’t trendy. They weren’t coordinated. But they were your grandparents’. And grabbing one meant you belonged there, whether you were pouring coffee, cocoa, or sweet tea.

Some had been gifts. Some were prizes from gas stations or church raffles. A few were so faded you couldn’t read the writing anymore.

But each one felt like part of the family. And they were always warm, both literally and emotionally.

A Bowl of Plastic Fruit

It sat in the center of the table or on top of the fridge, looking just realistic enough to fool you once. The apples were too shiny, the bananas too stiff, and the grapes were connected by a strange rubbery vine.

No one ever explained why it was there. It wasn’t seasonal. It wasn’t practical. It just… was.

And somehow, it became part of the kitchen scenery.

Sometimes the colors faded from the sunlight. Sometimes a grandkid would bite one just to be funny. But that fruit bowl stayed put.

It wasn’t for eating. It was for decorating. And it meant you were in grandma’s kitchen, where even fake fruit had earned its place.

A Drawer That Barely Closed

Everyone knew that drawer. The one you pulled open slowly because something was always jammed in the back.

It held scissors, pens that didn’t work, a calculator from the ’90s, dried-out glue sticks, and maybe a tiny screwdriver or two.

Need a bread twist tie? It was in there. Need batteries that may or may not have any juice left? Also there. Need a flashlight that flickered when you tapped it? You guessed it.

It was messy, unpredictable, and completely essential.

No one dared clean it out, because someone, somewhere, might need something from it tomorrow.

A Fridge Covered in Magnets and Notes

You didn’t just open your grandparents’ fridge. You studied it first. It had magnets from insurance agents, vacation spots, and old school fundraisers.

There were faded photos tucked under pizza coupons. A calendar page with doctor appointments scribbled in pen. Maybe even a crossword puzzle taped up for someone to finish.

The fridge wasn’t just cold storage. It was a message board, a scrapbook, and a history lesson.

Every magnet told a little story. Every note said someone had been there, thinking of someone else.

A Butter Dish That Lived on the Table

Not in the fridge. Not in a cabinet. Right on the table, every day, whether there was bread or not.

It was usually glass or ceramic, sometimes shaped like a little cow or with a lid that never quite fit. The butter inside was soft and always ready to spread, even if it picked up a few crumbs along the way.

Nobody worried about it going bad. It just didn’t. It was used too often to ever get the chance.

That butter dish was part of the meal, even when the meal was just toast. And if you moved it, it always went right back to the same spot.

A Rolling Pin That Had Some Weight to It

This wasn’t one of those lightweight silicone things. This was solid wood, smooth from years of use, and heavy enough to double as home security.

It lived in a drawer or hung on a hook, and it came out for pies, cookies, and biscuits that started from scratch.

You might have helped dust it with flour or watched your grandmother roll dough with perfect rhythm. Sometimes she let you take a turn, even if it turned out lopsided.

It wasn’t just a tool. It was a tradition. And it made every baking day feel like a special event.

An Old Tin of Tea Bags No One Ever Finished

There was always tea somewhere. Often it was in a dusty tin that once held loose leaves but now housed an odd mix of brands and flavors.

Some of the bags were so old that they had no tags. Some were wrapped in faded paper. You never knew what you were getting, but it always smelled a little comforting.

It wasn’t fancy tea, nor was it part of a wellness routine. It was there for visitors, for cold nights, or for grandpa who liked his plain with sugar.

The tin rarely got emptied, but no one threw it away. It just quietly waited, full of options, and somehow still part of the routine.

Salt and Pepper Shakers With Personality

They weren’t just basic. They had flair. Maybe they were shaped like owls, corn cobs, or little cows. Maybe they were ceramic souvenirs from a state someone visited once.

They didn’t match anything else on the table, but they were always there, waiting patiently between meals.

You probably never saw them refilled, yet they never ran out. They might’ve clinked when passed, or gotten stuck when the salt clumped in the humidity.

But they were part of every meal.

Going Back in Time

Every grandparent’s kitchen had a personality. And chances are, your personality leans toward a certain era.

Take our Decade DNA Quiz to see which classic American decade matches your style. Whether you’re more 1940s or full-on 1980s, your personality might be more nostalgic than you think.

Meet Your Match. Discover Your Decade DNA. (Your Vintage Roots Are Showing)

18 Recipes Grandmas Always Took to Church Potlucks 

In old-school America, your grandma didn’t need a crown to rule the church potluck. She just needed a slow cooker and a handwritten recipe card.

18 Recipes Grandmas Always Took to Church Potlucks 

25 Traditions Young Americans Have No Interest In Keeping Alive

These days, many young people aren’t clinging to the same customs their parents and grandparents swore by.

From hosting formal dinner parties to sending holiday cards, these are the traditions that just don’t feel as relevant anymore.

25 Traditions Young Americans Have No Interest In Keeping Alive