Florida State Fairgrounds
A sprawling venue in Tampa hosting the annual Florida State Fair, concerts, expos, and community events year-round.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier access
Florida State Fairgrounds
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling venue in Tampa hosting the annual Florida State Fair, concerts, expos, and community events year-round.
"The food here is better than any other concert venue in the Tampa Bay area."
🎯 Don't Miss Peachey's Donuts
Grab a warm, glazed donut from Peachey's Baking Co. They're a must-try fair treat!
🚗 Car Ride Night Deal
Look for 'Car Ride Night' for a discounted entry fee for everyone in your vehicle.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Peachey's Donuts
Various locations
Indulge in freshly made, warm donuts that are a fair favorite. Often described as better than Krispy Kreme!
Cracker Country
Florida State Fairgrounds
Step back in time at this historic Cracker settlement, showcasing Florida's pioneer heritage and offering unique food.
Midway Rides & Games
Midway
Experience one of the largest midways in the country with thrilling rides and classic carnival games for all ages.
Diverse Event Calendar
Various halls and arenas
From boat shows to vintage expos and reptile conventions, the fairgrounds host a wide array of community events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Fair
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Don't Miss Peachey's Donuts
Grab a warm, glazed donut from Peachey's Baking Co. They're a must-try fair treat!
🚗 Car Ride Night Deal
Look for 'Car Ride Night' for a discounted entry fee for everyone in your vehicle.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring a factory-sealed water bottle to refill at stations, as some fountains may be out of service. [^Review]
📅 Check Event Schedule
The fairgrounds host many events beyond the main fair. Check their calendar for unique happenings!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Don't Miss Peachey's Donuts
Grab a warm, glazed donut from Peachey's Baking Co. They're a must-try fair treat!
🚗 Car Ride Night Deal
Look for 'Car Ride Night' for a discounted entry fee for everyone in your vehicle.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring a factory-sealed water bottle to refill at stations, as some fountains may be out of service. [^Review]
📅 Check Event Schedule
The fairgrounds host many events beyond the main fair. Check their calendar for unique happenings!
💰 Parking Costs
Parking fees typically range from $7-$10, so factor this into your budget. [^Review]
☀️ Dress for the Heat
Tampa can be hot! Wear light clothing, especially for concerts, as the heat can be intense. [^Review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Florida State Fairgrounds to be a versatile venue hosting a wide array of events, from the popular annual fair to various expos and concerts. The fair itself is praised for its historical Cracker Country, diverse food options like Peachey's donuts, and a large midway. However, some attendees note that the Tampa heat can be intense, and parking logistics for concerts can sometimes be challenging.
"The food here is better than any other concert venue in the Tampa Bay area, I LOVE the walking taco "salad" (spoiler, there's no "salad" but you don't make friends with salad anyway and it's delicious!). If you read the fine print there are perks, like a free soda fountain drink for designated drivers, and you can bring in a factory sealed water bottle and refill it. The filtered water station and many water fountains were out of service, but it's pretty great that you can bring it in at all. The heat makes this venue not for the weak, but if you dress well and being a fan, it's pretty great!"
Eve Borden
"Saw Christopher Cross, Men at Work and Toto on Saturday July 19th and it was an absolutely incredible evening. Understanding Milton took most of the roof off the amphitheater, it was quite toasty until the sun went down and the breeze was helpful. If you go, dress appropriately (don't advise wearing black...too hot!) Loved the free refills on soda and popcorn for and the large pretzels are absolutely delicious and a must have! Looking forward to seeing more shows in the future!!!"
Joy Tancey
"As first time visitors to the Florida State fair, we were pleasantly surprised at how clean the fair was, parking was very easy, food benders were everywhere with everything from corn dogs too turkey legs. We’re able to visit the cracker settlement, and see much of Florida’s history. Tons of rides for the entire family and great variety of farm animals we’re on display. There was also many opportunities to feed and pet various animals including llamas! It was a great day and we will be back."
Mike Newman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Florida State Fairgrounds are conveniently located in Tampa, Florida, easily accessible via major roads like I-4, HWY 301, Martin Luther King Jr Blvd., and Orient Rd. [^Review] Ample parking is available on-site, though fees apply. [^Review]
While specific public transport routes can vary, checking local Tampa transit schedules is recommended for options to reach the fairgrounds area. [^Review]
Parking is available for cars, trucks, and RVs. Fees typically range from $7-$10 per vehicle for most events. [^Review]
Yes, ride-sharing services and personal drop-offs are common for events at the fairgrounds. Follow signage for designated drop-off zones. [^Review]
The fairgrounds are generally accessible, with designated parking and pathways. It's advisable to contact event organizers directly for specific accessibility needs. [^Review]
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for the Florida State Fair can typically be purchased online in advance through the official Florida State Fair website or at the gate during the event.
Look out for special promotions like 'Car Ride Night' for discounted entry for everyone in a vehicle. Weekday tickets might also be cheaper than weekend passes. [^Review]
The Florida State Fair typically runs from February 6-17, with daily hours varying. Always check the official schedule for precise opening and closing times.
You can bring in one factory-sealed water bottle per person, which can be refilled at stations. [^Review] Outside food is generally not permitted, but check specific event rules. [^Review]
The fairgrounds host a wide variety of events including the Florida State Fair, boat shows, vintage expos, reptile shows, concerts, and community gatherings. 
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the famous glazed donuts from Peachey's Baking Co. Kettle corn from Cracker Country is also highly recommended.
Other popular fair foods include corn dogs and turkey legs. [^Review]
Explore Cracker Country for a glimpse into Florida's history, see livestock shows, enjoy live entertainment, and visit various vendor booths. [^Review]
Yes, there are tons of rides for the entire family, and opportunities to feed and pet various farm animals. [^Review]
Wear comfortable shoes as the fairgrounds are extensive. [^Review] Grab a map upon entry or use a mobile app if available to plan your route. [^Review]
Wi-Fi availability can vary by event and location within the fairgrounds. It's best to rely on your mobile data for consistent connectivity. [^Review]
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the midway with its colorful rides and lights.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional photography or videography may require permits. Always check event-specific rules. [^Review]
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting. For vibrant shots, consider visiting during the evening when the fairgrounds are illuminated.
Drone usage is typically restricted at large public venues like the fairgrounds due to safety and privacy concerns. Check with event organizers for specific drone policies. [^Review]
Photos of iconic fair foods like Peachey's donuts, action shots of rides, and scenic views of the illuminated midway are popular on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of a family visit, consider attending on a weekday to avoid peak crowds and long lines. [^Review] Pack plenty of snacks and water, or be prepared to purchase them on-site. Look for family package deals on tickets and consider the 'Car Ride Night' promotion for potential savings on entry.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond the main fair, many other events at the fairgrounds, like certain expos or markets, may have lower admission fees or even be free to enter.
+1 Always check the specific event's ticketing information online before you go. Parking fees are a standard cost, so factor that into your overall budget. [^Review] Exploring the grounds and enjoying the atmosphere can be a rewarding experience even without spending heavily on rides or premium food. [^Review]🎶 Concert & Event Goers
Parking and payment collection for concerts can sometimes be a work in progress, so allow extra time for arrival and be patient. [^Review] The venue has seen improvements, aiming to enhance the overall experience for attendees. [^Review] For other events like boat shows or vintage expos, check the specific event details for any unique offerings or tips relevant to that particular gathering.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Florida State Fair Experience
[^Review]Attendees often rave about the quality and variety of food vendors. Peachey's Baking Co. is a standout for its delicious donuts, frequently mentioned as a must-try.
For those planning a visit, checking the official Florida State Fair website for dates, times, and special events is crucial. Weekday visits are often recommended to avoid the largest crowds, and evenings offer a magical atmosphere with the fairgrounds lit up.
[^Review] Remember to dress comfortably and be prepared for Florida's weather, especially if attending during warmer months or for daytime events. [^Review]More Than Just a Fair: Year-Round Events
to niche gatherings such as reptile expos and vintage markets, there's always something happening. These events cater to a wide range of interests. For instance, the Tampa Lowrider Supershow brings car enthusiasts together,
while the Holiday Gift Market offers a chance to shop from local merchants. The fairgrounds also serve as a venue for concerts and other entertainment, with the MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre being a notable performance space. [^Review] The sheer scale of the fairgrounds, covering over 330 acres, allows for multiple events to occur simultaneously or in different sections of the property. To make the most of your visit, it's essential to consult the Florida State Fairgrounds' official event calendar. This will provide up-to-date information on dates, times, ticket requirements, and specific attractions for each event.
Whether you're interested in boating, vintage fashion, reptiles, or car culture, the fairgrounds likely have an event that will appeal to you. +4
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit