Iowa State Fairgrounds Map and Brochure (2024 – 2019)
Spread across the east side of Des Moines, the Iowa State Fairgrounds twist around grandstands, barns, and food alleys that feel more like a small city than a venue. The fairgrounds map keeps you oriented through its web of livestock buildings, midway rides, and shaded picnic pockets that all blend together once crowds roll in. It’s essential for plotting routes between rides, judging arenas, and those fried-food stands that seem to migrate yearly.
- Location
- Des Moines, Iowa
- Years Active
- 1854 – Present
- Official Site
- Official Iowa State Fairgrounds Site
Expect bottlenecks near the Sky Glider stops and tram crossings — that’s where everyone pauses for a corn dog or to check the concert schedule. Bring good shoes. You’ll walk a lot.
Iowa State Fairgrounds Map 2025
In 2025, the Iowa State Fairgrounds introduced the Ron and Bev Shivers Family Plaza featuring new seating and restrooms, along with an inclusive Variety Club playground in the Fun Forest. The DNR launched the Conservation Discovery Area with interactive environmental exhibits.
Major facility upgrades included the completion of the Old Mill exterior renovation, Agricultural Building roof replacement, and Phase I of the Horse Barn restoration, alongside a new grounds-wide PA system and an additional pedestrian gate at East 30th and Maple.
Printable Iowa State Fairgrounds PDF 2025
Iowa State Fairgrounds Map 2024
Printable Iowa State Fairgrounds Map PDF 2024
Iowa State Fairgrounds Map 2022
Iowa State Fairgrounds Map 2021
Iowa State Fairgrounds Map 2019
FAQ
Why is the Iowa State Fair famous?
The Iowa State Fair is renowned as one of the nation’s oldest and most significant agricultural fairs. Since 1854, it has featured attractions like the famous Butter Cow sculpture, livestock contests, and lively concerts. Its vast array of entertainment and cultural exhibits celebrates Iowa’s rich agricultural heritage and community spirit, drawing huge crowds annually.
What date is the Iowa State Fair in 2025?
The 2025 Iowa State Fair is scheduled from August 8 to August 18. Over these 11 days, attendees can enjoy a variety of food vendors, live entertainment, agricultural displays, and family-friendly activities. The event is a premier celebration of Iowa’s farming heritage and offers something for visitors of all ages amid a festive summer atmosphere.
How much does it cost to attend the Iowa State Fair?
Admission to the 2025 Iowa State Fair costs $16 for adults and $10 for children ages 6–11 at the gate, while children 5 and under enter free. Discounted advance tickets are $11 for adults and $7 for children. An adult wristband for all 11 fair days costs $121.
Can you bring water into the Iowa State Fair?
Visitors can bring water into the Iowa State Fair in 2025. Both sealed and unsealed water bottles are allowed, along with reusable non-glass bottles, though alcohol and glass containers are prohibited. Outside drinks and food, including water, are not allowed inside the Grandstand area.
