5 Iconic State Fairs Where Food Tops the Menu

Everybody loves State Fairs. Maybe it’s the adrenaline rush of the amusement park rides or the chance to ignite memories of your youth. However, one thing is sure: the fantastic-tasting deep-fried treats and culinary foods available at state fairs up and down the country are second to none.

If you’re looking for a family-size adventure or a fun day out with friends, make sure you head to these five incredible state fairs best known for their astonishing culinary delicacies.

New York State Fair (Syracuse, New York)

We start our tour of the top state expos celebrated for their food, with a trip to the oldest state fair in the United States – the New York State Fair in Syracuse, New York. First held in 1841, the State Fair of New York traditionally kicks off in mid-August and is home to over 50 incredible theme park rides and, of course, its tantalizing 2-foot-long Pizze Frittes.

However, if we’re talking food, then the star of the show is no doubt the New York Harvester. Granted, you might not need to eat for a while afterward, but the New York State Fair experience isn’t the same if you don’t try the Harvester. A towering stack of a sandwich, The Harvester consists of deep-fried turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and bacon, all sandwiched between several pieces of sourdough bread.

Enjoy the mouth-watering food offerings at the New York State Fair by booking your hotel in Oswego, New York, at the Best Western Plus Oswego Hotel and Conference Center.

Minnesota State Fair (Saint Paul, Minnesota)

With over 300 food concession stands, it’s no surprise that the Minnesota State Fair makes our culinary state fair shortlist. Held in the state capital of Saint Paul from mid-August until the Labor Day weekend in early September, the State Fair of Minnesota has adventure rides for all ages, including the family-friendly Kidway sector of the fairgrounds through to the thrilling River Raft Ride.

Renowned for being the state drink, milk is a staple ingredient to many of its food treats – including its delicious deep-fried battered cheese curds. Yet, the Crispy Lutefisk Steam Bunto gets our vote for the tastiest meal at the Minnesota State Fair. Here, you’ll receive four steamed buns with baked lutefisk topped with sweet hoisin sauce, sesame seeds, cabbage, carrots, and cilantro.

Maximize on a food-inspired journey to the Minnesota State Fair when you book your accommodation at the Best Western Plus The Normandy Inn & Suites in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Texas State Fair (Dallas, Texas)

There probably isn’t a state fair designed with us foodies in mind than the Texas State Fair. Not only is the State Fair of Texas one of the largest in the country, but it also prides itself on its culinary meal offerings. Like most state fairs, Texas certainly provides the traditional staple deep-fried treats such as milk and cookies, as well as their pumpkin-spiced Oreos. However, they also host cooking master classes with its ‘Celebrity Chef Kitchen’ in the heart of the fairgrounds.

Yet, it’s the winner of the state fair ‘Best Savory Snack’ winner, which gets our vote for this must-try meal. The delightful infusion of Vietnamese comfort food, done Texas-style, the award-winning Deep-Fried Pho, is a delectable concoction with noodles, sliced beef, fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and pho broth hand-wrapped for an unforgettable taste sensation.

Enhance your trip to the Texas State Fair for its Southern-cooked culinary dishes by booking your hotel in Seagoville, Texas, at the Best Western Executive Inn.

North Carolina State Fair (Raleigh, North Carolina)

Usually held in mid-October, we head to Raleigh, North Carolina’s state capital, for more gourmet delights at the North Carolina State Fair. Attracting over 1 million visitors a year, the nightly fireworks display and State Fair Arks provide plenty of entertainment for guests of all ages.

Despite the vast choice of tasty meals available while attending the State Fair of North Carolina, our winner’s medal goes to the scrumptious Ostrich Smashburger. Featuring two griddled patties of North Carolina-raised ostrich, this amazing burger is then topped with melted cheese, grilled onion, and a secret sauce before being placed on a rich brioche bun. And, for the adults, be sure to try the innovative Tequila Margarita Cupcake on offer too.

Elevate the taste sensations of the North Carolina State Fair by reserving your hotel at the Best Western Plus Raleigh Crabtree Valley Hotel in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Louisiana State Fair (Shreveport, Louisiana)

Our final destination on our quest for the best state expos foods sees us heading to Shreveport, Louisiana, for a genuine southern-style cooking experience. Held at the end of October through mid-November, the Louisiana State Fair is the ideal extravaganza for friends and families to enjoy a day out. With carnival rides, the Bayou Arm Wrestling Championships, and racing pigs, there’s no shortage of attractions to keep visitors entertained.

Nevertheless, the highlights of the State Fair of Louisiana are definitely the food offerings. Spoilt for choice, it was a split decision between the two, with the Crawfish and Crab Boudin and the southern-inspired Philly Ribeye Po’ Boy cheesesteak splitting the honors. These two outstanding dishes offer an appetizing dilemma to ensure you return to try them both.

Enjoy the southern tastes and renowned hospitality that the Louisiana State Fair has to offer while booking your stay at the Best Western Minden Inn in Minden, Louisiana.