Maps
Directions
Lodging

Maps
Download a .pdf map of the Fairgrounds by clicking here.

Directions
The Iowa State Fairgrounds are located at East 30th Street and East University Avenue,
10 minutes east of downtown Des Moines. The Fair suggests the following routes:

Eastern Iowa: From I-80 take Exit 141 (Hwy. 65 Bypass), travel south on Hwy. 65 to
Exit 79 and head west on Hwy. 163 (E University Avenue) approximately three miles to the Fairgrounds. During the Fair, it is suggested that visitors enter the Fair parking lot at E 36th as a left-hand turn may not be allowed into the grounds at E 33rd at certain times.

Northern Iowa: From I-35, take I-235 to Exit 10A then head east on E University Avenue approximately four miles to the Fairgrounds.

Western Iowa: From I-235, take Exit 10A then head east on E University Avenue approximately four miles to the Fairgrounds.

Southern Iowa: From I-35, take I-235 to Exit 10A then head east on E University Avenue approximately four miles to the Fairgrounds.

Click here for information on Fairtime Park and Ride Buses .

Lodging
The Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau provides up-to-date lodging information. You may contact them by calling 800/451-2625 or search their online accommodations listings.

The EconoLodge Inn & Suites - Fairgrounds opened in August of 2007 and is located across the street from the Grand Avenue entrance of the Fairgrounds. To make reservations, call 515/262-2525 or click here.

The Iowa State Fair campgrounds are open mid-April to mid-July and September to mid-October for non-Fair camping. Click here for details.

For information on camping at the Iowa State Fair's Campgrounds during Fairtime, click here.