Wisconsin State Fair 2025: Complete Family Guide

The Wisconsin State Fair returns July 31-August 10, 2025, offering 11 days of family fun with over 200 attractions, rides, and shows perfect for North Shore families with children ages 3-14. Located just 20 minutes from Whitefish Bay, this iconic summer tradition combines educational experiences, thrilling rides, and Wisconsin's famous food culture into an unforgettable family adventure.

Essential planning information

When and where: The 174th Wisconsin State Fair runs July 31-August 10, 2025, at Wisconsin State Fair Park (640 South 84th Street, West Allis). Hours are 10am-10pm Sunday through Wednesday, and 10am-midnight Thursday through Saturday.

Admission pricing: Adults (12+) cost $20, youth ages 6-11 pay $13, and children 5 and under enter free. Seniors (60+) and military personnel with ID receive $15 tickets. Smart families save $4 per adult ticket by purchasing advance tickets online for $16 through July 27. Here’s how to get free admission with Wisconsin State Fair promotions.

Getting there from North Shore: From Whitefish Bay, take I-43 South to I-94 West to the I-41/US-45 interchange. The fairgrounds sit conveniently at this major highway junction. Public transportation options include Milwaukee County Transit routes 18 (National Avenue) and 33 (Vliet-84th), both connecting downtown Milwaukee to the fairgrounds.

Top family attractions by age group

Ages 3-6: SpinCity Kids Area discoveries

The SpinCity Kids Area on the west side of Grand Walkway offers age-appropriate thrills with carousel rides featuring sparkly horses, bumper boats with water splash fun, and the Dragon Wagon mini roller coaster. Height requirements range from 24-42 inches, with most rides allowing smaller children when accompanied by adults. Individual rides cost 3-8 tickets each, or families can purchase weekday unlimited wristbands for $35.

The Compeer Financial Discovery Barnyard near Ag Village showcases hundreds of baby animals including chicks, piglets, calves, and goat kids. Children can interact with farm animals while learning about Wisconsin's agricultural heritage. The Giant Slide and Pig Slide (the world's largest piggy bank slide) provide classic fair thrills for $4 and $2 respectively.

Ages 7-10: Expanding horizons

This age group enjoys both kids' areas and select adult attractions. The WonderFair Wheel, North America's largest traveling Ferris wheel at 15 stories tall, offers spectacular views for $7 per ride. The Sky Glider provides aerial transportation across the fairgrounds for $6 one-way.

Animal experiences prove educational and entertaining, with over 7,000 animals participating annually across cattle, horse, goat, sheep, swine, poultry, and rabbit barns. Live milking demonstrations in the Ag Village occur multiple times daily, while the K-9 Sports Arena features dog dock diving, agility courses, and police K-9 demonstrations.

Ages 11-14: Thrills and independence

Older children gravitate toward major attractions like SkyScraper (160-foot windmill-style thrill ride), Raiders adventure funhouse with suspension bridges, and the Ejection Seat slingshot ride ($50 for two people). The Aerial Attractions Trampolines offer bungee-assisted jumping for $15 per session.

Youth competition opportunities include livestock shows, art exhibitions, and various contests where teens can showcase talents developed through 4-H and FFA programs. The Young People's Art Exhibit features work from grades 6-12, with a free Make & Take Art Area for hands-on creativity.

Entertainment that captivates families

Free entertainment abundance

The fair features dozens of free entertainment stages throughout the grounds. The Bank Five Nine Amphitheater hosts the largest free performances, while the Family Variety Stage on South Grandstand Avenue presents jugglers, comics, and interactive shows including Kenny Ahern (Physical Comic), The Dollipops (Interactive Music Show), and The Circus Science Spectacular.

Saz's Famous Racing Pigs provides classic fair entertainment with multiple daily races, while Cirque at the Fair delivers dazzling acrobatic performances. Strolling entertainers including Steve Trash, Brant the FireGuy, and The Amazing Giants Stilt Walkers create spontaneous fun throughout Central Park and Central Mall areas.

Special family concert highlight

Tuesday, August 5 features KIDZ BOP LIVE with Snoop Dogg's "DOGGYLAND" at 7:30pm ($42-$52 tickets). This show specifically targets children and families, making it the perfect ticketed entertainment for your age group. Concert tickets include fair admission for that day.

Food adventures for expanding palates

Wisconsin classics

Original Cream Puffs celebrating their 100th anniversary remain the fair's signature treat, available at multiple locations for $5 individually or $25 for a 6-pack. Deep-fried cheese curds from Brad & Harry's or Fresh Squeaky Curds offer quintessential Wisconsin flavors, while bratwurst and corn on the cob provide hearty, traditional options.

Healthier choices for adventurous families

Parents seeking to expand children's food choices will find fresh fruit kebabs, baked potatoes (request light toppings), and natural corn on the cob. The Milk House on South Grandstand Avenue serves traditional and unique milk flavors. Apollo's Gyros introduces Mediterranean flavors, while elote-style Mexican street corn offers international taste experiences.

Auntie M's Gluten Free vendor on North Grandstand Avenue provides dedicated gluten-free options for families with dietary restrictions.

Money-saving food strategies

The $11 Meal Deal offers substantial savings with over 30 meal options from various vendors. Crazy Grazin' Day features smaller portions at reduced prices from 30+ locations. Purchase the $5 Bargain Book containing 80+ vendor coupons, and consider the $8 souvenir cup with $4 refills for drink savings.

Practical family logistics

Parking and arrival strategy

Parking costs $15 per vehicle with preferred parking available for $25 near main entrances. Gate 1 (West Greenfield Avenue & South 79th Street) opens at 6am daily, while Gates 7 and 9 open at 9am. Arrive early during peak times as parking operates first-come, first-served and gates may close when lots fill.

Family-friendly facilities

Four air-conditioned Family/Baby Care Centers provide nursing areas and diaper changing stations at the Exposition Center, Guest Services Pavilion, and North Grandstand Avenue. Free charging stations for devices are available at The Coliseum, Guest Services Pavilion, and Original Cream Puff Pavilion.

Stroller and wagon rentals cost $15-$20 per day from Vista Mobility at three entrance locations. Families may bring their own strollers and wagons without size restrictions.

Safety and peace of mind

Free bright orange safety ID wristbands are available at Guest Services Pavilion, police booths, and We Energies Energy Park. Write your child's name and cell phone number on the wristband. First aid stations with certified EMTs operate at Guest Services Pavilion and North Grandstand Avenue.

Youth policy requires children 17 and under to be accompanied by a parent or guardian (age 21+) after 5pm daily, with each adult able to chaperone up to six minors.

Special events and money-saving opportunities

Themed days with savings

Thursday, July 31 (Piggly Wiggly $5 Day): Donate 2 cans of healthy fruits/vegetables for $5 admission instead of $20. Sunday, August 3 (Veterans & Military Recognition Day): Free admission for military families with valid ID. Tuesday, August 5 (Milwaukee Bucks Kids Day): Free youth admission through Bango's Kids Club registration.

Advance purchase benefits

Holiday bundles available through December 31, 2024, offer significant savings. The Grand Champion Bundle ($150, value $269) includes 4 admission tickets, 6-pack Cream Puffs, 100 SpinCity ride tickets, VIP Cirque tickets, Bargain Book, parking pass, and souvenir pin. Individual advance tickets cost $16 through July 27, saving $4 per adult.

Group and partnership discounts

Groups of 25+ receive tickets for $14-$15 with free bus parking and driver admission. Milwaukee County Library summer reading programs provide free youth tickets through July. Partnership deals with Milwaukee Admirals, Irish Fest, Harley-Davidson Museum, and Milwaukee County Zoo offer combination packages for $24.

Age-specific recommendations

For families with 3-6 year olds

Start early with We Energies Energy Park for safety wristbands and educational activities. Visit animal areas in the morning when animals are most active and crowds are lighter. Focus on SpinCity Kids Area for age-appropriate rides, and plan rest breaks at the four air-conditioned Family Care Centers.

For families with 7-10 year olds

Mix educational and entertainment experiences by combining animal barns with shows like Racing Pigs and Cirque performances. Take advantage of interactive exhibits in the Youth Exhibits Building and participate in hands-on activities at the Make & Take Art Area. Try the WonderFair Wheel for memorable family photos.

For families with 11-14 year olds

Encourage independence by allowing teens to explore age-appropriate attractions with friends while maintaining check-in points. Participate in youth competitions and explore agricultural education programs that connect to school science curricula. Consider the KIDZ BOP concert as a special treat that bridges childhood and teen interests.

Transportation from North Shore communities

Driving routes

From Whitefish Bay: Take Lincoln Drive to I-43 South, then I-94 West to I-41/US-45 interchange (approximately 20 minutes). From Glendale: Take Port Washington Road to I-43 South, following the same route. From Fox Point: Take North Port Washington Road to I-43 South.

Public transportation

MCTS Route 18 runs between downtown Milwaukee and the fairgrounds, stopping at 81st or 84th Street. Route 33 travels along Vliet Street and 84th Street, arriving at Greenfield Avenue. Use the Umo App for trip planning and mobile fare payment. Contact MCTS Customer Service at 414-937-3218 for route information.

Alternative options

Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) operate from a designated area outside the UScellular Main Entrance. Bar and restaurant shuttle programs may be available from North Shore establishments - check wistatefair.com for participating locations.

Final planning considerations

What to bring

Bags must be 9"x10"x12" or smaller and will be searched at metal detectors. Bring sealed bottled water and snacks for children and medical needs. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for covering the 200-acre fairgrounds. Sunscreen and hats provide protection during outdoor activities.

Budget planning

A family of four (2 adults, 2 children ages 6-11) pays $66 for admission with advance tickets, plus $15 parking. Add $50-75 for food using meal deals and sharing large portions. Budget $40-60 for rides with SpinCity wristbands or individual attraction tickets. Total estimated cost: $170-215 for a full day experience.

Making memories

Take advantage of free entertainment to maximize value while creating lasting memories. Participate in educational activities that connect to your children's interests and school learning. Try new foods together while maintaining some familiar favorites. Capture photos at iconic locations like the WonderFair Wheel and with the famous Cream Puffs.

The Wisconsin State Fair offers North Shore families an exceptional value with its combination of education, entertainment, and Wisconsin culture. Plan for a full day, arrive early, and embrace the authentic Wisconsin experience that has delighted families for over 170 years.