For many of us, we have fond memories of childhood summers spent at the state fair. The carnival food, thrilling rides and live entertainment provided endless hours of fun. Now, state fairs attract guests of all ages, featuring national recording artists, top circus acts, competitions and more. Since you’re never too old to have fun at the fair, here are some of the best to add to your summer road trip in your RV rental. 

Kentucky State Fair

For more than 100 years, Kentucky has been attracting guests to its famous state fair. A food lover’s paradise, the Gourmet Garden is a must-see attraction when visiting the Kentucky State Fair. Featuring the best chefs, bakers and caterers in the state, guests can watch live demonstrations as well as intense competitions. 

We would be remiss if we didn’t mention the notorious horse show — this is Kentucky after all. The World’s Championship Horse Show attracts competitors and attendees from across the globe. 

Photo Credit: Kentucky State Fair

Ohio State Fair

The Ohio State Fair kicks off in July and is ideal for the outdoor enthusiast. In addition to its seemingly endless lineup of free attractions and activities, this event features the eight-acre Natural Resources Park. Fair guests can escape the hustle and bustle with fishing, kayaking and archery. There’s even a butterfly house that is perfect for giving your kids an up-close experience with nature. And, if you’re looking for a bit more excitement, this area also hosts the daily lumberjack show. And the best part of the whole thing? The Ohio State Fair is extremely RV friendly, featuring an onsite campground!

Photo Credit: Ohio State Fair

 

The Great New York State Fair

America’s oldest state fair had to be on our list of the best fairs to visit this summer. Located in Syracuse, The Great New York State Fair features a food truck competition you’ll want to be a part of this September. For two days, 40 food trucks compete in the Taste NY Food Truck Competition, providing samples of their most unique and New York-themed items. Lucky attendees get to taste and vote for their favorites. 

Photo Credit: Great New York State Fair

Colorado State Fair

Every August, the Colorado State Fair puts on a multi-day rodeo and motorsports event that is not to be missed.  The state’s toughest rodeo competitors come together to showcase their skills in group roping, bronco riding, bullfighting and more. If monster trucks are more your speed, check out the monster truck tour and demolition derby. You can see a full schedule of events here.

Photo Credit: Colorado State Fair

LA County Fair

This is technically a county fair, not the state fair, but we couldn’t pass up sharing one of the best events to close out your summer. Running from August 30 to September 22, the LA County Fair features some of today’s biggest musical acts as well as plenty of throwback artists. Check out performances by Pitbull, Old Dominion, WAR, The OJ’s & The Spinners and more. 

One of the unique aspects of this event is the fitness fair – literally a fair within a fair. Get your move on with sports camps, boot camps for adults, complimentary workout classes and healthy food options. This event also has a nearby campground with easy access to the fairgrounds for guests. 

Photo Credit: @sincerelyharmony
We couldn’t find a picture of the fitness fair.
But can we talk about fitting things like fries into our summer?

Sweet, Sweet Summertime

With something for everyone in your crew, you’ll want to add one of these fairs to your summer travel itinerary. Include us in the fun by following us on social media (@cruiseamericarv) and post a photo using #BeThereNow for a chance to be featured.