Here’s what drivers and ridehail users should know before heading to Fair Park this fall.
Christine Vo/Dallas Morning News
Parking at the State Fair of Texas can be easier and cheaper for those who plan ahead.
The fair holds thousands of official spaces around Fair Park across several lots, discounted prices are available for those who book a spot in advance.
Fairgoers using ridehailing, taxis or buses should know which lots are labeled as designated dropoff and pickup points.
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Here’s what to know about fair parking and traffic.
Where can I park at the State Fair of Texas?
The State Fair offers thousands of official spaces around Fair Park, with prices starting at $20 if booked online and $25 onsite.
Lots 5 and 6A are off Robert B. Cullum Boulevard, and provide access to the west side of the fairgrounds.The Grand Gate and MLK Gate are located by these lots, with attractions such as Big Tex and the Texas Star Ferris Wheel nearby.
Lots 8, 9, 10 and 11 are off Fitzhugh Avenue, and serve parking along the east and southeast side of Fair Park. Midway Gate and Penn Gate are the closest entrance points, bring visitors near the Thrillway side of the Midway.
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Lots 2A, 2B, 13 and 15 are accessible through Gate 2, off Haskell Avenue and Parry Avenue. These lots are near Gurley Gate and Pan Am Gate and attractions such as the Livestock Barns and the Texas Auto Show.
More than 1,000 ADA-accessible parking spaces are available, with the largest concentration in Lots 5, 10 and 13.
Motorcycles use standard parking spaces, and dedicated spots may be available on select event days, said Taylor Pulfer, director of communications for the State Fair of Texas.
No electric vehicle charging or overnight parking is available in any official State Fair parking lot.
Where does ridehailing, taxis and buses go?
The fair has a designated pickup and dropoff area on Pacific Avenue for ridehailing users. Taxis and other transportation services will be directed to the same area, said Pulfer.
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“We strongly encourage using the designated pickup and dropoff area on Pacific Avenue, which provides convenient access to the Gurley Gate and helps keep traffic moving efficiently,” Pulfer said.
Lot 8 serves as the bus parking area, while also providing space for oversized vehicles.
How will the State Fair of Texas manage traffic congestion?
The State Fair works closely with the Dallas Police Department traffic officers and fair parking personnel to manage the roads around Fair Park and keep traffic moving.
Pacific Avenue is particularly busy, and will require active traffic management especially during peak arrival and departure times, said Pulfer.
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Traffic is typically heaviest from 10 a.m. to noon and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., and Pulfer encourages Dallasites who have the flexibility to travel outside these periods should. The fair is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. The State Fair of Texas runs every day from Sept. 25 to Oct. 18.
Related: When do 2026 State Fair of Texas tickets go on sale?