The State Park at the Fair might be small, but it is big on offerings the public can enjoy. It is New York’s smallest state park, but it has a commanding presence in Syracuse. Opened in 1974, it’s like an oasis where curious souls and laidback travelers can converge.
The three-acre park is located at the New York State Fairgrounds and offers lots of activities for kids, families, and groups of friends to enjoy. It’s like a refuge in the bustling city, a perfect hangout spot for those who want to try new things or just enjoy a slow day.
Plan The Visit
The tiny park is located in front of the fairground’s Horticulture Building. It is open during the fair, while its visitor center accepts patrons from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Here’s some information about the place.
- There is no fee for picnics, golfing, or participation in programs.
- An Empire Pass can be availed for $80. The card gives the bearer access to any state parks of New York.
- Programs run from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Pets are not allowed.
The Fair
The state fair has been around since 1841 and continues to be a source of pride and joy in New York. It runs for 13 days from August to September. As one of the oldest and largest fairs in the country, it is visited by millions – with smiles on their faces and happy tummies.
Concerts And Performances
The fair is jam-packed with surprises, especially for music lovers who want to enjoy singing along with performers. There’s an open-air theater, the Chevy Court, where many celebrities have already paid a visit, like Bruno Mars and the band Lady A.
The performances are free so both fans and passersby can have a good time with a sandwich, a beer, and their loved ones by their side.
Aside from concerts, the public can also watch regional tours of dance groups and/or dance competitions. It’s all about talent and total performance here.
Exhibits
The fairground hosts a wide variety of events so there’s one for every enthusiast. Since agriculture is vital in the state, it’s one of the recurring topics of such exhibits.
There are farm shows where fairgoers can buy local produce, try homegrown products, and simply learn more about agriculture from the farmers themselves. The fair knows how to satisfy the cravings of the tummy and mind.
Aside from agricultural exhibits, there are shows for hobbyists, too. There are events for RV campers, antique owners, collectors, home gardeners, brewers, artists, foodies, and the list goes on and on.
Visit The Sand Sculpture
The Exposition Center is home to a sand sculpture exhibit that features the work of Team Sandtastic. They have been impressing the community since 2001, and they’re not just about the arts but more importantly about advocacy.
Young and young-at-hearts can take endless photos of the sculpture lovingly made by artists who want to deliver a message of hope. Plus the artworks look great.
Animal Shows
Horse shows at the Toyota Coliseum are another staple at the fair. The historic coliseum has been standing since 1923 so it’s an attraction on its own. Enjoy the sight of majestic horses galloping and strutting, plus some ponies just being cute.
Meanwhile, for those with furbabies, there are dog shows at the Expo Center. Here, they can enjoy watching some canine friends flaunt some tricks. Dog lovers can also have classes and training sessions, aside from the chance to purchase unique pet items.
There are also barns for goats, hogs, and llama. Basically, get ready for petting because there’s cuteness overload.
Food And More Food
When there’s a fair, there's overflowing food. Guests just need to prepare their tummies. At the Horticulture Building, foodies can try baked potatoes and fruits. Meanwhile, the Dairy Products Building offers lots of -- wait for it -- dairy products, like butter and milk. There’s even a butter sculpture.
Tourists can also enjoy food from different cultures courtesy of food trucks. Plus, the Restaurant Row, The Eatery, and the global feast at the International Building are perfect for the gourmets (and gourmands). From snacks to full meals, the fair is a wonderland. Yum!
Art And Adrenaline
Kids will enjoy the amusement rides by carnival company Wade Shows. From mellow moments in the Ferris wheel to the extreme rides, even teens can have a blast.
For adults who want some slow but satisfying activities, the Wegmans Art & Home Center is the place to be. It’s for the lovers of art who want food for the soul.
Things To Do
When the state fair is running, expect a lot of exciting activities in the humble park. Here, the moms and dads, and even grandmas and grandpas, can relax while the kids have a fun-filled day. Here are some things to try, no hassle and worries.
- A picnic at the park is never dull, especially with the view of the greens and the cooling blue waters of the reflecting pool.
- The mini-golf course is the perfect way to bond with kids: putting, breaking, and hitting a hole in one.
- Demonstrations, hands-on activities, and exhibits await those who want to take a day off to learn new things.
Here, it’s really just a walk in the park. Whatever the hobby, the taste, and the interest, State Park at the Fair got it all. It’s like a gift that’s not wrapped and just waiting for travelers young and old to come and enjoy. There’s so much to do in this little park and thanks to the fair, it’s big on fun and surprises.