When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Arizona Exposition & State Fair
Why Arizona Exposition & State Fair is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Arizona Exposition & State Fair is a historic and vibrant gathering place located in Phoenix, Arizona, known for being a fantastic spot to meet up with friends and family. Established originally as the Arizona Territorial Fair in 1884, it has evolved into an annual celebration of Arizona's rich agricultural roots, local culture, and entertainment. The fairgrounds offer an inviting mix of traditional and contemporary experiences that keep visitors coming back year after year. Highlights include livestock shows, craft and produce exhibits, thrilling rides, diverse food vendors, and numerous live entertainment options. The Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum, a key landmark within the fairgrounds, hosts concerts and other events, adding to the festive atmosphere. For those interested in history, the Arizona State Fair Heritage Museum, located at the fairgrounds, presents an engaging look at the fair's 140+ years of evolution with artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring the fair’s story to life. The fair’s friendly and vibrant environment makes it a wonderful place to connect, celebrate community, and enjoy the seasonal festivities alongside friends.
Here's what people think of Arizona Exposition & State Fair
As of recent, Arizona Exposition & State Fair holds a 4-star rating based on 302 reviews.
Visitors generally rate the Arizona State Fair positively, appreciating its warm, community-focused atmosphere and rich historical significance. Many reviewers highlight the fair as a family-friendly destination offering a variety of activities including rides, shopping, and animal exhibits. Positive feedback often mentions the fair’s affordability, especially noting convenient parking options and reasonable admission prices. The Heritage Museum and the Veterans Memorial Coliseum events also earn praise for adding cultural depth and entertainment value to the experience. However, some visitors have noted that the fairground’s size is smaller compared to other state fairs, which can limit the variety of vendors and attractions available. A few comments point to some pricey parking areas and occasional overcrowding on busy days. Despite these criticisms, most reviews conclude that the Arizona State Fair is a cherished local tradition that provides a fun and engaging outing. The combination of historic charm and modern fair attractions successfully appeals to longtime attendees and newcomers alike, securing the fair's status as a beloved Arizona event.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
PuffQueenKayla
We had an Amazing time at FoodieLand Food Festival!! After being here for almost 4 years, we were invited out . Online tickets weren't bad priced, we parked at a church (cost individual fee) and walked to the Fair Grounds . There was a choice to park on FairGrounds. The food was very delicious 😋 so much to choose from . We will definitely return. Definitely an event for all even if you're single, with date or family/friends.
Jona Jones
I will review the fairgrounds as opposed to the Maricopa County Fair, which was the event my family attended. I will note that as with typical fairs, there were a lot of wonderfully yummy, yet unhealthy and expensive culunary delights! And yes, we had a ball! I had been to the fairgrounds growing up and as an adult, so I have a bit of perspective. Overall, the fairgrounds need a bit of love structually. Everything ages. Maintenance is imperative, which the fairground has done adequately; however, there comes a time when a bit more is required. A general repave over the entire grounds would be a great start. There are several semi-permanent restrooms that could absolutely be done away with and replaced with a permanent and clean handicapped accessible structure. The buildings seem gine structually, but they could use a bit of polish and shine. I am not one for tearing down a building, unles it is unsafe. Just as Rome has their Colosseum, so does Phoenix has its own. I did not get to go into the Colosseum to see its condition, but it sure was fabulous to see just for memory sake! Good note: The grounds were clean overall. We couldn't even smell the pig plops all over the place...they were there, but no foul odor! Also, parking was easy and secure. Most importantly, the fairgrounds are safe for families. You go through a metal detector and bag check before entering just like any modern event. As for security and staff (assuming they are part of the fairgrounds), I could not say enough about this friendly bunch of folks. They were kind, welcoming, and helpful. The fairgrounds, while in need of love, still provide a fantastic and safe experience for families. Thanks for serving the community for so many years!
Gear Websites
I have attended events at this venue for decades Great facility, great events Once you learn the parking areas, parking for events is easy So many good restaurants nearby too
Bharatesh Chakravarthi
Fun, but definitely overpriced! Any fun that costs too much loses its charm. There are plenty of games and rides to choose from, but none of them seem budget-friendly. As for the food, it’s not even close to being worth the money for what you get. The fair is well-organized and offers a great opportunity for quality family time, but the Arizona State Fair doesn’t really feel fair. With a $15 entry fee per person, $15 parking (though well-managed even during busy times), and the steep cost of rides—4 tickets for $5 (which barely covers one ride) or 16 tickets for $20—it’s hard to justify the expense.
Jaylin
I visited the fair in October of 2019 and again in October of 2024. Since 2019, the quality has either stagnated or decreased while the price of everything has increased considerably. The photo of the fake security camera in our cabin on the RCS ferris wheel just about sums up the entire fair experience: looks good on the outside, but everything is as low quality as possible on the inside. 1. The food. All of the food vendors were extremely overpriced and "generous helpings" was certainly not in their vocabulary. Moreover, the food was unimpressive, generic, and rather flavorless; a massive disappointment considering a single sandwich (which was literally a meager scoop of beef spread across a soggy hotdog bun) cost $23. The fair is especially unaccommodating of people who have a lot of dietary needs/restrictions like I do. 2. The rides. Most of the rides cost $10 - $12 in tickets and many only last around 90 seconds. Fortunately, that meant the lines weren't long at all, but I saw many of the rides (especially the ones for children) running with only one or two people on them, which is rather wasteful. 3. The animals. The animal barns were cleanly and didn't smell unpleasant, but the animals themselves looked downright miserable. Most were curled up in the back corners of their cages or nosing through their woodchip bedding looking for shreds of dried out crab grass to eat. The situation was sad at best and unethical at worst. 4. The vendors. Lots of the vendors in the vendor halls (not the ones selling food) were actually really friendly, and we had some fascinating conversations, though that likely wouldn't be everyone's thing. Some of the vendors were selling extremely overpriced rings you can buy in bulk on Amazon claiming they had handmade them. Avoid those and the vendor halls can be a fun experience. 5. The shows. The quality of the shows was lacking astronomically. The "monster truck show" we saw involved watching people get into the back of a monster truck and get to do two loops at each end of the dirt track just to be unloaded and have the process repeat. The driver looked bored out of his mind, and each ride only lasted around 90 seconds. The other shows were equally as disappointing: a juggler begging for applauds after juggling four bowling pins for around 30 seconds before dropping one, two men doing mediocre country covers, and three female singers dressed like clowns tw*rking for their vast audience of fourteen people (ten of whom were children under the age of twelve). This isn't to say there weren't better shows at other times of the day, but this was everything we encountered (we stopped to watch each act for between five and ten minutes in order to take in the full scope of the performance). All that to say, the couple I saw who managed to flip a picnic table over on themselves (causing the meager rations they had acquired for lunch to spill onto their laps and the ground) was far more amusing than the formal entertainers. 6. The games. We didn't play any of the games (they were also rather overpriced but not as bad considering some did have a winner every time). We talked to some of the people manning them, several of whom admitted they had no idea how to win the games and couldn't do it themselves, but that isn't sufficient evidence to claim they were entirely impossible. 7. The bathrooms. To end on a high note, since 2019, the bathrooms have increased in both availability and quality. In 2019, there were a lot more outhouses and fewer permanent bathrooms with running water, so this was definitely an improvement! TL;DR: While the sights and sounds of the fair can be quite a vibe (we definitely enjoyed the view from the farris wheel and our ride on the Titan), the whole place, from the food to the rides, is extremely overpriced. You're better off to save your money and go somewhere else like Schnepf Farms' Pumpkin & Chili Party.
How to reach Arizona Exposition & State Fair
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Why Arizona Exposition & State Fair may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Arizona Exposition & State Fair with your friends?
Gathering at the Arizona Exposition & State Fair is an ideal choice for hosting a meetup with friends because it offers a unique blend of history, entertainment, and vibrant social atmosphere. This iconic location, with a solid 4.0 rating from over 300 reviews, serves not only as a venue for the annual Arizona State Fair but also as a premier destination for diverse events across the year. Its long-standing history dating back to 1884, coupled with the festive spirit and a million-strong attendance annually, ensures that friends will have a memorable experience together in a lively, engaging environment.
The fairgrounds provide ample space and a variety of entertainment options that make group gatherings easy, fun, and fulfilling. Whether your group seeks thrilling amusement rides, unique food experiences, live music, or cultural exhibits, this venue can accommodate it all under one roof and open skies. Importantly, the fairgrounds' commitment to safety and organized security makes it a trustworthy place for community and family-friendly activities. So, rallying here means sharing extraordinary moments in a historically rich, socially dynamic setting that nourishes camaraderie and fun in equal measure.
What activities are available at the Arizona Exposition & State Fair for groups?
One of the biggest draws at the Arizona Exposition & State Fair is its extensive range of activities that cater well to groups and families. The Arizona State Fair alone boasts about 75 amusement rides, offering thrills suitable for all ages—from gentle carousels and Ferris wheels that enable panoramic views to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters. These rides encourage shared excitement and create perfect photo opportunities for friends to cherish and remember the day.
Food lovers will appreciate the approximately 110 food booths presenting a diverse selection of culinary delights. This array includes traditional fair staples like corn dogs and funnel cakes, alongside innovative and locally inspired dishes. Sampling the numerous food options together turns eating into an adventure, sparking conversations and shared enjoyment among friends.
Additionally, the fair hosts more than 300 commercial sales booths where groups can explore crafts, apparel, and novelty items. These booths provide a treasure hunt experience, ideal for friends who enjoy browsing and picking up unique souvenirs or gifts. Beyond shopping, live music and entertainment acts featured regularly at the fairgrounds add to the festive atmosphere, with performances by popular artists and rides on special event days bringing the group closer in collective enjoyment.
Why is the venue perfect for group meetups?
The Arizona Exposition & State Fairgrounds is perfectly suited for group meetups because it combines vast, accessible space with a safe, welcoming environment, and variety in entertainment makes it suitable for all interests within the group. The layout of the fairgrounds in Phoenix—spanning multiple halls, open-air spaces, and the famous Veterans Memorial Coliseum—ensures that groups can find both bustling hubs and quieter areas to relax, socialize, and regroup as needed.
This venue’s infrastructure accommodates groups comfortably, providing easy access to rides, food stalls, and exhibits without feeling crowded. Additionally, the presence of professional security, including patrollers, Phoenix Police, and Maricopa County Sheriff officers, enhances the safety of visitors, making it a stress-free place to enjoy a day out with friends or family.
Moreover, the fair's rich cultural programming and historical exhibits, such as the Heritage Museum located in the Veterans Memorial Coliseum, offer educational yet entertaining experiences for groups interested in learning about Arizona’s history through interactive displays, artifacts, and photography. This combination of fun, safety, and education makes it a well-rounded environment where every member of a gathering can find something appealing.
What makes a visit to the Arizona State Fair historically unique and socially vibrant?
The Arizona Exposition & State Fair is not just a venue for entertainment but also a historically significant place that reflects over 140 years of Arizona’s heritage. Originating in 1884 as an industrial exposition during territorial times, the fairgrounds have evolved alongside the state itself. This long history adds a rich backdrop to any visit, giving groups a sense of connection to Arizona’s past and a unique context for their social outing.
The fair and exposition grounds emphasize this heritage through its dedicated Heritage Museum, where visitors can discover exhibits showcasing the fair’s evolution and its role in the community. Groups can enjoy interactive experiences and historical anecdotes that deepen their appreciation for the event beyond the fun rides and shows.
Social vibrancy comes from the diverse crowds and major events held throughout the year. The fair attracts visitors from all corners, presenting opportunities to mingle, share experiences, and celebrate local culture. Live concerts, from renowned music tours to country and pop acts, are a staple highlight that appeal broadly and create a festive, communal feel perfect for groups seeking a lively atmosphere.
How do seasonal events and concerts enhance the meetup experience?
The Arizona Exposition & State Fair is renowned for its robust calendar of seasonal events and concerts that significantly enhance the experience for groups. These include well-known annual gatherings like the Arizona State Fair and the Maricopa County Fair, both of which pack the fairgrounds with vibrant activities, shows, and entertainment tailored to all ages.
Concerts are a major allure, with past lineups featuring celebrated artists such as The All-American Rejects, Ne-Yo, and Becky G., among others, providing exciting music experiences that can transform ordinary meetups into unforgettable musical celebrations. These live performances offer a dynamic backdrop for groups, promoting shared enjoyment and lively interaction.
Seasonal celebrations also include agricultural shows, livestock events, and home and garden expos that add variety and interest, catering to specialized tastes within the group. This diversity means groups can plan visits around particular interests or enjoy the full breadth of offerings for variety-packed days.
What facilities and amenities ensure comfort and convenience for groups?
The Arizona Exposition & State Fairgrounds features a wide range of facilities and amenities designed with visitor comfort and convenience in mind, critical factors for successful group meetups. Comprehensive amenities include clean, accessible restrooms, ample parking spaces, and shaded seating areas where groups can take breaks and relax away from the bustle.
Food and beverage options are plentiful and diverse, supporting various dietary preferences and making meal times easy and hassle-free. Many booths and vendors offer quick service, allowing groups to maximize their time exploring without long waits. Additionally, the fairground maps, clear signage, and accessible paths help groups navigate the sprawling grounds efficiently, reducing stress.
Security presence and medical stations add to the overall sense of safety and preparedness, offering reassurance for groups, especially those with children or older adults. Information booths staffed with friendly personnel provide assistance throughout the visit, ensuring that any questions or issues can be resolved promptly.
How does the Arizona Exposition & State Fair promote group enjoyment and lasting memories?
Arizona Exposition & State Fair promotes group enjoyment by fostering an inclusive and engaging environment that caters to diverse tastes and interests. The abundance of interactive experiences, from carnival games and rides to cultural exhibits and concerts, encourages participation and shared joys that bond friends and family more deeply.
The fair's multi-sensorial nature—combining sights, sounds, tastes, and tactile experiences—makes every visit rich in moments worth remembering. Whether laughing on a thrill ride, discovering new tastes in food booths, or cheering during a live show, groups build collective memories that outlast their time at the fair.
Furthermore, the tradition and pageantry of the fair, such as parades, artistic displays, and competitive events, offer meaningful narratives that groups can appreciate together, enriching their interaction beyond entertainment. This blend of fun, culture, and history creates a distinctive celebration space that encourages return visits and ongoing friendship-building.
In summary, the Arizona Exposition & State Fair stands out as a top-tier venue to rally with friends or family due to its multifaceted attractions, historical significance, comprehensive amenities, and vibrant social environment. It offers a perfect mix of excitement, comfort, cultural connection, and safety that makes any meetup both enjoyable and memorable.