All Kids Can TravelWith a history going back to 1850, the Ohio State Fair must be a must-see! Our road trip led us to this amazing site and gave us a welcome stretch of the legs. Here are the things we had fun with and what you need to know to have a good time.
Oh What Fun We Had
On our road trip, we had limited time to spend at the Ohio State Fair, but we couldn’t pass up the fun for the kids. From arriving and being picked up by a tractor in the parking lot to the oversized singing and talking robot kids will have a blast.
Bring Your Appetite
The Ohio State Fair proudly boasts the Food Highway. With over 200 vendors and everything from steak on a stick, homemade lemonade, and fried….well everything imaginable you will not be short of options.
The mini doughnuts with syrup, bacon, and powdered sugar were the kid’s favorite.
You can always head inside to escape the heat and visit the International Food Court for more delicious options. The lemonade booth was amazing.
Rides
With over 60 rides and a designated Kiddieland, there is no shortage of choices for fun.
The best thing in the world was watching the kid’s expression as they rode all these fun rides.
Tractors
Ohio State Fair has a fair share of tractors and what child doesn’t love a good John Deere. These were especially jaw-dropping.
Other Attractions
The Ohio State Fair also has an abundance of things to see inside the buildings. A nice way to cool off for a bit is to head inside an check out the model railroads, cake competitions, and a plethora of animals. Check their website’s schedule as well for dates of concerts which included Kids Bop this year.
Since I love to bake my favorite was the Grand Prize in the cake competition. Yes, this really is a meal made out of cake!
Ending On a High
Literally, this was a must for the kids. The Ohio State Fair wasn’t complete until they went down the Giant Slide. The Giant Slide was a wait so be prepared. It’s 105 steps to the top and 144 ft. of a slide to come down. The kids were happy to end on this high.
10 Things For You To Know
1. Keep Track Of Where You Parked
With averaging over 800,000 people who visit the Ohio State Fair yearly you don’t want to be lost in that sea of cars. Keep track of where you parked, a photo may be helpful because the rows of cars with a specific letter are quite long. Don’t worry, luckily a tractor will come by to load your family up so no long walks to the gate for you!
2. Don’t Forget the Sunblock
There is quite a bit of the fair that is outside so please remember your sunblock, especially for the kiddos. Hats and mini fans can also be helpful. Remember if you get to hot there are some inside attractions to get cooled down.
3. Bottled Water and Snacks
This prices of food at the Ohio State Fair can be high. With it also being mid-summer you will need to stay hydrated. Save yourself and bring some bottled water and snacks with you to keep you going throughout the day.
4. Bring a Stroller or Wagon
Bringing a stroller or wagon will save your little kiddos feet and your ears from complaining. It is an immensely large venue. If you bring a wagon you can always use that to store your snacks and a mini cooler for some cold water as well. If you forget your stroller there are rentals available but I would highly suggest being prepared.
5. I.D. Bracelets for Kids
Immediately upon entering the Ohio State Fair, there is an Ohio State Trooper booth. This is where you can register all of your kids and get ID bracelets in case anyone gets lost. Make sure they know that the troopers are there friends if they get lost. This was comforting for me to do since I attempted the Ohio State Fair with four kids on my own.
6. Plan your Path
Check out the free events and event map ahead of time so you can plan your path. Plan your path through the event so it’s straightforward and you don’t tire your kiddos out with backtracking. You can also choose to check out some of the inside or covered events in the heat of the day.
7. Share the Food Experience
There is an overabundance of delicious and unique food to try. A lot of these foods are nicely portioned. Save your money and get one item to try and share it. That way you are not only saving money but not to full to experience what you want.
8. Family Care Centers
For families with younger children keep your eyes open for the Family Care Centers. These are set up for you to change diapers and nurse your babies.
9. Discount Days
Find out when kids are admitted free!!! We just happened to visit the Ohio State Fair on the right day for this. It is a great benefit since you will have to purchase ride tickets and food. Check out the website for discounts on families, seniors, triple AAA and so on.
10. Buy Tickets In Advance
You can save money on tickets and ride bracelets early to save additional moolah. For instance, you can save $5 on your all-day ride bracelet paying $20 instead of $25 buying early.
I hope All Kids Can Travel has inspired you to take your kids to the Ohio State Fair for great family fun.
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All Kids Can Travel
All Kids Can Travel