When you combine perfect weather, friends, entertainment and literally fried everything, how could you not have a good time? This was my experience at the Florida State Fair. Greeted by colorful attractions and the most amazing smells of sweet and salty, I knew it was going to be a memorable day.

As a Florida State Fair newbie, here are some of my recommendations for getting the most out of your day at the fair. First of all, arrive early. I left Orlando around 9:30 a.m. and arrived in Tampa at 10:45 a.m. There was barely any traffic getting into the fair and parking was a breeze. By the time we left though, there was quite a bit of traffic getting into the Fairgrounds. It was nice to have the morning to leisurely stroll through the fair and concessions; as it got later in the day, the crowds grew.  Bonus: Parking is always FREE at the fair. The Florida State Fair runs from February 7-18, 2019. Still a whole week to enjoy!!!!

Also, make sure you look down as you wander. These handy Selfie Spot markers are located throughout the fair in the most picture perfect locations.

What to Eat

To begin, we have to fill our stomachs with some tasty treats. I tried everything from edible cookie dough from The Happy Dough to a rainbow grilled cheese from The Giddy Piggy to a giant mozzarella stick from Angela’s Pizza and washed it all down with a sweet strawberry daiquiri served out of a pineapple. Yum, Yum, Yum.

As if that wasn’t enough, I still had room for an extra cheesy slice of pizza that was bigger than my head and the most decadent Coconut Cream Doughnut from Peachey’s Baking Co. 

Make sure you let your stomach digest before hitting up the rides.

Animal Encounters

Bears, pigs, cows, horses, camels, giraffes, alligators and more. They are all at the fair! I fell in love with the baby goats and piggies — the birds however kind of freaked me out. Feed is available at most of the exhibits for extra close encounters.

I’m also really regretting not taking a camel ride. But speaking of rides, there is something for everyone.

Rides

As I mentioned before, make sure you pace yourself with the food before taking on the thrill rides.

The Sky Ride and the Ferris Wheel are great for getting a lay of the land. From the ground, the fair may seem like a maze, but from above you can get a good look at all the rides, entertainment and food stands. Here is a handy list of rides, height requirements and tickets.

Other entertainment throughout the fair includes an acrobatics show, live mural painting, hypnotist, ranch rodeo, meet-and-greets with the Budweiser Clydesdales and so much more.

If you haven’t been to the fair yet this year, or at all, it’s time! For all ticket, times and event information visit www.FloridaStateFair.com.  And this is Florida, people, don’t forget to bring sunscreen and drink plenty of water. It doesn’t matter the time of year.