Free Parking Hack Axed for Minnesota State Fair in 2025

Each year, it seems to get more and more expensive to attend the Minnesota State Fair, with admission, parking, and Grandstand tickets getting regular price hikes.

The Minnesota State Fair announced that the ticket price for the 2025 edition would increase by $2, so an adult ticket to the fair will now cost $20, and a senior/kids ticket will be $18.

READ MORE: Minnesota State Fair Nominated For Major Award

Rising Parking Costs at the Minnesota State Fair

Parking in the official Minnesota State Fair lots will cost you $25. However, they do offer free park and ride options at over 25 locations around the Twin Cities area. Another way people used to save money on parking was the on-street parking around the fairgrounds, but that option looks like it's ending.

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Falcon Heights to Implement Parking Meters Near Fairgrounds

The City of Falcon Heights, where the fairground is located, is looking to add new electronic parking meters during the Minnesota State Fair and charge the same rate as the official lots, $25. The city council approved motions last week to allow for e-parking meters and to negotiate a deal with ParkMobile to manage the parking and the meters.

Potential Revenue and Rationale Behind Parking Fees

The city estimates that it could earn $100,000 - $200,000 from the new parking fees. ParkMobile would receive a percentage of the parking fees, approximately $5 for each $25 parking spot.

The move is being made to "cover the increasing costs of hosting the Fair that are currently and historically not recognized by the governing body of the State Fair." The city emphasizes that “Free Parking” isn't truly ‘free’ due to the increased wear and tear the event causes to the city's infrastructure.

Local Resident Concerns

Some residents feel that the new policy gives visitors the impression that the city is unwelcoming and is simply a way for the city to make more money. The city says in response to this, "We will continue to welcome fairgoers, and charging for parking should not change our attitude toward visitors."