Minnesota State Fair ride tickets offer an easy way to experience the fair's famous midway attractions, from classic Ferris wheels to high-speed coasters. Understanding how these tickets work helps you budget time and money while maximizing fun for visitors of all ages.
Planning ahead with the right ticket strategy can reduce wait times, control costs, and ensure you enjoy the most popular rides without missing out on fair food, games, and shows.
How Minnesota State Fair Ride Tickets Work
Ticket Types and Validity
The fair uses ride tickets as a payment method for most attractions on the midway, with each ride requiring a set number of tickets based on popularity and thrill level. Tickets are sold in books and booklets in multiple denominations to suit different budgets and ride goals.
Where to Buy Tickets
Ticket booths are located near major ride clusters and at several centralized hubs across the fairgrounds, accepting cash, card, and mobile payments. Mobile ticketing and app-based ticket packs are increasingly available, allowing you to skip lines at physical booths.
Ticket Pricing Overview
Pricing is designed to balance affordability for families with revenue to support ride maintenance and new attractions. Larger ticket packs typically lower the per-ticket cost, making them ideal for visitors planning extensive midway exploration.
| Ticket Book Size | Price (USD) | Tickets Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Book (10 tickets) | 18 | 10 | Casual visitors or younger riders |
| Medium Book (25 tickets) | 40 | 25 | Families with moderate ride plans |
| Large Book (50 tickets) | 70 | 50 | Heavy riders and multi-day visitors |
| Extra Large Book (100 tickets) | 125 | 100 | Full midway experience seekers |
| All-Day Ride Wristband | 50 | Unlimited rides (exclusions apply) | Adrenaline-focused visitors prioritizing quantity |
Choosing the Right Ticket Option for Your Visit
Matching Ticket Size to Ride Goals
Estimate how many rides you plan to take and the average ticket cost per ride to select a book size that avoids running out or overspending. Popular coasters often cost 4 to 6 tickets, while smaller rides may use 2 to 3 tickets per ride.
Family and Group Strategy
Groups can share a single large book or split multiple smaller books to maintain flexibility and prevent waste. Designating one person as the ticket manager can streamline purchases and reduce repeated trips to booths.
Budget and Time Planning
Buying tickets in advance online or through the fair app can save time at the gate and ensure you are ready to ride as soon as you arrive. Pairing ticket planning with a rough hourly schedule helps balance rides with meals and shows.
Maximizing Your Ride Ticket Experience
Efficient Use of Tickets
Start with less popular rides early to preserve tickets for headliner coasters later in the day, when ticket availability may be limited. Check individual ride ticket requirements at park maps or the official app to avoid surprises.
Timing and Crowd Management
Ride queues are typically shorter during early morning and late evening sessions, allowing you to get more value from each ticket. Use downtime between rides to explore food, games, and exhibits that do not require tickets.
Special Offers and Passes
Look for combo packages that include tickets plus discounts on food or merchandise, and watch for limited-time promotions at ticket booths. Season pass holders and certain membership programs may qualify for reduced ticket prices or bonus ticket bonuses.
Minnesota State Fair Ticket Policies and Rules
Non-Refundable and Transfer Rules
Tickets are non-refundable for lost, stolen, or unused portions, so plan your purchases carefully and keep ticket booklets secure. Some ticket passes may be transferable between visitors, but original receipts and packaging should be retained when permitted.
Ride Closures and Weather Policies
Ride operations can change due to maintenance, weather, or safety inspections, and tickets may be revalidated for alternate attractions during closures. Always follow fair staff directions and check official communication channels for real-time updates on ride status.
Child and Accessibility Accommodations
Height requirements and thrill ratings apply to many rides, and children may need adult accompaniment regardless of ticket availability. Guest assistance services are available at designated locations for visitors with mobility or sensory needs.
Keys to Enjoying Minnesota State Fair Rides
- Choose a ticket book size that matches your planned number of rides and group size.
- Check individual ride ticket requirements on maps or the official fair app before joining lines.
- Visit popular coasters early in the day and late in the evening to minimize wait times.
- Combine tickets with food and merchandise discounts when available to stretch your budget.
- Keep ticket booklets secure and remember that tickets are non-refundable once purchased.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many tickets does a typical coaster ride require at the Minnesota State Fair?
Most popular coasters require between 4 and 6 tickets per ride, with exact values listed on the ride signage and in the official fair app.
Can Minnesota State Fair ride tickets be purchased in advance or through a mobile app?
Yes, tickets can be bought online and through the fair's official app, which often includes digital ticket packs and real-time availability updates.
Are there any height or age restrictions that affect ticket use on major rides?
Yes, each ride has specific height requirements and safety rules that must be followed, and ticket usage is only permitted for eligible guests.
What happens to unused tickets at the end of the fair day?
Unused tickets are not refundable or exchangeable, so it is best to plan your ride count and use tickets strategically throughout your visit.