The Great New York State Fair is synonymous with all-American food that’s big on flavor. With over 100 stands catering to every palate, stallholders are not afraid to wow crowds with new twists on old classics.
Don’t miss the Milk Bar’s ever-popular 25-cent cup of milk, a tradition since 1952. Get in quick to avoid the queues.
No trip to the Fair is complete without a burger. Choices include Jerk burgers, the Big Kahuna Donut Burger, and the aptly named Defibrillator- a deep fried burger served in a grilled cheese sandwich. Just make sure you have the paramedics on speed dial.
Another all-American favorite can be found in various guises, including the Bacon Donut (bacon in a chocolate caramel donut), Recess’ Affogato Special Donut Espresso Utopia (donut, ice cream, bacon, maple syrup, and espresso), and Milky Bun’s Hot Donut stuffed with still-frozen ice cream.
Think a sundae has to be sweet? Then try Shake It Up’s Beef Sundae – mashed potatoes, roast beef, cheddar, and sour cream with a cherry tomato on top.
You can find deep-fried chocolate-covered crickets and grasshoppers, ‘gator on a stick, and an exotic twist on an old Binghamton specialty, the Kangaroo Spiedie.
13 days aren’t nearly enough time to experience all the Fair has to offer, so plan wisely. Not only are there countless displays, exhibits, and shows celebrating its rich agricultural heritage, there are also numerous concerts and midway rides.
One of the fair’s main draws, Chevy Court stage hosts many musical greats across the 13 days. Access is free with your standard fair admission and the music spans country, nostalgia, and pop. Live music is also to be found at the Empire Experience Stage.
Marvel at equestrian performances, as rising amateurs and professionals compete in a friendly environment. You can also see cattle shows in the Toyota Coliseum.
There is no shortage of impressive acrobatic displays, but perhaps the most jaw-dropping is this show. With stunts and tricks including the power track, sphere, and aerial bungee, it culminates in a daring 60ft fall.
Agriculture is New York State’s biggest industry, so it’s no surprise that there are competitions celebrating the state’s best cows, horses, goats, pigs, and llamas. Take the time to tour the Witter Agricultural Museum, a reconstruction of an 18th century New York farm complete with furnished log cabin and craft demos.
If you enjoy eccentric performances, then watch Bandaloni, the 100% live one-man-band. Try to work out how he manages to simultaneously play numerous instruments - including guitars, drums, bells, and harmonica - while also singing harmonies.
This 13-day extravaganza deserves more than a day's visit. Coming to the fair for several days avoids burnout from the sheer number of things to do. The Great New York State Fair Hotels are plentiful, but don’t get caught out by booking too late.
Whether you wish to stay close to the action, or further away from the madness in Syracuse, make sure you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Perhaps you want a bit more space to stretch out in during your down time, or are you traveling in a big group? Syracuse hosts plenty of quaint but spacious vacation houses and apartments a short distance from the fairground.
The fair hosts several special days with parades and themed events. On Beef Day you will see grilling and perfect burger contests. There is also Dairy Day, which features a big cheese auction and celebrity milkshake contests, Pride Day, and Armed Forces Day.
The Fairground has ample parking space with a shuttle to the Main Gate. There are also dedicated Park-N-Ride and train services serving the neighboring counties. Syracuse Hancock International Airport is conveniently located 9mi. from the Fairground.
