Apparently, some folks aren’t fans of the Minnesota State Fair. But I’m willing to bet those people drove their cars. Don’t make the same mistake! Driving is hands down the worst way to experience this iconic event. Sure, you’ll get a firsthand look at the entrepreneurial spirit of homeowners turning their yards into temporary parking lots, but that’s about it. Embrace the Bike State of mind and pedal your way to a far better Fair experience.
Taking the bus is a solid option, with free park-and-ride lots and direct routes available. However, for a truly liberating and efficient journey, biking to the fair is unbeatable. Imagine bypassing traffic jams and parking hassles, arriving directly at the entrance, ready to dive into the festivities. The State Fair provides free, staffed bike corrals near the entrances, offering a secure and convenient parking solution for cyclists.
However, it’s not all smooth pedaling. The “last mile” infrastructure around the fairgrounds can be challenging during peak season. Increased traffic, road closures, and re-routed streets can turn normally bike-friendly paths into obstacle courses. It sometimes feels like the State Fair organization overlooks the needs of cyclists, with limited and often unhelpful resources.
But fear not, fellow cyclists! Excellent bike routes do exist that will lead you straight to the bike corrals, ensuring a safe and enjoyable ride. Finding these routes can require some local knowledge, and that’s where this guide comes in. I’m here to share recommended bike routes to the fairgrounds from every direction, prioritizing safe, uncongested roads and paths as much as possible.
Think you know a better route? Share your wisdom! Email your suggestions to [email protected]. This is a community effort, and your input will help us continuously improve these recommendations for everyone wanting to experience the fair in true bike state fashion.
Essential Tips for Biking to the Fair
Before we dive into specific routes, here are some general tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable bike trip to the Minnesota State Fair, and truly embrace the bike state spirit:
- Secure Bike Parking: The free bike corrals are staffed throughout the fair’s operating hours. They use a ticket system for check-in and check-out, eliminating the need for a personal bike lock. However, if you own a particularly valuable bike, bringing a lock for extra peace of mind is always a good idea. Don’t lose your ticket!
- Crowd Considerations: Bike corrals can get extremely crowded, especially on busier fair days. Be prepared to potentially lean your bike against a fence or squeeze it into a tight spot amongst other bikes. A cable lock might offer more flexibility than a U-lock if you find yourself parking in an unconventional spot.
- Minimize Protrusions: Anticipating crowded bike parking, it’s wise to remove any easily detachable accessories like mirrors, lights, or other items that stick out from your bike or helmet. These can easily get knocked off by passersby in the crowded corrals.
Recommended Bike Routes to the Fairgrounds
Let’s explore the best bike routes to the Minnesota State Fair from different directions, ensuring you navigate the bike state landscape effectively:
From the South and Southwest
While the South Bike Lot might appear closest on a map, accessing it involves navigating heavy vehicle and pedestrian traffic on Como Avenue. It’s simply not worth the hassle. Opting for the West Bike Lot, accessible via Buford Avenue, offers a much more pleasant and less congested ride.
- Raymond Avenue Access: Head towards Raymond Avenue. If you’re coming from South Minneapolis, cross the Lake/Marshall bridge and then take Pelham Avenue, part of St. Paul’s Grand Round scenic byway.
- Cleveland Avenue Transition: Follow Raymond Avenue north, crossing Como Avenue. Raymond Avenue seamlessly transitions into Cleveland Avenue.
- Buford Avenue and West Bike Lot: Turn right onto Buford Avenue and continue onwards. The West Bike Lot will be immediately on your left as you reach Randall Avenue.
From the West
The University of Minnesota Transitway, typically a cyclist’s haven, becomes less enjoyable during the State Fair due to increased bus traffic, including charter buses. These drivers are often less accustomed to sharing the Transitway with cyclists compared to regular Metro Transit buses. Therefore, it’s recommended to bypass the final elevated section of the Transitway and head for the West Bike Lot instead of proceeding to the South Bike Lot.
- U of M Transitway East: Take the University of Minnesota Transitway heading east.
- Energy Park Drive Detour: When you reach Energy Park Drive, exit the Transitway and jog east briefly. Then, turn left onto Raymond Avenue.
- Cleveland Avenue Transition: Follow Raymond Avenue north, crossing Como Avenue as it becomes Cleveland Avenue.
- Buford Avenue and West Bike Lot: Turn right onto Buford Avenue and follow it in. The West Bike Lot will be immediately to your left upon reaching Randall Avenue.
From the Southeast
Unfortunately, your biking options from the Southeast are somewhat limited. Avoid Snelling Avenue at all costs. Lexington Avenue is only marginally better. The most comfortable route, while slightly longer, prioritizes separated paths and avoids freeway-style streets.
Map of suggested route
- Hamline Avenue Pedestrian Bridge: Cross the rail yard using the pedestrian bridge accessible from Hamline Avenue.
- Lexington & Energy Park Drive Path: Jog east to Lexington Avenue and Energy Park Drive. Here, you’ll find a separated bike path heading north into Como Park.
- Como Park Path & Como Avenue Path: Turn left onto the path just before Como Avenue. Upon reaching the western edge of Como Park (at Hamline Avenue), transition to the path along Como Avenue.
- South Bike Lot Arrival: Follow the Como Avenue path towards the South Bike Lot, located near the main gate of the fair. Be aware that the final quarter mile of the path will likely be crowded with pedestrians, so you may need to walk your bike unless you’re comfortable riding slowly through pedestrian traffic.
From the East
Choosing between the North and South Bike Lots from the East is a bit of a trade-off. The North Bike Lot offers a less crowded entrance and better chances of biking directly to the lot. However, the route primarily involves riding on roads. The South Bike Lot allows you to stay on separated paths for longer, but the last stretch will be congested with pedestrians.
To the North Bike Lot:
Map of suggested route
- Wheelock Parkway or Como Avenue: Take either Wheelock Parkway or Como Avenue until you reach the lake.
- Lexington Avenue Path: Proceed around the lake and continue north on the path that follows Lexington Avenue.
- Hoyt Avenue and North Bike Lot: Turn left onto Hoyt Avenue and follow it towards the fairgrounds. The North Bike Lot will be on your right shortly after crossing Snelling Avenue.
To the South Bike Lot:
Map of suggested route
- Wheelock Parkway or Como Avenue: Take either Wheelock Parkway or Como Avenue until you reach the lake.
- Como Park Paths Westward: Head west on the network of paths within Como Park.
- Como Avenue Path Transition: When you reach the western edge of Como Park (at Hamline Avenue), switch to the path that runs alongside Como Avenue.
- South Bike Lot Arrival: Follow the Como Avenue path to the South Bike Lot near the main gate. Expect pedestrian congestion for the last quarter mile, potentially requiring you to walk your bike.
From the Northeast
To avoid traffic, it’s best to steer clear of Snelling and Larpenteur Avenues. Beyond that, there aren’t any particularly advantageous or disadvantageous routes from the Northeast. Feel free to take a direct route using quieter side streets.
Map of suggested route
- Hamline Avenue or Side Streets: Take Hamline Avenue south or choose another suitable side street based on your location.
- Hoyt Avenue and North Bike Lot: Turn right onto Hoyt Avenue and follow it towards the fairgrounds. The North Bike Lot will be on your right just after you cross Snelling Avenue.
From the North
If you have a bike equipped for gravel riding and prefer a more tranquil route, consider improvising a path through the University of Minnesota’s St. Paul campus farm area. For a simpler and more direct route, follow these directions:
Map of suggested route
- Fairview Avenue South: Head south on Fairview Avenue.
- Larpenteur Avenue Turn: Turn right onto Larpenteur Avenue.
- Gortner Avenue Bike Lane: Turn left onto the designated bike lane on Gortner Avenue.
- Buford Avenue and West Bike Lot: Turn left onto Buford Avenue and follow it straight into the West Bike Lot.
From the Northwest
From the Northwest, feel free to get creative and improvise your route. Most streets in this area surrounding the fairgrounds are bikeable and safe.
Map of suggested route
- Hendon Avenue from Como Avenue: From Como Avenue, take Hendon Avenue east.
- Cleveland & Buford Avenues (or Campus Paths): Turn right onto Cleveland Avenue, then left onto Buford Avenue. Alternatively, navigate through the paths on campus until you reach Buford Avenue.
- Buford Avenue and West Bike Lot: Follow Buford Avenue straight into the West Bike Lot.
Embrace the Bike State and Enjoy the Fair!
Biking to the Minnesota State Fair is not just a mode of transportation; it’s a way to fully immerse yourself in the bike state spirit and enhance your overall fair experience. By following these recommended routes and tips, you can avoid traffic congestion, parking headaches, and arrive at the fair energized and ready to enjoy all the attractions. So, pump up your tires, grab your helmet, and experience the fair like a true bike state enthusiast!
Feedback Welcome! Since comments are disabled on Streets.mn, please email your feedback and suggestions to [email protected]. Share what you liked, what didn’t work, and how these routes could be improved. Have a fantastic time at the fair!
