Most coverage of the Minnesota State Fair is food-focused, although the live entertainment, farm animals, butter sculptures, crop art, and Midway rides also garner plenty of attention. Something that usually doesn't get mentioned is that State Fair is great destination for history buffs—the Minnesota State Fair dates back to 1859, and many of the fairgrounds' buildings were constructed in the 1930s and 1940s. From a walking tour to free museums, here's how to nerd out on history at the Great Minnesota Get-Together.
1. Minnesota State Fair History Walking Tour
As you wander around the fairgrounds, you'll come across the 12 stops on the Minnesota State Fair History Walking Tour. The signs are positioned at various points of interest and include information about historic buildings and fair traditions. Pick up a brochure at any of the stops, punch it at each of the stops you visit, and redeem your completed brochure for a fun history-themed prize.
If you're spending a day at the fair, it's easy to hit all of the stops without much effort, and the brochure includes a handy map. I think it's worthwhile to do the tour even if you've done it previously—the Minnesota Historical Society usually switches out some of the spots every year, and the prizes are always different.
Located in the West End Market, the History & Heritage Center showcases over 150 years of Minnesota State Fair history with artifacts, photos, newspaper clippings, and first-person stories. The exhibits track how the fair has changed over the years, as well as highlighting significant moments and people in fair history. If you've ever wondered about the namesake of the fairgrounds' Dan Patch Avenue, this is the place to find out more.
I like that the History & Heritage Center's exhibits are bite-sized and approachable—you can just stop in and read a few signs, or you can spend longer if you want to do a deep dive into fair history.
The Minnesota Newspaper Museum is tucked into the front of the 4-H Building and is easy to overlook—I didn't make it there until 2023, and I've been an avid fairgoer since childhood. It's one of the best under-the-radar attractions at the fair, with fully operational antique printing presses, exhibits about the history of Minnesota newspapers, and knowledgeable volunteers who are happy to answer your questions and give you a printing demonstration.
You can also pick up some of the most unique freebies at the fair, including newspaper hats for kids and letterpress notepads and postcards printed on-site.
4. MNHS Presents History on a Schtick
Combine live family entertainment with local history at MNHS Presents History on a Schtick, which features a quiz show hosted by Betty Crocker and a fashion show with Minnesota's state symbols. The half-hour show runs twice daily in the West End Market at the Schell's Stage at Schilling Amphitheater. Closed captioning and audio description services are provided for specific performances.
History on a Schtick is an especially fun option for younger history buffs, and it's also a nice way to get off your feet for a bit.
5. Just being there
By attending the Minnesota State Fair, you're taking part in a tradition that generations of Minnesotans have enjoyed, and you're witnessing how it's evolving to remain relevant to current Minnesotans. History isn't just in the past—it's being made now, and you can be a part of it.
Further reading:
- How to enjoy at 14 hour (or longer!) day at the Minnesota State Fair
- My 5 favorite foods at the Minnesota State Fair
- 10 Best Spots for Non-Fried Food at the Minnesota State Fair
If you enjoyed this post, pin it!
