The Illinois State Fair is one of the best traditions out there! This is the perfect time to get out with your family, celebrate this great state, and enjoy some really great food along the way. Before you plan your visit, you need to make sure you know about all the best exhibits so you don’t have to miss a single thing. As a Springfield family photographer, I adore working with families to find brand new ways to make some memories. Here’s my list of the best things to do at the Illinois State Fair!
Dairy Building
The Butter Cow has been an Illinois State Fair classic since the 1920s. Where else can you go to see over 500 pounds of butter molded into an adorable, artery-clogging cow? Because this is a crowd-favorite, they have worked to make it a total experience. You can come here and check out photo exhibits or try an interactive display. While you are in the area, you can also try ice cream and pastries made from Illinois dairy products.

Northwest Corner
Conservation World lets you explore all the nature around Illinois while finding ways to be sustainable. This has been a mainstay at the Illinois State Fair for over 100 years, and they know how to deliver the memories! You can try out fishing clinics, an archery range, BB gun challenges, and a rock climbing wall. They also offer sensory hours with quieter ways to enjoy all the activities.
Village of Cultures
The Village of Cultures is an 8,000 square foot stage that brings you musical and dance performances from all across the globe. As you spend some time at the site, you will have an immersive experience that teaches you about the history and the cultures of different groups. Not only is it extremely entertaining, but it’s also highly educational!
Gate 2 Area
What Illinois State Fair experience is complete without a journey down Route 66? Slide Down 66 gives you a way to literally cruise on down! This giant slide stands at over 40 feet tall, offering thrills for visitors of all ages. Once you are done over here, you can stick around and check out the neon sign park that will take you for a stroll down yesteryear.

Corner of Main Street and Central
The Illinois Department of Agriculture Tent gives you the very best way to enjoy homegrown products. As you check out different stalls, you will get the chance to try Illinois produce like watermelon, peaches, and apple cider. They also have children’s activities such as arts and crafts.
If you need the very best way to take in the State Fair, I just know you are going to love these things to do at the Illinois State Fair! With all of these exhibits, you’ll have an experience you’ll treasure for years.
If you are looking for some more ways to make the most out of your time together, I would love to chat! I am a Springfield family photographer, and I adore working with parents to plan sessions so they never have to forget a single second. Want to learn more about planning your session? Then send me a message, and we can get the conversation started!