Minnesota State Fair visitors have some huge new attractions to check out this year, including life-size dinosaur skeletons and an observation wheel that towers 230 feet over the fairgrounds.
The 2026 Minnesota State Fair opened Thursday, Aug. 27, and runs through Labor Day, Sept. 7, in St. Paul. Fans can expect all of the fun rides and food offerings with several new rides.
The new America Wheel is 75 feet taller than the Great Big Wheel that previously appeared at the fair. In fact, it is being called the world’s largest traveling observation wheel.
If riding 230 feet into the air isn’t for you, the new Ultimate Dinosaurs exhibit stays safely on the ground. Visitors can see real fossils, augmented reality displays and skeleton casts of some unusual dinosaurs.
The America Wheel Offers Views for 14 Miles
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The America Wheel has 45 gondolas and provides views stretching up to 14 miles in every direction. From the top, riders may be able to see both downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul, along with the Highland Park water tower.
The wheel was designed to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, with displays honoring U.S. presidents, national parks, the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. It also lights up after dark. A ride costs $7 per person and must be purchased with a credit card.
You Can See Real Fossils for Free
Ultimate Dinosaurs focuses on lesser-known dinosaurs that evolved in the Southern Hemisphere. The exhibit includes life-size skeleton casts, real fossils and even augmented reality activities.
Visitors can also see fossils found in Minnesota and learn about the giant beaver, the state’s new official fossil. Science Museum of Minnesota paleontologists will appear at Fossil Corner during select hours from Aug. 27 through 29 and Sept. 2 through 4.
Unlike the America Wheel, the dinosaur exhibit does not cost extra. It is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. throughout the fair, except on Labor Day when it closes at 8 p.m.
Four More New Rides Are Open
The Mighty Midway also has two new attractions called Thor and the Juke Box Funhouse. Younger visitors can also try two pirate-themed Kidway rides called Pirate Jet and Ghost Pirate Dark Ride.
The Pet Pavilion will turn into an outdoor movie theater on Aug. 28 and 29 and Sept. 4 through 6. Each night will feature Minnesota-made short films beginning at 8:30 p.m. Fair admission costs $20 for adults ages 13 to 64. Seniors and children ages 5 to 12 pay $18, while children ages 4 and younger enter free.