What to See and Do at Michigan’s UP State Fair
Michigan U.P. State Fair
Did you know that Michigan has 2 state fairs? The U.P. state fair is not state funded. It’s governed by the Upper Peninsula State Fair Authority (made up of the 15 counties in Michigan’s U.P.).
One is in Novi (near Detroit) and the other is in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in August. It is one of the upper peninsula events that brings in crowds of people.
Which City Hosts the Fair?
The fair is held in Escanaba Michigan. The town is super busy during the week long fair. It is a week long event with lots of activities and congested traffic.
Things to know about the UP State Fair in Upper Michigan
parking is free – depending on when you get there you may have to walk a bit.
cash is preferred – Have cash to pay for your experience. A lot of smaller places (and flea market/crafters) will only accept cash. Cash is the theme of most of the U.P.
getting in – Pay for a day visit for get a week pass.
arts & crafts – there are people who are selling beautiful items they have made
barns – be sure to head down to the barns to see the cows, horses, poultry & pigs and other critters
chainsaw carving – yes! you can find it and see it here
drinks – they have those delicious over the top drinks (lemonade and drinks make from pineapples!)
flea market – you will find a bit of a flea market as well with hidden treasures
food – there are elephant ears, hot dogs, nachos, cotton candy , cheese curds and the regular fair food
games – you will find games to try your luck at winning prizes
mobile zoo – Find animals you can get up close to like goats, rabbits and sheep at the mobile zoo. We saw porcupine too. I would not recommend trying to touch them.
park – the DNR puts together a pocket park where you can sit and rest.
Rides – Find rides here, like the ferris wheel, tilt-o-world and pony rides
Are There other things to See at the Fairgrounds?
U.P. Steam & Gas Engine Museum (Agricultural Museum) – located at the U.P. State Fairgrounds to preserve the local heritage. Find an eclectic collection antique equipment and artifacts. Visit for no cost (donations accepted).
The UP State park is at 2401 12th Avenue North in Escanaba Michigan. The police help with the flow of traffic if it gets too busy.
Keep in mind the Fair draws in lots people from all over. There is going to be a lot of traffic. Make reservations well in advance to avoid not having a hotel nearby. Wait times at restaurants may be longer, so have snacks.
What do you go to see when you go to a fair? Have you been to the UP State Fair?
