Your Guide to the Atlanta, GA State Fair: Dates, Tickets, Parking & Tips

If you’re searching for the Atlanta GA State Fair, you’re most likely looking for the big fall fair that comes to the Atlanta metro area each year with rides, games, and fair food. In and around Atlanta, there are actually two major “state fair–style” events people talk about:

• The Atlanta Fair (near downtown Atlanta)
• The Georgia State Fair (just south of the city, commonly marketed as the “state fair” for the area)

This guide focuses on how these fairs work for Atlanta residents and visitors, how to get there, what to expect, and how to plan your visit.

Is There a “State Fair” in Atlanta, GA?

Georgia does not hold its official state fair right in downtown Atlanta, but metro Atlanta hosts large state-fair–style events every year that locals simply call “the state fair.”

The two main ones you’ll hear about:

1. Atlanta Fair – held near downtown Atlanta, typically at or near what’s commonly known as the Turner Field/Georgia State Stadium area.
2. Georgia State Fair – a large fair held just south of Atlanta, commonly accessible from the Atlanta area by major highways.

If you live in Atlanta or are staying in the city, both fairs are realistic day-trip options and are marketed heavily to Atlanta-area families, teens, and visitors.

Typical Dates and Season

Exact dates shift year to year, but these general patterns are common:

• Atlanta Fair

  • Often runs in the spring (for several weeks)
  • Sometimes returns or overlaps with fall dates, depending on the year
  • Usually open evenings on weekdays and longer hours on weekends

• Georgia State Fair

  • Typically held in the fall, often around late September or October
  • Commonly runs for about a week to 10 days
  • Focused on weekend crowds but usually open on weekdays as well

Because dates can change, it’s smart to:

• Check the current year’s schedule a few weeks before you plan to go
• Confirm opening and closing times for the exact date you’re visiting
• Look out for special discount days (student nights, family nights, etc.)

Location & Getting There from Atlanta

Atlanta Fair (Near Downtown Atlanta)

The Atlanta Fair typically takes place just south of downtown, in an area many locals still associate with the old Braves ballpark.

Driving from within Atlanta:

• From Midtown:

  • Head south via I‑75/I‑85
  • Use exits leading toward downtown/south Atlanta stadium areas
  • Allow extra time for traffic, especially on weekend evenings

• From Buckhead:

  • Take GA‑400 South to I‑85 South, then merge onto I‑75/I‑85 through downtown
  • Follow signs toward the stadium area and nearby surface streets

• From Decatur/Emory area:

  • Use I‑20 West into downtown Atlanta
  • Connect to local streets leading south toward the fairground area

MARTA options:

Many visitors prefer to use MARTA to avoid downtown traffic:

• Take the Red or Gold Line to a central downtown station, then:
  • Transfer to a local bus heading south
  • Use a short rideshare hop from the station to the fair entrance

Because bus routes and schedules can shift, it’s best to:

• Check current MARTA rail and bus maps
• Look for routes serving the stadium/south downtown area

Georgia State Fair (Metro Atlanta South Area)

The Georgia State Fair is held a short drive south of Atlanta and is designed to be easily reached from the city.

Driving from Atlanta:

• Use I‑75 South or I‑85 South (depending on where you’re coming from)
• Follow highway signs for the fairgrounds area
• Typical drive times from central Atlanta can range from 30–45 minutes or more with traffic

Because this fair targets the entire metro area, parking is usually built into the event plan, but you’ll still want to arrive early on busy weekends.

Tickets, Wristbands & Entry Costs

Prices vary yearly, but both fairs usually offer some combination of:

• General admission: Entry to the fairgrounds
• Unlimited ride wristbands: Flat-fee wristbands for rides
• Single ride tickets: Paper or digital tickets for individual rides
• Special discount days: Family promotions, student nights, early-bird deals

What to Expect for Costs (Generally)

• Admission:
  Often tiered based on age and time of entry (earlier entry can sometimes be cheaper).
• Rides:
  • Unlimited ride wristbands are popular with families and teens
  • Single tickets are useful if you just plan to ride a few key rides

To avoid surprises, check:

• Whether cash or card is required at the gate
• If online presales offer lower pricing than buying at the fair
• Any clear bag or security policies that might affect what you bring

Parking & Transportation Tips for Atlantans

Parking Near the Atlanta Fair

Because the Atlanta Fair sits close to downtown and the stadium area, parking can feel similar to attending a game or downtown event:

• Expect to find:
  • Official lots near the fair entrance
  • Private paid lots run by nearby businesses or property owners
• Pricing can vary, especially on weekend evenings or during peak times.

Tips:

• 🕖 Arrive earlier in the day if possible to avoid circling for spots.
• 💳 Have a card or mobile payment option ready, as some lots may be cashless.
• 🚶 Park slightly farther away if you’re comfortable walking to save on fees and congestion.

Parking at the Georgia State Fair (South of Atlanta)

The Georgia State Fair is typically held at a large venue with onsite parking:

• Expect bigger lots designed for high attendance
• Parking fees may be charged but are usually clearly posted at entrances
• Walking distances from the car to the gate are often shorter than downtown events

If you’re coming from inside the city, consider:

• Leaving early to avoid southbound rush-hour traffic
• Checking for rain—fairground lots can get muddy in wet weather

What You’ll Find at the Atlanta-Area State Fairs

Both the Atlanta Fair and Georgia State Fair offer the classic fair experience Atlantans expect.

Rides

You’ll commonly see:

• Large thrill rides:
  • Giant swings
  • Tower drops
  • Fast-spinning rides
• Family-friendly rides:
  • Ferris wheel
  • Carousel
  • Smaller coasters
• Kiddie rides:
  • Mini cars, trains, and gentle spinners

Height requirements are posted at each ride. If you’re visiting with kids, check the signs before buying a lot of individual tickets.

Games & Midway

Expect a full midway with:

• Ring toss, balloon darts, and basketball-style games
• Prize stands with stuffed animals and toys
• Pay-per-play pricing (usually cash or card, depending on the vendor)

Food & Drinks

The fairs draw many Atlantans simply for the food:

• Fried favorites: Funnel cakes, corn dogs, fried Oreos
• Savory options: Burgers, sausages, fries, barbecue-style items
• Sweet treats: Cotton candy, caramel apples, ice cream
• Drinks: Lemonade, sodas, and other refreshments

Prices vary by vendor, so it can help to:

• Walk the row once, compare options, then choose
• Plan for higher-than-normal everyday food pricing, as is typical at large events

Shows, Exhibits & Special Attractions

Depending on the year, fairs near Atlanta may include:

• Live entertainment – music, local performers, dance acts
• Family shows – magic shows, stunt shows, pet shows, or circus-style acts
• Agricultural or animal exhibits – petting zoos, farm animals, or livestock displays
• Special themed nights – school nights, faith-based nights, or cultural celebrations

Schedules change, so if you want a specific show:

• Check the daily schedule in advance
• Arrive early enough to find a good viewing spot

Sample Visit Planner for an Atlanta Resident

Here’s a simple planning overview to help compare options if you live in the city:

Many Atlanta residents visit both over the course of a year—spring for the Atlanta Fair, fall for the Georgia State Fair.

Safety, Weather & Comfort Tips

Atlanta’s weather and traffic shape the fair experience more than many visitors realize.

Weather Considerations

• Spring (Atlanta Fair) in Atlanta:
  • Can be mild, but storms and pollen are common.
• Fall (Georgia State Fair):
  • Often pleasant, but evenings can be cooler than expected.

Practical tips:

• Bring a light jacket or hoodie for evenings.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for asphalt or gravel.
• Pack a small bag that meets any clear bag or size rules posted by the fair.

Staying Comfortable & Prepared

• 🧴 Sun protection: Atlanta’s sun can be strong even in spring and fall. A hat and sunscreen help, especially for kids.
• 💧 Hydration: Bottled water is usually available inside, but plan to take breaks, especially on hot days.
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Meeting points: If you have children or a group, choose a visible landmark (like a big ride or main gate) as a meeting spot in case you get separated.
• 📱 Phone battery: Keep your phone charged to coordinate rides, meetups, and rideshare pickups.

Family & Group Planning

For Atlanta-area families and groups, a bit of advance planning goes a long way.

Going with Kids

• Measure kids’ heights beforehand so you have a sense of which rides they’ll be tall enough to enjoy.
• Consider wristbands if your children love rides and you plan to stay several hours.
• Bring wipes or hand sanitizer—you’ll be moving between rides, games, and food stands.

Teen & Group Visits

If teens are going without adults:

• Agree on:
  • A drop-off and pick-up location
  • A curfew or check-in times
  • A group meeting spot inside the fair if someone gets separated
• Remind them to:
  • Keep phones charged
  • Stay with at least one friend at all times
  • Pay attention to any fair rules or security directions

How to Check This Year’s Details from Atlanta

Because dates, hours, and pricing change from year to year, the most accurate way to plan is to:

1. Look up the current year Atlanta Fair schedule (for the downtown-area fair).
2. Look up the current year Georgia State Fair schedule (for the large fall fair south of Atlanta).
3. Confirm:
   • Exact dates and opening hours
   • Admission prices, wristband options, and any discount nights
   • Parking details and whether some lots are cashless
   • Any security or bag policies

If you’re staying in an Atlanta hotel, the front desk or concierge can often provide quick guidance on:

• The best driving routes for that day
• Whether MARTA would be convenient from your hotel
• Approximate travel times given current traffic patterns

Atlanta GA State Fair: Key Takeaways for Visitors

• You won’t find a single, official state fairgrounds right downtown, but the Atlanta Fair and Georgia State Fair together serve that role for most Atlantans.
• From Atlanta, you can choose:
  • A closer, city-adjacent fair (Atlanta Fair), often in spring.
  • A classic regional fairground experience (Georgia State Fair), usually in fall.
• Plan around:
  • Traffic and parking if you’re driving
  • Weather and crowds, especially on weekend evenings
  • Current-year schedules and pricing, which change annually

For anyone living in or visiting Atlanta, these fairs are some of the most accessible, large-scale fair experiences in Georgia and an easy way to enjoy rides, games, and fair food without traveling far from the city.