Tips for Saving Money at the Indiana State Fair

Keep more green in your pocket this year

Written by
Tiffany Dailey
Tiffany Dailey is a freelance writer who has worked for the Indianapolis Convention and Visitors Center.
Tripsavvy's Editorial Guidelines
Tiffany Dailey

Updated 06/03/19

Indiana State Fair
Danita Delimont / Getty Images

There are plenty of ways to save money while enjoying Indianapolis attractions, and the Indiana State Fair is no exception. From free general admission for military personnel and young children to discount tickets on the Midway, these tips are sure to save you some dough.

Please note that these discounts can vary from year to year. For the latest discount information and promotional days, visit Indiana State Fair.

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Midway Wristband Voucher

If you want a good deal on rides at the Midway, your first stop should be the Indiana State Fair website where you can purchase wristband vouchers at a deep discount than what you'll pay at the fairgrounds. Wristbands allow you to ride as many rides as you want during designated times. On certain days, rides are only $2 each.

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Discount Tickets

Discount single and family tickets are available in advance online and at the Indiana State Fairgrounds box office inside the Indiana Farmers Coliseum. You'll pay full price at the gate, so it's worth it to pre-purchase tickets. Children five and younger get in free.

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The Indianapolis Star Free Ticket

The Indianapolis Star newspaper publishes a ticket good for free admission to the fair on certain dates. Be sure to keep your eye on the paper as the fair approaches.

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$2 Tuesday Admissions

On Tuesdays during the Indiana State Fair, visitors are admitted for just $2, compliments of fair sponsors. 

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$2 Tuesday Taste of the State Fair

On Tuesdays, concessionaires all over the fairgrounds will offer $2 servings all day.

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Free Admission for Military, Students and State Employees

The state fair honors current and former members of the U.S. military by offering free admission for them and their family members on a designated day. Free admission days are also scheduled for college students and state employees. A military, student or state identification card must be shown to enter. Check the website for the specific free admission dates.

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Free Lottery Ticket

On Hoosier Lottery Day, all guests 18 and older can redeem their admission ticket stub for a free scratch-off lottery ticket at the Hoosier Lottery Grandstand. If it's your lucky day, you may go home with a few extra bucks in your pocket.

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Carload Day

Large families and groups of friends traveling to the Indiana State Fair together will want to take advantage of this great offer. Admission is a flat fee per vehicle for up to 10 people. Visit the website to download the voucher. 

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Tractor Shuttle Ride Senior Discounts

Seniors age 55 and older can ride the tractor shuttles around the Fairgrounds at a discounted price when they purchase a wristband at the state fair information booths. On certain days, seniors can ride the tractor shuttles for free.

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BMV Day

Fairgoers can save big on admission at the gate by printing the sponsor's voucher. Check the state fair ​website.

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AAA Day

AAA members receive free admission to the Indiana State Fair on a designated date when they show their valid membership card at the gate. One valid AAA card per person.

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Indiana State Fair Value Coupon Book

Save on everything from corn dogs to sunglasses by purchasing this book of coupons with great deals offered by dozens of fair vendors. The books are available at the Indiana State Fair Gift Shop.

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Use Your Admission Ticket to Save on Food

Bring your admission ticket-back coupon to any Pork Concession Tent at the Indiana State Fair for a discount.

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