New Exhibits and Things to Do at the Minnesota State Fair 2026

There's always so much to see and do at the Minnesota State Fair, but they just announced some new things to see and do while we're there.

There are new rides, new events, and new exhibits to check out. Some of them include The America Wheel, Ultimate Dinosaurs, and Films at the Fair.

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New at the 2026 Minnesota State Fair

The fair announced new foods, drinks, and food vendors already (we'll get to the new foods in a bit in case you haven't looked at those yet), but now we're getting into the new exhibits, features, things to see, etc. while we're there.

Up first, The America Wheel.

You know the big Ferris Wheel at the fair? It's that, but with an American theme this year to celebrate America's 250th birthday.

Also new this year, Ultimate Dinosaurs.

There will be "life-size skeleton casts, real fossils, augmented reality interactives and cutting-edge science" to explore at Ultimate Dinosaurs. It'll be open every day of the fair, 9 AM - 9 PM (closing at 8 PM on Labor Day).

The Science Museum of Minnesota is behind this exhibit, and they'll have paleontologists in the Fossil Corner where you can learn more about these dinosaurs. The hours for that are: Thursday, Aug. 27, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 28, noon-4 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 29, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Wednesday, Sept. 2, 1-5 p.m.; Thursday, Sept. 3, 1-5 p.m.; Friday, Sept. 4, noon-4 p.m.

Films at the Fair is another new addition this year.

You'll be able to see short films from independent Minnesota film makers on August 28th, 29th, September 4th, 5th, and 6th at 8:30 PM at the Pet Pavilions.

Cultural Destinations Day is a new celebration at Dan Patch Park this year.

You'll be able to "experience the vibrant traditions, music, art and dance of four of Minnesota's most celebrated cultural festivals – all in one place!"