The Wisconsin State Fair opens at State Fair Park in West Allis Aug. 6 and runs through Aug. 16, and this year getting there might take a little extra planning. With ongoing work along I-94 and other traffic shifts around the grounds, fair officials and transportation agencies are urging visitors to pick their route and mode of travel ahead of time.
When the fair is open
The fair’s hours differ by day: gates are open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday, and from 10 a.m. to midnight Thursday through Saturday. Those time blocks are useful for planning arrival and departure to avoid peak congestion.
Roadwork and recommended routing
Construction on I-94 near the fairgrounds remains a factor in travel times. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation has updated guidance and suggested routes to help drivers navigate the area. Fairgoers are encouraged to consult the WisDOT website for those route recommendations before heading out.
Keep in mind that construction-related delays can add unpredictability to trips. If you rely on timing — for example for concerts, scheduled shows or timed meetups — add cushion to your travel plans.
Rideshares, taxis and drop-off points
For those using Uber, Lyft or traditional taxis, the fair has a dedicated pick-up and drop-off zone on the north side of the park, just outside the T-Mobile main entrance near SpinCity. Rideshare and taxi vehicles will enter through Gate 6, located near 84th Street and Adler Street, which sits close to the Pettit National Ice Center. Using the designated area should reduce confusion and keep traffic moving more smoothly on the adjacent streets.
- Rideshare pickup/drop-off: North side, outside T-Mobile main entrance near SpinCity.
- Rideshare entry point: Gate 6 at 84th Street and Adler Street (near Pettit National Ice Center).
- Shuttles: Operated independently of the fair; check each shuttle’s schedule before you go.
Public transit details — MCTS routes 18 and 33
Milwaukee County Transit System buses are a practical option for many. Two routes serve stops near the park and run on frequent schedules.
| Route | Closest stops | Typical frequency / hours |
|---|---|---|
| Route 18 | S. 84th (near Entrance B); S. 81st (Entrances A or B) | Every 15–20 minutes; weekdays 4:03 a.m.–1:41 a.m.; Saturdays 4:33 a.m.–1:02 a.m.; Sundays/holidays 6:00 a.m.–1:41 a.m. |
| Route 33 | Multiple stops on S. 84th: Greenfield (Entrance B), Washington (Entrance C), Schlinger (Entrance D), Adler (Entrances D or E) | Every 30 minutes; spans the day (see MCTS for full route maps and times) |
Route 18 provides more frequent service and runs very early and late, which can be helpful for early arrivals or late departures. Route 33 links several entrances on the west side of the park and runs about every half hour.
Shuttles and private services
Independent shuttle operators also run services to the fair. Those shuttles are not managed by the fair itself and operate on their own timetables and pick-up points. Riders should confirm pickup locations, costs and schedules with shuttle providers directly before leaving home.
Practical tips for fairgoers
Plan for delays if you're driving and consider alternatives to solo car trips when possible. If you’re using a rideshare, confirm the pick-up point in the app and be prepared for a short walk from the shuttle or bus stop to some entrances. Buses can be crowded during peak windows, so allow time.
Finally, consult the WisDOT site for recommended driving routes and any traffic advisories the day you travel, and check the MCTS schedules and maps if you plan to ride public transit. Doing those two things will save you a lot of circling the block and the kind of muttering that gets louder when you’re hungry and surrounded by funnel cake stands.
For more detailed route maps and a list of participating shuttles, see the Wisconsin State Fair and MCTS online resources before heading to State Fair Park.
