The Wisconsin State Fair. Just the name conjures images of bright lights, thrilling rides, and the cheerful sounds of summer fun. But beyond the Ferris wheels and livestock exhibits, lies a culinary landscape begging to be explored. The best food Wisconsin State Fair has to offer is more than just fuel for a day of excitement; it’s a cherished tradition, a delicious indulgence, and a true taste of Wisconsin culture. Each year, thousands flock to State Fair Park, not just for the entertainment, but for the chance to sample the myriad of delectable delights on offer. So, ditch the diet, grab your appetite, and prepare for a gastronomic journey through the very best food Wisconsin State Fair has in store for you. This isn’t just a list; it’s your personalized food bucket list for an unforgettable fair experience!
The items featured below were selected based on a blend of factors, including consistent popularity, unique flavor profiles, the use of high-quality local ingredients, and a healthy dose of personal recommendations from fairgoers and food critics alike. Get ready to feast your eyes (and soon, your stomachs!) on these State Fair staples.
A Celebration of Classics: Wisconsin State Fair Food Foundations
Let’s begin with the bedrock of any great state fair experience: the classics. These are the foods that have stood the test of time, the time-honored treats that are synonymous with the Wisconsin State Fair experience itself.
Deep-Fried Cheese Curds
Can we truly talk about the best food Wisconsin State Fair has to offer without mentioning cheese curds? Absolutely not. In the heart of America’s Dairyland, cheese curds are practically a religion. And when they’re deep-fried to golden, gooey perfection, they ascend to an almost holy level. The perfect cheese curd boasts a crispy, light batter that gives way to a molten core of cheddar goodness. The slight “squeak” of fresh curds only adds to the experience. Don’t even think about skipping these – it’s practically a Wisconsin law! Find them at pretty much every other vendor, but look for the ones advertising “fresh” cheese curds. The price typically hovers around the seven-dollar mark.
Corn on the Cob
Simple, yet satisfying. Nothing screams “summer” quite like sinking your teeth into a juicy ear of corn on the cob. The Wisconsin State Fair takes this classic to the next level with perfectly roasted ears, slathered in butter and sprinkled with just the right amount of salt. The sweetness of the corn combined with the savory butter is a match made in food heaven. It’s a relatively healthy (for a state fair food, anyway!) and refreshing option. Various vendors sell corn on the cob, with prices typically ranging from four to six dollars, depending on the size and added toppings.
Cream Puffs: An Iconic Wisconsin Treat
No trip to the Wisconsin State Fair is complete without indulging in the iconic cream puff. This light and airy pastry is filled with an obscene amount of fresh whipped cream, creating a sweet and decadent treat. The cream puffs at the Wisconsin State Fair are legendary, and for good reason. They are a must-try for any visitor. There is only one location for Cream Puffs at the Wisconsin State Fair and the price is typically around the five-dollar mark.
Diving into the Deep-Fried Delights at the Fair
The Wisconsin State Fair embraces the spirit of culinary innovation, especially when it comes to deep-frying. From sweet to savory, nothing is safe from the fryer. These offerings represent the epitome of indulgent state fair fare.
Deep-Fried Oreos: A Cookie Transformed
Take a classic Oreo cookie, dip it in batter, and plunge it into a vat of hot oil. The result? A warm, gooey, chocolatey sensation that is strangely addictive. The deep-frying process transforms the Oreo into something completely new, creating a soft, cake-like texture with a hint of crispiness. If you like Oreos, you’ll probably love this. Find this guilty pleasure at multiple stands throughout the fairgrounds, generally priced at around seven dollars for a small basket.
Deep-Fried Snickers: A Candy Bar Elevated
For those with a serious sweet tooth, the deep-fried Snickers bar is a must-try. The combination of chocolate, caramel, peanuts, and nougat, all encased in a crispy, golden batter, is a symphony of textures and flavors. It’s decadent, it’s over-the-top, and it’s exactly what you expect from state fair food. A deep-fried Snickers is typically priced around six dollars.
Deep-Fried Pickles: A Surprisingly Delicious Treat
Don’t knock it ’til you try it! Deep-fried pickles are a surprisingly delicious combination of salty, sour, and crunchy. The tartness of the pickle is perfectly balanced by the savory batter and the hot oil. Served with a creamy dipping sauce, they’re the perfect snack to share (or not!). Look for them at various food stands, usually costing around seven dollars a basket.
Celebrating Wisconsin Specialties Through Food at the Fair
The Wisconsin State Fair provides an excellent platform to showcase the state’s rich culinary heritage. These selections highlight the flavors and ingredients that make Wisconsin a unique food destination.
Johnsonville Brats: A Wisconsin Staple
No trip to Wisconsin is complete without indulging in a Johnsonville brat. These flavorful sausages are a staple of Wisconsin cuisine, and they’re done right at the State Fair. Grilled to perfection and served on a toasted bun with your choice of toppings, they’re a satisfying and affordable meal. This is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Find Johnsonville brats at dedicated Johnsonville stands and other grill vendors. The price of one brat typically lands at around eight dollars.
Beer Cheese Soup: A Warm and Comforting Choice
While not always a guaranteed offering, if you spot beer cheese soup at the Wisconsin State Fair, grab a bowl! This creamy, cheesy soup, infused with the flavor of Wisconsin beer, is the perfect way to warm up on a cool evening. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that showcases the best of Wisconsin’s culinary traditions. Some vendors will offer bread bowls for this delicious soup. Expect to pay around five to seven dollars for a bowl of beer cheese soup.
Cranberry Creations: A Taste of Wisconsin’s Bogs
Wisconsin is a major producer of cranberries, so it’s only natural to find cranberry-infused treats at the State Fair. From cranberry-studded muffins to cranberry-glazed meats, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this tart and flavorful fruit. Keep an eye out for vendors incorporating cranberries into their menus – it’s a unique taste of Wisconsin. Prices vary depending on the item.
Sweet Treats That Steal the Show at the Fair
No food journey is complete without a satisfying ending. These dessert options are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ice Cream: A Cool and Creamy Classic
What better way to beat the summer heat than with a scoop (or two!) of ice cream? The Wisconsin State Fair offers a wide variety of ice cream flavors and styles, from classic cones to decadent sundaes. Look for local creameries offering their award-winning ice cream for a truly authentic Wisconsin experience. Prices vary depending on the size and toppings, but expect to pay around four to eight dollars.
Caramel Apples: A Sticky and Sweet Delight
A caramel apple is a quintessential fair treat. A crisp apple dipped in sweet caramel, often rolled in nuts or other toppings, is a classic for a reason. It’s a sticky, sweet, and satisfying indulgence that’s perfect for sharing. Find caramel apples at multiple stands selling sweets. A caramel apple will cost you around six dollars.
Funnel Cakes: A Crispy, Powdery Perfection
A funnel cake is a fried dough pastry covered in powdered sugar. These warm, crispy, and sweet treats are a fair favorite. Get them plain or top them with various fruits, sauces, and whipped cream. Funnel cakes offer a blank canvas for creating the perfect dessert. Many different vendors will offer a variety of funnel cakes so keep your eyes peeled and make sure you find one you like.
Unearthing Hidden Gems and Unique Finds at the Fair
Beyond the well-trodden paths of classic fair food lies a world of hidden culinary treasures just waiting to be discovered. These are the unexpected delights that can elevate your Wisconsin State Fair experience from memorable to truly extraordinary.
Ethnic Food Options: A World of Flavors
Don’t limit yourself to traditional fair fare! The Wisconsin State Fair often features a diverse range of ethnic food vendors, offering everything from gyros and tacos to egg rolls and empanadas. This is a great way to sample international flavors without leaving the fairgrounds. Check the fair map for the locations of ethnic food vendors. Prices vary depending on the cuisine.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options: A Growing Trend
While the Wisconsin State Fair isn’t necessarily known for its vegetarian and vegan options, there are increasingly more choices available. Keep an eye out for veggie burgers, salads, and other plant-based dishes. Many ethnic food vendors also offer vegetarian and vegan options. Do some research before you go to make sure you find what you’re looking for.
The Trendy Food of the Year: What’s New and Exciting?
Each year, the Wisconsin State Fair introduces new and trendy food items. Be sure to check out the fair’s website or social media channels to see what’s new and exciting. This is a great way to try something different and discover your new favorite fair food.
Tips for Navigating the Wisconsin State Fair Food Scene
Conquering the culinary landscape of the Wisconsin State Fair requires a strategic approach. Here are some tips to ensure you make the most of your gastronomic adventure.
Plan your attack! Before you even set foot on the fairgrounds, take a look at the fair map and vendor list online. This will help you identify the foods you want to try and the locations of the vendors.
Pace yourself. Don’t try to eat everything at once! The Wisconsin State Fair is a marathon, not a sprint. Start with a few smaller items and gradually work your way up to the bigger meals.
Sharing is caring. Sharing food with friends is a great way to sample more items without overeating. Plus, it’s more fun to experience the culinary delights of the fair together!
Consider smaller portions. If available, opt for smaller portions or sampler platters. This will allow you to try more items without feeling overly full.
Cash is king. While many vendors accept credit cards, cash is still the preferred method of payment at the Wisconsin State Fair. Having cash on hand will speed up the transaction process and save you time.
Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water is essential, especially on hot summer days. Bring your own water bottle or purchase water from one of the many vendors.
Deals and coupons. Keep an eye out for deals and coupons. Some vendors offer discounts on certain days or times.
The Wisconsin State Fair is more than just an event; it’s an experience. And at the heart of that experience lies a celebration of food, flavor, and Wisconsin’s unique culinary identity. So, embrace the indulgence, explore the flavors, and create lasting memories. No matter your taste, the best food Wisconsin State Fair has waiting is sure to delight and satisfy.
So, what are YOUR favorite foods at the Wisconsin State Fair? Share your recommendations in the comments below! Let’s build the ultimate guide, together!
