Indoor Attractions at the State Fair of Texas
While some North Texans associate the state fair with idyllic fall temperatures, unpleasant weather can rain on the fun.
The State Fair of Texas is about 80% outdoors, so if the sun is sweltering or a downpour descends on Fair Park, it can be necessary to take refuge.
The Dallas Morning News staff has many seasoned fairgoers with some top tips on the fair’s indoor attractions. Here’s what they recommend:
Big Tex near the ferris wheel on opening day of the Texas State Fair on Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, in Dallas.
Angela Piazza / Staff Photographer
D-FW Weather Wise
Indoor Attractions to Explore
The State Fair of Texas offers a variety of indoor attractions that are perfect for escaping the heat or rain. Here are some of the top recommendations from the Dallas Morning News staff:
Biergarten at the Texas Discovery Gardens
The traditional German-style event offers sausages, sauerkraut, pretzels, German mustard, soft drinks and German beer inside the Discover Gardens’ air-conditioned grand hall. The Discovery Gardens are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Go Texan Pavilion
Formerly known as the food and fiber pavilion, it is hosted by the Texas Department of Agriculture and highlights Texas makers and businesses. Our staff recommends it for shopping, sampling and the possibility of free ice cream. The pavilion is open daily, starting at 10 a.m. and closing an hour before the fair ends.
Paul Lauder’s image of a young contestant sleeping next to her pig at the State Fair of Texas caught the eyes of The Dallas Morning News photo staff, and was chosen as the grand prize winner of the Official State Fair of Texas Photo Contest, hosted by neighborsgo. “It’s a nice moment with a lot of emotion,” said staff photographer David Woo.
Lauder, who was the weekly winner in the second week, topped more than 800 photos that were posted during the contest. Lauder and his wife stumbled upon the unique moment while they were visiting the livestock barns at the fair. “When we saw the sleeping family we knew it was one of those serendipitous moments,” Lauder said. “I felt very lucky to find the picture before either of them woke up.”
The judges also noted the high angle, composition and excellent light of the photo. “I like the intimacy of it,” said John Zak, photo department manager. “It’s says ‘State Fair’.”
PAUL LAUDER – Contributor
Livestock Birthing Barn and petting zoo
These attractions present a chance to connect with Texas’ agricultural and livestock heritage, while indoors. The birthing barn, open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., gives attendees a chance to learn more about the breeding process and potentially witness a live birth. The petting zoo, in the same area, allows a chance to feed and touch new furry friends.
Creative Arts building
A celebration of Texas crafts and culinary skill, this exhibit includes cooking demonstrations, a refrigerated butter sculpture and winning craft entries.
