Big Tex has been greeting fairgoers with “Howdy!” for decades, but here’s what he really wants to tell you: “Skip the parking headache, partner, and ride the rails in style!”
After watching countless visitors circle Fair Park like buzzards hunting for overpriced parking spots, Big Tex knows the secret to a stress-free State Fair experience: DART delivers you directly to his front door while others are still searching for a place to park.
Taking DART to the State Fair eliminates parking stress, saves up to $48 per visit, and delivers you directly to the gates with extended service and admission discounts from September 26 through October 19, 2025.
The Best Way to the State Fair is DART
Since 1886, the Texas State Fair has drawn over 2 million visitors annually to experience the biggest state fair in the country.
Home to the Texas Star Ferris wheel, the Red River Rivalry, and culinary creations like Korean Corn Dogs and Deep-Fried Lasagna, this isn’t your average county fair.
With such an incredible destination, the last thing you want is transportation stress. DART ensures your State Fair adventure starts the moment you board the light rail, not when you finally find a parking spot.
The bottom line: Save money, skip stress
Driving costs: $33-38 (parking $30 per space, plus gas)
DART costs: $6-12 (day pass) minus $5 (admission discount with code “25DART“)
Your savings: $22-48 per visit
But the real benefit isn’t just money—it’s convenience. DART’s Green Line stops directly at Fair Park Station (main entrance) and MLK Jr. Station (Gate 6/Cotton Bowl). No circling for parking, no long walks from distant lots, just air-conditioned comfort straight to the gates.
What are Big Tex’s insider tips for 50+ fairgoers?
Timing secrets:
- Arrive before 10 AM via DART for shorter lines and cooler temperatures
- Weekdays offer extra Green Line trains every 10 minutes until 3 PM
- Leave before 9 PM to avoid crowded exit trains
What seasoned fairgoers know:
- DART stations don’t have lockers, so pack light
- Bring water bottles and phone chargers for full-day comfort
- The Fair Park Station puts you closest to Big Tex himself
Payment made simple: Download the GoPass app or use any contactless card; each rider needs their own payment method, which serves as both ticket and proof of payment.
How do you get to the State Fair on DART?
From downtown Dallas: Board the Green Line southbound at St. Paul, Akard, or West End stations. Exit at Fair Park Station or MLK Jr. Station.
From other DART lines:
- Red/Blue: Transfer at Pearl/Arts District or Akard
- Orange: Transfer at Bachman Station
- Trinity Railway Express: Transfer at Victory Station
From the airports:
- DFW: Take TRE to Victory, transfer to the Green Line
- Love Field: Bus connections to downtown, then Green Line south
Red River Rivalry: When DART becomes essential
On October 11, 2025, Texas faces Oklahoma in the legendary Red River Rivalry. With 92,000+ fans converging on the Cotton Bowl, DART transforms game day from a parking nightmare into a victory lap—delivering you directly to the stadium. In contrast, others circle blocks looking for spots that cost more than game tickets.
DART operates special schedules for major events, so check their Red River Rivalry page for specific service details.
2025 State Fair highlights accessible via DART
The theme “Texas Shines Bright” features over 100 free attractions, 70 Midway rides, and new highlights like the 177-foot Thunderbird coaster. Check our complete State Fair guide for all the details about this year’s events. Must-see events include the State Fair Classic (September 27) between Prairie View A&M University and Grambling University. Go Team! Buy a ticket for the game, and you also get into the fair! Daily concerts across three stages are included with your State Fair admission.
During the fair’s 24-day run, all DART rail lines operate every 20 minutes until 10 PM daily, with extra Green Line service during peak times.
Your stress-free State Fair experience starts here
Taking DART turns your State Fair visit from a logistical hassle into pure Texas enjoyment. Smart fairgoers choose the rails for convenience, savings, and peace of mind that come with reliable transportation to Dallas’s biggest annual celebration.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download the GoPass app, check schedules, and prepare for the most Texan experience possible, starting with the wise choice to ride DART.
Save $5 on admission with code “25DART“
