State Fair Looks To Spice Up North End, Announces Upgrades

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Plans are underway for a new attraction at the Minnesota State Fair, a venue on the East side would mimic the successful West End Market.

The news comes as the Minnesota State Fair board of managers approved a $6.8 million budget for capital improvements and maintenance.

Fair officials say they need something between the Pet Center and the campground along Snelling Avenue.

They say an amphitheater that could highlight performance arts could be part of the mix, or perhaps a climate-controlled, all-year pavilion to promote agriculture or traveling exhibits.

The capital improvements budget includes plans for a new Family Fair Stage at Baldwin Park, upgrades to horse stalls in the equine barn, a new pedestrian walkway in Adventure Park, and a number of other maintenance projects.

This year's Minnesota State Fair opens Aug. 25.

On Tuesday, it was revealed that ticket prices would be staying the same in 2016 -- $13 for adults, $11 for seniors and children ages 5 through 12.