Wherever you’re coming from, Metro Transit is the easiest way to get to and from the Minnesota State Fair. Even if you’re an experienced customer, though, there are a few things you should know before heading out for food, fun and farm animals this year.
There’s an app for that
Customers who use Metro Transit’s new mobile app to purchase State Fair express bus tickets will receive a discount through the end of the State Fair. The best discount is four tickets for $15 – a $5 savings that can be put toward a bucket of Sweet Martha’s or other fair food. The free app can be downloaded through iTunes or Google Play. Round-trip fares – still $5 – can also be purchased for a discount in advance online through opening day or in cash at the time of boarding. As always, parking at Metro Transit’s Park & Ride sites is free!
Traffic? You betcha
The end of summer usually brings relief from road construction. That’s not quite the case this year. Construction on I-94 will affect all traffic coming through downtown Minneapolis from the west metro. To avoid the mess, express buses traveling to and from the I-394 & County Road 73 Park & Ride will travel through the north metro using roadways with bus-only shoulder lanes. Buses traveling to and from the Dunwoody Park & Ride may also be re-routed to avoid congestion. Due to construction in the East Metro, buses serving the Newport and Cottage Grove Park & Rides may also be diverted. Customers who know they want to arrive at a certain time should plan ahead and consider giving themselves extra time. Another date when roads might be a little busier than usual: Thursday, Aug. 31, when the Twins, Vikings, Gophers and Saints all play at home.
We’ve moved!
Due to construction, express buses will no longer be serving the National Sports Center in Blaine. Instead, customers can catch express buses from the 95th Avenue Park & Ride just a few miles east off Interstate 35W. The Park & Ride will remain open to commuters throughout the fair, but with 1,500 available parking spaces there will be room for everyone. One bonus of the new site: covered waiting areas that provide shade and shelter in the event of poor weather.
Stay informed
Metro Transit employees will be out in legion and happy to answer any questions you may have. Before leaving home, though, you may want to review schedule and location information and check Metro Transit’s Twitter feed for service updates (some Park & Rides do reach capacity). You can also find Metro Transit at the Eco Experience and the Grandstand – come say hello!