I've been to the state fair several times throughout the years and I'm never dissapointed. Yes the prices of food our usually outrageous and the crowds can been a little too much to deal with but all in all the Arizona state fair is a good time. The grounds themselves could be maintained a little better and the people they hire for carneys... Well never mind... What can I expect they are carneys. Im a fan of the transition from tickets to cards when buying "tickets" to ride the rides or play any of the carnival games. Check out the lineup on line for the up and coming preformances. Usually they have some pretty awesome musicians Preforming on a nightly basis.
Parking is a bit of a hassle... Especially if you go during the weekend, so beware! Parking can cost any where from 10$ - 30$. The entrance fee to the fair is only 10$ ( in the past it has been a little more) children under five are free and above five the are five bucks. Not too bad... It's the tickets and food that are going to cost you. I went with my boyfriend this past week and altogether we spent about $100+ dollars. This included parking, the entrance fee, 40 tickets (one ride eachish) and our extravagant carnival food eating habits... Needless to say I was craving a salad when we left. BRING CASH the ATMs rip you off with a convince fee, so come prepaid.
Fun rides, decent games, awesome (unhealthy) food. Good time.