The 2025 North Carolina State Fair will begin on Thursday, October 16, in Raleigh. Organizers have announced several options for getting to the fair and for parking.
Free parking is available on state fair property, Carter-Finley Football Stadium property, and at the Lenovo Center. In addition to these lots, fairgoers can also park at two satellite parking lots or use bus services.
“We want a fairgoer’s experience to start with getting to the fair,” said Kent Yelverton. “The area around the fairgrounds experiences increased traffic during the 11-day run of the N.C. State Fair. Our public safety partners are committed to helping fairgoers arrive safely and get to the best possible parking option. The best advice is follow directions given by N.C. Highway Patrol as they will direct you to the best parking.”
For those choosing Park & Ride options, GoRaleigh shuttles will run between Garner Station in Raleigh and Gate 1 at the fairgrounds. The round trip fare is $5, or $4 one way. Seniors and passengers with disabilities pay half fare, while children under 40 inches tall ride free.
GoDurham will provide free express service from Durham Station to the fairgrounds every hour from 8 a.m. until closing time. Details can be found on the GoDurham website.
There are two free satellite parking lots near the fairgrounds:
– The Bandwidth Dogwood Lot at 4501 Reedy Creek Road offers quick access via Wade Avenue and provides a free shuttle service to Gate 8.
– The Cardinal Lot at 5766 Chapel Hill Road has a free tram service that brings visitors to Gate 7 off Youth Center Drive.
Additional free parking is offered on state fair, Carter-Finley Football Stadium, and Lenovo Center properties. On four specific dates—October 16, October 17, October 24, and October 25—the Lenovo Center lot will be reserved for paid parking due to other events. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early on those days and use Wade Avenue to Edwards Mill Road for easier access.
Accessible parking for visitors with handicap permits is located in the paved lot at Blue Ridge Road and Trinity Road near Gate 10. This area has more than 100 spaces for visitors with disabilities. If this lot fills up, overflow accessible parking will be available at Carter-Finley Stadium.
The State Fair does not charge for parking in its official lots; however, some private property owners nearby may offer paid parking that is not affiliated with or controlled by the State Fair.
For drop-offs and ride sharing services, designated areas are set up at Gate 1 off Hillsborough Street.
