Great Places to Sit a Spell and Throw One Back at the State Fair of Texas
Hot and thirsty? Here's Where to Cool Off at the State Fair of Texas
The State Fair of Texas returns this year from Friday, September 26 through Sunday, October 19 — and while the calendar may say “fall,” don’t be fooled into thinking it’s sweater weather. Before you grab that cozy knit you’ve been waiting to debut, remember: Texas in early October often feels more like midsummer.
After hours of wandering Fair Park's sun-soaked concrete walkways, you'll be craving two things — shade and something ice-cold to drink. Whether you're in the mood for a frosty beer, a frozen margarita, or a refreshing lemonade, we've rounded up the best spots around the fairgrounds where you can sip, chill, and recharge before heading back out for more fried goodness and midway fun.
MAGNOLIA BEER GARDEN
Located in the courtyard of the historic Magnolia Lounge, the Magnolia Beer Garden is a destination for any beer connoisseur. With a selection of Texas, craft, and international beers, there is something to please everyone’s taste.
Insider tip: Shiner Beer will be sampling right next to the Garden, so sip some samples, and maybe you’ll find your new favorite Texas brew!
(Credit State Fair of Texas)
FLETCHER’S CORNY DOGS “CORNY CAFE”
Located on the Midway, near the Texas Star Ferris Wheel, Fletcher’s Corny Cafe offers red and yellow café tables and chairs and a covered awning with patio-lighting to provide fairgoers a respite from the Texas heat. Large yellow mustard "splat" stickers will lead the way to the counter where all six (6) varieties of Fletcher's famous Corny Dogs can be purchased along with a variety of beers.
(Credit: Fletcher’s Original Corny Dogs)
FERNIE’S SKYWAY PORCH
Nestled beneath the Texas Skyway and behind Big Tex, you can relax in rocking chairs and sip on a hard soda or frozen cocktail while enjoying one of the best views of the fairgrounds! Fernie’s Skyway Porch is just like relaxing on your grandmother’s front porch by serving “light bites,” ice cold beer, and refreshing wine-based cocktails on tap. (Located directly behind Big Tex/outside the Food Hall)
(Credit Thomas Garza)
FERNIE’S LONE STAR LOUNGE
As. you enter the Southeast side of the Embarcadero Building, you will see this walk up bar. Enjoy new whiskey barrel seating with umbrellas and people watch the crowd on Nimitz.
FERNIE’S FUNNEL CAKES
Fernie’s original location is “The Dock” located inside the Embarcadero Building and is one of the few places on the fairgrounds where you will find seating in an air-conditioned environment. So, order one of their many frozen cocktails and relax for a bit!
STIFFLER’S RODEO LOUNGE
This season, Stiffler’s Concessions debuts Stiffler’s Rodeo Lounge, a new destination located at the corner where the Colosseum meets the Cotton Bowl, marked by its live Longhorn pen. Guests can enjoy a menu of brisket favorites—including a brisket dog, brisket elotes, brisket Frito pie—alongside sausage-on-a-stick, nachos, and indulgent fried S’mores. The space offers plenty of ways to relax, from shaded tables and whiskey barrel seating to comfortable sofas positioned around a massive 9’ x 16’ screen showing rodeo action and televised football. Guests can also purchase cigars, while twinkle lights, lush landscaping, and a welcoming nighttime atmosphere give the Rodeo Lounge an elevated, one-of-a-kind feel.
HANS MUELLER
The Bavarian beer garden offers 30 beers to choose from, a TV to watch the game, and shaded tables to listen to your Main Stage Favorites. Dine on German sausages, smoked turkey legs, delicious smoked brisket, HUGE brisket baked potatoes, strudel and you won’t want to miss the NEW pretzel bar featuring the Brisket and Brew Stuffed Pretzels, a Finalist in this year’s Big Tex Choice Awards. Located next to the Chevy Main Stage.