Everything is bigger in Texas and the size of our fairgrounds holds true to that statement. With so many things to see and foods to try, meeting up and having a designated spot to gather with coworkers, friends, family, and loved ones is essential. Check out these fun, meet-up spots (which you can also find on our map!)
Wine Garden
Wine down at the Wine Garden, located between the GOTEXAN Pavilion & Pan Am Arena. Not only is the Wine Garden a relaxing area with plenty of seating, but it’s also home to lots of great wine – hence the name “Wine Garden.” Sold by the taste, glass, and bottle, nothing beats having something to sip while waiting for friends.
Beer Garden

Does your group gravitate towards beer over wine? The Magnolia Beer Garden is another great group meeting location that features a vast assortment of brews, including Fair exclusives! Located across from the Science Place building & Old Mill Inn on Grand Ave., the Magnolia Beer Garden is an ideal place for all beer connoisseurs. Plus it offers plenty of comfortable seating under a canopy of shady trees.
Trio on the Green

Coming in the Fair from Gate 11? Trio on the Green is the perfect, relaxing spot to meet your group. Nestled under majestic trees, this spot is hard to miss and even offers a small stage where you’ll often hear lively music. Located near the entrance to the Coliseum and across from the Texas Lottery tent, you find Trio on the Green a very convenient (and comfy!) spot to meet up.
Howdy’s

One of the newest areas at the State Fair of Texas, Howdy’s is a perfect meeting spot if you have adults with children in your group. Not only does this spot offer fair food favorites but there are lots of family-friendly activities within strolling distance, including a stage right within Howdy’s that features a family-friendly puppet show. Located on 1st Avenue, across from the lagoon, Howdy’s is the perfect place to hang out!
Backyard Steak-Out

Meat up…correction – meet up at the Backyard Steak-Out and you’ll be able to tell your group to just “follow your nose.” Located at the corner of MLK, Jr. Blvd and United Ag & Turf Plaza, this spot features tasty grilled Fair favorites like turkey legs – the perfect meal to nibble one while you wait for members of your group. There is even a music stage with plenty of seating where you can eat while you wait!
In front of Big Tex

It’s the reason you came to the Fair, right? Why not meet up your group right in front of Big Tex and say “Howdy” together! At 55 feet tall, he’s easy to spot from a distance, but in case you’re wondering Big Tex is located in front of the Tower Building Food Court & Grand Place. While you’re are there, don’t forget to grab a photo!