Ohio State Fair Animal Attractions
From racing pigs to grand champion livestock, no visit to the Ohio State Fair is complete without taking a closer look at the animals you’ll find there.
Whether you want to get an up-close look at animals from the other side of the globe or the sort that are raised in barns just down the road, the Ohio State Fair offers a range of experiences that’ll delight and educate both kids and adults. The pig races and exotic animal petting zoo are perennial favorites, but also be sure to set aside some time to explore the sprawling livestock barns that are at the heart of what the fair is all about.
Animal Petting Zoo: Hands down one of the cutest attractions at the Ohio State Fair, kids and adults are invited to feed, pet and take a closer look at not-seen-everyday animals. In previous years, the petting zoo has housed a giant tortoise, baby camel and cute African sheep. Stop by to see what new creatures are out and about. Daily 10 a.m.–10 p.m. (open until 11 p.m. on Fri. & Sat.)
Pig Races: Pig races are another crowd-pleaser with families gathering on bleachers to get a good view of the action on the outdoor track. The show's domesticated pigs run at 3 months old while the pot-bellied pigs run when they're fully grown. Shows happen every couple hours throughout the day, but be sure to head over a few minutes early to get a good spot. Visit website for race times. Read more about the Pig Races at the Ohio State Fair.
Livestock Barns: See the grand champions and talk to the young people who raised them at the livestock exhibition buildings. Meet a sow and her piglets at the O’Neill Swine Building, admire colorful fowl at the Rabbit & Poultry Pavilion or catch the livestock judging at the fair’s species-specific barns. Keep track of livestock events and times by downloading the fair’s day-by-day schedule here. Find the location of each barn by downloading a map of the fairgrounds here or picking one up at the information center just inside the fair’s main gate.
Explore the Ohio State Fair: Iconic Spots | Food Guide | Animal Attractions | Where to Cool Off | Concerts and Shows
For more information about the Ohio State Fair, which runs July 26 through Aug. 6, visit ohiostatefair.com.
Related Articles
The Past, Present and Future of the Ohio State Fair
Since 1850, the Ohio State Fair has showcased the vital role farming plays here. this summer event so deeply tied to tradition, memory and community is readying more than $460 million in upgrades that will take the fair into a new era. READ MORE >>
10 Ohio Road Trips to Take This Year
From our state’s only national park to museums dedicated to legendary women to incredible roadside art, these treks offer plenty of ways to make new memories. READ MORE >>
Celebrate Legendary Women at These 5 Ohio Museums
Visit these sites that honor individuals who left an indelible mark on history, from a pioneering suffragist to a famous sharpshooter to a literary icon. READ MORE >>