How to Experience the Tulsa State Fair Rides

The Tulsa State Fair is one of the most anticipated annual events in Oklahoma, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year with its vibrant mix of agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, local cuisine, and, most notably, its thrilling carnival rides. For many, the heart of the fair lies not in the livestock shows or the pie contestsbut in the spinning, soaring, and stomach-dropping experiences offered by the midway. Whether youre a first-time visitor or a seasoned fairgoer, knowing how to fully experience the Tulsa State Fair rides can transform a good day into an unforgettable one. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to maximizing your ride experience, from pre-fair planning to post-ride reflection. With insider tips, safety best practices, and real-world examples, youll learn not just how to ride, but how to savor every moment of the thrill.

Step-by-Step Guide

Experiencing the Tulsa State Fair rides isnt just about showing up and waiting in line. Its a strategic, well-timed, and mindful process that begins weeks before the fair opens and continues long after you leave the grounds. Follow these seven detailed steps to ensure you extract maximum enjoyment, safety, and value from your ride experience.

Step 1: Research the Ride Lineup Before You Go

The first and most crucial step is understanding what rides are available. Each year, the Tulsa State Fair partners with a different carnival operatortypically a nationally recognized company like Martins Shows or C.W. Parkto bring in a curated selection of rides. While the core attractions remain consistent (Ferris wheel, roller coasters, drop towers), the specific models and new additions change annually.

Visit the official Tulsa State Fair website at least four to six weeks before the event. Look for the Midway or Rides section, where they often publish preliminary ride lists, photos, and height requirements. Pay special attention to any new rides announcedthese are often the most popular and have the longest lines. For example, in 2023, the SkyScreamer swing ride made its debut and drew crowds for hours. Knowing in advance whats new helps you prioritize.

Additionally, check social media accounts of the fair and the carnival operator. They often post behind-the-scenes videos of ride setup, which can give you a sense of scale and intensity. If youre unsure about a rides intensity level, look for user reviews on platforms like YouTube or Reddit where fairgoers share first-hand experiences.

Step 2: Plan Your Visit Around Crowd Patterns

Crowd timing is everything when it comes to minimizing wait times. The Tulsa State Fair runs for 11 days, typically spanning late September into early October. Not all days are created equal. Weekdays (Tuesday through Thursday) are consistently less crowded than weekends. The opening and closing weekends see the highest attendance, often doubling or tripling wait times.

For optimal ride access, aim to arrive on a weekday afternoonideally between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. This window strikes a balance: the morning rush of families with young children has passed, and the evening surge of high school groups and adults hasnt fully arrived. Arriving at 3 p.m. also gives you time to enjoy other fair attractions before the rides become packed.

Pro tip: Avoid the first and last hours of operation. The first hour is when the gates open and lines form immediately. The last hour is when the fair is winding down, and many rides begin to shut off early to prepare for closing. Use the official fair app (available for iOS and Android) to check real-time wait times on ride kiosks throughout the midway.

Step 3: Purchase the Right Ticket Package

The Tulsa State Fair offers multiple ticket options for rides, and choosing wisely can save you both money and time. You have three primary choices: individual ride tickets, unlimited ride wristbands, and combo packages.

Individual tickets cost $1.25 each and are good for one ride. This works best if you plan to ride only two or three attractions. However, most popular rides require two to three tickets each, meaning a single ride on the Tornado or Giant Wheel can cost $5$6. For anyone planning to ride more than five times, this quickly becomes expensive.

The unlimited ride wristband is the most popular choice for serious riders. In recent years, it has been priced between $30 and $35, depending on the day. It grants unlimited access to all rides (excluding arcade games and some specialty attractions) for the entire day. If youre planning to ride 810 times or more, the wristband pays for itself in under three rides.

Combo packages, which bundle admission with a wristband, are often the best value. These are available for purchase online in advance and typically cost $10$15 less than buying admission and wristband separately at the gate. Buying online also lets you skip the ticket line entirelysaving you 2040 minutes during peak hours.

Step 4: Map Your Ride Route Before Entering the Midway

Once youre inside the fairgrounds, the midway can feel overwhelming. With over 50 rides clustered in a dense, winding layout, its easy to waste time walking back and forth. Before you enter, take a moment to study the fair mapavailable online, at the entrance, or via the official app.

Group rides by proximity. For example, the Tornado, Screamin Swing, and Bumper Cars are all located near the center of the midway. The Ferris Wheel and Carousel are on the northern edge. The Drop Tower and Kiddie Coaster are clustered near the food vendors on the west side.

Plan a clockwise or counter-clockwise route that minimizes backtracking. Start with the most intense rides when your energy is highest. For example, if youre riding the Drop Tower (a 200-foot free-fall), do it early before youre tired or overheated. Save the gentle rideslike the Ferris Wheel or Mini Trainfor later as a cooldown.

Also, note the location of restrooms, water stations, and shade areas. Hydration and comfort are critical when standing in lines for 3045 minutes under the sun. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at the free stations near the main entrances.

Step 5: Optimize Ride Entry and Exit Strategies

Even with a wristband, lines can be long. Heres how to reduce your wait time:

• Use the single rider line if available. Some rides, like the Tornado and Screamin Swing, offer a single rider option that can cut your wait by 50% or more. Youll be seated with strangers, but youll ride faster.
• Check ride queues from the back. Sometimes the line appears short from the front, but snakes around corners. Walk to the end of the queue to see the real wait time.
• Time your arrival to coincide with ride cycles. Most rides have a 35 minute cycle. If you arrive just after a ride has departed, youll be among the first to board the next one.
• Use the Ride Return system. Some rides have digital kiosks that give you a return timelike a virtual queue. If you get a 20-minute return slot, use that time to grab food or visit another ride.

When exiting a ride, dont linger. Move quickly to the side to allow others to disembark. This keeps the ride running smoothly and reduces delays for everyone.

Step 6: Prepare Physically and Mentally for the Rides

Thrill rides arent just about adrenalinethey demand physical readiness. If you have any medical conditions (heart issues, back problems, pregnancy, recent surgeries), consult a doctor before riding. Many rides have posted warnings, but not everyone reads them.

Wear comfortable, secure clothing. Avoid loose shirts, scarves, or flip-flops. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory on most high-intensity rides. Long hair should be tied back. Remove all loose itemsphones, wallets, hatsand use the provided lockers (available for $3$5) near the midway entrance.

Hydrate well before your ride session. Dehydration can increase dizziness and nausea, especially on spinning rides. Avoid heavy meals right before riding. Opt for light snacks like bananas, granola bars, or pretzels.

Mentally, prepare yourself. If youre nervous, take deep breaths. Focus on the horizon, not the ground. Remind yourself that modern carnival rides undergo daily safety inspections and are among the most regulated attractions in the country. The operators are trained professionals who prioritize your safety above all.

Step 7: Capture and Reflect on the Experience

One of the best ways to enhance your ride experience is to document it. Bring a phone or action camera (securely mounted) to capture short clips of your ride. Many riders post videos on social media, and the Tulsa State Fair often features user content on its official channels.

After each ride, take 1015 seconds to reflect. What did you feel? What surprised you? Which ride was the most intense? Which one was surprisingly fun? Writing down your thoughts (even in a notes app) helps you remember the day more vividly.

At the end of the day, revisit your list. Did you ride everything you wanted to? Were there any surprises? Did you discover a ride you never expected to love? This reflection turns a day of thrills into a meaningful personal memory.

Best Practices

Experiencing the Tulsa State Fair rides isnt just about ridingits about doing so responsibly, efficiently, and respectfully. These best practices ensure your experience is safe, enjoyable, and considerate of others.

Respect Height and Health Restrictions

Every ride has posted height requirementsusually measured in inches. These arent suggestions; theyre safety standards set by the ride manufacturer and state regulators. Children under the minimum height are not permitted to ride, even with parental consent. Some rides have dual requirements: 48 for solo riders, 42 with an adult. Always measure your child at the official height gauge at the ride entrancemany parents assume their child is tall enough, only to be turned away at the gate.

Health restrictions are equally important. Rides like the Drop Tower, Tornado, and Super Loop are not recommended for those with heart conditions, recent surgeries, or neck/back injuries. If youre unsure, ask a ride operatortheyre trained to answer these questions and will never pressure you to ride.

Follow All Safety Instructions

Operators give brief safety instructions before each ride. Listen carefully. These arent just for showtheyre critical. For example, on the Screamin Swing, you must keep your arms and legs inside the carriage at all times. On spinning rides, you must keep your head back against the headrest. Failure to follow these instructions can lead to injury or ride shutdowns.

Never attempt to unbuckle your harness mid-ride. The safety systems are designed to lock automatically. If you feel unsafe, stay calm and wait for the ride to stop. Operators are trained to respond immediately to any concern.

Be Mindful of Others

The midway is a shared space. Dont block walkways while taking photos or waiting for friends. Dont cut lines. Dont yell or scream in a way that startles others. Children and elderly guests may be more sensitive to noise and movement.

If youre with a group, designate a meeting spot in case someone gets separated. The main information booth near the entrance is the best place to reunite. Avoid using the ride lines as meeting pointstheyre high-traffic zones.

Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks

Its easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget to rest. The midway is exposed, and Oklahomas late-September sun can be intense. Take breaks every 4560 minutes. Sit under a shaded canopy, grab a bottle of water, and let your body recover. Overheating can lead to dizziness, nausea, or faintingespecially after intense rides.

Consider bringing a small towel or cooling wipe. These can be refreshing and help regulate body temperature.

Support Fair-Sponsored Initiatives

The Tulsa State Fair partners with local nonprofits and youth organizations. Many rides are sponsored by local businesses, and proceeds often benefit youth programs. By choosing to ride, youre contributing to the fairs mission of community enrichment. Look for signs that say Proceeds Benefit Tulsa Public Schools or Sponsored by [Local Business]these are opportunities to support your community while having fun.

Leave No Trace

Dispose of all trash properly. Use recycling bins when available. Never leave food wrappers, cups, or napkins on ride platforms or benches. The fair staff works hard to keep the grounds clean, and your small effort makes a big difference.

Tools and Resources

Modern technology enhances every aspect of the Tulsa State Fair ride experience. Here are the essential tools and resources you should use before, during, and after your visit.

Official Tulsa State Fair App

Download the official Tulsa State Fair app (available on iOS and Android) at least 48 hours before your visit. It offers:

• Real-time ride wait times
• Interactive fair map with ride locations
• Daily schedule of live entertainment
• Food vendor locations and menus
• Weather alerts and emergency notifications
• Mobile ticket purchasing and wristband activation

The app is updated throughout the day by fair staff and is the most reliable source for accurate information.

Third-Party Ride Review Sites

Platforms like YouTube, Reddit (r/Tulsa), and TripAdvisor feature user-generated content that can help you gauge ride intensity and wait times. Search for Tulsa State Fair rides 2024 to find recent videos. Look for videos taken during the same time of day you plan to visitmorning vs. evening light and crowd levels vary significantly.

Reddit threads often include insider tips: The Tornado is fastest on Tuesday afternoons, or Skip the Giant Wheelits slow and overpriced. These arent official recommendations, but theyre often accurate.

Weather Forecasting Tools

Weather can dramatically affect ride operations. High winds (over 25 mph), lightning, or heavy rain can cause ride shutdowns. Use a reliable weather app like Weather.com or the National Weather Service app to monitor conditions. If thunderstorms are predicted, plan to ride early in the day. Most rides shut down 30 minutes before a storm and wont reopen until 30 minutes after it passes.

Portable Chargers and Lockers

Bring a portable phone charger. Youll be using your phone for maps, photos, and notifications all day. A 10,000mAh power bank is ideal. Avoid using your phone while waiting in lineit drains battery quickly.

Use the fairs lockers to store valuables. Located near the main entrance and midway, they cost $3$5 per use and accept cash or card. Never carry your wallet, keys, or phone on rides. Lockers are secure and monitored.

Wearable Fitness Trackers

Many riders use fitness trackers (Fitbit, Apple Watch) to monitor heart rate during rides. This isnt just for funit helps you understand your bodys response to thrill. For example, if your heart rate spikes above 180 bpm on a ride, you might want to skip the next one. Its a helpful biofeedback tool for managing adrenaline.

Offline Maps and Printed Guides

Even with the app, carry a printed fair map. Battery life can die, or you may be in an area with poor signal. Pick up a free paper map at any entrance kiosk. It includes ride locations, restrooms, food stands, and first aid stations.

Real Examples

Real-life stories illustrate how planning, timing, and mindset transform a fair visit from ordinary to extraordinary. Here are three detailed examples from recent Tulsa State Fair attendees.

Example 1: The First-Time Family

The Ramirez familyparents Maria and Carlos, and their two children (8-year-old Sofia and 5-year-old Mateo)visited the fair on a Tuesday in September. They bought a combo package online for $55, which included admission and unlimited wristbands. They arrived at 2:30 p.m., when the lines were short.

Using the app, they mapped a route starting with the Kiddie Coaster for Mateo, then the Carousel, followed by the Ferris Wheel for Sofia. After a snack break, they moved to the Tornado (Sofia met the height requirement). Carlos rode with Sofia, while Maria waited with Mateo. They used the single rider line on the Screamin Swing, which cut their wait from 40 minutes to 12.

By 6:30 p.m., they had ridden 12 attractions. They ended with a ride on the Mini Train and watched the sunset from the Ferris Wheel. We didnt feel rushed, Maria said. We enjoyed every moment because we planned it.

Example 2: The Thrill Seeker

Jason, a 24-year-old college student from Norman, visited the fair alone on a Friday. He bought the wristband and arrived at 3 p.m. He prioritized intensity: Drop Tower first, then Tornado, then Super Loop. He used the single rider line on every ride, reducing his average wait to under 10 minutes.

He took a 20-minute break after the third ride to hydrate and review his YouTube footage. He noticed the Giant Wheel had a 15-minute wait but offered panoramic views of the fairgrounds. He rode it last, as a calm finish. He ended the day with a cotton candy and a selfie on the Ferris Wheel.

I rode 17 times, Jason said. I didnt just go to rideI went to feel alive. And I did.

Example 3: The Senior Couple

Edith and Harold, both 72, visited the fair on a quiet Thursday. They didnt ride the intense attractions. Instead, they focused on the classics: the Carousel, Ferris Wheel, and Mini Train. Harold had a pacemaker and avoided spinning rides, but Edith loved the gentle sway of the Ferris Wheel.

They arrived at 4 p.m., bought individual tickets, and took their time. They sat on benches between rides, shared a funnel cake, and watched the kids laugh. We didnt need speed, Edith said. We needed joy. And the fair gave us that.

They left at 7 p.m., smiling. It was the best day weve had in years.

FAQs

What is the best day to ride the Tulsa State Fair rides?

The best days are weekdaysTuesday through Thursdaywhen crowds are smallest. Avoid opening weekend (FridaySunday) and closing weekend, as those days are the busiest. Midweek afternoons (3 p.m.6 p.m.) offer the ideal balance of shorter lines and full ride operation.

Are there any rides I should avoid if Im afraid of heights?

If youre uncomfortable with heights, avoid the Drop Tower, SkyScreamer, and Tornado. The Ferris Wheel and Carousel offer elevated views without intense drops or speed. The Mini Train and Bumper Cars are completely ground-level and ideal for easing into the experience.

Can I bring my own food and drinks to the midway?

No. Outside food and beverages are not permitted in the midway or fairgrounds. However, you may bring one sealed bottle of water. There are numerous water refill stations and affordable food vendors throughout the fair.

Do the rides operate in the rain?

Rides shut down during rain, high winds, or lightning. They typically resume 30 minutes after the storm passes. Check the fair app for real-time updates. Dont assume rides will reopen quicklysafety inspections are required before restarting.

Are there rides for toddlers?

Yes. The Kiddie Coaster, Mini Train, Carousel, and Bumper Cars are designed for children under 48 inches. Each has a dedicated area near the northern end of the midway. Parents can ride with children on most of these attractions.

How much money should I budget for rides?

If you plan to ride 57 times, buy individual tickets ($1.25 each). For 8+ rides, the unlimited wristband ($30$35) is the best value. If you buy a combo package (admission + wristband), expect to pay $45$60 total. Dont forget $5$10 for snacks and souvenirs.

Can I ride if Im pregnant?

Most ride operators prohibit pregnant women from riding any thrill attractions. Even gentle rides like the Ferris Wheel may be discouraged depending on your trimester. Always consult your doctor and check posted guidelines. Safety is the priority.

What if I get sick after a ride?

Feeling dizzy or nauseous after spinning rides is common. Sit down, breathe deeply, and drink water. First aid stations are located near the main entrance and midway center. Staff are trained to assist with motion sickness and dehydration.

Do I need to be a resident of Tulsa to attend?

No. The Tulsa State Fair is open to everyone. Visitors come from across Oklahoma, neighboring states, and internationally. Admission and ride pricing is the same for all guests.

Are there any rides that close early?

Yes. Some smaller or older rides may shut down 3060 minutes before the fair closes. The Ferris Wheel and Carousel usually stay open until closing. Check the app or ask an operator for the last ride time of your favorite attraction.

Conclusion

Experiencing the Tulsa State Fair rides is more than a summer traditionits a celebration of courage, connection, and community. Whether youre soaring above the fairgrounds on the Ferris Wheel, gripping the handlebars on the Tornado, or sharing a laugh on the bumper cars, each ride tells a story. The key to unlocking that story lies not in the speed or height, but in your preparation, awareness, and presence.

By following the steps outlined in this guidefrom researching ride options and timing your visit to respecting safety protocols and reflecting on your experienceyou transform a simple outing into a deeply personal adventure. The thrill of the ride is fleeting, but the memories you create last a lifetime.

So plan wisely. Ride responsibly. Savor every moment. And when you leave the midway, dont just look back at the lightsyoull carry the feeling with you, long after the fair has closed for the year.