While there are plenty of things to look forward to at the upcoming New York State Fair, fairgoers often dread two things: traffic and parking.
More than 860,000 people attended last year’s 13-day fair, and organizers expect similar crowds this year.
Here’s how to prepare for traffic, navigate parking, and explore alternative transportation options.
Road construction to watch
Interstate 690, which runs next to the fairgrounds, has experienced lane closures due to ongoing work. Nearby, Route 695 has also been reduced to a single lane in sections.
However, New York State Department of Transportation Public Information Officer TaNesha Murphy said that at least two lanes will remain open during the fair, and short-term closures will not occur during fair hours.
Stay ahead of traffic
To monitor real-time traffic conditions during the fair, download the 511NY app or visit 511ny.org.
Parking details
Parking fee: $12.41 per day
Payment: Online or on-site — cash not accepted
Availability: Five lots with more than 23,000 total spaces
Parking map: Available on the fair’s official website
Alternative transportation options
Want to avoid traffic and parking headaches altogether? Consider these alternatives:
Centro Park-N-Ride: Shuttle service from Centro Transit Hub, Long Branch Park, and Destiny USA
Oswego County Park-N-Ride: Shuttles from Oswego High School, Cayuga Community College, Central Square Walmart, and Three Rivers Plaza
Trailways of New York: Stops at the Regional Transportation Center (4 miles from the fairgrounds)
Amtrak: Direct service to the fairgrounds from several cities in New York
Taxi and rideshare: Dedicated drop-off and pickup zones at the fair
Detailed information and schedules for each option are available on the New York State Fair website.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Traffic, parking, and transit tips for the 2024 New York State Fair