Illinois state fair revives popular tram service for 2024

By Andi Anderson

The Illinois State Fair, a highlight for many in the state, is bringing back one of its most requested features for the 2024 event: tram services.

These complimentary trams, sponsored by the IL Corn Growers Association, aim to make navigating the sprawling 366-acre fairgrounds easier and more enjoyable for all attendees.

Jerry Costello II, the Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, expressed enthusiasm about the return of the tram services. "We are excited to bring back trams as a convenient way to move our guests around the Illinois State Fair," he said.

This initiative reflects the fair's commitment to accessibility, ensuring that guests can explore all the fair has to offer with ease.

The tram service will cover several key stops across the fairgrounds, facilitating access to major attractions. Stops include the Campground/Arena entrance, the 4-H Master Gardeners on 4-H Road, the entrance to Conservation World, the Goat Barn at Grandstand Avenue, the Horse Racing Office, the South End of the Half-Mile Track near Gate 4, and the Hobbies Arts & Crafts building. Maps highlighting the tram routes will be prominently displayed throughout the venue to assist visitors.

Operating hours for the tram service are thoughtfully scheduled to cater to peak visitor times. From the opening day on Thursday, August 8, through to the final day on Sunday, August 18, the trams will run from early morning to evening, with varying hours to accommodate the fair's busiest days.

This addition is not just about convenience; it is part of a broader effort to enhance the overall experience at the Illinois State Fair.

By reducing walking time and providing quick access to various fairground locations, the trams help ensure that visitors can enjoy more of the activities, displays, and performances available.

The reintroduction of the tram service is a strategic move that underscores the fair's dedication to hospitality and visitor satisfaction.

It ensures that the fair remains a welcoming and accessible event for everyone, from families looking for a day of fun to agriculture enthusiasts eager to explore the exhibits and learning opportunities the fair is renowned for.

Photo Credit: illinois-state-fair-