COLUMBUS, Ohio — If you’re headed to the Ohio State Fair this summer, expect more than funnel cakes and Ferris wheels — you’ll get a firsthand look at the biggest transformation the Ohio Expo Center has seen in years.

Major construction is reshaping the grounds as part of Ohio’s commitment to modernize the fairgrounds for future generations. From a dramatic new main gate to upgraded pathways, the fair is balancing beloved traditions with a fresh face.

Executive Director Adam Heffron says the scale of the work is impossible to miss.

“It is remarkable what goes on outside of my window… there’s construction everywhere on the grounds. It’s remarkable. It’ll spin your head,” Heffron said.

At the center of it all is the newly unveiled Cardinal Gate, a bright, welcoming main entrance named for Ohio’s state bird. Visitors will pass through a striking fabric canopy, enhanced with uplighting that’s sure to make an impression after dark. Updated ticket booths and new landscaping aim to make entry smoother and more inviting for the fair’s nearly 900,000 annual guests.

Nearby, the fair’s key event spaces — Kasich Hall, the Rhodes Center, and the Lausche Building — are getting new hardscaping and accessibility upgrades, ensuring they can better serve crowds for years to come.

Behind the scenes, crews are also hard at work on a massive Multi-Purpose Ag Building, which will add much-needed flexible space for livestock shows, educational exhibits, and community events. Meanwhile, the Dairy Products Building — home to the world-famous butter cow — is getting a refresh, but Heffron reassures fairgoers their favorite photo op and ice cream stop will remain a staple this year.

“That’s the new entry… our front door is going to be new and exciting for us this year,” Heffron said.

To keep the fair’s fan-favorite food vendors operating during construction, the well-known commodity groups — popular for classic fair foods like pork chops on a stick and fresh corn — will once again be hosted inside the north commercial building. The area will also include Ohio wine and craft beer tastings and a small stage for live music and local acts.

Beyond food and rides, the fair’s Lausche Youth Exploration Space will tie into a historic milestone: America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. Expect themed exhibits and kid-friendly activities that connect Ohio’s agricultural roots with the nation’s founding.

“We’re going to kick off youth exploration again with a little theme towards the 250th anniversary of our nation,” Heffron said.

Weather & Timelines

Despite heavy spring rains, construction remains on schedule. Crews will temporarily pause all heavy work while the fair is underway, ensuring the grounds are safe and easy to navigate. Once the fair closes, equipment and crews will return to finish the next phases, with upgrades expected to continue into 2026 and beyond.

Long-Term Impact

These improvements are part of Ohio’s long-term vision to make the Expo Center a year-round hub for agricultural education, industry expos, concerts, and large-scale events. State leaders see the renovations as a vital investment to attract new business and tourism dollars to Columbus while preserving the fair’s heritage.

Admission to the 2025 Ohio State Fair is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and youth, with discounts available online. For daily schedules, new exhibit highlights, parking updates, and more, visit OhioStateFair.com.

Originally reported by Dale Minyo and Brianna Smith in OCJ.