MontanaFair Parking Guide: Where to Park, Ride, and Save Time

Heading to MontanaFair and wondering where to park? You’re not alone. The good news is there are several options, both free and paid, to help you get to the fun faster. Whether you’re looking for quick access, handicap spots, or a spot where you don’t mind a short ride in, MetraPark’s got a plan.

Want Closer Parking? Upgrade to Premium

If you’d rather skip the search and park closer to the action, MetraPark now offers Premium Parking in the north lot, right across from First Interstate Arena. It’s $10 on top of your ticket price, and it gets you a guaranteed spot. A pedestrian tunnel safely connects the lot to the front doors of the arena, so you won’t have to cross traffic.

This premium lot also gets an added bonus because it’s the first lot to empty out after big events, meaning less waiting and more smooth sailing when it’s time to head home. Premium spots can be purchased in advance through the MetraPark Box Office, or on the day of your event if any spaces are still available.

Free Parking Is Still a Thing

If you're not worried about walking a bit or catching a ride on the tram (more on that in a second), free parking is still available in all other MetraPark lots. Just come early if you want the best spots.

A Few Things to Know About Parking Policies

No overnight parking is allowed unless you get the okay from MetraPark management. And if you were thinking about handing out flyers or selling merchandise in the parking lots, don’t. It’s not permitted unless you have approval. Also, alcohol is only allowed in licensed and designated areas, so keep those cold drinks tucked away.

The Tram: Your Free Lift to the Gate

Don’t feel like hoofing it from the far end of the lot? Catch the MontanaFair Tram, which runs all day and loops between the upper parking lot, arena handicap parking, and the Montana Pavilion. It’s free, runs continuously, and is an easy way to get dropped off closer to where you want to be.

All Aboard the Shrine Train

Once you’re inside the gates, don’t be surprised if you see the Al Bedoo Shrine Train making the rounds. It’s a fun and nostalgic way to travel around the fairgrounds, especially if you’ve got tired feet or little ones in tow.

Taking the Bus? MET Transit Has You Covered

Prefer to leave the car at home altogether? You can hop on MET Transit’s 18M or 16P routes, which both stop at MontanaFair between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. It’s a great option if you're nearby and want to avoid parking altogether. Just a heads up though that there’s no MET service on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

For the full layout of where to go, be sure to check the MontanaFair grounds map, which shows you exactly where to park and where designated handicapped spaces are located.

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MontanaFair is the biggest event in Montana, featuring exciting concerts, impressive exhibits, delicious food, carnival rides, and so much more. Admission to the fair is $12 for adults, $8 for kids ages 6 to 12 and seniors 65 and older, while children 5 and under get in free.