Wisconsin State Fair Park facts for kids
The Wisconsin State Fair Park is a special place in West Allis, Wisconsin, which is a town near Milwaukee. It's a big area where the Wisconsin State Fair has been held every year since 1892. But it's not just for the fair! The park is open all year long. Many different events happen there, especially ones about farming and animals.
The park also has some cool sports places. One is the Milwaukee Mile, which is the oldest car racing track that's always been open in the world. Another is the Pettit National Ice Center. This center is a special training spot for U.S. Olympic athletes who do ice sports. The park even has its own police department to keep everyone safe.
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A Look Back: Park History
In 1891, a group called the Wisconsin Agricultural Society bought nearly 100 acres of land. They bought it from George Stevens. This land was in a place called North Greenfield back then. They wanted a permanent home for the Wisconsin State Fair.
Park's Role in Wars
The fairgrounds became a training area during big wars. It was used as Camp Harvey during the Spanish–American War. It was also used during World War I and World War II. You can find two special markers at the park's entrance. These markers tell visitors about this important history.
Football at the Fairgrounds
The Green Bay Packers, a famous football team, used to play some of their home games here. They played at the park from 1934 to 1951. This included a big championship game in 1939. Later, the Packers moved their games to a different stadium in Milwaukee.
Ancient Mounds at the Park
The State Fair grounds also hold a piece of ancient history. There is one of only two Indian effigy mounds left in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin. These mounds were built by the Woodlands People. They lived here between 100 and 1000 AD. Originally, there were four of these mounds. They contained old items from as far back as 8000 BC. Some of these items are now at the West Allis Historical Museum.
Music Festival Fun
In July 1969, a big music event happened at the park. It was called the Midwest Rock Festival. Many people came to enjoy the music over three days.
What You Can Find at the Park
The Wisconsin State Fair Park has many different areas and buildings. These places host all sorts of events throughout the year.
- Ag Village
- Master Spas Pavilion
- Milwaukee Mile
- Pettit National Ice Center
- RV park
- Special Guest Centers
- Tommy G. Thompson Youth Center
- Wisconsin Exposition Center
- Wisconsin Products Pavilion
- Parks of Milwaukee
