Fair-bound rail riders need a different transfer plan on the weekend

Photo Credit: State Fair of Texas

The train plan for a weekday State Fair of Texas visit is not quite the same as the plan for Saturday or Sunday. DART's 2026 fair service changes Orange Line routing on weekends, a distinction worth checking before leaving home during the opening week.

For Allen-area readers joining the rail system north of Dallas, the important step is to plan from the actual boarding station. A city of residence alone does not establish a direct train connection to Fair Park.

On weekdays, DART directs southbound Red, Blue and Orange Line passengers to transfer to the Green Line at Pearl/Arts District. On weekends, southbound Red and Blue riders can transfer there to a Green or Orange train marked “Buckner.” The Orange Line runs between DFW Airport and Buckner on the fair's designated weekend service days. DART's 2026 fair transfer instructions

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Photo Credit: State Fair of Texas

The grounds have two rail access points. Fair Park Station is on Parry Avenue at a fair entrance; MLK, Jr. Station serves the side near Gate 6. The better arrival point depends on the first planned stop and the route home. Fair Park Station information DART's fair-service announcement

Rail can remove a fairground parking purchase from the day's budget, but the starting station still needs attention. DART says its Park & Ride parking is free, while specifically warning that parking is unavailable at SMU/Mockingbird Station and paid parking applies at J.B. Jackson, Jr. Transit Center during the fair. Parking exceptions

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Photo Credit: State Fair of Texas

The useful plan includes both directions. Before leaving, save the return route, check service alerts and identify the final connection needed to reach the parked car or onward ride. A train leaving the fairgrounds does not necessarily complete the journey.

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Photo Credit: State Fair of Texas

The fair opened Sept. 25 and runs through Oct. 18. DART's special service covers that period, but a weekday trip this week and a visit Oct. 3 or 4 should be checked separately rather than treated as interchangeable itineraries. 2026 fair transportation dates