Albuquerque families and fair‑goers have a new, convenient way to reach the 2026 New Mexico State Fair. The fair’s General Manager, Dan Mourning, announced that park‑and‑ride shuttle service will operate from the Coronado Center to Expo New Mexico each weekend of the fair.
Service details
Shuttles will run on both Saturday and Sunday. On Saturdays, buses depart the Coronado Center at 10:00 a.m. and continue service to the fair until 9:45 p.m.; the return trip from the fair to the center runs from 10:00 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. Sunday service begins at the same 10:00 a.m. start time, with the outbound run ending at 8:45 p.m. and the return run concluding at 9:45 p.m.
Ticket pricing is straightforward. A bus‑only ticket costs $10. For adults who also need fair admission, a combined bus and adult admission ticket is $25. Children, seniors and other qualifying riders can purchase a combined bus and child or senior admission ticket for $20. Children five years old and younger ride for free.
Why park‑and‑ride matters
“The best, fastest and safest way to get to the Fair is utilizing Park and Ride,” Mourning said. He emphasized that the service helps visitors avoid traffic congestion on the highways leading to the fairgrounds, allowing families to spend more time enjoying rides, exhibits and food.
By consolidating parking at the Coronado Center and providing direct shuttle access, the fair reduces the number of individual vehicles entering the Expo New Mexico parking lots. This not only eases traffic but also supports a cleaner, safer environment for all attendees.
How to purchase tickets
Tickets are available online at www.statefair.exponm.com. Buyers can select the desired ticket type, print the pass at home, or display the digital ticket on a mobile device when boarding the shuttle.
Fair officials encourage anyone planning to attend the fair to take advantage of the park‑and‑ride option, especially during peak weekend days when traffic can be heavy. The service is part of the fair’s broader effort to improve visitor experience and promote safe, family‑friendly transportation.
What’s new at the 2026 fair
In addition to the transportation upgrade, the 2026 New Mexico State Fair will feature new agricultural exhibits, expanded live‑music stages, and a variety of food vendors highlighting local cuisine. The fair continues its tradition of celebrating New Mexico’s cultural heritage while offering modern conveniences for today’s families.
For more information about the park‑and‑ride schedule, ticket pricing or fair attractions, visitors can contact the fair’s information desk at (555) 123‑4567 or visit the official website.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
