Maryland State Fair: Getting There

The way I see it, you can either be stuck in backups while trying to get around the Grand Prix of Baltimore or crossing the Bay Bridge this weekend. 

But if you want to enjoy one of the greatest state traditions that Timonium has to offer Maryland, without the overt hassle of driving and parking, then keep reading. 

Let's just get the obvious out of the way first. No matter where you go this weekend, you're going to get stuck in traffic. I'm here to help you make getting to the Maryland State Fairgrounds less difficult by offering my expertise in Timonium traffic and state fair congestion. 

This is my third state fair that I've covered during my tenure at Patch. If I can survive Justin Bieber, than I can help you have a stress free commute this weekend. So heed my words: 

1) Unless you plan on getting to the fairgrounds this weekend before 10:30 a.m., park at one of the following light rail stops:

Lutherville 
124 Ridgely Road 
Lutherville,MD 21093

Timonium Fairgrounds 
2379 Greenspring Drive
Lutherville,MD 21093

(The parking lot is adjacent to the fairgrounds entrance. Just don't get hit by a train crossing over the tracks.) 

Hunt Valley  
98 Shawan Road 
Hunt Valley,MD 21031

WarrenRoad 
300 West Warren Road 
Hunt Valley,MD 21031

(The Hunt Valley stops are actually better because you will avoid congestion when you return to your car after the show.) 

You want to get to the Fairgrounds stop which unloads conveniently onto the fairgrounds property. It is better to park at the Hunt Valley stops and ride over to avoid the congestion when you leave. 

2) Avoid York Road if you can. Most who Google directions will be directed to its main entrance. There are a limited number of spaces here. 

If you want to roll the dice and try for the main lot, or if you don't mind paying $10 to park in a private lot, take Interstate 83 to Exit 17 (Padonia Road). From there follow signs to the state fair property. 

If at anytime you find yourself taking York Road (Route 45) westbound, you're in trouble. You cannot turn left into the parking lot, unless you want a fat ticket from the Maryland State Trooper. 

3) If a sign says "No Fair Parking" it means NO FAIR PARKING. You'll be lucky if all they do is tow your car away. 

4) before crossing the street. Obviously. 

5) Never take Timonium Road for anything. Just trust me. There is a way to get into the fairgrounds from Timonium, but again, it can only be accessed by a right turn. It's not worth the headache of congestion along the narrow, heavily trafficked roadway. 

6) Carpool. Carpool. Carpool. 

7) Traffic will be at its worst Saturday night for . Just FYI. 

8) If at anytime you're lost or stuck, have someone in the car — who isn't driving — message me on Twitter @TimoniumPatch.

9) Take a look at what Maryland State Fair organizers have to say.