I attended the State Fair and Horse Show. Almost all booths, exhibits and animal activities were indoors (and air conditioned). Outdoors only amusement rides, food trucks and some concert tents and venues. Clean, secure, lots of walking (they did offer trams and golf carts) Wonderful traditional state fair! My only regret is the animal cruelty behind the horse and some of the livestock treatment, so be forewarned about that.

Despite only needing to enter the grounds for a total of 12 minutes for a drop off/pickup situation, the gate attendant required me to buy a parking pass. When the access control office was contacted, they insisted that a parking (DUH, PARKING?) pass was required and that the $15 they charged me was completely justified. Terrible customer service. No desire to actually meet the needs of people who visit. Their sole mission is to make money, regardless of the cost to their reputation. What a sad testimony of poor leadership.

very modern and expanding convention center. halls are all connected thru freedom hall area and no need to exit to go to other display areas.

I have stayed at this hotel for years and unfortunately I will not be returning. When I checked in there was a new policy of an additional $50 deposit which I was unaware of but that’s ok. A sign that stated if you do not check out and put your card in the basket that there will be an additional $50 fee which is a bit odd but still ok. The room was decent as usual no major issues when I checked under the beds it smelled like dog so the carpets need to be cleaned. The shower water backed up in the tub so you had to stand in it and I killed some kind of bug but none of which are deal breakers for me. The deal breaker was that I checked out early due to incoming severe weather and left at 7am. The front desk person told me they checked me out but I wouldn’t receive a refund. I have checked out early at this hotel in the past and they did in fact refund me so this was disappointing. I never received a copy of the receipt and it made me worry something was off. I called back to make sure I was checked out they claimed their software wouldn’t let them check out a day early but I could call corporate and do it. This experience just doesn’t sit right in my gut so just be aware of additional charges and they will not be kind and check you out early or refund your money. I do believe that this hotel is under different management/ownership than it was the past.

Attended the Bourbon & Beyond festival. Great lineup of performers. Had a great time. Food & drink a bit expensive but as expected. Would prefer less crowds (maybe cap the # of attendees per day)