Hy-Vee Fun Forest

The Hy-Vee Fun Forest, a permanent park for exploration, play and entertainment, was completed in time for the 1999 Iowa State Fair. The park was made possible thanks to a generous donation of $225,000 from Hy-Vee. Lenc Landscaping and Sticks Contemporary Art added original art objects and furniture to the children’s play area. Original play things included a log roll, wind chime, a stage and butterfly and birdhouse gardens.

In the spring of 2009, the Iowa State Fair added new playground equipment for the entertainment of young Fairgoers. Set on a 1.5 acre wooded site, the park is open year-round to visitors of the Fairgrounds.