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.
Gallery
![The Fun Forest was completed for the 1999 Iowa State Fair The Fun Forest was completed for the 1999 Iowa State Fair](https://www.blueribbonfoundation.org/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2023-09/FF%203.jpg?itok=X4cLY4Wy)
![Entrance pillars were added at each end of the Fun Forest Entrance pillars were added at each end of the Fun Forest](https://www.blueribbonfoundation.org/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2023-09/FF%201.jpg?itok=XjeDWaBq)
![Sidewalks were built and trees were planted in the park area Sidewalks were built and trees were planted in the park area](https://www.blueribbonfoundation.org/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2023-09/FF%202.jpg?itok=H8uJQYRw)
![View of the Fun Forest facing south View of the Fun Forest facing south](https://www.blueribbonfoundation.org/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2023-09/FF%204.jpg?itok=x1cQFgIe)
![This popular wooden train sits on the north edge of the Fun Forest This popular wooden train sits on the north edge of the Fun Forest](https://www.blueribbonfoundation.org/sites/default/files/styles/gallery/public/2023-09/FF%205.jpg?itok=yF-1EJSv)