If you like the Wisconsin State Fair, but don't like the huge crowds, then the Waukesha County Fair may be more your speed. It's a lot less crowded, and even parking isn't too much of a hassle. There's no shortage of animals for the kids to look at (and learn from), and some of the music acts are just about as good as this fair's bigger brother. The Friday, Saturday and Sunday Dawn (6 a.m.) balloon launches are pretty cool, too.

Where: Waukesha County Expo Grounds

Hours: Wednesday, 3-10 p.m.; Thursday, 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-midnight; Sunday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Admission: $9 for adults ($7 in advance), $3 for kids ages 6-12, free for kids 5 and under.

Highlights: It's the oldest county fair in the state of Wisconsin, which is reason enough to check it out. In terms of music acts, you might be surprised to see that The Black Crowes, Gin Blossoms and Tonic, and REO Speedwagon are performing. Sure, these groups are past their prime, but these are pretty big names for a county fair. The Black Crowes play Friday at 8 p.m. Gin Blossoms and Tonic play Saturday at 8 p.m., and REO takes the stage Sunday at 6 p.m.

How to get in free: Be younger than 7.

What do you like about this fair? "Each year I like to watch the Waukesha County Fair and the Washington County Fair band line ups because they can sometimes bring in some great '70 / '80s rock / country bands," says Nicole Hauser of the Tory Folliard Art Gallery.