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Looking for cheap flights to Spencer, Iowa? You’re heading to the heart of the Midwest! Known for hosting the "World's Greatest County Fair" and serving as the gateway to the Iowa Great Lakes, Spencer offers a blend of agricultural heritage, arts, and small-town hospitality. CompareWings helps you find the best route to this charming corner of Northwest Iowa.
Spencer is synonymous with community and celebration. It attracts over 300,000 visitors annually for the Clay County Fair, but it’s a year-round destination for those who appreciate history, antique shopping, and outdoor recreation.
Whether you're visiting to experience the massive fairgrounds, explore the nearby Okoboji lakes, or enjoy a quiet getaway in the Little Sioux River valley, getting there is part of the road-trip adventure.
If you’re looking for a flight deal for Spencer, it’s recommended to look for departures on Monday. Sunday tends to have higher prices.
Historically, December has been the cheapest month for flights to Spencer. On the other hand, the most expensive months tend to be May.
Since Spencer does not have a commercial airport with scheduled jet service, travelers typically fly into nearby regional hubs. Here are some tips to save money:
Fly into Sioux Falls (FSD): The closest major airport is Sioux Falls Regional Airport in South Dakota, about a 90-minute drive away. It often has the most competitive fares and flight options.
Check Des Moines (DSM) or Omaha (OMA): For more direct flight options from major coasts, check fares to Des Moines or Omaha. Both are about a 3-hour drive to Spencer but may offer cheaper non-stop flights.
Book Early for the Fair: If you are traveling in September for the Clay County Fair, flights and rental cars in the region book up fast. Aim to book at least 3 months in advance.
Compare Rental Car Bundles: Since you will need to drive the final leg, look for flight+car packages on CompareWings to save on your total travel cost.
To reach Spencer, you will likely land at one of these airports and rent a car:
Spencer offers a variety of comfortable stays, though rooms fill up quickly during September.
South Grand Avenue: The main commercial strip hosts reliable chains like Holiday Inn Express and AmericInn. These are convenient for dining and shopping.
Downtown Spencer: For a more local feel, look for boutique stays or B&Bs near the historic Grand Avenue district, home to Art Deco architecture and local cafes.
Iowa Great Lakes (Okoboji): Just 20 minutes north, the Okoboji area offers lakeside resorts, cabins, and luxury hotels. Many visitors stay here and drive down to Spencer for the day.
Camping at the Fairgrounds: During the Clay County Fair, the campgrounds are a bustling city of their own, offering a true community experience.
Note: During the Clay County Fair (September), hotel prices can triple, and availability is scarce. Book well in advance.
Flying into Sioux Falls (FSD) or Des Moines (DSM) gives you access to these major carriers:
Spencer is a hub of culture and agriculture in Northwest Iowa. Here is what you shouldn't miss:
Clay County Fair: Held every September, this is the crown jewel of Spencer. It features massive agricultural exhibits, top-tier concerts, and one of the largest midways in the world.
Parker Museum: Dive into local history at the Clay County Heritage Center, which features exhibits on the region's agricultural past and military history.
Wanata State Park: Located just south of town, this park offers peaceful hiking trails and picnicking spots overlooking the Little Sioux River.
Arts on Grand: A gallery and center for the arts located in downtown Spencer, showcasing work from local and regional artists.
The Iowa Great Lakes: Just a short drive north, explore the blue waters of West Okoboji Lake and Spirit Lake, popular for boating, fishing, and Arnold's Park Amusement Park.
Here’s why travelers use CompareWings for their trips to the Midwest:
Experience the warmth of the Heartland. Whether it's for the fair, the lakes, or the people, Spencer welcomes you.
Compare, book, and save on flights to the Spencer region today — only at CompareWings!
Most visitors fly into Sioux Falls Regional Airport (FSD), which is about 85 miles (1.5 hours) west of Spencer. Des Moines (DSM) and Omaha (OMA) are other options, both about 3 hours away.
The Clay County Fair is held annually in September, typically spanning 9 days. It is one of the largest county fairs in North America.
Taxi/Uber service for that distance (85 miles) is very expensive and rare. It is highly recommended to rent a car at the airport to travel to Spencer.
Spencer is located just 15-20 miles south of the Iowa Great Lakes (Okoboji) area, making it an easy 20-minute drive.
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