Del Mar Fairgrounds and Racetrack
Iconic seaside fairgrounds and racetrack hosting thrilling horse races, the beloved San Diego County Fair, and diverse year-round events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, less traffic
Del Mar Fairgrounds and Racetrack
Best Time
Fewer crowds, less traffic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic seaside fairgrounds and racetrack hosting thrilling horse races, the beloved San Diego County Fair, and diverse year-round events.
"A quintessential Southern California experience with something for everyone, from horse racing glamour to fairground fun."
👗 Dress the Part!
Embrace the Derby style! Dressing up adds to the fun at the racetrack.
🎟️ Buy Tickets Early
Save money and skip lines by purchasing admission, parking, and ride tickets in advance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Del Mar Racetrack
Del Mar Fairgrounds
Experience the thrill of live horse racing at the nation's only seaside racetrack. Dress to impress for a glamorous day out!

San Diego County Fair
Del Mar Fairgrounds
A quintessential summer experience with rides, delicious food, animal exhibits, and live entertainment. A must-visit for families and friends.

Coastal Christmas
Del Mar Fairgrounds
A magical holiday light trail, ice skating, festive cocktails, and a kids' play area create a winter wonderland.
Adoption Events
Del Mar Fairgrounds
Meet adorable rescue dogs looking for forever homes. A heartwarming opportunity to find your new best friend.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Traffic
Book in Advance for Savings
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Dress the Part!
Embrace the Derby style! Dressing up adds to the fun at the racetrack.
🎟️ Buy Tickets Early
Save money and skip lines by purchasing admission, parking, and ride tickets in advance.
🐾 Meet Adoptable Pups
Don't miss the heartwarming dog adoption events! Find your new furry family member.
🚗 Beat Parking Hassles
Consider ride-sharing or exploring alternative entrances to avoid traffic and parking woes.
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Dress the Part!
Embrace the Derby style! Dressing up adds to the fun at the racetrack.
🎟️ Buy Tickets Early
Save money and skip lines by purchasing admission, parking, and ride tickets in advance.
🐾 Meet Adoptable Pups
Don't miss the heartwarming dog adoption events! Find your new furry family member.
🚗 Beat Parking Hassles
Consider ride-sharing or exploring alternative entrances to avoid traffic and parking woes.
📸 Capture the Moments
The fairgrounds offer stunning backdrops for photos, from the racetrack to the festive fair.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Del Mar Fairgrounds for its diverse events, from the thrilling horse races and the expansive San Diego County Fair to seasonal celebrations like Coastal Christmas. The atmosphere is often described as vibrant and fun, with many enjoying the food and entertainment. However, some find the traffic and parking challenging, and food prices can be on the higher side.
"Even though Horse racing can tempt ya to gamble..go ahead try..ya may win. Time your visit to a Wine tasting an that's a big bonus! You can get up close an personal to everything. Wear your Derby style clothing to feel race worthy !!"
CHIEFMIKE Murro
"We had been attended the fair for 4yrs and it always nice. The displays were real nice as were the animal exihibits. The food was over priced, but always delicious. I recommend to buy everything in advance like parking, entrance admission and ride tickets, you’ll save some money. I got my package at Costco for 4 people, general parking, coupon pamphlet and 40 ride tickets at $99. And get early in the morning so you have more time and less crowds on the rides. ;)"
Liz Rodriguez
"I went to the fair to see Live and Collective Soul and had a blast. The floor seats were great. There was tons of space to dance. The bathrooms were clean. The food court was wild and the rides were off the hook! I highly recommend going to the fair!"
Greg K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Del Mar Fairgrounds and Racetrack is located at 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014. It's easily accessible by car via I-5. Public transportation options include the Coaster train to the Solana Beach station, followed by a short walk or shuttle.
Many visitors opt for ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles, especially during peak events like the fair.Yes, ample parking is available at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. However, parking fees can be substantial, especially during the San Diego County Fair. Purchasing parking passes in advance, often as part of package deals, can save money.
Yes, it's possible to walk to the Del Mar Fairgrounds, especially if you're coming from nearby areas like Solana Beach. Some visitors have suggested using the Solana Beach gate as a less congested entrance.
Traffic can be heavy, particularly during the summer fair. To avoid it, consider visiting on weekdays, arriving early in the morning, or using ride-sharing services.
Planning your route and checking real-time traffic updates is also recommended.During major events like the San Diego County Fair, shuttle services may be available from designated parking areas or nearby transit hubs. It's advisable to check the official Del Mar Fairgrounds website for event-specific transportation information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary depending on the event. For the San Diego County Fair, tickets can be purchased online in advance for savings.
Special events like concerts or expos may have separate ticket requirements. Check the official Del Mar Fairgrounds website for the most up-to-date pricing.Tickets for the Del Mar Racetrack can typically be purchased online through the official Del Mar Racing website or at the ticket booths on the day of the races.
Yes, discounts are often available for advance ticket purchases, especially for the San Diego County Fair. Look for package deals that include admission, parking, and ride tickets.
Some events may also offer special promotions or group rates.Operating hours vary significantly based on the event. The San Diego County Fair typically runs for several weeks during the summer with extended hours. The racetrack has specific racing seasons and daily hours. Always check the official website for the event you plan to attend.
Policies on outside food and drinks can vary by event. For the San Diego County Fair, it's generally recommended to purchase food from the vendors, though some exceptions may apply. Check the specific event's guidelines before your visit.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the thrilling horse racing at the Del Mar Racetrack,
the expansive San Diego County Fair with its rides and food, and seasonal events like Coastal Christmas. Don't miss the photography exhibition if you're an art enthusiast.The San Diego County Fair is famous for its diverse and often indulgent fair food, from classic corn dogs to unique culinary creations.
While some reviews mention it can be pricey, it's generally considered delicious. Other events may have different food vendor options.Absolutely! The San Diego County Fair features a dedicated kids' play area, Frosty's Fun Zone with inflatables,
and numerous rides suitable for all ages. Adoption events also offer a heartwarming experience for families.The Del Mar Racetrack offers a glamorous and exciting atmosphere, especially on race days. Visitors often dress up in Derby-style attire, adding to the festive and fashionable vibe.
Beyond the main events, you might find unique experiences like speakeasy bars with awesome views,
specialized expos like the Off Road Nights Dirt Lifestyle Expo, or even brand activations.📸 📸 Photography
The entire venue offers picturesque opportunities. Capture the grandeur of the racetrack,
the vibrant energy of the fair, the festive lights of Coastal Christmas, or the scenic coastal views.Yes, the photography exhibition is a highlight for many visitors, showcasing impressive talent and offering a great way to spend a couple of hours appreciating art.
Yes, photography is generally permitted at the Del Mar Racetrack, allowing you to capture the excitement of the races. Be mindful of any restricted areas or professional photography guidelines.
Besides the annual exhibition, the fairgrounds host various expos and shows that can be visually interesting for photographers, such as the Off Road Nights Dirt Lifestyle Expo.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for outdoor shots. During the fair, the evening with all the lights illuminated offers a magical photographic experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your family visit, consider purchasing ride tickets in advance to save money and time. Arriving early on weekdays can help you avoid the longest lines for popular attractions. The fair's diverse food options also mean there's something to please even the pickiest eaters, though it can be a bit pricey.
🏇 Horse Racing Enthusiasts
To enhance your day at the races, consider timing your visit to coincide with special events or promotions. You can get up close to the action and feel the energy of the crowd. Remember to check the racing schedule in advance to plan your trip.
🐶 Animal Lovers
These events are generally family-friendly and provide a feel-good experience. It's a great way to spend a day while contributing to a good cause. Keep an eye on the fairgrounds' event calendar for upcoming adoption days and fair schedules.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Del Mar Racetrack
Beyond the races themselves, the racetrack often hosts special events and promotions. The fall racing season, from October 31 to December 1, is particularly recommended for its cooler weather and potentially lighter crowds. Whether you're a seasoned bettor or a first-time spectator, the energy and spectacle of a day at Del Mar are unforgettable. Remember to check the racing schedule in advance to plan your visit.
The Iconic San Diego County Fair
To make the most of your fair experience, planning is key. Purchasing tickets for admission, parking, and rides in advance can lead to significant savings. Arriving early on weekdays is often advised to avoid the largest crowds and longest lines for rides. The fair also hosts unique features like photography exhibitions and sometimes even pop-up speakeasy bars, adding an element of discovery to the traditional fair experience.
Beyond the Fair: Year-Round Events
These year-round events offer unique opportunities to experience the fairgrounds. For instance, the dog adoption events provide a heartwarming chance to meet adoptable pets and support local rescues. Similarly, specialized expos cater to specific interests, bringing together enthusiasts and industry leaders. Checking the official Del Mar Fairgrounds calendar is the best way to stay informed about upcoming events and plan your visit accordingly.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit