Del Mar Village Insider’s Guide to the Races
The Del Mar Racetrack is known as the crown jewel of thoroughbred racing, and for good reason: its architecture, location next to the sparkling Pacific Ocean and reputation as a playground for the Old Hollywood elite cemented its legendary status decades ago, and it has only built on that reputation since.
Now, tens of thousands of revelers don their biggest hats and finest suits for the racetrack’s Opening Day, which has become a de facto holiday in San Diego. The track’s proximity to and partnership with Del Mar Village ensures race-goers can have a full day of fun on Opening Day or any day of the racetrack’s summer meet.
Read on for the full insider’s guide to enjoying the races in Del Mar:
Getting to Del Mar Village
Leave plenty of time to get to Del Mar, especially ahead of Opening Day festivities! Here’s how to easily get to Del Mar Village if you plan to grab a pre-race meal or park in the Village and take a rideshare to the track:
From the I-5 North, exit Del Mar Heights Road and head West (left). Turn right onto Camino Del Mar and continue until 15th Street. Take a left on 15th Street, then a right on Coast Blvd. Powerhouse Park is on your left.
From I-5 South, we recommend avoiding exiting on Via De La Valle due to heavy racetrack traffic. Instead, you can exit on Del Mar Heights Road, head West (right) and follow the directions above. Another option is to exit on Lomas Santa Fe and take Coast Highway 101 south (left). Coast Highway will turn into Camino Del Mar.
Parking in Del Mar
Civic Center
Visitors can park for FREE at the Del Mar Civic Center, 1050 Camino Del Mar.
In the parking garage, nearly 100 slots are available 24 hours a day. Four of those spaces are charging stations for electric vehicles. Four additional spaces, including two spaces with charging equipment, are reserved for people with disabilities. Outside the garage, nearly 40 more spaces are open to the public except for Saturdays, when the outside slots are reserved for vendors at the Del Mar Farmers Market (1:00 to 4:00 p.m.).
Where to shop
Still on the hunt for your race day outfit or finishing touches? Del Mar Village has what you need, whether it’s a cute dress from Sundancer Del Mar, a ring or necklace from Made In Earth or sun hat from Julie’s Beach Life.
Heading to a post-race party? Pick up a gift for your host at Del Mar Liquor & Deli, which has a selection of fine wine, beer, spirits, and other delights to suit your taste. Check out all of the shopping in Del Mar Village.
Where to eat and drink
Del Mar Village has myriad dining options, whether you’re looking to grab a hearty breakfast or brunch before the races or refuel post-races. Choose your own foodie adventure by taking a look at the roster of restaurants in Del Mar.
WHAT TO DO POST-RACES
Take your pick! There’s no shortage of fun in the village if you don’t want your day to end at the track:
Opening Day Afterparties
Click each link for more details and to purchase tickets:
Happy Hours
Del Mar has Happy Hour specials every day of the week! Find the right fit for your schedule by clicking HERE.
And don’t miss the racetrack’s two happy hour experiences:
Live Music
There’s live music in Del Mar Village most days of the week; click the links below to see who’s playing:
For all the latest events and happenings in the village, check out the events calendar.
Racetrack Information
Click here for the 2023 season info at-a-glance, and click here for fan safety information, including track COVID-19 policies.
And make sure to check out the racetrack’s full lineup of special events throughout the summer meet – including the Uncorked Wine Festival, Taco & Beer Festival and TVG Pacific Classic – by clicking here.
We’ll see you in Del Mar!