Experience Everything Del Mar Has to Offer
Are you deciding if a trip to Del Mar is a good fit for you and your family, or having trouble finalizing your itinerary? Best 16 Farmers Markets in San Diego is some of the biggest draws in the area so you can decide where to go first.
The Grandstands at the Del Mar Horse Races
Horse Races
Horse racing is huge in Del Mar. People flock to the Del Mar Racetrack in droves to place their bets in an attempt to win it big, and the races held here can really heat up. Whether you’re interested in betting yourself or you just want to watch, you’re sure to get swept up in all the excitement and energy.
The racetrack also has strong ties to Old Hollywood, as it was founded back in 1937 by singer and actor Bing Crosby. He and Midge Polesie came up with the track’s slogan, “Where the turf meets the surf.” Since then, celebrity performers of all kinds have entertained at the venue.
Don’t Miss out on Opening Day at the Del Mar Racet
If you are in town in early July you need to check out opening day at the Del Mar Horse Racetrack. This elegant event launches the horse racing season at Del Mar. For the ladies make sure to wear a fabulous hat then let your imagination run wild.
The Del Mar Racetrack is closely tied with the Del Mar Racetrack, which is involved in the management and operation of the races.
There’s no need to worry about the kids getting bored either, as there’s plenty for them to do outside of watching the races. Carnival games, rides, and other exciting activities are free for anyone 17 and under.
Looking at Torrey Pines from the Main Road
Torrey Pines Golf Course
Are you more interested in sand traps than sandy beaches? If so, the Torrey Pines Golf Course is the perfect option for you. With 36 holes and some truly incredible views thanks to its location on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better place to golf in San Diego.
Torrey Pines has some significant history as well. The course made headlines in 2008 when it was the site of Tiger Woods’ victory over Rocco Mediate in the U.S. Open playoff, and every year the course hosts the PGA Tour's Farmers Insurance Open.
Free Flight Bird Sanctuary
At the Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary, you’ll find all manner of beautiful, brightly-colored birds from around the globe. The sanctuary has an especially large collection of parrots and macaws as part of their mission to resocialize and assist in rehoming these parrots.
You can be a key part of that process. At Free Flight, hands-on interaction with the birds is not only allowed, it’s encouraged. Speak with a parrot, get one to dance, and even feed them while you visit the sanctuary. Through facilitating these interactions, Free Flight breaks down the barriers between man and beast and educates visitors about the importance of conservation and re-socialization practices.
Mesa Preserve
The Del Mar Mesa Ecological Preserve is a truly impressive 900 acres of canyons and wetlands. You can hike or mountain bike up the trails, and be rewarded for your efforts in the form of breathtaking views. You may even spot rare and endangered local species during your walk, and it’s the perfect place to do some birdwatching.
The Mesa Preserve is named after its characteristic sandstone mesa terraces. The trails in the preserve are dog-friendly and offer plenty of shade. A round-trip hike is about 4 miles and takes between two and three hours. The trails are open year-round.
Lots of Shops in the Village of Del Mar
San Diego County Fair
The San Diego County Fair is an annual event held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, the same venue for the Del Mar Horse Racing. Every summer, people flock to the area to enjoy one of the biggest celebrations in the region, with yearly attendance often climbing well over a million visitors.
At the fair, you can find live music, plenty of food trucks and stalls, vendors selling unique local items, thrill rides and carnival games, and much more. The exact lineup of things to do and see changes each year, so be sure to check the official website before your visit if you want to make the most of your trip.