Welcome To Del Mar - What To See During Breeders Cup Weekend
California will welcome thousands of horse racing fans at the start of November, as Del Mar gears up to host the 2024 edition of the Breeders’ Cup.
Author:Velma BattleReviewer:Michael RachalSep 18, 2024377 Shares7.5K Views
California will welcome thousands of horse racing fans at the start of November, as Del Mar gears up to host the 2024 edition of the Breeders’ Cup.
It will be the first of two successive years in which the track will host the prestigious season-ending world championships on the flat, but it is hard to foresee the 2025 edition boasting as many interesting narratives going into the event as this year’s competition.
Due to that, a huge number of international visitors are likely to make the journey to the region this year, but what should be on the agenda for those in the area before heading to the track?
Del Mar City Beach
Maybe you want to bet the Breeders' Cup on TwinSpires.com, but what else can you do near the racetrack? For most visitors travelling to Del Mar this year, they will be getting away from colder weather in their home countries. Therefore, it is unlikely that many international tourists will be passing up the opportunity to spend a day at the beach.
The best choice for many will be the Del Mar City Beach, which is an excellent local hot-spot for many that live in the surrounding area. Due to the warm weather expected at Del Mar for the racing this year, it is the perfect location to top up your tan before heading to the track, as the sandy beaches see sunbeds available for hire.
Meanwhile, it is also an excellent spot if you’re looking to do some exercise before heading to the racing, as you can jog up and down the beach with the sand in between your toes. Furthermore, it could be a perfect location to get any final bits of research done before heading to the track.
Free Flight
There are a number of excellent nature reserves around the local area of Del Mar, but few are as popular as Free Flight.
The establishment houses unique and exotics parrots, while it is committed to educating visitors surrounding the long-term impacts that could be felt due to ongoing climate issues. As well as playing host to some of the rarest birds in the world, the facility is also focused on the future, hoping to re-socialise and rehome companion parrots to the public.
Free Flight is open seven days a week, but those looking to visit must book in advance, as it is only open by reservation only. All admission is $8, with slightly more expensive options available if you’re looking for a VIP experience. It is a perfect location for an early morning day out before the racing for families, as children can get up-close to some of the most exotic animals that California has to offer.
Del Mar Plaza
Shopping is typically on the agenda for many when travelling overseas, and that is likely to be the case for many that are travelling to Del Mar this year for the Breeders’ Cup.
There are few better locations in the region to get some shopping done than the Del Mar Plaza. The establishment is home to a wide range of designer brands, and it is an enjoyable evening out for the whole family, with music and various other events also taking place at the location throughout the week. It is also the best spot to eat in the area, with over ten restaurants found at the location.
Among those include the Pacifica Breeze Café, which is a perfect location for a late lunch with a big outdoor area on offer to watch the sunset. Paris en Rose is one of the more expensive options, but visitors can enjoy ocean views while having food or a drink.
San Dieguito County Park
Getting away from the stress of finding winners at the Breeders’ Cup can often be a challenging ask at Del Mar, as the whole focus of the region will be on the horse racing action. However, one of the best spots to unwind before heading to the track can be found in the form of the 125-acre San Dieguito County Park.
This park serves as the border between Solana Beach and Del Mar, and is located in the northern San Diego County. It is split into two different sections, with the upper park opening its doors to the public in 1965, before the lower park was opened 12 years later. It is an incredibly popular spot for groups, as visitors are welcome to barbecue, while it is also a regular spot for wedding photos.
The location is also perfect for those with kids, as there are a number of activities available to enjoy. Among these include the playground, as well as the El Camino Real Trek. Treks are incredibly popular at the County Park, meaning it is an excellent way for racing fans to burn off calories before tasting some of Del Mar’s famous signature cocktails on track.
Velma Battle
Author
Travelling Expert
Michael Rachal
Reviewer
Travelling Expert
Latest Articles
Popular Articles