City: Del Mar, CA

Category: Annual Events & Festivals

Telephone: (858) 755-1141, (858) 792-4242

Address: 2260 Jimmy Durante Boulevard

Description: The mid-July through mid-September horse-racing season is anticipated by locals and visitors alike. The races bring the country’s most illustrious horses and jockeys to San Diego. The venue is billed as the place where the “turf meets the surf.” From the grandstand you’ll know why: The Pacific is the track’s neighbor. Bing Crosby, W. C. Fields, Don Ameche, and other Hollywood stars flocked to the racetrack in the 1940s. Jimmy Durante became such a regular visitor, the turf course was named in his honor.Today you’ll see the elite movers and shakers of San Diego—if you happen to get a seat in the members-only Turf Club. There’s on-track wagering, with bets starting at $2.00. The events start at 2:00 p.m., and the track is closed on Tuesday. General admission varies depending on special events, promotions, and coupons, but standard stretch run (no seat) is $6.00. Check the newspaper for special deals. Concerts are held on the infield after the races on Friday nights. See our Spectator Sports chapter for more information on the races.