Del Mar Opening Weekend

[srdnaty]

A good friend of mine that I have just introduced to horse racing is attending Del Mar on opening weekend (7/25). He's in new to the navy so not that familiar with many people or the area. Any suggestions in terms of public transportation or if he should consider reserved seating? Any other suggestions would be great.

Thanks in advance.

[DrunkenHorseplayer]

He'll be able to sit anywhere he wants at Del Mar except on opening day (Wed. the 22nd).

[Greyfox]

Stand with the railbirds, in the cheaper west section and enjoy the banter.

[Imriledup]

Confucious say "Look at the plastic, but don't bet on it"

[andymays]

Very difficult(impossible) to get decent seats on any weekend! Hang out by the paddock on the clubhouse side. There is a good bar there (very expensive), the Jocks room is close, and you will usually see quite a few racing insiders around that part of the Track.

[DJofSD]

What Andy says.

I much prefer the clubhouse side even though I don't buy seats. And, yes, all seats are reserved -- admission does not buy you a seat. There are plenty of places around where you can rest your dogs just not anywhere where you can see the races. People do sell reserved seats back to the track. The ticket window for those seats is inside the club house entrance. Walk straight towards the entrance to the grandstand and off to the left just before you enter the doors is the ticket office. You could ask just about any patron or employee and they'll be able to point you to it.

If your friend can get there when the gates open there are various places within the grandstand on the clubhouse side that have non reserved seats. These might be called TV viewing areas. Get there early, claim a spot and enjoy the day. You are literally just steps away from being able to watch the races live.

There are nice areas with available seating in the infield. Get there early to get a space. Monitors all over to see the races.

At the west end of the grand stand (general admission) you are allowed to bring folding (lawn) chairs. You can park yourself on the tarmack that is in the front of the grandstand.

The only public transportation that would help your Navy friend would be the AMTRACK/Coaster leaving the station downtown arriving at Solana beach. Getting from the train station to the entry gates would be a bit of a walk but it would be doable. I'm not sure if there's a shuttle bus or other transport. Of coarse, there's always a taxi cab.

Word of warning: bring plenty of money for food and drink. There's not anything cheap at Del Mar.