Del Mar Fairgrounds has long been a cherished summer destination among San Diego locals, offering a diverse array of events—from lively fairs to concerts, that make it a hub of excitement and entertainment.
Growing up, my parents would take us to the fairgrounds every summer, creating cherished memories that have lasted a lifetime that my sister and I continue to honor with annual visits.
We recommend this attraction for solo female travelers visiting San Diego during the summer.
We’ll explore the top events, dining options, and nearby attractions and provide essential tips to ensure a safe and enriching experience at Del Mar Fairgrounds.
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A Bit of History….
The San Diego County Fair (originally called the Del Mar Fair) has been a centerpiece of Del Mar Fairgrounds since 1946.
What began as a modest agricultural showcase has flourished into one of California’s largest county fairs, attracting over a million visitors each summer.
The fairgrounds provide the perfect venue for this beloved tradition, with its spacious exhibition halls, open-air concert areas, and picturesque coastal setting.
Each year, the fair adopts a unique theme, transforming the fairgrounds into an immersive experience complete with themed exhibits, entertainment, and decorations.
Beyond the annual fair, Del Mar Fairgrounds hosts hundreds of events year-round, from horse shows to home expos, ensuring this historic venue remains vibrant throughout all seasons.
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Getting to Del Mar Fairgrounds
Location: 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar, CA 92014.
Cost: $20-$25
There are several options you can take to get to the Del Mar Fairgrounds:
By Car:
We recommend that when visiting San Diego, to travel by car. The car just offers plenty of flexibility to explore lesser-known outer lesser known parts of San Diego.
There is parking here at the San Diego Del Mar Fairgrounds.
The price of parking varies by type of vehicle, but for the latest parking cost, be sure to check out the San Diego County Del Mar Fairgrounds homepage.
My sister and I usually pay $20.
Public Transit:
If you’re flying into San Diego International Airport, there is the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner or Coaster that takes you from the Old Town Transit Center straight into the Solana Beach Transit Center.
However, understand that you will be 2.6 miles away from the fair and will have to either take a bus from here or do RideShare, since it’s not direct.
And we don’t recommend trying to walk this either, since you’re looking at a 43-minute walk on a dangerous road.
The fairgrounds host various events throughout the year, with the San Diego County Fair typically running from mid-June to early July.
Tips for Solo Female Travelers at Del Mar Fairgrounds
Before entering the fairgrounds, all visitors undergo security screening to ensure a safe environment.
Despite these measures, it’s essential to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas.
Here are some tips to make the most of your trip here:
1. Come Prepared
This place gets crowded so make sure you’re early to find parking or come later in the evening to avoid the crowds.
Also, be checking the weather forecast and be sure to bring a jacket or sweater as well.
Since, this place is near the coastline there’s overcast at times.
here have been a few times my sister and I felt the cold breeze and wished we had bundled up better.
The same goes for some hot summers here.
Make sure you come prepared with sunscreen, as well as a hat or sunglasses, to keep you cool and protected from the sun’s rays.
Staying hydrated is key too—bring a reusable water bottle to refill throughout the day (there are refillable water stations here).
And don’t forget to pack any necessary medications or personal essentials you normally carry.
2. Navigating the Fairgrounds Solo
At the front entrance of the fair, you’ll find a map that navigates the way around the fair, but you can also download the San Diego Fair Map.
I recommend walking around the whole fair first, so you can get a glimpse of everything and then start diving into specific activities that might catch your eye.
3. Safety Considerations
I consider this a safe place, but always use your best discretion and be aware of where you go.
You will also see safety people patrolling the area.
Still, make sure to let your loved ones know where you are at all times.
In addition, keep your phone fully charged, and also be sure to bring a portable charger to charge your phone in case you need to.
And finally, store only essential items in your wallet/purse and leave valuables at the hotel or home.
4. Making the Most of Your Solo Experience
Exploring the Del Mar Fairgrounds in San Diego doesn’t have to be daunting.
Make the most of the fair by exploring at your own pace, engaging with vendors and exhibitors – some do share the best insider tips and recommendations.
Be sure to bring a book or download a few podcasts to keep yourself entertained during breaks or while enjoying a meal.
However, note that this place does get crowded, so reading a book might be hard if you’re looking for a quiet environment.
5. Budget-Friendly Strategies
Look for special discount days (typically weekdays) for reduced admission.
When my parents used to take us, they would purchase the tickets through the grocery stores like Albertsons or Vons, which often had a lower price than paying at the fair.
In addition, purchasing tickets online one day in advance is $5 cheaper than.
Not sure if they still do that, though, but also consider purchasing a combination ticket
Check social media for promotional codes before purchasing tickets
Consider purchasing a combination ticket if planning to attend multiple days
Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated without spending on beverages
Must-See Attractions & Events
The Del Mar Fairgrounds offers a diverse array of attractions and events that cater to various interests, making it an ideal destination for solo female travelers seeking both excitement and cultural experiences.
A few of my favorite attractions and events are listed below:
Concerts and Music Festivals
This fair hosts concerts in the evenings throughout the entire time the fair is here.
Events like the KAABOO Del Mar festival have previously brought together a mix of music, comedy, and culinary delights, creating a festival experience that appeals to a wide audience.
Past artists who have performed here include Switchfoot, Jonas Brothers, and OneRepublic.
Usually, these tickets are different from the San Diego Del Mar Fairgrounds entrance fee.
Exhibitions and Cultural Events
Beyond entertainment, Del Mar Fairgrounds transforms into a treasure trove of exhibitions and shopping opportunities that captivate visitors for hours.
The extensive exhibition halls house everything from stunning art displays to educational expos, creating a perfect indoor retreat for solo explorers.
When browsing these exhibitions, you can immerse yourself in the local art scene—admiring photography collections, paintings, and mixed media works that showcase Southern California’s creative spirit.
What makes these exhibition spaces particularly special is how they seamlessly blend cultural appreciation with shopping opportunities.
As you wander through the halls, you’ll encounter artisans, craftspeople, and merchants offering unique items you simply won’t find in conventional retail stores.
The shopping experience feels more personal and authentic, with vendors eager to share the stories behind their handcrafted jewelry, artisanal foods, custom home goods, and specialty clothing.
For solo female travelers, these exhibition spaces provide both cultural enrichment and the joy of discovering one-of-a-kind treasures to bring home.
You can set your own pace, engage directly with creators, and take breaks in air-conditioned comfort before returning to the outdoor excitement of the fairgrounds.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect souvenir or simply appreciating the diverse talents on display, the exhibitions at Del Mar Fairgrounds offer a refreshing complement to the lively shows and attractions outside.
Shows
Del Mar Fairgrounds features unique shows as well that are worth going to, particularly during the San Diego County Fair.
Based on the schedule you’ve shared, visitors can enjoy a variety of entertaining animal-themed attractions that make for a delightful experience, especially for solo travelers looking for lighthearted fun.
For those who enjoy interactive animal experiences, the Great American Petting Farm offers a unique opportunity where animals roam freely without barriers, creating an immersive environment that both visitors and animals enjoy.
This daily attraction runs from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM in the Family Funville area.
A fairgrounds favorite is the Swifty Swine Racing Pigs, scheduled multiple times daily (12:00 PM, 1:00 PM, 2:30 PM, and more) at the Durante Area.
These entertaining races have become a beloved tradition that appeals to visitors of all ages.
The Stunt Dog Show showcases talented canines performing impressive tricks including back flips, handstands, and various aerial stunts.
These high-energy performances occur three times daily (1:00 PM, 3:30 PM, and 6:00 PM), providing flexible options for visitors to catch a show regardless of their schedule.
Games and Rides
Beyond these shows, the fairgrounds offers a complete entertainment experience with thrilling carnival rides suitable for all ages.
The midway includes classic attractions like Ferris wheels that provide stunning coastal views, roller coasters for adrenaline seekers, and gentler options for those preferring a more relaxed experience.
As a solo traveler, these rides offer a perfect opportunity to enjoy moments of excitement or reflection, depending on your mood.
The carnival games area presents another delightful diversion, with traditional games of skill and chance where you can test your abilities and potentially win prizes.
From ring tosses to balloon darts, these games provide light-hearted entertainment and the chance to engage with friendly game operators.
Culinary Adventures: Del Mar Fairgrounds’ Food Scene
We can’t forget about food here!
Del Mar Fairgrounds offers a gastronomic experience that goes far beyond typical venue fare, making it a destination for food lovers in its own right.
The fairgrounds transforms into a culinary playground during the San Diego County Fair, with many different vendors creating a diverse landscape of flavors that cater to every palate and preference.
The front of the fair entrance is where you’ll spot the most iconic and popular food stands that have become fairgrounds traditions.
The fair is famous for its creative deep-fried innovations that push culinary boundaries each year.
From deep-fried Oreos and candy bars to more adventurous options like deep-fried butter or avocados, these indulgent treats have become signature experiences that fairgoers eagerly anticipate.
But you can also find Mexican tacos and burritos, savory Asian stir-fries, Mediterranean specialties, and classic American comfort foods.
In additionyou can also find a variety of delectable treats such as deep-fried Oreos dusted with powdered sugar, classic funnel cakes with assorted toppings, massive freshly-baked cinnamon rolls, chocolate-covered bacon for those craving a sweet-savory combination, and colorful cotton candy spun right before your eyes.
The Del Mar Fairgrounds is particularly known for its creative deep-fried dessert innovations that change annually, including deep-fried cheesecake, candy bars, and even more unexpected items that vendors dream up each season.
Exploring Nearby Attractions
The Del Mar Fairgrounds enjoys a prime location that makes it an excellent starting point for exploring San Diego’s diverse attractions.
Just minutes away you can find:
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
, the stunning beaches of Del Mar offer pristine shorelines perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or sunset strolls after a day at the fairgrounds.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, located less than 5 miles south, provides hiking trails with breathtaking coastal views and rare Torrey pine trees found nowhere else in the world.
For shopping enthusiasts, the upscale Del Mar Plaza and Cedros Design District in neighboring Solana Beach feature boutique stores, art galleries, and cafés in charming settings.
Those interested in marine life can visit the nearby Birch Aquarium at Scripps, showcasing fascinating exhibits on ocean science and conservation.
The historic Del Mar Village, within walking distance of the fairgrounds, offers quaint streets lined with restaurants and shops in a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
This strategic location makes the fairgrounds an ideal anchor point for solo female travelers looking to experience the best of San Diego County beyond the fairground events.
Frequently Asked questions (faqs)
Is Del Mar Fairgrounds safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, Del Mar Fairgrounds is generally very safe for solo female travelers.
The venue employs security personnel throughout the grounds, features well-lit pathways, and maintains a family-friendly atmosphere.
During major events like the San Diego County Fair, there’s substantial security presence and crowds that provide additional safety.
As with any public venue, it’s still advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in the evening hours.
What should I wear when visiting Del Mar Fairgrounds?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you’ll likely cover significant ground. Dress in layers as coastal weather can change throughout the day.
During summer events, lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, but bring a light jacket for evening ocean breezes. Don’t forget sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Are there storage options or lockers available for my belongings?
During major events like the San Diego County Fair, limited locker services are typically available for a fee.
For smaller events, storage facilities might be more limited.
It’s best to pack light, using a cross-body bag or small backpack that keeps your hands free and valuables secure.
What are the best photo opportunities at Del Mar Fairgrounds?
The fairgrounds offer numerous Instagram-worthy spots including the iconic entrance sign, sunset views from elevated rides, colorful food displays, garden exhibitions, and special themed photo booths that change with each major event.
During the county fair, there are often elaborate floral displays and themed decorations designed specifically as photo backdrops.
Conclusion
The Del Mar Fairgrounds offers a perfect blend of entertainment, culture, and culinary experiences that make it an ideal destination for solo female travelers.
From the excitement of the San Diego County Fair to year-round events, this iconic venue provides a safe and welcoming environment to explore independently.
What makes Del Mar Fairgrounds particularly special for solo travelers is how it balances stimulating entertainment with opportunities for genuine connection.
You might arrive alone, but the shared joy of fair experiences creates natural moments for interaction with fellow visitors and locals alike.
Remember that solo travel is about embracing your own interests and rhythms.
Some of the most memorable experiences come from spontaneous decisions, unexpected discoveries, and the confidence gained from navigating new environments independently.
Whether the Del Mar Fairgrounds becomes an annual tradition or a one-time adventure, the memories you create here are uniquely yours—a personal celebration of independence, curiosity, and the simple joy of experiencing one of Southern California’s most beloved destinations on your own terms.
