San Diego County Fair at the Del Mar Fairgrounds 2025

The Del Mar Fairground is located at 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd, Del Mar, CA 92014. Traffic getting to this area is tricky and can get pretty backed up. I’d suggest that you leave plenty of time to get there, and plan accordingly.

How Can I Get to the San Diego Fair?

Getting to the San Diego Fair is pretty straightforward using traditional routes. The easiest way to reach the Del Mar Fairgrounds is via I-5. From the Via de la Valle exit, continue west onto Jimmy Durante Boulevard.

For an even easier public transit option, take the COASTER or bus to the Solana Beach COASTER Station. From there, a free shuttle will bring you to the fairgrounds!

Parking Options

There is a paid parking inside and right outside the gates as well as a FREE parking option. Parking purchased 24 hours or more in advance online is discounted. Onsite, parking is payable by credit or debit only (no cash). Prices are:

• General Parking (Main Gate or Solana Gate): $16 (in advance) - $20 (at gate)
• Preferred Parking (Preferred Parking Gate): $50 (in advance) - $55 (at gate)
• Horsepark (2 miles east of the fairgrounds with free shuttle): $10
• Canyon Crest Academy (5951 Village Center Loop Rd. with free shuttle): FREE

Costs are subject to change and may be higher at the gate.

Your day at the fair is sure to be fun yet exhausting. Make the most of it by following these pro-tips from our team at Go Visit San Diego.

Can You Bring Water to the San Diego County Fair?

It’s important to stay hydrated during the summer in San Diego, and as a result, guests are allowed to bring water to the San Diego County Fair.

The water must be in a sealed, store-bought bottle. Alternatively, you can bring in an empty, refillable bottle. My family does this, and we use the handy refillable water stations to save money on drinks throughout the day.

Bringing Food to the Fair

With so many amazing food vendors, there’s really no reason to bring food to the fair, but it is permitted. Guests can bring a small cooler with personal snacks and lunch.

Just know that the guest services people will check your cooler upon entry to ensure there’s no glass, alcoholic beverages, or sharp utensils.

What Else Is There to Do in Del Mar with My Family?

Del Mar is a beautiful seaside town offering quality restaurants, cafes, and a beautiful Pacific Ocean coastline with beaches just waiting to be explored! I personally think Torrey Pines State Beach with its long sandy coastline and bluffs is a great choice, but if you have your dog with you, Del Mar Dog Beach is another excellent option.

The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club is nearby and honestly (and maybe surprisingly to some), it’s a really great time for families. It’s action packed and something my family always enjoys.

If you have young kids and like theme parks, LEGOLAND California, part of the Go City San Diego pass, and the picturesque Carlsbad neighborhood are about 20 minutes to the south.

La Jolla, a neighborhood full of outdoor shopping, family-friendly beaches, and my favorite aquarium in San Diego, the Birch Aquarium at Scripps, is about 15 to 20 by car or rideshare to the south.

Can I Bring My Pet to the Fair?

2025 at the San Diego Fair is a pet-themed event! So I understand why pet owners would want to bring their pet for a picture or two.

But understandably for the safety and enjoyment of all guests, there is a no pet policy. Service animals are however always welcome to attend.

Bonus Tip from Experience: Wear Sunscreen

San Diego is sunny year-round, so make sure to wear sunscreen and to reapply regularly throughout the day so you avoid a painful sunburn.