One of the most exciting events on the sporting schedule is once again set for California in November, as the world’s best horses will be in action at the 2025 Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar.
It will be the second straight year that the event has been staged at the track, with Sierra Leone winning the iconic Breeders’ Cup Classic 12 months ago. The latest odds for the big race of the weekend can be found here: https://www.twinspires.com/breeders-cup/classic/
However, what are some of the key factors that all visitors should be aware of before attending the racing at Del Mar in 2025?
Stay Within Striking Distance of the Track
Del Mar is one of the most scenic tracks anywhere in the world, as it is located in the Pacific Ocean coastline. Staying in the local area can often be expensive, especially around the times when the track hosts major racing action.
Therefore, visitors typically look to stay further afield and make their way to Del Mar on the morning of the races. Los Angeles is a tourist hot spot and worth considering, as it is just an hour and a half drive to the track.
However, a better option for those looking to make use of public transport could be San Diego. San Diego is just a 24-minute drive from the track, and there are busses available to connect to the track. It is a slightly longer route taking the transport, but it offers beautiful views of the best that California has to offer.
Arrive Early
As one of the biggest social and sporting events on the international calendar, queues are typically frequent when attending the Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar. Gates will open 90 minutes before the first race of the day, and there will typically be more entrance points at Del Mar during the two-day Breeders’ Cup.
However, the vast majority of visitors will look to enter through the main entrance, which is found off Jimmy Durante Blvd. This is a perfect entry spot, as it is located next to the major car park and the drop-off points. Visitors should also ensure that they read through the entry requirements before making their way to the track.
To avoid having to be stood longer in queues, it is worth taking just what you need for the day at the races, avoiding bringing a big bag. Security checks will also be made before you’re able to pass through the gates, meaning that it is important to empty your pockets to not prolong the process.
Dress For The Weather
The Breeders’ Cup is one of the biggest social events on the U.S. horse racing schedule, meaning that there is typically an opportunity to dress to the nines. However, visitors should be prepared for the warm climate at Del Mar, and bring items that can ensure that the weather doesn’t lead to a negative experience.
Important items to remember include sunscreen and sunglasses, with the former being vitally important to safeguard yourself from the hot sun. A hat is also encouraged, but this is typically a preferred option among visitors that are looking to stand out from the crowd.
Visitors should also bring binoculars if they are a passionate racing fan, although the big screens around the track will also broadcast the action. Female fans may also wish to bring sandals of flip-flops to ensure that they have a change of footwear for later in the afternoon. For those interested in making a bet, it is also important to bring plenty of money to play with.
Away From The Racing
While the majority of visitors to the region will be there to watch the Breeders’ Cup action, there is also plenty to do away from the track in your downtime.
The coastal areas offer a number of opportunities for water sports, with many opting to go paddleboarding in the Pacific Ocean. It is also a perfect location to get away from the crowds and sit and relax on the beach.
San Diego is the major hot spot for tourist attractions in the local area, with animal lovers able to reach the gates at the San Diego Zoo in 25 minutes after leaving the track.
However, a preferred option for most after the racing is to embrace the local music scene. Famous venues within striking distance of Del Mar include The Music Box, Belly Up, and The Sound.
Enjoy The Racing
There are few more popular events than the Breeders’ Cup, and attending the two-day spectacle is likely a bucket-list occasion for most.
While memories of Rebel’s Romance’s victory in the Breeders’ Cup Turf in 2024 will live long in the memory, there are set to be more historic feats at Del Mar this year.
Among those include the fascinating clash in the Classic, which will see Journalism and Sovereignty take on Sierra Leone. There are few better spots in racing to create long-lasting memories than Del Mar.
Last Updated on October 16, 2025
