Tips for Taking the Train from North County to Del Mar’s Breeders Cup

Start planning for days at the horse races! Debuting at the iconic Del Mar Thoroughbred Club is The Breeders Cup in November. This exciting 2-day event brings the best horses, trainers and owners from across the globe marking the unofficial culmination to racing season.

Resorts in Del Mar sell out during the races. Consider staying at our Carlsbad resorts and take the train to avoid event traffic and parking fees. The Coaster, North County Transit District (NCTD) commuter train, provides an affordable, scenic ride down the coastline to the Breeders Cup. Most of our beach-side properties are within walking distance to a train station.

Are you new to taking the train? Here are some helpful tips for taking the Coaster to the horse races in Del Mar:

Know Which Ticket You Need.

North County Transit District (NCTD) has three different zones reaching from Oceanside to Downtown San Diego. All Carlsbad train stations and the Solana Beach Station (your stop for the racetrack) operate in Zone 1. Don’t spend more money than you need to and be sure that your ticket includes Zone 1.

Compass Card

A Compass Card is a reloadable smart card and can be used within North County and San Diego’s Metropolitan Transit System. You will need to purchase a compass card along with your ticket. When purchasing at a kiosk it will prompt you for the purchase if you don’t already own one. It’s inexpensive and can be reused for future train rides.

Train Schedule

All schedules are available online at GoNCTD.com/coaster or NCTD has a mobile app so you’ll never be without a map and schedule. Be sure to check the Coaster schedule so you know not only when to depart for the day but know when the last train leaves the Solana Beach station, too.

Tap & Ride

To check in for your Coaster ride keep an eye out for the Compass Card validators. They’re waist high medal podiums with the compass logo. Simply “tap and ride” your ticket over the symbol before getting on your train. Be sure your ticket is validated correctly by the “thank you” that appears on the digital screen.

Getting to the Del Mar Race Track

The stop for the racetrack is the Solana Beach Station. Del Mar provides a free shuttle to and from the track. Keep an eye out for the double decker buses that will take you from the Solana Beach train station directly to the Del Mar racetrack.

Make it a stress free day at the Breeders Cup by booking at our Carlsbad Resorts and take the train! Vacation specialists are standing by online (click to chat) or at (877) 477-7368.

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