How to save money at the San Diego County Fair
Families planning a trip to the San Diego County Fair can take advantage of several discounts and money-saving strategies to help keep costs under control.
While a day at the fair can quickly become expensive with admission, parking, rides, games, and food, planning can help visitors stay closer to their budget.
Sarah Baldwin and Jess Green, who make an annual girls’ trip to the fair with their daughters, said they are being more mindful of spending this year.
“Just because I want them to have a good time, we only do it like once a year, so we let them have a little more fun,” Sarah said.
One of the easiest ways to save money is by purchasing admission tickets online at least 24 hours before visiting. Fair officials say visitors can save $3 to $5 per ticket by buying in advance.
Visitors can also save another $3 to $5 by attending on a Wednesday or Thursday. Season passes are available as well for those planning multiple visits.
Children 5 and younger receive free admission every day, while children ages 6 to 12 get in free on Fridays.
Parking costs can also add up, but there are ways to reduce or eliminate that expense. Visitors can save $5 on general parking by purchasing a parking pass online at least 24 hours in advance.
Another option is to park for free at Torrey Pines High School and take the free shuttle to the fairgrounds, which can also help avoid traffic.
Families may also want to consider the Fair Tripper Pass, which includes fair admission and a round-trip ride on services operated by the Metropolitan Transit System and the North County Transit District.
Food is another area where visitors can save. Outside snacks are allowed inside the fairgrounds.
However, alcohol is prohibited, and beverages must be factory-sealed. Reusable water bottles are permitted but must be empty upon entry and can be filled inside. Glass containers and metal utensils are not allowed.
For ride enthusiasts, Wednesdays and Thursdays are designated pay-one-price ride days.
Visitors may also benefit from purchasing a Passport to Savings coupon book, which costs about $5 and can provide additional discounts, particularly for larger groups.
Some families say sticking to a spending plan can be difficult because of the many vendors and attractions throughout the fairgrounds.
“Usually we’ll have them look at everything first and then pick something, but we’ve been sort of buying along the way,” Sarah said.
The fair also offers discounts for military members, law enforcement, firefighters, government employees, and education staff.
This story was originally reported for broadcast by NBC San Diego. AI tools helped convert the story into a digital article, and an NBC San Diego journalist edited it for publication.
