Discover Southern California's Summer Events with Amtrak Pacific Surfliner
As the summer season blooms in Southern California, the Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® is stepping up to provide an exceptional travel experience for those eager to participate in the vibrant events this region has to offer. With its recent addition of a 12th daily round-trip service between Los Angeles and San Diego, travelers can enjoy greater flexibility and comfort than ever before.
The Pacific Surfliner covers a breathtaking 351-mile coastal route, connecting 29 stations and major cities such as San Diego, Orange County, Los Angeles, and Santa Barbara. This scenic train journey offers a tranquil alternative to the frustrations of driving during the busy summer months.
Key Summer Events and Travel Options
Southern California is bustling with a variety of events this summer, from cultural extravaganzas to family-friendly fairs. Here are some of the top destinations that travelers can access via the Pacific Surfliner:
Del Mar Race Season (July 18 – September 7)
The renowned Del Mar Racetrack reignites its summer meet, commencing with a grand Opening Day on July 18. Visitors will be treated to thrilling weekend races alongside trackside festivities. To reach the racetrack, take the Pacific Surfliner to the Solana Beach Station, where a complimentary shuttle awaits passengers on race days.
California Wine Festival – Santa Barbara (July 18 – 19)
Wine lovers and culinary aficionados will gather in Santa Barbara to celebrate the 20th year of the California Wine Festival at Chase Palm Park. Attendees can enjoy tastings and gourmet experiences by the picturesque beach. It's just a three-minute walk from Santa Barbara Station to the festival grounds.
San Diego Comic-Con International (July 24 – 27)
The iconic Comic-Con returns, showcasing exclusive programming and fan activities at the San Diego Convention Center. Visitors can avoid traffic congestion by taking the Pacific Surfliner to Santa Fe Depot, located about a mile from the venue.
Ventura County Fair (July 30 – August 10)
Nicknamed “A Country Fair with Ocean Air,” the Ventura County Fair merges classic amusement with ocean views. Attendees can ride the Ferris wheel, listen to live music, and enjoy various culinary delights. The fairgrounds are conveniently located just steps away from the Ventura Station.
Disneyland® Resort 70th Celebration (Ongoing)
In honor of seven decades of magic, the Disneyland® Resort is celebrating its 70th anniversary with special promotions and a unique train wrap by the Pacific Surfliner. Travelers can take advantage of discounted admission and a complimentary bus shuttle from Anaheim Station to the resort.
Plan Your Summer Rail Travel
As summer heats up, it’s advisable to book tickets in advance to secure your preferred travel dates, especially for popular events like Comic-Con and Del Mar's opening day. Passengers holding Unreserved Coach tickets have the flexibility to board any train within their selected travel route, as seating is provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
All Pacific Surfliner trains boast modern amenities including reclining seats, power outlets, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a Market Café that features locally sourced food and beverages. For added comfort, travelers can opt for Business Class, granting them a reserved seat, a complimentary snack and beverage, and priority boarding in San Diego.
To stay updated on travel conditions, passengers are encouraged to follow @PacSurfliners on social media platforms, where real-time alerts and crowd forecasts are provided.
Whether it’s a thrilling day at the races, a delightful experience at a wine festival, or an unforgettable comic convention, the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner offers an exceptional way to travel through Southern California this summer. For more information and to plan your trip, visit
PacificSurfliner.com.
About the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner:
The Pacific Surfliner operates along the coast of California, offering the busiest state-supported intercity passenger rail service in the United States. Covering a scenic route with 29 stations across Southern California, it provides easy access to beautiful beaches, cultural events, and iconic attractions.
For further inquiries about services and operational updates, please refer to the official site or contact Amtrak's customer service.