San Diego resort deal for Del Mar horse-racing fans

Grand Del Mar resort in San Diego is marking the opening of the Del Mar horse-racing season with a package that includes tickets, racing forms and even two mint juleps. The deal is pricey -- it starts at $475 a night -- but it saves a bit if you’re up for a splurge and love the ponies.

-- The deal: The Del Mar racetrack, which dates to 1937, opened last week for its 2011 season. The Day at the Races package includes two Stretch Run reserved seats at the racetrack (worth $10); a racing form and racing digest ($14); transportation to and from the track (based on availability); two mint juleps in the lobby lounge (worth $30); and valet parking ($25).

-- When: The offer is good daily, except Tuesdays, throughout the racing season, which ends Sept. 7.

-- Tested: I found availability for this package midweek on Aug. 10 for a single night in a king guestroom for $475 plus tax. The same room on the same night without the package costs $455 plus tax. Even with the $20 difference, you save more than $50 a night with the package when you total up the the racing-related extras.

-- Contact: Grand Del Mar, (855) 314-2030