Saratoga Springs, New York, often touted with the simple yet evocative slogan "Health, history and horses," readily reveals its character upon a visit. The "health" aspect refers to the city’s rich legacy of natural mineral springs, which have drawn visitors seeking therapeutic benefits for centuries. The "horses" element gallops into view at the famed Saratoga Race Track, a historic venue that first hosted thoroughbred races in 1863 and continues to attract nearly a million spectators each summer.
However, this captivating upstate New York destination offers a far richer tapestry of experiences than its succinct slogan suggests. It serves as a popular and rejuvenating weekend getaway for New York City residents seeking respite from the urban frenzy, while still providing access to world-class spas, vibrant nightlife, a flourishing arts and culture scene, and an abundance of other attractions. Prepare to be enchanted as we explore the top nine things to do in Saratoga Springs.
1. Attend an Event at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center
The Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) stands as a cornerstone of Saratoga Springs’ thriving arts and culture landscape. Nestled within the sprawling Saratoga Spa State Park, SPAC is renowned as the summer home of the prestigious New York City Ballet. The air buzzes with anticipation as dancers grace the stage under the stars. The venue also hosts the acclaimed Philadelphia Orchestra, filling the night with symphonic melodies. Other renowned organizations such as the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, and Opera Saratoga, also grace the SPAC stage.
Beyond classical performances, SPAC’s calendar is brimming with diverse events, including concerts by Live Nation, catering to a wide range of musical tastes. Signature events like the Saratoga Food and Wine Festival draw crowds with culinary showcases, celebrity appearances, live music, and other engaging activities.
SPAC comprises four distinct venues, ranging from intimate spaces perfect for chamber music to the grand 25,000-seat amphitheater, providing diverse settings for unforgettable performances. The harmonious blend of nature and art makes SPAC a must-visit destination for any visitor to Saratoga Springs.
2. Taste the Mineral Springs
The natural mineral springs of Saratoga Springs have been a primary draw to the area since the 14th century, when indigenous populations first recognized their unique properties. These bubbling springs were believed to hold health and healing powers, attracting visitors seeking relief from various ailments. Today, these natural wonders remain a significant part of the city’s allure, offering a tangible connection to its past.
Within Saratoga Spa State Park and Congress Park in downtown Saratoga Springs, visitors can embark on a mineral spring exploration. The state park provides both guided and self-guided tours of its 12 springs. A map of the springs’ locations is available at the visitors center. Be sure to bring a cup or water bottle to sample the distinctive flavors of each spring.
As you journey from spring to spring, you’ll notice that each one boasts a unique taste profile. This variation arises from the distinct mineral compositions of each source. While some springs offer a refreshing taste, others may present a more challenging flavor. Bring your own water to rinse as you go. Downtown, Congress Park features four marked mineral springs, offering a convenient tasting experience within a charming setting.
3. Stroll Through Downtown
Downtown Saratoga Springs exudes a captivating small-town charm, seamlessly blended with the vibrancy of a larger city. The heart of downtown is Broadway, a mile-long main street brimming with attractions.
A stroll along Broadway offers a sensory feast. Bookstores beckon with literary treasures, boutique clothing shops showcase unique styles, souvenir shops offer mementos, and antique stores unveil relics of the past. Restaurants, cafes, and bars line the street, inviting visitors to indulge in culinary delights.
Start your day with a coffee and breakfast at Mrs. London’s Bakery, a local institution renowned for its delectable pastries and baked goods. After breakfast, head to Congress Park for a mid-morning stroll amidst its scenic beauty. Conclude your morning by browsing the unique shops lining Broadway.
4. Hit the Racetrack
The Saratoga Race Track holds an iconic status, deeply intertwined with the city’s identity. The track hosted the city’s first thoroughbred horse race in 1863, drawing a crowd of 5,000 spectators. The success of this inaugural meet led to the founding of the Saratoga Racing Association and the establishment of the Saratoga Race Course on 125 acres of land.
The Saratoga Race Track remains a popular destination, attracting nearly one million visitors each summer. Races are held several days a week for seven weeks, typically from mid-July through Labor Day.
To attend a race, you can purchase season tickets in the spring or individual tickets online or at the gates on the day of the race. The Saratoga Race Track provides an exhilarating experience, steeped in history and tradition, that captures the essence of Saratoga Springs.
5. Relax at the Roosevelt Baths
The Roosevelt Baths & Spa, located within Saratoga Spa State Park, offers a unique opportunity to experience hydrotherapy treatments using the natural mineral springs. Named in honor of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who championed the preservation of Saratoga’s mineral waters, the baths have a rich history dating back to the early 20th century.
The spa offers a variety of treatment options, including massages, facials, and body scrubs. Guests can book a standalone mineral soak or add it to their treatment. The mineral water is sourced from the springs and mixed with warm freshwater to reach an optimal temperature of 97 to 100 degrees F.
In the early 1900s, local gas companies were depleting the springs to use the carbonation for gas. A reservation was established to protect the springs, and two bathhouses, the Roosevelt and the Lincoln bathhouses, were built under that protection in 1935.
6. Explore Saratoga Spa State Park
Many of the aforementioned attractions are located within Saratoga Spa State Park, but the park itself is worth visiting. A must-do is a tour of the park’s 12 natural mineral springs. A self-guided tour with a map is available. Take along a water bottle so that you can taste each one. Not only are these springs unique to the area, but walking to find each one will also allow you to explore a lot of the park.
Other attractions you’ll likely see on your walk through the park include the Roosevelt Baths, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, two golf courses, running trails, and the Victoria pool. The park is also popular in the winter since it offers more than 12 miles of cross-country skiing trails and ice skating and snowshoeing areas.
7. Walk Through Congress Park
Saratoga Spa State Park might get most of the attention as the site of the museums, springs, and performing arts center, but downtown’s Congress Park is also worth a visit. There, you’ll find four more natural mineral springs that are marked (so bring a cup or water bottle again, or you can use your hands); the Canfield Casino, which is now a national historic landmark and home to the Saratoga Springs History Museum; a still-operational wooden carousel built in 1911 that has been permanently in the park since 2002; and a World War I memorial.
8. Visit the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame
For those interested in the history and sport of horse racing, a visit to the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame is a must. Located in Saratoga Springs, this museum showcases the rich heritage of thoroughbred racing in America. Explore exhibits featuring legendary horses, jockeys, and trainers, and learn about the evolution of the sport. The Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made significant contributions to racing, ensuring their legacies are preserved for future generations. Interactive displays and multimedia presentations bring the excitement of the racetrack to life.
9. Take a Day Trip to Nearby Attractions
While Saratoga Springs offers plenty to keep you entertained, consider taking a day trip to explore the surrounding region. The Adirondack Mountains, a vast wilderness area, are within easy driving distance. Hike scenic trails, paddle on pristine lakes, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views. The charming town of Lake George, known as the "Queen of American Lakes," offers boat tours, beaches, and amusement parks. History buffs can visit the Saratoga National Historical Park, site of the Battles of Saratoga, a turning point in the American Revolutionary War.
Saratoga Springs is at its best during the summer months when the city blossoms with crowds attending the race meet and local horse shows held nearby. The town has lots of options for lodging, ranging from large landmarked hotels like The Adelphi downtown to more boutique-style lodging like the low-key Brentwood Hotel.
