Saratoga County, New York: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Saratoga County is home to the oldest organized sporting venue in the United States? The historic Saratoga Race Course, established in 1863, has been thrilling visitors for over 160 years and was named one of the world’s top 10 sporting venues by Sports Illustrated. This is just one of the many treasures awaiting you in this charming region of upstate New York.

From natural mineral springs with healing properties to world-class performing arts venues, Saratoga County offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, this guide will help you discover the very best things to do in Saratoga County.

Getting to Saratoga County

Saratoga County is conveniently located in upstate New York, making it accessible from several major cities. If you’re flying in, Albany International Airport is your closest option, just 30 minutes south of Saratoga Springs. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to your destination.

For those traveling by car, Saratoga County is approximately 3 hours from New York City, 3.5 hours from Boston, and 4 hours from Philadelphia. The drive offers scenic views, especially if you’re coming from the south along the Hudson River Valley.

Train travel is another excellent option, with Amtrak service to the Saratoga Springs station right in the heart of downtown. The route from New York City takes about 3.5 hours and offers beautiful views of the Hudson River.

Best Time to Visit Saratoga County

While Saratoga County is a year-round destination, the summer season (July through early September) is particularly special. This is when the famous Saratoga Race Course is in full swing, and the city comes alive with events, outdoor dining, and perfect weather for exploring.

Fall brings spectacular foliage and harvest festivals, while winter offers a quieter, more intimate experience with holiday celebrations and cozy dining options. Spring showcases blooming gardens and the reopening of many seasonal attractions.

Top Attractions in Saratoga County

Saratoga Race Course

The crown jewel of Saratoga County, this historic race course offers an experience unlike any other in the world of horse racing. The track operates from mid-July through early September, with races typically held six days a week (dark on Tuesdays). Even if you’re not a betting person, the atmosphere is electric and the people-watching is fantastic.

Don’t miss the chance to enjoy breakfast on the Clubhouse Porch while watching the morning workouts. This unique experience lets you see the horses up close as they prepare for the day’s races. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.

Saratoga Spa State Park

This 2,400-acre National Historic Landmark is home to classical architecture, mineral springs, and miles of hiking trails. The park houses the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, the National Museum of Dance, the Saratoga Automobile Museum, and the historic Roosevelt Baths & Spa.

Bring a cup to sample the various mineral springs throughout the park. Each spring has its own unique mineral content and flavor profile. The Geyser Island Spouter, with its impressive mineral deposits, and the Polaris Spring are particularly popular stops on a springs tour.

Congress Park

Located in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs, Congress Park is a beautiful green space featuring fountains, ponds, and gardens. The historic Canfield Casino, now home to the Saratoga Springs History Museum, stands as the park’s centerpiece.

Don’t miss the charming 1910 wooden carousel, which operates seasonally for just $1 per ride. The park also contains four mineral springs that you can sample, continuing the city’s long tradition as a health destination.

Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC)

Set within Saratoga Spa State Park, SPAC is a world-class outdoor amphitheater that hosts the New York City Ballet and Philadelphia Orchestra during their summer residencies. The venue also features contemporary concerts ranging from jazz to rock, with performers like Dave Matthews Band and Phish returning year after year.

The lawn seating area offers a perfect spot for picnics during performances, creating a relaxed atmosphere that contrasts with more formal indoor venues. Check the schedule in advance, as popular shows often sell out quickly.

Outdoor Activities

Saratoga Lake

This beautiful 4.5-mile-long lake offers swimming, boating, fishing, and waterfront dining. Brown’s Beach provides public access for swimming during the summer months, while the Kayak Shak offers rentals for those looking to explore the lake at their own pace.

For a unique experience, book a sunset cruise with Adirondack Cruise & Charter Co. These 90-minute tours provide stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape as the sun sets over the water.

Hiking and Biking Trails

Saratoga County offers numerous trails for outdoor enthusiasts. The Saratoga Greenbelt Trail is a 24-mile loop connecting various parts of Saratoga Springs. For a shorter option, the Spring Run Trail provides a 2-mile paved path perfect for walking, running, or biking.

The 100 Acre Wood Trail System offers easy to moderate hiking with scenic overlooks, while more adventurous hikers can head north to nearby Hadley Mountain for challenging terrain and spectacular views of the southern Adirondacks.

Cultural Attractions and Museums

Saratoga County boasts an impressive array of museums and cultural sites that showcase the region’s rich history and artistic heritage.

Historic Sites

History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Saratoga National Historical Park in Stillwater, site of the 1777 Battle of Saratoga—considered the turning point of the American Revolution. The park includes a 10-mile driving tour with stops at key battle locations.

In nearby Wilton, the Grant Cottage State Historic Site preserves the home where President Ulysses S. Grant completed his memoirs shortly before his death in 1885. The cottage remains largely as it was during Grant’s final days, offering a poignant glimpse into American history.

Mineral Springs and Spa Experiences

Saratoga’s name comes from the Native American word “Sarachtogue,” meaning “place of the swift water,” referring to the area’s abundant mineral springs. These naturally carbonated waters have drawn visitors for centuries seeking their healing properties.

Roosevelt Baths & Spa

For the ultimate spa experience, book a mineral bath at the historic Roosevelt Baths & Spa in Saratoga Spa State Park. Established in 1935, this facility offers traditional mineral baths where the naturally effervescent spring water creates a champagne-like sensation that leaves you feeling buoyant and relaxed.

The full-service spa also offers massages, facials, and body treatments that incorporate the mineral water. Advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during the summer season.

Self-Guided Springs Tour

There are 21 public mineral springs throughout Saratoga Springs, each with its own distinct flavor and mineral composition. Pick up a springs map from the Saratoga Springs Visitor Center and bring along a cup to sample the waters as you explore the city.

Popular springs include the High Rock Spring (the first to be discovered by European settlers), the Hathorn Spring (known for its strong mineral taste), and the Polaris Spring in Spa State Park (one of the most pleasant-tasting options).

Dining and Culinary Experiences

Saratoga County has earned a reputation as a foodie destination, with a restaurant scene that rivals cities many times its size. From farm-to-table establishments to international cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Downtown Dining

Broadway and the surrounding streets in downtown Saratoga Springs offer dozens of excellent restaurants within walking distance of each other. Standouts include Salt & Char for upscale steaks, 15 Church for New American cuisine, and Boca Bistro for Spanish tapas.

During race season, reservations are essential at popular restaurants, especially for dinner. Many establishments offer outdoor seating during the warmer months, perfect for people-watching along Broadway.

Local Specialties

Don’t leave Saratoga without trying a few local specialties. The potato chip was allegedly invented in Saratoga Springs in 1853, and you can sample gourmet versions at Saratoga Chips. The Saratoga Spring Water Company bottles the famous flat and sparkling waters that have made the region famous.

For dessert, stop by Mrs. London’s Bakery for world-class pastries or visit the iconic Stewart’s Shops for locally made ice cream that’s been a regional favorite for generations.

Farmers Markets and Food Events

The Saratoga Farmers’ Market operates year-round, offering fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and prepared foods from local vendors. During the summer, the market is held outdoors on Wednesdays and Saturdays, while in winter it moves indoors to the Lincoln Baths building in Spa State Park.

Food lovers should also check the calendar for special events like the Saratoga Wine & Food Festival in September and the popular Chowderfest held each winter, where dozens of restaurants compete for the title of best chowder.

Where to Stay in Saratoga County

Saratoga County offers accommodations for every budget and preference, from luxury hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. During race season (mid-July through early September), rates increase significantly and availability becomes limited, so early booking is essential.

Historic Hotels

For a taste of old-world elegance, consider the Adelphi Hotel, a beautifully restored 1877 property in the heart of downtown. The Gideon Putnam, located within Spa State Park, offers classic charm with the convenience of being steps away from the Roosevelt Baths & Spa.

Bed and Breakfasts

Saratoga Springs is known for its Victorian architecture, and many historic homes have been converted into charming B&Bs. Saratoga Arms on Broadway offers luxury accommodations in a restored 1870 building, while Union Gables provides romantic rooms with period furnishings just a short walk from Congress Park.

Modern Options

For those preferring contemporary accommodations, the Embassy Suites by Hilton and Homewood Suites offer spacious rooms and modern amenities. The Saratoga Casino Hotel combines comfortable lodging with gaming entertainment and harness racing.

Getting Around Saratoga County

While having a car provides the most flexibility for exploring Saratoga County, there are several transportation options available for visitors.

Walking

Downtown Saratoga Springs is extremely walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops concentrated along Broadway and the surrounding streets. Congress Park, the Saratoga Springs Visitor Center, and many hotels are all within easy walking distance of each other.

Biking

Saratoga Springs offers a bike-share program called CDPHP Cycle, with stations throughout the city. Simply download the app, locate a bike, and you’re ready to explore. The city also has dedicated bike lanes on many streets and connects to several recreational trails.

Public Transportation

The Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) operates bus routes throughout Saratoga Springs and connects to neighboring communities. During track season, a special trolley service runs between downtown, the race course, and major hotels.

Car Rentals

For exploring the wider Saratoga County area, including Lake George and the southern Adirondacks, renting a car is recommended. Several rental agencies operate at Albany International Airport and in Saratoga Springs itself.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Weather Information

Saratoga County experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm and occasionally humid, with temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F. Winters can be cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and are less crowded than the peak summer season.

Always check the forecast before your visit, as weather in upstate New York can be variable. Summer thunderstorms are common but typically pass quickly, while winter visitors should be prepared for snow and ice.

Experience the Magic of Saratoga County

From the thundering hooves at the historic race course to the gentle bubbling of the mineral springs, Saratoga County offers a unique blend of excitement and relaxation. Its rich history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty create an experience that keeps visitors returning year after year.

Whether you’re sipping champagne trackside, soaking in mineral baths, or exploring the charming streets of downtown Saratoga Springs, you’ll discover why this special corner of New York has captivated travelers for centuries. Start planning your Saratoga County adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime!