- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Villas
Why Visit Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Springs flourished in the Gilded Age, defined by its mineral springs and grand Victorian architecture. The Canfield Casino, once a high-stakes gambling club, and the Grand Union Hotel's former site exemplify this era's opulence. Notice the many "witch's walk" railings on homes, a quirky architectural feature believed to deter evil spirits. This history underpins the city's modern charm and is one of the best reasons to visit Saratoga Springs.
Saratoga Spa State Park covers over 2,200 acres, offering trails and two public pools fed by mineral water. Beyond the park, Saratoga Lake is a hub for boating and fishing. A local favorite is hiking the trails at the lesser-known Daniels Road State Forest, especially during the vibrant fall foliage season. The Yaddo Gardens also offer a serene, European-inspired escape.
The city's culinary scene extends beyond Broadway's fine dining. A local tradition is getting Hattie's fried chicken, a recipe perfected since 1938. For a true taste of the region, try a doughboy from Esperanto, a unique calzone-like snack. Many locals also enjoy the distinct, slightly salty mineral water directly from the public springs scattered around town.
- Saratoga SpringsUnited States
- Saratoga SpringsUnited States
- Saratoga SpringsUnited States
- Saratoga SpringsUnited States
Quick Travel Essentials
- Apr-Jun & Sep-Octmild, fewer crowds
- Jul-Augwarm, busy
- Wintercold, occasional snow
- #ComfortableShoes
- #LayeredClothing
- #Sunscreen
- #ReusableWaterBottle
- #Umbrella
- 3-4 days for highlights
- 5-7 days with side trips
- USD ($)
- English
- English is an official language here
- #SaratogaRaceCourse
- #SaratogaSpaStatePark
- #CongressPark
- #TheNationalMuseumofRacing
- #SaratogaSpringsArts
- #YaddoGardens
- Experience a horse race
- Relax at mineral springs
- Explore the historic downtown
- Visit local art galleries
- Enjoy a performance at Saratoga Performing Arts Center
Things to do in Saratoga Springs
Discover
Exploring Saratoga Springs reveals its rich history and natural beauty. Visit the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, stroll through the Victorian-era Congress Park with its Canfield Casino, or relax in the iconic Saratoga Spa State Park.
Experience
Experience the thrill of summer horse racing at the Saratoga Race Course. Enjoy world-class ballet and concerts at SPAC, sample the city's famous mineral waters from various springs, or explore the trails of the historic state park.
Saratoga Spa State Park
Neoclassical park with mineral springs and walking trails.
Saratoga Race Course
Historic thoroughbred horse racing track, a summer staple.
National Museum of Racing & Hall of Fame
Museum dedicated to the history of thoroughbred horse racing.
Congress Park
Victorian park featuring historic Canfield Casino and springs.
Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC)
Amphitheater for concerts, ballet, and cultural events.
Yaddo Gardens
Formal European-style gardens on an artists' retreat.
Mineral Springs Tour
Self-guided tour to taste the city's unique mineral waters.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
Fly into Albany International Airport (ALB), a 40-minute drive away. For transport from the Saratoga Springs airport to city center, use taxis, ride-shares, or pre-booked shuttles. A scenic train to Saratoga Springs is available via Amtrak's station (SAR).
Getting Around
The downtown area is highly walkable. For greater distances, utilize the public transport in Saratoga Springs, run by CDTA. During summer, a free Saratoga Springs shuttle bus, styled as a trolley, connects major attractions, hotels, and the racetrack.
Local Essentials
Here are some Saratoga Springs travel tips for first-timers: book everything far in advance for the summer racing season. Driving in Saratoga Springs is manageable, but downtown parking is limited; use public garages. A car rental offers freedom to explore.
Where to Stay in Saratoga Springs
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore Saratoga's culinary scene, where pre-track brunch and post-race drinks are cherished rituals. You must taste legendary Southern fried chicken and sample local craft beers, which define the authentic food Saratoga Springs is known for.
Enjoy
Eat at the elegant 15 Church, book well ahead. Drink at the lively Druthers Brewing Company, expect crowds. Visit bustling Uncommon Grounds for great coffee, grab bagels. This guide helps you explore the best the city has to offer.
15 Church Restaurant
Elegant, upscale American cuisine. Reserve well ahead.
Hattie's Restaurant
Famous for Southern fried chicken. Expect a vibrant crowd.
Druthers Brewing Company
Award-winning craft beer and comfort food. Often has a wait.
Boca Bistro
Authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant dishes. Great for sharing.
Chianti Il Ristorante
Upscale, authentic Northern Italian food. Intimate setting.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore Saratoga Springs via the Victorian Streetwalk, which transforms downtown into a 19th-century holiday scene with carolers and events. The annual Saratoga County Fair, a tradition since 1841, showcases local agriculture and entertainment.
Enjoy
Discover modern Saratoga Springs attractions. The Saratoga Performing Arts Center hosts the world-class Saratoga Jazz Festival and the New York City Ballet's summer residency. Must-see things to do include catching indie and folk at Caffè Lena.
Saratoga Jazz Festival
Two-day festival in June with jazz, funk, and blues artists.
Saratoga County Fair
A six-day agricultural fair held in July with rides and shows.
Saratoga Wine & Food Festival
Gourmet tastings, fine wines, and culinary events in autumn.
Victorian Streetwalk
December holiday event with tree lighting and carolers.
Chowderfest
Sample and vote on local chowders in this February competition.
Firecracker4 Road Race
An annual 4-mile race held on Independence Day, July 4th.
NYCB Summer Residency
The New York City Ballet performs classics at SPAC in July.
Lovely Historic Town
Saratoga Springs is a fantastic place for a long weekend. The architecture is beautiful, and the whole downtown area along Broadway is super walkable. Lots of unique shops and good places to eat. It just has a really classic, relaxing feel to it.
So Relaxing!
A perfect escape. We spent most of our time at the state park, and the Roosevelt Baths were a real highlight. The city has a very calm and peaceful quality. It was great to just stroll around without a specific plan. A truly refreshing trip.
Great food and shopping
Really enjoyed the small city feel. Found so many great independent shops and art galleries to browse through in the afternoon. The restaurant scene is also quite good for a city this size. Had a great meal just off Caroline Street.
Wonderful Winter Trip
Saratoga Springs has so much to offer in the winter. We went snowshoeing on the trails in the Spa State Park and it was absolutely beautiful. The city is quiet and lovely this time of year, a perfect snowy retreat from the usual hustle.
Beautiful historical buildings
I loved the sense of history here. Walking through Congress Park felt like stepping back in time, and the old Canfield Casino building is magnificent. The city has done a great job preserving its past. A wonderful place for history buffs.
A Quiet and Cozy Town
This city is ideal for a quiet getaway. It's small enough to feel cozy but with plenty to see. We had fun trying the different mineral springs around town, each one has its own unique taste. The whole place just felt very welcoming.