With the relentless continuance of COVID-19, I continue to search for escapes that feel safe and don’t require air travel. Like many of us, my trips abroad have been replaced with local trips accessible in under a day. Over the past few months, I have journeyed from my home in Brooklyn to places like New Paltz, Beacon, Rockaway Beach, and eastern Long Island. I have also spent some beautiful moments in the picturesque upstate town of Saratoga Springs.
My daughter started college in Saratoga Springs this past fall so I will have the good fortune of spending lots of time in this charming little upstate city over the next 4 years. Saratoga Springs is most well-known for the healing powers of its naturally carbonated mineral springs, and for its distinguished Saratoga Race Track. However the city offers so much more. Here is my list of things to do in Saratoga Springs.
Note: I am also including COVID updates and closures as it seems we will be living with this for a little while longer.
Getting there:
If coming from NYC, I recommend at least one overnight in Saratoga Springs, as it is about a 3.5 hours north drive. The city lies 30 minutes south of Lake George and 40 min north of Albany. From NYC, the most direct route is up the NY State Thruway by car. I also like the idea of having a car once you are there. While downtown is very walkable, there are several not-to-miss stops that are not within walking distance.
However, if a car is not possible you can travel by Greyhound or by Amtrak. Both leave from Port Authority. The bus trip takes 4.5 hours and drops you a little over a mile from downtown Saratoga Springs. There is a bus transfer in Albany and 4 stops between Albany and Saratoga Springs. Amtrak has a Saratoga Springs stop and would normally be my recommended approach. However, since COVID-19, Amtrak has closed many of their smaller stations and that includes this one in Saratoga. The nearest Amtrak stop leaves you in Schenectady requiring a 35 minute Uber to the city.
Where to stay in Saratoga Springs
Budget friendly
We really enjoyed our stay at the renovated motor lodge, the Downtowner. Stylish and modern, this boutique hotel is perfectly situated right in the heart of downtown. I love the playful yet minimalist design and especially the all-natural bathroom products. If you are super sensitive to noise, this may not be the best option as the rooms all open into a central area. 413 Broadway
The Holiday Inn Saratoga Springs was the right spot for us this past winter when we were looking for a well- priced pet friendly spot. Bonus that it is located right next to Congress Park – great for kids and pets to run around in. Alternatively, if you are a member of Hilton Hotels, there are also 2 affordable options right near downtown. 232 Broadway
Mid range
An elegant mixture of a small hotel and a living history museum, the Batcheller Mansion Inn is close to downtown and close to the race tracks. This giant mansion was built in the late 1800’s and was the inspiration for the Disney Saratoga Springs Resort. Bonus: Experience a little bit of the supernatural as this house is part of the Haunted History Trail of New York State. This one is on our list for next visit! 20 W. Circular St.
Built in 1843 to serve as a boarding house, The Inn at Saratoga is an old Victorian house with classic charm. The huge front porch, working fireplaces and bicycles available for cruising around town are all big draws for our family. The one downside is that the Wifi wasn’t very good. Which makes remote school and work from home next to impossible. Otherwise, the staff was lovely and helpful. 231 Broadway
Splurge
A great combination of luxury and family run boutique bed and breakfast is the Saratoga Arms. It sits elegantly in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs. Come for the farm to table breakfast, stay for the wraparound porch, fireplaces and and warm, friendly service. 497 Broadway
Nestled inside the peaceful wooded setting of Saratoga State Park, the Gideon Putnam is the star of Saratoga. This stately five story brick hotel was built in the early 1930’s. A row of rocking chairs overseeing the grounds of the park offer a serenity and seclusion to your Saratoga stay. Bonus – it is also home to the renowned Roosevelt Bath and Spa, Book spa at least one week in advance. 24 Gideon Putnam Rd.
Looming over Broadway in its signature royal blue and white is the recently renovated Adelphi Hotel. Indulge in the luxury of one of the oldest Victorian hotels in the city. And for the foodies in the crowd, don’t miss eating at Salt & Char one of the top rated restaurants in the city right on the premises. The mix of Victorian aesthetics, modern amenities, and terrific food choices make this a standout spot. 365 Broadway
What to do in Saratoga Springs
Nature and Spas
Mineral Springs: A visit to some or all of the 21 mineral springs is one of the most popular things to do in Saratoga Springs. The healing powers of the naturally carbonated mineral springs in Saratoga have been attracting wealthy visitors for decades. The water flows from the earth charged with carbon dioxide gas and vital minerals that are said to offer strong healing and curative properties. Take a storage container along (or 2) and bring some home! They all taste a little different so its fun to do a tour and try all 21.
Or book an appointment at the Roosevelt Baths and Spa for a transforming spa experience beginning with a soak in those curative mineral waters. Reserve at least 2 weeks in advance. During COVID spa is open Thursday – Monday 9-4 and spa services are available but limited.
Saratoga Spa State Park – In addition to the spa, a few museums, and 2 performance centers on site, Saratoga Spa State Park offers plenty of hiking trails, a golf course, ice skating, tennis, a pool, and a nature center. My girls and I spent a lovely day exploring the trails, visiting the springs, and taking beautiful photos. We loved the Geyser Island Spouter spring.
Yaddo Gardens – Wandering the beautiful Yaddo Gardens is a wonderful way to spend a non-racing afternoon in Saratoga. Unfortunately, due to COVID restrictions, they are currently closed but I am hopeful that 121 years of history will not deter their return. Update: Yaddo Gardens re-opened June 2022!
Congress Park – Smack in the center of downtown Saratoga Springs is beautifully landscaped Congress Park. With the carousel at one end and the duck pond in the center this is the perfect place for a romantic evening stroll.
Arts and Culture
Racing
Sports Illustrated named the Saratoga Race Course one of the Top 10 Sporting Venues of the 20th Century and it is one of the city’s biggest attractions. Racing begins mid July and lasts until Labor Day. Don your most creative hat, place your bets and enjoy a summer day at the races! The clubhouse breakfast is a popular choice to enjoy trackside dining while the thoroughbreds prepare for the day. Then take the included free tram tour around the backstretch. Off-season horse lovers can tour the National Museum of Racing which is open with timed ticket entry during COVID.
Museums
The upstate culture capital, Saratoga Springs is no stranger to museums. Definitely add one of these to your list of things to do in Saratoga.
Even public transportation enthusiasts like myself can enjoy a visit to the Saratoga Automobile Museum. The historic old bottling plant located inside the Saratoga Spa State Park, is packed with cars dating back to the first autos. Open during COVID – reservations recommended. 110 Avenue of the Pines
Also located inside the park, the National Museum of Dance is the only museum in the country dedicated entirely to dance. It houses an impressive variety of photos, videos, costumes and other artifacts honoring the art of dance. It is closed during COVID, however, you can join in the celebration of 24 artists in a project called En Pointe Saratoga. Each artist decorated a 5ft. tall fiberglass ballet which is displayed throughout the city and is free. 99 South Broadway
History buffs rejoice. The NY State Military and Heritage Museum has been located in this historic armory since 2001 and houses over 10,000 artifacts relating to NY States military efforts from the Revolutionary War to Desert Storm. The free museum is temporarily closed during COVID. 61 Lake Ave.
For a little bit of Saratoga history, check out the Saratoga Springs History Museum located in the Canfield Casino in Congress Park. It tells the story of Saratoga from its beginning to modern day and is open with appropriate safety protocols during COVID. 1 E. Congress Street.
Saratoga Performing Arts Center
Closed during COVID, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) hosts arts and music events in a unique setting. Set inside the Saratoga Spa State Park, one can enjoy world class music in a lawn chair under the stars. A definite must when they reopen! 108 Avenue of the Pines
Shopping
Horse racing and spa chasing has brought an influx of wealth to Saratoga Springs and as a result the city has one of the best main streets in the country. In addition to a plethora of excellent restaurants, Main Street is chock full of unique boutiques. Two of my favorite places to wander around in are Saratoga Tea and Honey Co., and Menges & Curtis Apothecary. If you are a tea drinker, the Spa Earl Grey tea in Saratoga Tea and Honey is divine. And don’t miss the chance to cure all your ailments with custom made elixers at Menges & Curtis (and say hello to the cute shop dog who I think is called Forest).
A few blocks west of Broadway where art galleries and eateries are flourishing, is the Beekman Arts District. This 3 block stretch features period homes, art studios and galleries, shops and a few restaurants. Don’t miss the Beekman Street Art Fair in June.
Where to eat in Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Springs has more restaurants per capita than most other cities in NY state so there is lots to choose from. As a person who prefers walking over driving, I have focused my reviews mainly on the spots that are in and around downtown.
Budget friendly
Hattie’s has been serving their famous Southern fried chicken since 1938. The perpetually packed restaurant focuses on Louisiana cuisine including hush puppies and fried green tomatoes. Patio and courtyard are tented and heated. 45 Phila Street
Fast casual restaurant chain Burger Fi hits the spot when you need an inexpensive quick meal with outdoor seating on Broadway. Angus all natural beef burgers, hand cut fries and frozen custard at a price (and speed) that is very satisfying. 460 Broadway
Just steps from Broadway is a fun spot called Flatbread Social. Wood fired flatbread pizzas with farm fresh ingredients and craft beers are the specialty of the house. Gluten free and vegan options as well. Outdoor seating with heaters available. 84 Henry Street
Mid-range
Druthers Brewing Company has 3 locations in the Albany area. Known for their unique craft beers and a seasonal eclectic menu. The original dishes combined with a beautiful and heated courtyard set behind iron gates make this spot a go-to every time I am in Saratoga. 381 Broadway
We ate at Wheatfields late one weeknight because it was the only spot on the strip still serving dinner. I will definitely be adding this to my frequently visited, because the delicious homemade pastas and signature dishes were a standout for sure! We loved the relaxing and elegant atmosphere with a front row seat to the activity on Broadway. Outdoor and indoor seating available with outdoor heaters. 440 Broadway
Osteria Danny is a family owned Italian trattoria located one block from the main strip. The handwritten menu changes daily and Chef Danny cooks like you are coming to his house every night. A warm and inviting familial meal with an outdoor patio. 26 Henry Street
Splurge
A newcomer to Saratoga Springs, Seneca opened mid 2019. While it is a fine dining spot, the exposed brick and natural barn wood atmosphere make it warm and comfortable. The 8 ft. wood fired grill expertly turns out creatively rustic meals that make you want to go back again and again. Limited patio seating is available – call ahead. 17 Division Street
15 Church is steps from the strip on Broadway in a beautifully restored historic building on Henry St. This gold standard of Saratoga fine dining specializes in an artful menu of seafood flown in fresh daily and prime aged beef. Don’t miss the juicy and delicious Chicken Under a Brick. The gorgeous outdoor garden features a retractable roof, heaters and waterfalls, making you feel like you are dining in a secret garden far from downtown. Note that patio seating closes Nov. 7, 2020 leaving only indoor dining as an option. 15 Church St.
For a steakhouse rivaling those in NYC, look no further than modern American steakhouse Salt & Char. With a focus on locally grown and raised ingredients, and an extensive wine list, this steakhouse is sure to make your Saratoga Springs evening memorable. Located right in the heart of downtown, Salt & Char is part of the Adelphi hotel. Outdoor tables are available on the hotel’s stately porch. 353 Broadway