Overview
Saratoga Springs is just south of the Adirondacks in upstate New York. Long a vacation destination for New Yorkers, Saratoga Springs is a pleasant town filled with swanky shops, spas and horse racing. A key battle in the Revolutionary War happened nearby. The city is also home to Skidmore College and Empire State College (SUNY).
12 sights · 9 things to do · 29 places to eat · 6 bars & cafés · 13 places to stay
Updated from Wikivoyage on 1 October 2026 · Something wrong or missing? Improve it on Wikivoyage
Best things about Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Spa State Park
Dubbed "The Public's Resort", this park has mineral baths, eighteen-hole and nine-hole golf courses, free hardtop and clay tennis courts, and several pool areas with showers, locker rooms, rest rooms and food concessions…
National Museum of Dance
Saratoga Automobile Museum
Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery
National Museum of Racing & Hall of Fame
A place to experience the history of one of Saratoga's most popular attractions, thoroughbred racing. Something for everyone with interactive exhibits, rare memorabilia, and equine art.
Saratoga Springs History Museum
This museum is housed in an 1870 casino. It's not a must see for everyone, but if you are a history buff, and especially if you are from New York State or elsewhere in the region, it is very interesting to visit and a go…
Plan your trip
Best time to visit & weather
Most comfortable: May–Oct. Summer highs reach about 84°F; winter lows dip to about 16°F. Cold months (Jan, Feb, Dec) can bring snow and ice; check road conditions. Wettest: Jul and Jun. (climate data from nearby Albany)
Blue bars: average daily high and low (°F). Purple columns: average monthly rain and melted snow (inches).
Getting there
- From you: to see whether to drive or fly, and how long it takes.
- ALB Albany International Airport, Albany — 23 mi away (major hub). Directions
- RUT Rutland - Southern Vermont Regional Airport, Rutland — 52 mi away. Directions
Albany International Airport (ALB) in Albany.
Full “Get in” guide ↓Budget & where to stay
- Places to stay listed here: about $89–$110 a night (typical $110), from 3 listed prices.
- Typical meal: about $16 per person at listed restaurants.
- Estimated daily budget per person (room, two meals, local transport and an activity): budget ~$130, mid-range ~$180, comfortable ~$260.
See the Sleep guide ↓ for places to stay.
Sample 3-day itinerary
Day 1
- Morning Saratoga Spa State Park, Roosevelt Baths and Spa, Saratoga Automobile Museum
- Lunch Bruno's Restaurant
- Afternoon Saratoga Performing Arts Center, National Museum of Dance
- Dinner Char Koon
- Evening Tin 'n' Lint
Day 2
- Morning Grant Cottage State Historic Site
- Lunch Chez Sophie Bistro
- Afternoon Saratoga Lake Golf Club
- Dinner Compton's
- Evening Desperate Annie's
Day 3
- Morning Caffè Lena
- Lunch D'Andreas Pizza
- Afternoon Saratoga National Golf Club
- Dinner Esperanto
- Evening The Merry Monk
Stops are grouped by area so each day needs little backtracking. Check opening hours before you go.
Food for you
Saratoga has some of the best dining in upstate New York. Chefs from New York City have emigrated northward to ensure that there's food for every palate. Most of the finest restaurants can be found on or near Broadway. Keep in mind that some places aren't open outside of the tourist season.
There's also plenty of choice for those less discriminating taste buds or smaller budgets. Pub grub, American specials and small diners abound. And if you're hungry at 2AM, be sure to ask a local where you can get a doughboy. They're great.
Cuisine (tap to filter)
What to ask about, for your diet
Diet labels come from each listing's description and cuisine; “likely” means the cuisine usually has good choices, not a promise. Check with the restaurant. Open the food finder
Photos
Map
Every listing with a location. Tap a pin for its Google Maps link.
Understand
Saratoga is most known for its great horse racing track (oldest in the country) and harness racing track. Victorian visitors came to take the waters at springs. The spring waters are located at different pavilions around the city and surrounds and vary tremendously in flavor from a light mineral water to frosty and hard. The construction of a casino closely followed the marketing of Saratoga's waters as having healing properties, and the owner of the casino started the horse races as a draw for additional people, including those not wealthy enough to pay a $250 membership fee for the casino, which was a fortune in the 19th century. While the city's heyday was between the 1830s and the 1910s, when travel was arduous and people from far away, including the South before the Civil War, spent weeks or even all summer in grand hotels that were all torn down in the 1950s, this city of 28,000 people (2020) is still charming, has a rather extensive downtown, and is a major tourist destination during its summer horse racing season. Yaddo, the famous writers' and artists' retreat, is near the "flat track" on Union Avenue. If you call ahead, you may be able to tour.
Get in
By plane
Albany International Airport (ALB) in Albany.
By car
Saratoga Springs is just off Interstate 87 about 45 minutes north of Albany, 4 hours from New York City and 3.5 hours south of the Canadian border. Enjoy this tree-lined drive along I-87, also called the Adirondack Northway.
By train
Go Saratoga Springs station
Local buses are sometimes timed to arrive and depart in rough conjunction with trains; if not, you may have to call a taxi or ridehailing service (about $12 to Broadway as of May 2025). Long distance and local buses stop at the traffic circle, right outside the train station.
- Routes stopping at Saratoga Springs:
- Adirondack operating daily between Montreal and New York City including stops along the way in Saint-Lambert, Rouses Point, Plattsburgh, Westport, Ticonderoga, Saratoga Springs, Schenectady, Albany (Rensselaer), Hudson, Rhinecliff, Poughkeepsie, Croton-on-Hudson, and Yonkers.
- Ethan Allen Express operating daily between Burlington and New York City including in Middlebury, Rutland, Saratoga Springs, Schenectady, Albany (Rensselaer), Hudson, Rhinecliff, Poughkeepsie, Croton-on-Hudson, and Yonkers.
The Ethan Allen Express (3 hours 35 minutes from New York's Penn Station, 1 train daily) is much faster than the Adirondack (5 hours 18 minutes, does not run every day) or a mixed service option (Empire Service to Albany-Rensselaer and then an Amtrak bus: 6 hours 24 minutes). All routes are highly scenic between New York City and Albany-Rensselaer.
By bus
- Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) operates local buses in the Albany area. Several routes operate to and within Saratoga Springs, including a Saratoga Visitors Trolley.
- Greyhound, in conjunction with other bus carriers, offers service to Saratoga from both the north and south. Buses that originate in New York City, Albany, and Montreal stop here several times a day.
- Megabus has a service from New York City and Burlington. The bus stops at the Saratoga Raceway Casino, near the Nelson Avenue entrance and CDTA bus stop. Fares from $1.
Get around
The downtown walking area is centered on Broadway, but you may need to use public transport or a car to reach the world famous Saratoga Race Track and have limited time, the Saratoga Casino, Natural Museum of Dance, Roosevelt Spa, Saratoga SPA State Park or SPAC. However, there is a lot to see and do in the downtown area of Saratoga Springs.
Visitor center
- Saratoga Springs Urban Cultural Park Visitor Center, 297 Broadway, Phone: +1 518 587-3241. Daily 9AM-4PM (closed Su Dec-Mar).
See
See Saratoga Spa State Park
Dubbed "The Public's Resort", this park has mineral baths, eighteen-hole and nine-hole golf courses, free hardtop and clay tennis courts, and several pool areas with showers, locker rooms, rest rooms and food concessions. Hiking (and cross country/snowshoe) trails and picnic areas complete with grills are available as well. The park encompasses and protects the mineral springs in use at least as far back as the 14th century. This "Queen of Spas" was a 19th-century vacation retreat for the rich and famous.
See Roosevelt Baths and Spa
Despite the plethora of day spas around the city, this is the only place where you can relax in a natural mineral bath using water drawn straight from the ground. (It's mixed with hot tap water to bring it up to a comfortable temperature, though.) This facility was built in 1935 as part of the development of the park. While the mineral baths are their signature service, they also offer the standard menu of modern spa services: massages, facials, etc. The decor, with its aged porcelain fixtures and linoleum floors, may look a little institutional, but keep in mind any oxidation you see is natural, a result of iron in the spring water. And it's certainly the most authentic Saratoga spa experience you can get.
See New York State Military Museum
See Saratoga Springs History Museum
This museum is housed in an 1870 casino. It's not a must see for everyone, but if you are a history buff, and especially if you are from New York State or elsewhere in the region, it is very interesting to visit and a good value. A guided tour of the ground floor is included in your admission and adds a lot of context and value to your visit. Allow 2 hours or so to see the rooms; the artifacts from the casino and the grand hotels that served visitors to this town in its 19th-to-early 20th-century heyday before being torn down in the 1950s; information about some very notable citizens of Saratoga including the remarkable woman who founded the Daughters of the American Revolution, replete with documentation and their personal effects; and an exhibit about the Native tribes who inhabited the area. The staff are very happy to speak with visitors and share information, even at closing time.
Do
Do Caffè Lena
Acoustic music in a 110-seat coffeehouse that opened in 1960. The venue enjoys a world-wide reputation for preserving and furthering American musical traditions. Its archives are held at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress. The schedule features a mix of established career musicians and nationally touring emerging artists. Emerging artists presented by Caffe Lena have included Bob Dylan, EmmyLou Harris, Don McLean, Arlo Guthrie, Ani DiFranco, G. Love and Sawyer Fredericks. A complete performer list dating back to May 21, 1960 can be viewed on the venue's website. Hospitality for concert-goers includes desserts, light fare, local craft beer, wine, coffees and teas. The venue is operated as a non-profit organization.
- Saratoga Lake lies 4 miles southeast of Saratoga Springs. This 8½-mile-long lake has a public boat launch at the north end, and several private marinas. Popular activities include bass fishing, sailing, boating, water skiing, and ice fishing.
Horse racing
The time to come to Saratoga is during the Thoroughbred season, which is five or so weeks in July, August and September. The premier race here is the Travers Stakes, but every day in the season thousands flock from around New York and beyond to the see the ponies. Also, the Belmont Stakes, the final race in American racing's Triple Crown, has temporarily moved to Saratoga due to the ongoing reconstruction of Belmont Park. Saratoga hosted that race in 2024 and will do so again in 2025. That said, if you find yourself in town during other times of the year, check out some of the smaller tracks. Indoor gambling places are available for those who have a gambling urge during the winter months.
- Oklahoma Training Track
Golf
Walking
Aside from walking on park trails, one really fun thing to do in good weather is to simply walk up and down Broadway in Downtown. There are lots of beautiful 19th- and early 20th-century buildings lining the street.
Events
Learn
- Adirondack Community College, 6 Mountain Ledge Drive, Gansevoort 12831, +1 518 584-3959.
- Empire State College, 111 West Avenue, +1 518 587-2100 ext. 2297.
- Skidmore College, 815 North Broadway, +1 518 580-5000. Offering bachelors and/or graduate degrees in over 30 areas of study, as well as the "University Without Walls" degree completion program.
Buy
Saratoga isn't Manhattan, but it does have plenty of boutiques and shops that cater to that particular crowd. No matter what your style is, Saratoga Springs is full of chic boutiques, trendy antique stores and a wide variety of eclectic shops to satisfy any style. Start on Broadway and find local crafts, haute fashion and other merchandise for that platinum card.
- Celtic Treasures 456 Broadway +1 518 583-9452. Open daily. This Irish gift shop has only the best from Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Pottery, china, jewelry, music, books, posters and prints, sweaters and caps are all available at this charming establishment.
- Lifestyles 436 Broadway, +1 518 584-4665. Open daily. V/MC/AE accepted. This specialty boutique in downtown is known for elegant fine fashions and accessories. Designers include Eileen Fisher, Singrid Olsenand, and Michael Stars.
- Saratoga Farmers Market High Rock Park. +1 518 893-2669 Open W 3-6PM, Sa 9AM-1PM. This open air market is home to a variety of homemade goods, crafts, and foods. The market is a must and has been serving the locals for over 25 years.
Eat
Saratoga has some of the best dining in upstate New York. Chefs from New York City have emigrated northward to ensure that there's food for every palate. Most of the finest restaurants can be found on or near Broadway. Keep in mind that some places aren't open outside of the tourist season.
There's also plenty of choice for those less discriminating taste buds or smaller budgets. Pub grub, American specials and small diners abound. And if you're hungry at 2AM, be sure to ask a local where you can get a doughboy. They're great.
Eat Bruno's Restaurant
Check out the famous wood-fired pizza and homemade soups.
Eat Char Koon
If you're in the mood for Chinese, look no further than this delicious spot downtown. Good price, great food, and also serves Thai.
Eat Chez Sophie Bistro
Upscale French bistro located at The Saratoga.
Eat Compton's
Early morning breakfast. Opens when the bars close.
Eat Esperanto
Pizza and a doughboy and you're ready for anything. Take them out for a stroll.
Eat Forno Bistro
Though styled a "rustic, Tuscan-style" bistro on their website, it seems much more Italian-American, based on its menu and portions. Either way, the food is delicious, the wine list is excellent, the service is really helpful and considerate, and this big eating hall is so popular with locals that you should expect to wait 20-30 minutes for a table for two on any given Tuesday if you arrive without reservations. Don't be surprised if there are two receptions in different parts of the restaurant, and wait if you need to. There are two outdoor eating areas on patios, in addition to inside dining, and they are heated on chilly nights.
Eat Four Seasons Natural Food Store & Cafe
This vegetarian spot has a variety of soups, salads, and hot en trees. While you are there, check out the retail store which offers a selection of natural foods, teas, supplements, and personal care and organic produce.
Eat 43 Phila Bistro
Premiere dining and wine list.
Eat Gaffney's Restaurant
Great courtyard dining during track season, indoor and pub dining available.
Eat Hattie's Restaurant
"Hattie" may have long since passed, but her Cajun tastes are still reflected on the menu, which includes her signature fired chicken.
Eat Lillian's Restaurant
Warm rustic steak and seafood place right on the strip. Private parties and banquets upstairs in Diamond Jim's.
Eat Longfellows Hotel, Restaurant & Conference Center
Good location for weddings, businesses meetings or private gatherings.
Eat Mare Ristorante
Trendy Italian restaurant, amazing lounge, seafood pasta and vino.
Eat The Merry Monk Restaurant and Bar (formerly Tiznow)
Classic bistro decor makes this a great spot for cocktails or dinner. Ask for a corner banquette table to enjoy a cozy meal for two and listen to the funky world beat soundtrack.
Eat Mexican Connection
Viva De Mexico, best mex going! Away from downtown but near the track.
Eat Mouzon House
Located in a renovated Victorian house, this sister restaurant to One Caroline Street Bistro specializes in locally-sourced cuisine with a Cajun flair. Try the Crawfish Beignets!
Eat One Caroline Street Bistro
Jazz with dinner, reservations or wait required but worth it.
Eat Panza's Restaurant
Enduring Italian restaurant serving classics such as parmigiana, pasta & steaks.
Eat Pennell's Restaurant
Family-owned Italian restaurant.
Eat Pizza Works
Pizzaworks is a family pizzeria. Their hand-tossed New York-style, thin-crust pizza is based on a traditional Italian family recipe. They also serve a variety of subs, wings, calzones, stromboli, wraps, salads and appetizers including bread sticks and garlic knots.
Eat PJ's Bar-B-QSA
South Broadway (US Route 9). Barbecue chicken and ribs; includes two 20-foot barbecue pits out in the back. Located about one mile from the Northway, open year-round.
Eat Putnam Market
Specialty food store and deli.
Eat Spring Street Deli
Neighborhood delicatessen, featuring sandwiches named for famous thoroughbred race horses.
Eat Uncommon Grounds
Serves coffee, bagels, bagel sandwiches and such. A local favorite.
Eat Wheatfields Restaurant and Bar
Pasta, steak, etc.
Drink
Saratoga has no lack of choices if what you desire is a hop-or-two. Fine Irish Pubs to trendy ultra-light-serving watering holes abound. If wine is what makes you feel fine, you will. Mare, 43 Phila, Doc's and, of course, The Wine Bar will be more than happy to help you. Even if they have to run across town to get exactly what you want, literally!
The wineries from New York's Fingerlakes region have been maturing very well and can be found on most lists. The pages of more established varieties from California, Australia, France and Italy sometimes make your head spin before you sip. If you get the chance attend one of the many wine tastings. They are available both for the novice and the Guru of the Grape.
Drink Desperate Annie's
A Caroline Street institution since who-knows-when.
Drink The Merry Monk
Classic bistro decor makes this a great spot for cocktails or dinner.
Drink The Parting Glass
This local favorite had tons to offer, live music and great food add to the appeal of this one of a kind bar.
Drink Tin 'n' Lint
A 1930s-era saloon.
Drink Trotters
A great place to watch football on Sundays, or start out your night. Inexpensive and the best specials in town.
Sleep
Saratoga Springs has a number of different accommodation options ranging from budget chain motels to quaint (and often historic) bed and breakfasts.
Stay safe
Saratoga Springs is relatively safe for a city its size. However, the bars along Caroline Street can get a bit rowdy late in the week and on weekends.
Hospitals
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