Everything You Need to Do on a Day Trip to Saratoga Springs

Whether you go for the history, the races, or the spa, this day guide to the Saratoga County city will take you from morning to night.

Wikimedia Commons / Ronmcc

Whether you go for the history, the races, or the spa, this 24-hour guide to the Saratoga County city will take you from morning to night.

To say that there’s a lot to do in Saratoga Springs would be an understatement. The city has such an abundance of sights and sounds that it is hard to know where to begin. The Saratoga Spa State Park and the Saratoga Automobile Museum lure history lovers, while the spas, wineries, and breweries attract anyone in search of a romantic weekend getaway. Throughout the year, locals and visitors alike flock to the upstate spot to jam outdoors with their favorite artists at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. To top it all off, the Saratoga Race Course is the place to be come late summer. The six weeks of horse racing are almost as exciting as the people watching.

Thinking about a day trip to the scenic upstate destination? Take a peek at our 24-hour guide, then get ready for a leisurely cruise around town.

8:30 a.m. – Power up for the day at Triangle Diner

For such a classy area, Triangle Diner is surprisingly low-key. Perhaps that is why locals love it so much. Sip on a classic cup of diner coffee as you decide between sweet and savory. Depending on which way your taste buds lean, you can dive into a massive plate of pancakes or eggs Benedict.

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400 Maple Ave, Saratoga Springs
518.583.6368

10 a.m. – Explore the great outdoors at Saratoga Spa State Park

This scenic parkland plays host to a wealth of attractions, including the Saratoga Automobile Museum, the Roosevelt Baths and Spa, and the Saratoga Spa State Park Golf Course. If you have time to spare, start at the museums. The National Museum of Dance is also onsite. Afterward, stroll the grounds, which are designated a National Historic Landmark. With trails galore and picnic areas strewn throughout the area, this is the perfect place to spend a few hours on a sunny day.

19 Roosevelt Dr, Saratoga Springs
518.584.2535

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1 p.m. – Relax with lunch and a glass of wine at the Thirsty Owl 

Known for its award-winning winery, the Thirsty Owl makes a point of incorporating fresh and local ingredients into its seasonal cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for a poached pear and fig salad or a heaping plate of lobster tacos, the Thirsty Owl has a hand-selected wine to enjoy with your meal. The Saratoga Springs spot features a tasting bar indoors and a patio and garden outside. Should you like to come back for dinner, live music begins at 6 p.m.

184 S. Broadway, Saratoga Springs
518.587.9694

4 p.m. – Promenade your way down Broadway

Running straight through the heart of the city, Broadway is the connecting force for the picture-perfect destination. With its charming shops and plentiful coffee hubs, the street resembles many of the European shopping avenues. Spend an hour or two strolling through whichever stores catch your fancy. In honor of the city’s history, make a point to dash into one of the few millinery storefronts that line the sidewalks. Even if you don’t buy a hat yourself, you’ll love seeing the crafty headgear that defines the region come racing season.

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5:45 p.m. – Treat your taste buds at Cantina

Spice things up at this fun south-of-the-border restaurant. Colorful Day of the Dead skulls greet you at the doorway, which leads into a lively dining space. You can’t go wrong with any of the tacos or burritos, which come packed with everything from pulled chicken and steak to shrimp and vegetables. No matter what you order, be sure to save room for the dessert. Everyone needs to experience the wonder of the cinnamon sugar churros.

408 Broadway, Saratoga Springs
518.587.5577

 

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7:30 p.m. – Catch a show at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center

Of all the music venues in New York, Saratoga’s stage is at the top of our list. The outdoor space stuns throughout the year, although it is best experienced on clear, crisp summer nights. Sit under the sheltered roof or throw a blanket on the manicured grass to sing along under the stars.

108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs
518.584.9330

 

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10 p.m. – Stay the night at The Adelphi Hotel

One look inside this swanky upstate hotel and you’ll never want to leave. The curated guest rooms embrace upscale comfort without an exorbitant price tag. Decadent dining options inside The Adelphi Hotel offer a wide variety of eats, as well, which means that extending your day trip to a two-day experience is most definitely a good idea.

365 Broadway, Saratoga Springs
518.678.6000


Related: How to Spend a Day in Red Hook

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