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.

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’s hard to know where to begin. Saratoga Spa State Park lures 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 summer.

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

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For such a classy area, Triangle Diner is surprisingly low-key. Perhaps that’s 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, but don’t miss out on freshly baked treats like apple cider donuts and muffins for the table.

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

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

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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 roasted beet 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.

184 S. Broadway, Saratoga Springs
518.587.9694

2 p.m. – Bet on a winning horse at the Saratoga Race Course

 

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If you’re visiting in the warmer months and have the time to squeeze an outing to the Saratoga Race Track into your day trip, it’s definitely worth the visit. Don your best sundresses and loafers and top it all off with a Derby or fascinator hat as you place bets on the horse races. A staple of the Capital Region since the American Civil War, the track is often considered to be the oldest major sporting venue in the nation since its opening in 1863.

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267 Union Ave, Saratoga Springs
518.584.6200

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. For handmade leather goods, browse The Local Branch, head to Impressions of Saratoga for gifts and souvenirs, and stop in to Uncommon Grounds for an afternoon pick-me-up.

5:45 p.m. – Treat your taste buds at Druthers Brewing Company

saratoga springs
Photo by Kayla Sexton.

You might want to make a reservation to claim a table at this coveted spot. Beloved for its casual vibe but upscale eats, Druthers Brewing Company does brewpub fare like nothing you’ve tasted before. Opt to sit in the outdoor beer garden, or marvel at the 10-barrel brewing system that’s visible from the restaurant’s entrance on your way inside.

Of course, you won’t want to skip out on the brewery’s own hoppy IPAs and fruity sours, especially the Saratoga Vibes pilsner that’s on tap during the warmer months and can also be enjoyed during a concert at Saratoga Performing Arts Center. With your brew of choice, indulge in seasonal bites like the street corn dip, Nashville hot fried chicken sandwich, house-made macaroni and cheese, and unbeatable salads.

381 Broadway, Saratoga Springs
518.306.5275

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

Photo by Kayla Sexton.

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. Upcoming shows at the venue include Post Malone and the annual Farm Aid festival featuring Willie Nelson.

108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs
518.584.9330

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

 

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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: What to Do in Mahopac: A 24-Hour Guide to the Putnam County Town

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