Saratoga Springs, about 180 miles north of Manhattan — roughly three and a half hours by car — is one of New York’s great summer destinations. Its Saratoga Race Course, dating to 1863, hosts one of America’s most celebrated thoroughbred meets from July to early September. The city is also known for its mineral springs, Saratoga Spa State Park, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) and the nearby Saratoga National Historical Park, site of the pivotal 1777 Battles of Saratoga.

At a glance
Distance from Midtown About 180 miles
Typical drive 3–3.5 hours
Route New York State Thruway (I-87) and the Northway
Racing season Roughly July to Labor Day
Highlights Race course, springs, SPAC, Broadway (main street), battlefield

The race course

Saratoga Race Course is one of the oldest sporting venues in the country. Race days combine elegant clubhouse dining with picnic tables in the backyard. The Travers Stakes in August is a highlight.

Springs and spa

Saratoga’s naturally carbonated mineral springs made it a 19th-century resort. Many springs in Saratoga Spa State Park are free to taste, and the park’s classic bathhouses and Gideon Putnam hotel remain.

Performing arts

SPAC hosts summer seasons of classical music, ballet and major concerts in an amphitheater set in the state park.

History

The Battles of Saratoga in 1777 were a turning point in the American Revolution, persuading France to ally with the Americans. The national historical park preserves the battlefield.

Planning

Racing weekends bring heavy demand for hotels and cars; book early. A long-distance car service lets groups travel together and enjoy the day without driving. See our long-distance car service and read group transportation.