Saratoga Springs NY is a destination city known for its natural mineral springs, famous Racetrack, and the elegant Saratoga bed and breakfasts and other gracious Victorian Architecture that line the streets. On the foot of the Adirondack Mountains, Saratoga Springs NY has been visited by the social elite since the early 20th century when they left the big cities to relax and enjoy the quieter solitude of Upstate NY. The Whitney's, Vanderbilt's, Rockefellers, J.P. Morgan, were among the elite families that traveled to Saratoga Springs NY bringing wealth, elegance and glamour to the area. Learn more about the History of Saratoga. Today, Saratoga Springs NY still does not have a single skyscraper.
In its early existence, the Iroquois Indians used the mineral springs for medicinal purposes; the springs in Saratoga were thought to deliver restorative powers. Due to the abundance of the mineral springs, along with the establishment of mineral bath houses, Saratoga Springs NY earned the title "Queen of the Spas". The mineral springs can be experienced today at two of the historic bath houses: The Lincoln Bath House and The Roosevelt Baths and Spa. These bath houses are close to many of our featured Saratoga bed and breakfasts. Today, the springs run through the Saratoga State Park.
The Saratoga Racetrack is one of the main attractions in Saratoga Springs NY. It is the oldest thoroughbred racetrack in the country and lives up to its old-world charm. The Saratoga Racetrack adds an exciting element to Saratoga Springs NY and draws extensive crowds to the area every racing season.
The Saratoga Gaming and Raceway is a new attraction in Saratoga Springs. Established in 2004, it was the first gaming facility to open in New York State. The Saratoga Gaming and Raceway has over 1,300 video gaming machines inside and was quickly nicknamed the RACINO. The facility includes bars, valet parking, eateries and a gift shop. The interior was designed in a Victorian Architecture theme. The Saratoga Gaming and Raceway has been a positive addition to the area and is a great Saratoga attraction to visit when staying at a Saratoga bed and breakfast.
Downtown is lined with unique shops, Saratoga restaurants and bistros making this a perfect spot to spend the day. The Victorian Architecture is prevalent in the many estates found in downtown Saratoga. Many of these estates have transformed into Saratoga bed and breakfasts.
There are many attractions in Saratoga Springs NY. The Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) is a great venue for its performances by the New York City Ballet, festivals and contempory Pop/Rock artists. SPAC offers indoor and outdoor concerts and is known for its excellent acoustics.
Saratoga Springs NY also has historic museums including the National Museum of Dance and the National Museum of Racing. Saratoga Springs NY has been enticing visitors to the area by staging art festivals and sporting events, among other Saratoga events and attractions.
There is so much to do, see and experience -- and many wonderful Saratoga Bed and Breakfasts to stay in!