Your Family Fun Guide to the Region

Summer is THE season for families in the Capital-Saratoga Region. Yearly events, special activities and key attractions make any family getaway unforgettable.

FULTON COUNTY

Crystal Grove Diamond Mine & Campground161 County Highway 114, St. Johnsville, NY 13452 
The kids will love mining for their own “diamonds”! Spend the day in the “Herkimer Diamond” mines, then enjoy dinner at the campsite. Whether your family is more tent, RV or cabin, there’s space for everyone.

Adirondack Animal Land – 3554 State Highway 30, Gloversville, NY 12078
The family will be amazed at all of the animals. Visit with emu, fennec fox, spider monkeys, giraffe, kangaroo and more. Hand feed baby animals and drive through a safari.

 

SARATOGA COUNTY

Congress Park – 315 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Ride the antique carousel, sample some of the famous natural mineral springs, visit with the ducks, grab a picnic lunch and eat it at the park.Then, walk up Caroline Street and visit the Children’s Museum of Saratoga.

Spa State Park – Roosevelt Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
Enjoy the trail along the scenic Avenue of Pines, go for a swim, visit the Outdoor Classroom and playground near the spouting geyser, sample the mineral springs, or check out a museum. The Saratoga Automobile Museum or the National Museum of Dance both have children’s areas.

 

RENSSELAER COUNTY

Barker Park Kids Summer Series | Every Thursday 7/6 – 8/24 at 11AM – 30 Second Street, Troy, NY 12180
Every week there is a new kid-friendly performance happening in downtown Troy. From special story hours to dance alongs, singalongs, and even art sessions, there is a little something for everyone.

Summer Sampler Series – 9 1/2 Riverside Ave, Rensselaer, NY 12144
Summer Sampler is a week long morning program for 6-12 year olds.  Each day focuses on a different theme:  17th Century Painting, Colonial Trade, Everyday Life, Textiles & Clothing and 18th century Military. Reservations – 518-463-8738.

 

WASHINGTON COUNTY

The Covered Bridges of Washington County – 383 Broadway, Fort Edward, NY 12828Drive, cycle or walk all 5 Covered Bridges of Washington County. Three wooden covered bridges cross the famous Battenkill in southern Washington County, one crosses the Hoosic River, and one foot bridge spanning the Owl Kill in downtown Cambridge.

Washington County Fair – August 21-27, 2017 – 392 Old Schuylerville Rd, Greenwich, NY 12834
Come and enjoy the experience of Washington County, its people, its rural character and its great agricultural traditions.

 

ALBANY COUNTY

Park Playhouse
Get ready for a toe tapping good time with summer musicals like Ragtime, The Music Man and The Lion King. Enjoy lawn seating for FREE! Bring a blanket and some snacks and settle in for a great show.

USS Slater – DE766 – Broadway and Quay, Albany, NY 12202
Step aboard a Destroyer Escort and step back in time. During WWII these ships battled Nazi U-boats and stood in line to defend in the Pacific. The USS Slater has undergone intense restoration and is open for tours and more.

 

SCHENECTADY COUNTY

Mountain Ridge Adventure Course – 300 Weatherwax Road, Schenectady, NY 12302
Featuring 6 treetop adventure courses and 9 zip lines crisscrossing a 500’ long gorge, Mountain Ridge has something for every level of adventurer. Fun is the objective, so their state-of-the-art safety technology ensures every participant is locked onto a safety cable 100% of the time.

Via Aquarium, Rotterdam – 93 W. Campbell Road, Schenectady, NY 12306
Embark on an exciting self-guided tour, visiting over 2,000 creatures of the sea. The aquarium provides an immersive experience for people of all ages, bringing you up-close with ecosystems like lakes, rivers, streams, kelp forests and coral reefs.

Navigating the Erie Canal: Experiencing Our Most Famous Waterway

The Capital-Saratoga Region continues to celebrate the bicentennial of the Erie Canal. Construction first began in 1817 and it was officially opened in 1825. The canal has great historical significance in the area, so naturally, there are a lot of places you can go to learn more about this great engineering achievement, as well as enjoy the natural beauty of the waterway. Here are some suggestions as you chart your course along the canal.


Erie Canal Stops in the Capital-Saratoga Region

ALBANY COUNTY


New York State Museum –
222 Madison Ave., Albany, NY
The exhibit Enterprising Waters tells the story of the enormous undertaking of building the canal and the economic and transportation benefits it brought to the areas along its waters. Filled with fascinating objects and documents, the centerpiece of the exhibit is an enormous windlass, a pulley mechanism that made it easy for businesses along the canal to lift heavy cargo.


Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site –
32 Catherine St., Albany, NY
The Schuyler Mansion was home to Revolutionary War General Philip Schuyler and his family. While he’s currently most well-known as the father-in-law of Alexander Hamilton, Schuyler played an instrumental role in financing the construction of the Erie Canal in its early stages. Tour the Georgian-style mansion and stop by the visitor center for a more in-depth look at Schuyler’s legacy.

You can also learn more about the building of the canal from Discover Albany.

 

RENSSELAER COUNTY


The Melville House –
114th St. and 1st Ave., Lansingburgh, NY
After the death of his father in 1838, famed American novelist Herman Melville moved with his mother and siblings to Lansingburgh, where he wrote his first two novels, Typee and Omoo. In Melville’s time, Lansingburgh was a major port on the Hudson River as the Erie Canal continued to expand. Visits to the house are by appointment, unless there is a special event.

 

SARATOGA COUNTY


Peebles Island State Park –
1 Delaware Ave. North, Cohoes, NY
Located at the confluence of the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers, Peebles Island State Park offers nature lovers and canal enthusiasts alike scenic river and rapids views. There are miles of paths to hike or jog, and snowshoe or cross-country ski in winter.


Waterford Harbor Visitors Center –
1 Tugboat Alley, Waterford, NY
For boaters looking to chart a course along the canal, Waterford is an ideal place to begin. The Port of Waterford is the first stop as you head west on the Erie Canal from the Hudson River. The Visitors Center provides ample dockage and there are shops and restaurants a short walk or bike ride away.

 

SCHENECTADY COUNTY


Mohawk Harbor –
Rivers Casino and Resort, 1 Rush St., Schenectady, NY
The Mohawk Harbor project is almost complete, and for Erie Canal lovers looking for some fun, this is the spot! There’s already plenty of hotel and dining options, including Rivers Casino and Resort. Donovan’s Shady Harbor Marina offers kayak rentals and a bike share program.

 

Mabee Farm Historic Site – 1100 Main St. (Route 5S), Rotterdam Junction, NY
Dating back to 1705, Mabee Farm is oldest farm in the Mohawk Valley. Situated along the Mohawk River, the farm has year-round exhibitions, lecture series, workshops, and school programs, as well as extensive historical and archaeological collections. Located on the south side of the river, the site is accessible for boaters, though you’ll need to check beforehand that the dock is operational.

 


Canalway Challenge

A great way to explore the entire canal, the Canalway Challenge is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or families looking to explore segments of the Erie Canal. Participants can hike, bike, and paddle the mileage of their choice, or for the ultimate challenge travel 360 miles from end to end!

Celebrating the Erie Canal Bicentennial

There are so many ways to explore the man-made marvel that is the Erie Canal, whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking to have some fun. Whatever stops you make, be sure to tag us in your photos using #CapitalSaratogaRegion and #TheHistoryCapital, then find us on Facebook and Instagram.

 

Kid-Friendly Stops for Your Capital-Saratoga Getaway

Header image: miSci

There’s no shortage when it comes to kid-friendly destinations and activities in the Capital-Saratoga Region. Kids love the hands on approach at museums, parks and other area attractions. Here’s the not-to-miss kid’s destinations from all around the region.


Everyone Loves Animals

Adirondack Animal Land
Vails Mills, New York | info
Come face-to-face with animals from all over the world. With the largest petting zoo in the Adirondacks where you can feed baby animals (awwww!) and visit their breeding center for rare and endangered animals. They also have an African Safari Ride with over 100 animals to observe.

Via Aquarium
Schenectady, New York | info
Over 2,000 creatures call Via Aquarium home. With hands-on exhibits where your hands are literally in the water, kids can experience stingrays, starfish, crabs and more. Another hit is Shark Alley, where the sharks can swim all around you and even overhead.

 

Marvelous Museums for Kids

The Children’s Museum at Saratoga
Saratoga Springs, New York | info
There’s a special place designed for the smaller kids – ages birth to 9 – the Children’s Museum at Saratoga. Stand inside a bubble, examine x-rays, or hop on the trolley and explore every corner of your imagination.

miSci
Schenectady, New York | info
Explore science in new and interesting ways. The Suits-Bueche Planetarium at miSci features the GOTO Star Projector, which offers a real-life view of the night sky not available anywhere else in the northeast. Exhibits are specially designed for different age groups, interests and needs.

Children’s Museum of Science and Technology
Troy, New York | info
This one is designed for kids ages 18 months and into their tween years. Exhibits feature science in a way that builds imagination, problem solving and curiosity. Check their detailed calendar for special daily programming you won’t want to miss.

The New York State Museum
Albany, New York | info
This is the oldest and largest museum in state history, founded in 1836. Art, history and science come together in experiential exhibits the whole family can enjoy. Be sure to check for special programming and events during your trip. Even better, this museum is free to enter. Donations are accepted.

 

Explore the Outdoors

Grafton Lakes State Park
Cropseyville, New York | info
With over 2,500 acres of forests and lakes, you can have almost any adventure you can imagine at Grafton Lakes State Park. Family activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, swimming, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, ice skating and fishing and more.

Saratoga Spa State Park
Saratoga Springs, New York | info
Play outside in every way you can think of – a playground, streams, fishing, open grassy lawns, swimming pools, walking and biking trails, a par 29 golf course (with children’s golf leagues), tennis courts, and more. Creekside Classroom is a great place to learn and explore even more about the park.

Thacher State Park
Voorheesville, New York | info
Here you’ll find fabulous views, hiking, snowshoeing and more to do, but it’s also worth making a stop with the kids at the Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center where you can observe a live honeybee hive, view the area’s birds in action and explore fossils, furs and more native to New York.

 


Traveling with Kids in the Capital-Saratoga Region

As you can see, there’s plenty to keep little minds, hands and bodies busy while you explore the region as a family on your next getaway or staycation. As always, we love to see your photos – post them online, and you never know, maybe you’ll be featured on our next #FollowerFriday on Facebook or Instagram.

 

Bring on Summer: Your Getaway Guide to the Region

SPAC

Fascinating history. Captivating performances. You really can experience it all in the Capital-Saratoga Region! Our six counties are full of fun attractions that will fill your summer itinerary. With so many options to choose from, we’ve compiled a list to make the most out of your getaway.


ALBANY COUNTY

Dutch Apple Cruises – 1 Quay Street, Albany, NY 12202
With so much history in our state’s capital, you’ll want to see as much of the city as you can. A Dutch Apple Cruise is the perfect way to start, as you view the Albany skyline while cruising the scenic and historic Hudson River. Dutch Apple Cruises offer several different options for sightseeing, including dinner and sunset cruises.

Olde English Pub and Pantry – 683 Broadway, Albany, NY 12207
Located in a historic 1730s house, Olde English Pub and Pantry specializes in British beers and cuisine. Enjoy a delicious meal in their garden patio, while you plot your next stop on your itinerary.

 

FULTON COUNTY

Johnson Hall State Historic Site – 139 Hall Avenue, Johnstown, NY 12095
An important figure in the history of colonial New York, William Johnson’s relationship with the Iroquois greatly strengthened the British monarchy’s power in North America. History buffs can visit Johnson’s estate, built in 1763, where he lived with his wife, Molly Brant, and their eight children.

 

RENSSELAER COUNTY

June Farms – 275 Parker Road, West Sand Lake, NY 12196
Located on a scenic 120 acre farm, June Farms is the perfect place to rest up after a full day of exploring the Capital-Saratoga Region. There are several styles of cabins available to rent, and guests can enjoy The Pony Barn, a charming cocktail lounge serving delicious wood-fired pizzas. Stroll the grounds of this working farm and take in the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley.

 

SARATOGA COUNTY

Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) – 108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
For more than 50 years, SPAC has presented inspiring performances of all kinds: classical, rock, pop, jazz, world music, and more. Set against the backdrop of scenic Saratoga Spa State Park, SPAC brings a full slate of sensational performances to the region.

 

SCHENECTADY COUNTY

Museum of Innovation and Science – 15 Nott Terrace Heights, Schenectady, NY 12308
The perfect place for a family stop on your itinerary, MiSci is full of hands-on fun for kids of all ages! Experience the interactive exhibits, or see a star-studded show in the Suits-Bueche Planetarium.

 

WASHINGTON COUNTY

Hubbard Hall Center for the Arts and Education – 25 East Main Street, Cambridge, NY 12816
Each season at Hubbard Hall features captivating productions from their Main Stage theater, as well as chamber music concerts and performances from Opera Saratoga. Located in a historic opera house, Hubbard Hall is a hub for the arts in Washington County.

The Strand Theatre – 210 Main Street, Hudson Falls, NY 12839
The historic Strand Theatre in Hudson Falls showcases lively performances from rock bands, jazz and classical ensembles, as well as dance troupes. With such a wide range of experiences  to enjoy, there’s something for everyone!


Don’t miss your opportunity to enjoy some of the best art and cultural attractions in the Capital-Saratoga Region! Plan your summer getaway today and experience it all!

VIEW LOCATIONS ON GOOGLE MAPS

The Great Outdoors: Our Region’s Best Adventures

The Capital-Saratoga Region is brimming with outdoor adventure! From picturesque hiking trails and breathtaking parks to glimmering lakes and streams and challenging bike paths, the great outdoors will have a whole new meaning when you visit our area.

Albany County

John Boyd Thacher State Park1 Hailes Cave Rd. Rte 157, Voorheesville, NY

Thacher State Park, is situated along the Helderberg Escarpment, one of the richest fossil-bearing formations in the world. Even as it safeguards six miles of limestone cliff-face, rock-strewn slopes, woodland and open fields, the park provides a marvelous panorama of the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys and the Adirondack and Green Mountains. The park has volleyball courts, playgrounds, ball fields and numerous picnic areas with nine reservable shelters. Interpretive programs are offered year-round, including guided tours of the famous Indian Ladder Trail. There are over twelve additional miles of trails for summer hiking and mountain biking, and winter cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, and snowmobiling.

Fulton County

Nine Corner LakeSt. Rt. 29A, West of St. Rt. 10, Town of Caroga, NY
This stunning location is a gradual uphill climb passing a waterfall from mountain streams. Nine Corner Lake has crystal clear water with several large rock outcroppings along the shore, and its deep water makes for great swimming. The area is a popular spot for bouldering. The trail continues along the south side of the lake enabling a longer hike, if desired.

Saratoga County

Saratoga Spa State Park19 Roosevelt Dr, Saratoga Springs, NY

There’s so much to do at Saratoga Spa State Park! Visitors will enjoy plentiful outdoor trails, fishing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, skating, mineral springs, two pools, two museums, two golf courses, home to SPAC, Home Made Theater, Roosevelt Baths and Spa and more!

Rensselaer County

Schodack Island State Park1 Schodack Island Way, Schodack Landing, NY

Approximately seven miles of Hudson River and Schodack Creek shoreline bound the 1,052-acre site. The park has been designated a State Estuary, and a portion of the park shelters a Bird Conservation Area (BCA) that is home to bald eagles, cerulean warblers and blue herons that nest in the cottonwood trees. Eight miles of multi-use trails wind through a variety of ecological communities. In addition, the park has 66 campsites for use, an improved bike trail, volleyball nets, horseshoe and a kayak/canoe launch site. Interpretive signage highlights the park’s historic and environmental significance.

Washington County

Washington County Grasslands Wildlife Management Area390 Black House Rd, Fort Edward, NY

(WMA) encompasses nearly 300 acres of prime grassland habitat. The area supports almost a dozen threatened and rapidly declining grassland bird species. A half mile trail starting just past the kiosk follows a wooded hedgerow before emerging into the open and cresting a grassy knoll. A viewing platform offers fine views of the surrounding fields and hills to the east. Parking and trailhead are accessed from Blackhouse Road, on the east side of the road just west of the intersection with CR 46.

Schenectady County

Mountain Ridge Adventure Park300 Weatherwax Rd., Schenectady, NY

Mountain Ridge Adventure is the Capital Region’s one and only treetop challenge course and Zip Line Park. Enjoy the outdoors as you zip through the trees and over a 500′ long gorge. Mountain Ridge offers beautiful views and challenge courses for every level of adventurer!

 

Plan your outdoor trip to the Adventure Capital today!

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Quiet Hikes to Raise Your Spirits

For many people, an escape into nature is the perfect remedy for the stresses of daily life. Throughout the Capital-Saratoga Region, you can find your oasis, whether you’re in need of a challenging hike to get the blood pumping or a quiet, contemplative stroll. Here are some parks and preserves to check out if you’re in need of some outside time in #TheAdventureCapital.

Hudson Crossing Park | Schuylerville

With more than two miles of nature trails, Hudson Crossing Park offers incredible views of the Hudson River and Champlain Canal. The Riverwalk Sensory Trail has been designed to give people with mobility and visual impairments an outdoor experience, and the park also serves as the halfway point of the Champlain Canalway Trail. Part of the larger Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, a stroll or bike ride in Hudson Crossing Park can lead to a longer expedition on the larger trailway system.

Schodack Island State Park | Schodack Landing

Views of the Hudson River and Schodack Creek provide a tranquil backdrop for a scenic walk along the water at Schodack Island State Park. There are eight miles of trails available to hikers, and an abundance of nature to observe as you go. Within the park is a Bird Conservation Area, where bald eagles, cerulean warblers and blue herons can be seen at various times of the year.

Willie Wildlife Marsh | Gloversville

Take some time to explore Willie Wildlife Marsh, located within Peck Hill State Forest. There are three boardwalks from which you can observe the inhabitants of this wetland habitat, including a wheelchair accessible viewing platform. Interpretative stops along the trail provide information about the species of plants and animals that live in the marsh, giving visitors the opportunity to learn something new on their hike.

Indian Kill Nature Preserve | Schenectady

Get outside and observe nature with a hike at the Indian Kill Nature Preserve. Featuring 100 acres situated along the Indian Kill, the preserve includes several diverse habitats. While hitting the trails, hikers can take in hardwood forests, conifer plantations, and wetlands. Spring is the perfect time to pause and take in the abundant wildflowers and other plant life along the trails. The preserve provides an ideal opportunity to unplug and quiet the mind.

John Boyd Thacher State Park | Voorheesville

For many years, visitors to John Boyd Thacher State Park have been inspired by the incredible views found along the trails. A look at the park’s official Instagram page offers a glimpse at the beauty that awaits hikers looking to connect with nature. From the scenic overlook, visitors can observe the Hudson-Mohawk Valleys, as well as the Adirondack and Green Mountains. With over 25 miles of trails, Thacher State Park is the outdoor escape you need.

If you’re in need of an inspiring hike or stroll or are just going stir-crazy from being indoors, there’s a world of natural beauty just waiting at the parks and preserves in the Capital-Saratoga Region. In trying times, exploring the outdoors is the perfect reminder of the wonders that exist beyond your front door.

Fulton County: Four Seasons of Travel Inspiration

About 30 minutes due west of Saratoga Springs and 45 minutes northwest of Albany, the “Land of 44 Lakes” in Fulton County offers fun for the whole season. Here’s some inspiration as you plot your itinerary for winter, spring summer or fall:

Royal Mountain

Looking for an outdoor adventure to liven up your getaway? Whether you’re a beginner or experienced skier, Royal Mountain is the perfect spot to get in a few runs during your trip. Known for its friendly, hometown atmosphere, this small mountain has been charming visitors for over 30 years. Throughout the season, Renegade Racing presents Snow Drag Racing, complete with classes for all abilities.

Kane Mountain

For a family-friendly hike in Fulton County, look no further than Kane Mountain. The fire tower at the summit offers breathtaking views of the Canada Lake region, as well as Peck and Caroga Lakes. The trail is open year-round, but for leaf peepers, autumn provides a fantastic opportunity to view the blazing colors of the fall foliage from a unique vantage point.

Caroga Lake & Pine Lake

With a nickname like the Land of 44 Lakes, you’d expect Fulton County to be full of opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. And it’s true! One option for families is Caroga Lake State Campground, which features over 100 campsites, picnic area, guarded swimming during the summer, and kayak and canoe rentals. Several species of fish call Caroga Lake home, including smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and chain pickerel. Pine Lake Park is another great spot for anglers, with crystal clear water for fishing and swimming. Beachgoers will find a concession stand, mini golf course, and kayak rentals to keep them well-fed and entertained.

Rogers Family Orchard

One of the best ways to experience the flavors of Fulton County is at Rogers Family Orchard. Enjoy the crisp, juicy bite of an apple picked fresh from the orchard, or the heavenly taste of an Apple Cider Donut, baked on site. During the summer months, blueberries and blackberries are also available for picking, with the fall being prime apple and pumpkin season. For craft beverage enthusiasts, Rogers’ Cideryard is on site, offering delicious hard cider and pub food.

 

Whether it’s fresh, farm to table dining, exciting nightlife, adventures in the great outdoors, a relaxing spa day or our abundance of craft beverage options, the Capital-Saratoga Region has everything you need for a memorable getaway with your friends. Plan your girls weekend itinerary today! 

Bundle Up: Your Winter Sports Guide to the Capital-Saratoga Region

Why stay cooped up in the winter time? There’s plenty of opportunity to get outside in the Capital-Saratoga Region…even during the winter! We’ve compiled a list of spots you have to try if you like your great outdoors with a fresh blanket of snow!


Albany County

Albany Pine Bush Preserve | Albany

Don’t let cabin fever get you down! The wide trails at the Albany Pine Bush Preserve are perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. If a hike is more your speed, there are 20 miles of multi-use trails to choose from, with easy, moderate and challenging options to get your blood pumping. If you need to warm up from your winter activities, stop by The Discovery Center which is full of interactive exhibits that tell the story of the preserve’s geologic importance and explores the plants and animals that call the preserve home.

 

Fulton County 

Royal Mountain Ski Area | Caroga Lake

The friendly atmosphere at Royal Mountain makes it a must-stop on your winter itinerary, particularly if you’re traveling with children. Their Snowsports School offers lessons for beginners and the variety of trails will give thrills to skiers and riders of all levels. Discounted season passes are available for ski enthusiasts who plan to make multiple trips. Royal Mountain also hosts Renegade Racing’s snow drag races, if you’re looking to amp the adrenaline in your winter sports! 

 

Rensselaer County

Grafton Lakes State Park | Cropseyville

Hit the trails in at Grafton Lakes State Park, where cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are popular winter activities, as well as ice fishing and ice skating (weather permitting). Each winter, the park is the site of a popular event, Winterfest, that’s full of games, food and entertainment for the whole family.

 

Saratoga County

Saratoga Spa State Park | Saratoga Springs 

Saratoga Spa State Park is a winter wonderland and the perfect spot for a number of winter activities. There are 12 miles of trails for cross-country skiing and snow-shoeing, as well as ice rinks for skating and hockey. Keep an eye out for educational programming throughout the winter, including snowshoe hikes and other fun events!

 

Schenectady County

Maple Ski Ridge | Schenectady

Get ready for big winter fun at Maple Ski Ridge! The trails at this family-owned ski area are designed for all ages and abilities, whether you’re skiing or snowboarding. New to these sports? Maple Ski Ridge offers lessons with a friendly, experienced staff that will have you swishing down the slopes in no time! 

 

Washington County

Willard Mountain | Greenwich

Skiing, snowboarding AND tubing? Willard Mountain has it all, and with a variety of trails there’s something for everyone to enjoy. There are night skiing and riding passes available, perfect for enthusiasts who want to cram in a few runs after a day of enjoying the sights and flavors of Washington County. Bring the family for a fun-filled day of tubing, and get cozy with a hot beverage and delicious meal in the Thirst Aid Room.


Don’t let a little snow keep you from enjoying everything that #TheAdventureCapital has to offer! Hit the slopes and trails of the Capital-Saratoga Region for a full season of fun for the whole family!

And They’re Off!: An Insider’s Guide to Saratoga Race Course

Saratoga Springs is synonymous with horse racing, with the first meets dating back to 1863. Today, the summer brings hundreds of thousands of spectators to the Saratoga Race Course to witness a season of thrilling races, including the renowned Travers Stakes. Whether you’re enjoying breakfast at the track while watching the horses’ morning workout, or relaxing with a picnic lunch in the paddock, a day at the races is the perfect way to spend a summer day in Saratoga.

 

Start your day at the races off with Breakfast at Saratoga, served on the porch of the Clubhouse. Guests can watch as the horses get ready for their races while enjoying their meal. Tram tours of the stable area are also available to Breakfast at Saratoga guests, with the first tour starting at 7:30AM. Tours fill up quickly, and with the last tram departing at 9:30AM, you’ll want to make sure you plan accordingly so you don’t miss this unique experience!

Throughout the summer, visitors to the historic Saratoga Race Course enjoy the excitement of thoroughbred racing, culminating in the Travers Stakes, one of the oldest races for 3 year olds in the country. While the Travers is considered one of Saratoga’s highlights, there’s plenty of fun to be had throughout the season, as well.

Perfect for a friends’ weekend or a family fun trip, Saratoga Race Course is a summer tradition for many visitors to Saratoga Springs. Start planning your getaway today!

MORE INFO ON SARATOGA RACE COURSE

5 Hidden Gem #LakeLife Spots in Fulton County

For getaways full of outdoor adventures, the Capital-Saratoga Region can’t be beat. For water enthusiasts, Fulton County is a must-stop destination for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, swimming, or simply relaxing by the shore. The Land of 44 Lakes has no shortage of places to enjoy, and here are five particularly stunning spots you won’t want to miss.


Caroga Lake

Caroga Lake is actually two connected lakes, East and West, which means double the fun! On the east side of the lake, camping at Caroga Lake Campground is the perfect way to fully experience the great outdoors, with canoe and kayak rentals and a boat launch to get you out on the water. West Caroga Lake is bustling with lakehouse rentals and anglers can try their hand at catching smallmouth bass or rainbow trout, just some of the species of fish found in the lake.

 

Peck’s Lake

Peck’s Lake offers plenty of opportunities for freshwater fishing, including bass, walleye, rainbow trout, and more. Cottages are available for renting, or if you prefer to rough it under the stars there are campgrounds, as well. Whether you’re looking to have a day of fishing, water skiing, or swimming, there’s a marina with a boat launch to get you out on the water!

 

Pine Lake

Pine Lake Park provides fun for the whole family, with seasonal camping, boat rentals, and more. When you’re done swimming for the day, play a round of mini golf or grab a bite to eat at the snack bar. Also on site is the Adirondack Paradise, a catering hall for weddings, graduation parties, or other family events.

 

Nine Corner Lake

The deep, clear waters of Nine Corner Lake have made it a popular choice for swimming, and a hike along its trails provides beautiful views of streams and a waterfall. For rock climbers, there is ample opportunity for bouldering, as well. Nine Corner Lake is a perfect spot for families looking for a day hike and swim.

 

Canada Lake

With a maximum depth of 140 feet, the deep waters of Canada Lake make it an excellent spot for fishing brown trout and lake trout. A public boat launch is available in West Lake, and from there, boaters can navigate to Canada Lake where spectacular views of the Adirondacks await.


As Fulton County’s nickname suggests, the Land of 44 Lakes has a multitude of options for enjoying the lake life. While summer is the time to make the most out of everything these lakes have to offer, there’s four seasons of fun waiting for visitors!

Header image: Caroga Lake