You’ve got the group text set up, and you’ve confirmed the dates. Now, it’s time to start planning the itinerary for your girls weekend! The Capital-Saratoga Region has six counties full of delicious dining, fantastic shopping, and loads of great activities to keep you and your friends relaxed and entertained. And the best part? The region is easily accessible from New York City, whether it’s a relaxing, scenic train ride or a fun road trip with a playlist of all your favorite songs. Here are some ideas to keep in mind when choosing a destination:
Fulton County
Kick off your girls weekend with a day in Fulton County! Mohawk Harvest Cooperative Market in Gloversville offers a delicious breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch menu that is the perfect way to fuel up before heading off on your adventures. Make sure you stop in at Micropolis Art Gallery, located in the same building, for some shopping. You’ll find an amazing array of artwork for sale by local artisans. If you’re looking to have some fun in the great outdoors, Fulton County is also home to Royal Mountain. The friendly atmosphere of this small town ski area will fit nicely with your girl-time bonding vibe, while experiencing a fun day on the slopes!
Saratoga County
Boasting fantastic shopping and dining options, and a renowned reputation for spas and relaxation, Saratoga is the ultimate stop on your girls getaway. Book a stay at the Pavilion Grand Hotel, featuring suite-style, multi-room lodging, the perfect option for your group stay. Located just off Broadway in bustling Saratoga Springs, you’ll be in the heart of all the action. Saratoga is steeped in history, and a major part of that is the famous mineral waters in the city. During the mid-19th century, visitors began flocking to Saratoga, the “Queen of the Spas,” to bathe and drink the mineral waters, believing that the water contained healing properties. Your girls weekend wouldn’t be complete without this first-rate experience, so be sure to book a spa treatment at Roosevelt Baths and Spa, located in Saratoga Spa State Park.
Washington County
For a breathtaking view of art and nature, be sure to include a trip to Salem Art Works on your itinerary. Take a stroll through Cary Hill Sculpture Park, and see some of the magnificent work created by regional, national, and international artists. Along with the beautiful sculptures, you’ll also be treated to magnificent views of the Washington County landscape. A day filled with the arts and the outdoors can only end with a meal full of fresh, local ingredients. Sweet Beet Bistro is just the place, with a seasonal lunch and dinner menu, as well as a cheese and charcuterie menu brimming with local flavor. The easygoing vibe, coupled with the outstanding food, makes this the perfect spot for a memorable meal with friends.
Schenectady County
Experience the excitement of Broadway in the Capital-Saratoga Region! Proctors Theatre in Schenectady hosts touring productions of your favorite hit shows; recent performances of Hamilton, Frozen, and The Band’s Visit have thrilled audiences. It’s the perfect way to work in some big city fun into your itinerary! If your group is feeling lucky, a stop at Rivers Casino & Resort is definitely in order. There’s something for everyone, including the thrill of table games and slot machines, a variety of delicious dining experiences, and exciting live entertainment. The Landing Hotel offers rooms and suites with views of the Mohawk Harbor, making it a great place to relax after a long day of fun.
Rensselaer County
What would a girls weekend be without great food? The Central Troy Historic District Food Tour, offered by Taste of Troy Food Tours is the perfect way to experience the rich history of the city, along with its resurgent culinary scene. When you’re finished sampling the best of Troy’s fine dining, be sure to shop at the nearby Troy Waterfront Farmers’ Market, which is open year round. Troy Savings Bank Music Hall is renowned for its acoustics, so why not take in a performance and judge for yourself? Hosting a wide range of artists, recent performances have included Nathalie Merchant, India.Arie, and the Indigo Girls, making this a great way to incorporate some nightlife and culture into your getaway.
Albany County
The craft beverage scene throughout the Capital-Saratoga Region is strong, but if you don’t have time to take it all in, improvise! Create a mini itinerary with some stops in Albany, including Nine Pin Cider, Albany Distilling Company, and Fort Orange Brewing Company. After an afternoon taking in some of Albany’s finest craft beverage producers, you and your girlfriends will be ready for a delicious bite to eat. New World Bistro & Bar features a globally inspired menu created with local ingredients. The fresh flavors of this farm-to-table experience are not to be missed!
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!
