There’s a whole lot to love about Saratoga, with its elegant turn-of-the-century homes, a buzzing downtown, and the impressive circa 1863 Saratoga Racetrack.
A sprawling Victorian beauty on park-like grounds, it’s home to 40 race days between July 11 and September 2. Admission to the grandstand is just $7, and $10 gets you into the clubhouse.
Photo courtesy of the Brentwood Hotel
During the summer, the town is full of glorious horses, and if you’d like to revel in their beauty close up, book a room at the lovely little Brentwood Hotel.
Just steps away from the track, a room at the Brentwood means you can watch the thoroughbreds arrive from their barns by just opening your door. Grab a cup of coffee and pull up an outdoor chair. As the horses clip-clop past in the early-morning light, it’s truly magical. And if the track is among your destinations, the entrance is right across the street.
Grab breakfast at Kru Coffee.
Photo courtesy of Kru Coffee
The Brentwood is a 12-room charmer that’s been lovingly renovated with a hipster take on a tack room. Comfortable rough-hewn beds, vintage paintings, artfully faded rugs, and black accents add panache to the cozy rooms.
Bikes are available free of charge — and there’s a welcoming bar, where guests gather at night for artisan cocktails.
Don’t skip a mineral bath at The Roosevelt Baths and Spa.
Photo courtesy of The Roosevelt Baths and Spa
For breakfast, head to Kru Coffee. This industrial-chic space has rich blends, delish pastries, and top-notch breakfast sandwiches. For dinner, the casually elegant Salt & Char serves dry-aged beef and well-prepared fish. Up for shopping? Spoken has cool summery clothes at great prices. Silverwood Home offers equestrian gifts and more.
And don’t miss the whole reason the city is called Saratoga Springs by booking a mineral soak at The Roosevelt Baths and Spa. For just $40, you can settle into a private tub filled with the area’s famous effervescent spring water. Warm and restorative, it’ll set you up to make the most of the many pleasures this unique place has to offer.
Photo courtesy of Saratoga Racetrack
Race season rates from $319/night; www.brentwood-hotel.com
