Find Family-Friendly Summer Fun in the Saratoga Region
It's not just for thoroughbred horse racing fans - Saratoga Springs is a fun-filled summer destination for the whole family. When you are visiting the Spa City with the kids, these family-friendly itinerary ideas will make it easy to keep them busy and entertained as you explore the region.
Get the Family Together for a Saratoga Summer Staple
Horse racing is an activity that people of all ages can enjoy, making the Saratoga Race Course a great stop during your summer of fun.
The racetrack hosts Berkshire Bank Family Sundays to add to the family-friendly atmosphere. Every Sunday during the summer, the Berkshire Bank Family Zone features a new theme with exciting games, attractions, and educational activities.
Take Your Adventures Into the Treetops at WildPlay Thacher
Thacher State Park in nearby Voorheesville has more to offer than just nature trails. WildPlay Thacher's ropes courses allow you raise your adventure high into the air!
With three different courses designated based on difficulty, there is something at WildPlay Thacher for everyone. Whether you are looking for a day of fun for your children on the kids course, or craving a thrill yourself on the extreme course, adventure awaits at this attraction.
Traverse ziplines or test out the "What's to Fear Jump" and experience a 40-foot plunge from the treetops. For extreme summer fun, WildPlay Thacher is hard to beat!
Travel Back in Time at Lake George Expedition Park
Located just south of Lake George Village, Lake George Expedition Park provides adventure and discovery for imaginations of all ages!
Embark on an expedition through Dino Roar Valley and learn what it would be like to live in prehistoric times. Check out dinosaur tracks, witness dinosaur roars first-hand, and dig up fossils all on a .5-mile long nature trail. Whether you are a dinosaur enthusiast or not, this fantasy world has something fun to teach everyone.
Want to leave the dinosaurs in the past? Explore the Magic Forest instead where there are rides, shops, shows, and other attractions. With rides that take you through and above the luscious, magical forest, these rides are sure to create a nostalgic and exciting fantasy world for you and your kids.
Experience a Day of Swimming & Sunshine at Brown's Beach
Brown's Beach on Saratoga Lake offers a day of relaxation for kids and adults. Pick up a few floats, beach toys, and swimmies at the store, and the kids will have a blast all afternoon.
After spending some time at the beach, grab a frosty treat at Brown's Beach's Ugly Ice Cream. Newly opened, this ice cream and snack shack is the perfect way to cool off after a day at the beach. Open every day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., you could even get multiple ice creams in one day!
Cool Off at a Kid-Friendly Public Pool
Splash around in the Peerless Pool at Saratoga Spa State Park on a hot summer afternoon. The pool has a zero-depth entrance where the youngest can splash and play, as well as a baby pool with a mushroom-shaped fountain.
Many past visitors to the pool have noted its different shaded areas and general cleanliness as major draw factors.
Check out the walking and hiking trails in the park before you leave - they're easy, scenic, and perfect for kids!
Book a Scenic Ride With Saratoga Corinth & Hudson Railway
How would you like to spend 60-90 minutes relaxing and soaking up amazing views of the area? If you're in the mood for a scenic adventure with the entire family, book a train ride with Saratoga Corinth & Hudson Railway this summer.
Located in Corinth, the railroad company offers a variety of train rides that are suited for families and will allow you to see the beauty of the southern Adirondacks. Passengers are welcome to bring food, snacks, and their favorite beverage.
One 5-star Google review states, "We’ve been on a few different railways, and this is by far our new favorite. The train cars were beautiful! The ride was smooth, and we enjoyed the duration. The staff was incredible and very nice!"
Discover Saratoga's Rich History at a Nearby Park
Visit Saratoga National Historical Park in Stillwater, NY - when the teacher asks your child what he or she did over summer vacation, your kid will be ready.
The Battle of Saratoga is commemorated here. It is considered to be one of the 15 most decisive battles in world history. The site includes a Visitor Center, a driving tour, a monument, and a restored General's home. Activities and events geared toward kids are often held.
Past visitors commend the park for having so many different historic stops that all tell an amazing story.
Enjoy Interactive Learning at the Children's Museum at Saratoga
The Children's Museum at Saratoga is perfect for the little ones in your family ages seven and under - it's a delight in exploration!
Interactive exhibits let kids run their own grocery store, be a bank teller, and even experience a 1950s diner. Science, history, arts, and community are all represented in a fun and educational format.
One Google reviewer claims, "I couldn't be more impressed with this treasure if I wanted to! Kudos for an amazing space, with tons of interactive play and tiny-sized imagination adventures."
Go for a Stroll Through Downtown Saratoga
Get to know downtown Saratoga Springs! Enjoy a leisurely stroll down Broadway, where you can find wonderful ice cream shops, a toy store, a candy shop, and bookstores perfect for browsing with little ones. They'll love the famous Saratoga horse sculptures scattered around, too.
You can also make a day of it by visiting local shops and boutiques, stopping at one of the many spas, or viewing some beautiful artwork in a gallery. With so many different shops and destinations, the possibilities are endless!
Ride on the Congress Park Carousel
The Congress Park Carousel was made in 1910 - anyone who loves antique carousels knows this one is a gem! There are 28 horses with real horsehair tails, making this a magical experience for little ones.
While you're at Congress Park riding the horses, make a day of it. Pack a picnic lunch, tour the gardens, and watch for butterflies and hummingbirds.
Plan a Summer Vacation with the Family
You don't have to do just one activity during your summer trip to Saratoga. If you're looking to have fun throughout a weekend or a whole week in the Spa City, then you'll need a great place to stay.
Saratoga Springs is renowned for having so much to do that it is impossible to do it all in one day, making a longer trip a great option.
Browse local lodging options, find the best one for your family, and start planning your vacation itinerary today!