Tips for Traveling to Saratoga with Pets
Don't want to leave your pet at home with a sitter or at a kennel during your visit to Saratoga Springs? The Spa City is a pet-friendly destination, with plenty of lodging, dining, and recreation activities that are perfect for you and your pet to enjoy together.
Find a Pet-Friendly Place to Stay
There are several hotels in Saratoga that welcome four-legged family members. You'll want to check beforehand to see if the hotel you choose has any additional fees or deposits required to book a pet-friendly room. Some also have a limited supply of pet-friendly rooms, so you'll need to book early to secure your first choice of dates.
Regardless of what type of lodging you're interest in -- an inexpensive motel, a full-service chain hotel, or a premiere local hotel, inn, or resort -- there are plenty of options to fit your needs in and around Saratoga.
Don't forget to pack everything your pet will need for the duration of your stay, including food, bedding, and toys. You may also want to request a copy of your lodging property's pet policy in advance so you won't be surprised by any regulations or restrictions.
Browse pet-friendly lodging options in Saratoga >>
Dine Out with Your Four-Legged Friend
Photo credit: SaratogaPhotographer.com
Saratoga Springs' thriving patio scene makes it a natural hotspot for pet-friendly dining. New York State law leaves it up to individual restaurants to decide whether to allow dogs at both the inside and outside portions of their establishments, so you'll want to check beforehand to be sure the restaurant of your choice can accommodate your pet. It might go without saying, but you should only bring your dog to a restaurant if he or she is friendly and well-behaved.
Whether you're strolling down Broadway or exploring the side streets, you're sure to find a restaurant that both appeals to you and will allow your pet to tag along.
Find pet-friendly restaurants in Saratoga >>
Take in Saratoga's Atmosphere During a Walk in a Local Park
Photo credit: SaratogaPhotographer.com
Saratoga has no shortage of scenic parks, and many of them are a great place to bring your dog for a walk (as long as you clean up after them and obey leash laws). Discover local history at Saratoga National Historical Park and take in beautiful gardens and fountains at Congress Park.
Although areas of Saratoga Spa State Park are pet-friendly, the Saratoga Spa State Park Dog Park is located right across Route 9 from the main park and is a great option for socializing your pup with other dogs.
Experience Downtown Saratoga with Your Pet
Strolling down Broadway is perhaps one of the most quintessential Saratoga experiences, and it's a great way to see the city with your pet. Be aware that other pedestrians will also be walking their dogs.
Although not all Downtown businesses are dog-friendly, some of them are! Impressions of Saratoga, for example, encourages dog owners to bring their four-legged family members inside. The entryway is filled with photos of pooches who have visited in the past.
Take a Hike & Explore Saratoga's Natural Resources Together
Looking to get out of the city for an afternoon and experience the natural beauty of the Saratoga area? There are tons of nature trails and preserves scattered throughout the county where you can take in forests, wetlands, the Hudson River, and more.
Remember to keep your dog leashed at all times, clean up after them, and ensure they don't disturb local wildlife.
Check out local trails & nature preserves >>
Take Advantage of Local Pet Services
If you think your pet will need grooming while you're in Saratoga, plan ahead and see what pet spas are located nearby. If you're planning on taking a day trip to a nearby destination that isn't appropriate for your four-legged friend, you can also take advantage of local pet sitting and boarding services.
It's also wise to familiarize yourself with local veterinarians before your trip, just in case. Pinpoint a veterinarian near your hotel and keep their contact information on hand for the duration of your stay.