10 Favorite Things to Do in 'Toga: The Local's Guide to Saratoga Springs, NY
From world-class performing arts to cozy cafes and boutique shopping, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in Saratoga Springs, NY. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or you’ve lived here for years, this list highlights local favorites that capture the best of what the Spa City has to offer.
Did your favorites make the list?
1. Dine Your Way Through the Saratoga Restaurant Scene
With more restaurants per capita than any other Upstate NY city, Saratoga is a food lover’s dream. In the summer, patio dining fills Broadway with energy, while winter invites you to cozy up beside a fireplace at a local bistro.
Be sure to explore beyond Broadway—restaurants in the Beekman Arts District like Kraverie and The Local serve up delicious menus in a creative, laid-back setting. Weekends during track season? Try venturing to nearby Ballston Spa for a more relaxed dining experience.
Breakfast in Saratoga deserves its own spotlight. Local favorites open early, so you don’t have to wait for brunch hours to dig into a satisfying meal. Stop into Uncommon Grounds for a bagel sandwich, or feel like a local at Country Corner Cafe or Triangle Diner. Of course, Sweet Mimi’s is always a hit—just arrive early for those cinnamon roll pancakes!
2. Catch a Classical Performance at SPAC
The Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), tucked into Saratoga Spa State Park, is one of the region’s most unique venues. While major LiveNation concerts draw huge crowds, many locals swear by the classical season.
Experience the athletic grace of the NYC Ballet or stretch out on the lawn while the Philadelphia Orchestra plays under the stars. With music rising through the trees and the warm summer breeze, a night at SPAC feels unforgettable.
3. Shop Local for One-of-a-Kind Finds
Downtown Saratoga is full of charming shops, boutiques, and specialty stores, nearly all of them locally owned. It’s a fantastic place to find a unique gift or personal treasure.
Browse deJonghe Original Jewelry for handcrafted Saratoga-inspired pieces, stop by Lyrical Ballad Bookstore for a rare or vintage find, or shop high-end fashion throughout the Saratoga Springs shopping district.
4. Watch Morning Warmups from the Whitney Viewing Stand
Everyone talks about going to the track—but have you ever started your day across the street at the Oklahoma Training Track?
Each morning during the racing season (late July through early September), thoroughbreds warm up just steps away from the grandstand crowds. The Whitney Viewing Stand offers a peaceful and up-close way to experience the sport, especially for early risers looking for a unique perspective on track life.
5. Sip Local at Saratoga’s Craft Beverage Spots
For a city its size, Saratoga punches above its weight when it comes to craft drinks. From breweries to wine bars and distilleries, there's no shortage of spots to sip something special.
Try a glass at Thirsty Owl Bistro, or grab a seat at Druthers to sample their house brews alongside a full menu. The local beverage scene is vibrant, creative, and—if we’re being honest—pretty competitive. But that's what makes it so fun.
Many visitors end up taking a few cans (or bottles) home. Once you taste what Saratoga has to offer, you’ll understand why.
6. Bar Hop Through Caroline & Henry Streets
After dinner, make your way to Caroline and Henry Streets, where Saratoga's nightlife buzzes with energy.
Rooftop bars, patio lounges, and local music venues make this area the place to be. Order a craft cocktail, catch a live set, or mingle with concertgoers fresh off the SPAC lawn. Some Live Nation artists have even been known to show up for a post-show nightcap.
7. Hear Live Music at UpBeat on the Roof
Each summer, the Tang Teaching Museum at Skidmore College hosts UpBeat on the Roof, a free concert series that brings regional talent to the stage—on the rooftop, of course.
You’ll hear everything from folk and funk to indie and jazz. It’s laid-back, creative, and completely free to attend. Locals know it’s one of the best ways to spend a Friday evening outdoors in Saratoga.
8. Grab a Drink and Head to Congress Park
Saratoga is home to some standout coffee and tea shops, perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Try Saratoga Coffee Traders, home of the now-famous Death Wish Coffee, or visit Saratoga Tea & Honey for loose-leaf blends sweetened with local honey. Once you have your drink in hand, stroll over to Congress Park and find a shady bench.
If you're lucky, you might catch an early evening concert or a pop-up Shakespeare performance among the trees.
9. Hike the Trails at Saratoga Spa State Park
Whether you're up for a scenic walk, trail run, or cross-country ski, the Saratoga Spa State Park has over 10 miles of trails and year-round beauty.
Wander through wooded paths, discover mineral springs like the Orenda Spring, or check out the massive tufa deposit nearby. The park is also home to the Victoria Pool, SPAC, and several quiet picnic areas. It’s one of those places where you can spend 20 minutes—or the whole day.
10. People (and Car) Watch on Broadway
On a summer evening, grab a patio seat at a downtown restaurant and just take it all in.
You’ll see Ferraris beside Harleys, dogs getting pampered by passersby, and racing fans showing off their best track-season fashion. Broadway blends small-town charm with big-event energy—and it makes for top-tier people watching.