A Budget-Friendly Day in Saratoga Springs, NY: Top Things to Do For Cheap
If you're trying to be a little mindful about spending money but still want to have fun, plan a visit to Saratoga Springs. The area is full of affordable activities and restaurants; you just have to know where to go. Here are some of our top suggestions for a budget-friendly day in Saratoga to get you started.
Visit Ulysses S. Grant's Cottage
Want a glimpse at what a U.S. General's cottage looked like back in the day? Head over to Grant Cottage on top of Mt. McGregor to see the breathtaking view that General Grant saw before he passed.
For only $12 for adults and $5 for children 17 and under, you can take a guided tour of the cottage, which features original furnishings, decorations, and personal items belonging to Grant. See how the cottage was preserved to be a historic monument rich with history, then step outside to be surrounded by nature.
One Google reviewer described the cottage as, "A beautiful and peaceful place. You see an interesting film, visit a small museum, and visit a very well-sorted gift shop."
Note: There is no admission fee to visit the site grounds, visitor center, or the gift shop.
Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour of the City
Whether you love sightseeing or exploring the outdoors, a walking tour is the perfect activity for you. Saratoga's self-guided walking tours will bring you through Congress Park and past historic buildings and stunning architecture.
Get a preview of the tours, check out the maps, and start walking!
Looking for more adventures? Find running and biking trails »
Let a Guide Take You Through Saratoga Springs' Beauty
Saratoga Springs offers a variety of guided tours showcasing everything that makes the Spa City special.
The Haunted Saratoga Ghost Tours are 90-minute, family-friendly walking tours that take you on a journey to discover all the spirits that have appeared in the area over the past few centuries. This tour costs only $22 for adults and $10 for children under 12.
Another great, budget-friendly option is the Congress Park History and Water Tasting Tour. For $20 per adult and free admission for children under 12, you can enjoy a leisurely walk through Congress Park, observing its beauty and history. This tour includes information about the springs and water tasting opportunities.
If you can spend a little more on your tour, check out the following experiences that are fun for foodies and outdoor enthusiasts.
- Saratoga Springs Food Tours: $75 per person, $45 for children under 12.
- Saratoga Bike Tours: $75 for adults and $60 for children from 10-15. There is a $15 discount if you bring your own bicycle.
Explore Historic Sites at Saratoga National Historic Park
As the site of the Battle of Saratoga, there is much to see and learn at Saratoga National Historic Park. Whether you want to explore the battlefield or witness where the surrender occurred, it can all be done in a day at the park.
The Visitor Center offers a wealth of information to help you begin your tour. From there, you can take the driving tour, glimpse colonial life inside the Schuyler house, visit the Saratoga Monument, or walk the trail through Victory Woods.
Past visitors have raved about how much there is to check out, so much so that they get lost, spending hours absorbed in the history. Step back into the past at Saratoga National Historical Park at no cost to you (yes, admission is free!).
Enjoy a Taste of Saratoga's Mineral Springs
Saratoga Springs is home to 21 public mineral springs in various locations throughout the city. Most of them are naturally carbonated, and none taste alike.
These springs are easily accessible and free to sample - just bring your own cup or water bottle to fill up. The mineral springs are said to contain amazing healing and curative powers, but you'll have to taste them to find out.
Make an adventure of it and try all 21 mineral springs to see which one tastes the best!
Have a Ball at a Local Bowling Alley
Round up a group of your best pals and challenge them to a game of bowling in Saratoga. The city's premier bowling alley, Saratoga Strike Zone, offers affordable pricing, shoe rentals, and a sports pub with great food and drinks to enjoy during your game.
For an extra fee, you can ride the bumper cars or have your kids explore the Ballocity Play Area. Visitors have consistently enjoyed the cleanliness of the bowling alley and the wide variety of activities that always keep them entertained.
In addition to Saratoga Strike Zone, there are a few other budget-friendly bowling alleys worth checking out in Saratoga County, such as Kingpin's Alley Family Fun Center in South Glens Falls and Spare Time Clifton Park. Get ready to hit the lanes!
Show Off Your Putt on a Mini-Golf Course
Miniature golf is an inexpensive activity that's fun for all ages, and in Saratoga County, there are plenty of cool and unique courses to master. In Saratoga Springs, Olde Saratoga Miniature Golf is conveniently located just a short drive from Exit 15 of I-87.
You can also visit the popular Nest at Eagle Crest in Clifton Park or Dan's Miniature Golf in Ballston Lake. Best of all, the three mini-golf courses we mentioned have snack bars with delicious ice cream for sale.
Head Out and Explore Saratoga's Waterways
Paddling is a wonderful way to spend a few hours in the great outdoors. Not only that, but rentals can be affordable depending on where you go.
Kayak Shak on Fish Creek features single kayak rentals for $25/3 hours, and Lake Lonely Watersports on nearby Lake Lonely offers single kayak rentals for $14/hour.
These two companies have stand-up paddle boards available for rent as well. Online reviewers have praised both companies for having friendly, helpful, and supportive staff to help you get out on the water, especially first-time visitors.
If you want to explore other parts of the region, then Upstate Kayak Rentals has just what you need. The company operates Kayak Rental Hubs at different bodies of water, with kayaks available for $60 for up to 3 hours (kayaks are rented in pairs). These hubs are located on Round Lake, at Halfmoon Crescent Park, at Klamsteam Kayak Launch, and at other sites.
Cool Off at a Saratoga Pool
Saratoga Spa State Park is a beautiful location with open fields, trails, and a variety of activities. Swimming pools are available for public use at the State Park during the summer.
Editor's Note: While there is usually an admission fee for the Victoria Pool, NY State Governor Hochul has announced that pool entry is free at state parks throughout the 2024 summer season.
According to one Google reviewer, the Victoria Pool is a great time for all ages: "Victoria Pool was great. They have a cool bookcase with options to read if you don’t have anything. A bar with food outside, very convenient. The water is lovely."
While you are in the park, be sure to visit some of the nature trails. The vast trail network will bring you past mineral springs, natural scenery, and historic park buildings.
Visit the Historic Saratoga Race Course
Think the track always has to be an expensive experience? Not necessarily! Saratoga Race Course offers a few different types of tours at low or no cost.
Walking tours are held each racing day of the summer meet, except for Travers Day and Labor Day. Get an overview of the facility, check out the unique landscapes and architecture, and enjoy an inside peek at the track's backstretch area. They cost $15pp, with kids 12 and under free.
Don't miss the chance to have breakfast at The Porch of the Clubhouse during the summer too. It's a unique opportunity to watch the horses' morning workouts while enjoying a delicious meal. Breakfast includes a complimentary backstretch tram tour, subject to availability.
Check out our list of cheap dining options in Saratoga »
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