Saratoga Springs NY, which came to prominence as a 19th-century resort, boasts many things to do with kids. If natural mineral springs, horse racing, gambling, and luxury hotels don’t sound family-friendly, think again!
While gambling and grand hotels are long vanished, summer horse racing, year round mineral springs therapy and a variety of other experiences draw families like mine to this charming small city.
Family-friendly Saratoga Springs is located between the Adirondack and the Catskill Mountains. Locals consider it a bastion of sophistication between Albany and Montreal and the small shops, great dining and tree-lined Broadway attract all ages.
Things to Do with Kids in Saratoga Springs NY
The true heart of Saratoga is the Saratoga Race Course and its nearby attractions.
National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame
The family-friendly National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame next door is celebrating its 75th anniversary of educating all about thoroughbred horse racing. Here, a large collection of art, artifacts, and memorabilia document the rich history of horse racing from the 1700s to today.
The Hall of Fame meticulously documents the winning horses that were favorites with bettors and, in some cases, were written about in books and featured in movies.
Don’t miss “What It Takes: Journey to the Hall of Fame,” a 16-minute film that brings viewers on an amazing journey through various aspects of thoroughbred racing. Learn about the rare honor — given to less than 1% of the sport’s participants — of reaching the game’s pinnacle and earning a coveted spot here.
Secretariat? Seabiscuit? Sir Archy? They are here, with many more, all honored in this hall, along with jockeys, trainers and others involved in the sport.
Kids in tow? Be sure to check out HorsePlay; the interactive children’s play area will be a hit with the youngsters. The Racing Museum is open seven days a week until September 1, and Wednesday through Sunday the rest of the year.
Home of the Belmont Stakes: The Saratoga Race Course
As an adjunct activity, tours of Saratoga Race Course are offered throughout the year, with some more inclusive ones available during the Racing Season. Don’t worry about the kids. Through NYRA STAR, children 12 years-old and under, and their families, experience thoroughbred horse racing through exclusive on-track events, educational opportunities, and kid-friendly communications to ignite their interest in the sport. Registration is free.
Children’s Museum at Saratoga
From toddlers to tweens, the Children’s Museum at Saratoga provides a wonderful morning or afternoon visit. Started in 1990, it is now housed in the historic Lincoln Baths, a former springs bathhouse, on the grounds of Saratoga Spa State Park.
The exhibits are surprisingly interactive. The play grocery store has a working scanner; at the doctor’s office, your child can take on different roles by putting on a lab coat to explore body systems. There are many more opportunities where kids learn about how towns and cities function. It’s a quantum leap above many other similar places — a great experience for families together. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 9-noon and 1-4pm, Sundays only in the afternoon.
Rejuvenate at Saratoga Spa State Park
Saratoga Spa State Park is a National Historic Landmark distinguished by its woodlands and classical architecture. While some of the grounds are free to walk around, other parts have fees; it’s best to check on the website.
Family-Friendly Recreation at Saratoga Spa State Park
There are miles of nature trails for running, walking, and biking open year round. During the summer, swimming is available for the entire family at two pools. The Peerless Pool complex includes a large, zero- entry pool with nearby smaller pools, plus a separate Victoria Pool. Both pool areas feature food and beverage services, showers, locker rooms and restrooms.
Thinking of dining in nature? Picnic sites are open to the public with picnic tables, grills, and restrooms.
For golfing families, there are 18-hole and nine-hole courses, with a pro shop and restaurant.
Top Things to Do in Saratoga Springs NY: Relax in the Springs!
Treat yourself and children over 18 to some relaxation via a transforming hydrotherapy spa experience within the park. Discover a world of naturally healing treatments at the Roosevelt Baths and Spa.
The Roosevelt Baths and Spa Experience
This classic spa opened in 1935. For nearly a century, the town’s natural mineral water has been captured cold from underground springs, then mixed with warm fresh water to a neutral temperature for maximum benefits.
Guests soak for 40 minutes in a classic cast iron tub in solitude. A tranquil lounge area for pre and post relaxation is available, as are massages, facials and body treatments.
Pro Tip: Are you parents of children under 18 needing some alone time to luxuriate with a bath or a massage? The Embassy Suites Hilton Saratoga Springs and other hotels and motels offer childcare with reservations.
Cultural Venues in Saratoga Spa State Park
Looking for some other things to do when traveling with children within the Park? Explore the performing arts with the whole family.
Saratoga Performing Arts Center has outdoor venues for big name artists ranging from the Philadelphia Orchestra to Chicago and other rock bands.
The best thing about the Spa Little Theater, home to the visiting Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, is that students pay only $18 per ticket to hear them, jazz or pop music, or see modern dance. Another option within the park is the Saratoga Automobile Museum, fun for antique car buffs.
Shopping and Top Family Attractions Along Saratoga Springs Main Street
What else is there to do with kids? Perhaps a stroll down Broadway?
Dating from the early 1800s, Broadway has always been the center of Saratoga Springs, NY. Note that small town main street is adorned at the south end of the commercial district with Congress Park. As you head towards the north, the boulevard offers many local stores and restaurants to delight everyone.
Need some toys for your little ones? G. Willikers Toys is the toddler ticket to immediate familial bliss. Books, games and toys provide family down time when you need some quiet after a busy day.
The Northshire Bookstore fits Saratoga’s ambiance like a well-crafted glove. Its two floors have a wonderful mix of books, crafts, music, toys and other items to enhance your trip and earn a permanent place at home. The second floor is a literary ground zero for the 2-12 set, who may want to spend all of their Saratoga trip there, sitting in the well-lit space, looking at all that is available to them on the shelves. A must on your visit.
Ride the Carousel in Congress Park
Don’t forget the wooden ponies! In Congress Park, $1 will get you a ride on elegantly crafted basswood horses at the Carousel. Originally crafted in 1910, the vintage ride was located elsewhere and was almost retired. In typical Saratoga style, locals got together and donated money to move the attraction to this central area. It reopened there in 2002 and welcomes guests June to October.
An Affordable Hotel with Kids in Saratoga Springs, NY
Located in Downtown Saratoga, Embassy Suites By Hilton Saratoga Springs is very family-friendly with a few aces up its sleeve. For example, your car can stay tucked away in the parking lot while you walk a few blocks to “town.” The racetrack is only 1 mile away. If your kids are 2 or 22, they will fit into the two-room suites, which offer a king or two double beds in the bedroom and a sofa bed in the living room.
Don’t feel like going out for dinner? Your suite’s wet bar, refrigerator and microwave ease the soles and pocketbooks when touring leaves you tired.
To unwind and meet new friends, drop into the complimentary nightly Evening Reception in the lobby. Savor the day over Shirley Temples, wine, and snacks at inside or outside tables.. Save even more on dining with the complimentary breakfast buffet with made-to-order options. Free WiFi, and an indoor pool delight any traveling family.
More New and Old Hotels in Saratoga Springs
During the 1920s and 1930s, then New York State Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt pumped in fiscal resources to develop the town’s hot springs into a rest and rehabilitation center. Today, all the Saratoga spas and myriad hiking and biking trails make it something of a wellness getaway. Allow time for a walking tour of Saratoga Springs history to learn more about this fascinating little town.
There are many different hotels and motels – some historic — to suit most budgets. From the newly re-opened Hotel Adelphi and the classic Gideon Putnam at the top end to local B&Bs, there is lodging to fit your needs. Do bear in mind that during the racing season (this year mid-July until September 1), space is at a premium, and rates are higher to reflect demand.
Pro Tip: Plan your Saratoga Springs with kids vacation for late June or over a September weekend to save on hotel rates.
Mom, Dad, I’m Hungry! Best Saratoga Springs Family Restaurants
Don’t expect the usual branded restaurants in town, that isn’t the case here. Yes, there are strip malls and big box stores, but on and around Broadway, the choices are suitable for families.
Pasta? Tapas? Pancakes? Hamburgers? All of the above and more. Let’s look at a few.
A Take-Out Solution For Families with Kids in Saratoga Springs, NY
Need a meal for eating in the room? A picnic perhaps? Putnam Market, a food and wine place, has an inordinate number of delicious treats. Order salads, sandwiches, cheeses, desserts and coffees. The selections available will make an 8-year-old foodie smile with delight. Be aware that they are not open at dinner time.
Locals’ Favorite Family Dining Spots
For over 30 years, the Country Corner Cafe, a breakfast and lunch only venue, has charmed locals (and the visitors who have found it) with a casual 1950’s dining aura. The food is well-prepared, tasty, with portions that will keep everyone sated.
There’s a gift shop there as well, and the homemade jams and jellies must be taken home. Service is great, and it’s wonderful to just sit in this family winner.
Hattie’s Restaurants are a Saratoga Springs classic. Opened in 1938, the original Downtown location and two branches serve meals of Southern and Louisiana cuisine. They offer brunch and dinner options like biscuits and gravy, chicken and waffles, and delicious, fresh fried beignets.
The Olde Bryan Inn, a 200-year-old Saratoga landmark, serves classic American fare in a tavern and restaurant setting. For little and big history buffs, this is a great place to absorb some of Saratoga’s rich post-colonial history. The stone and wood interior walls are filled with artwork, artifacts and pictures that illustrate that history, perfect for some kid walks while waiting for your meal to be prepared.
Saratoga Springs Finer Dining Options
If your older children have more of a sophisticated palate, and are interested in food, you might want to consider these places.
Boca Bistro, a Spanish bistro and tapas bar, brings classical Spanish food into the 21st century. The menu prepared by Executive Chef Ian Sondra reflects a smattering of Mediterranean influence; dishes come in many sizes, all terrific. And, yes, like many of the restaurants in Saratoga, there is a children’s menu for the wee ones. This is a don’t miss.
When your children are past the spaghetti and meatballs stage, head to Chianti Il Ristorante for a fine meal. This Northern Italian venue does a wide range of choices well and features an open kitchen where you can watch the culinary staff do their thing. Your meal will be a long and satisfying one.
Practical Tips for a Saratoga with Kids Vacation
You’ve done the research. You’ve done the packing. You’re in Saratoga Springs, and you’ve forgotten something to keep your young one comfy and content. Or you forgot to book a spa time. No worries!
Oops, I Forgot Some Baby Gear!
From SlumberPods and sound machines to play mats and toddler beds, Little Guests Concierge has what you need to make a Saratoga stay into a second home for your smallest travelers This firm works with hotels and vacation rentals to deliver baby gear right to your door. Offering a concierge type service, you can text them at any time for premium, trusted brands like Babyletto, SlumberPod, Lalo & more, with each item thoroughly sanitized and safety-checked after each rental.
Getting Around Saratoga Springs NY with Kids
Walking is the most therapeutic way to get around. Coincidentally, restaurants are less than a mile away from the Embassy Suites, making it a great location.
We found that a walk up Broadway was part of the evening fun.
Pro Tip: Taxis and ride-share vehicles are also widely available.
Getting There
While Saratoga Springs is best reached by automobile, intercity buses and Amtrak trains arrive at the newish Saratoga Transportation Center, less than 2 miles from the center of town.
The Capital District Transportation Authority offers express bus service to and from Downtown Albany, also a family-friendly city. Albany International Airport, offering rental cars, is 30 minutes away.
The Saratoga Springs area makes for a great family vacation, the reason we have done it so many times!
A last note! Do be sure to check each website for hours, days and seasons of operation, which tend to vary. For more information, consult Discover Saratoga.
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