Racing Season Fun for Everyone
Saratoga Springs, NY is the summer place to be! Many flock to our beautiful upstate New York town to see thoroughbred racing at the famous Saratoga Race Course — a tradition dating back to 1863.
As a family-run boutique hotel, Saratoga Arms — rated #1 in Saratoga Springs on TripAdvisor — we’ve got the inside scoop on how to make the most of racing season without ever placing a wager. Here are our top 10 favorite things to do at the track that go well beyond betting slips.
1. The Food & Drinks — Saratoga Flavors at Their Finest
A day at the races wouldn’t be complete without savoring the flavors that make Saratoga famous. Have you tried the signature Saratoga Sunrise cocktail or the legendary Hattie’s fried chicken? You’ll also find gourmet sandwiches, fresh seafood, artisan ice cream, and inventive picnic fare scattered throughout the grounds.
Many guests opt to arrive early to claim a picnic table in the shaded backyard area, bringing coolers packed with local cheeses, charcuterie, and fresh fruit from Saratoga’s farmers markets. Whether you choose casual concessions or white-tablecloth dining, the food scene is as much a part of the experience as the races themselves.
2. The Fashion — Big Hats & Bold Statements
Racing season is one of the best excuses to dress up in Saratoga. From pastel sundresses and tailored linen suits to bold fascinators and oversized sunhats, the track is a moving fashion show. Some visitors make a tradition of planning themed outfits with friends, while others come to capture the spectacle through photography.
Not into dressing up? That’s the beauty of Saratoga — you’ll see people in everything from cocktail attire to comfortable shorts and sneakers. You can enjoy the glamour without feeling out of place, no matter your style.
3. The Giveaways — Souvenirs Worth Collecting
The Saratoga Race Course hosts three much-anticipated giveaway days each season, offering collectible items like umbrellas, long-sleeve shirts, and cozy blankets adorned with the iconic track logo. These souvenirs are high-quality keepsakes, often becoming annual traditions for attendees.
All you need to do is purchase admission and arrive early enough to receive one before supplies run out. It’s a fun way to take home a tangible piece of racing season — whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time visitor.
4. Steeplechase Racing — Thrills Over Hurdles
On select days, the track transforms into a stage for steeplechase racing, where horses navigate fences and water jumps at full speed. It’s a captivating sight — blending precision, athleticism, and the thrill of traditional flat racing with the challenge of obstacles.
These races often take place earlier in the day, giving you a chance to enjoy them before the main card begins. It’s a unique twist on the sport that adds variety to the racing season.
5. The People Watching — A Spectacle All Its Own
Saratoga’s racing season draws an eclectic crowd from across the country and around the world, creating a vibrant mix of personalities and styles. One moment you might see seasoned racing enthusiasts studying programs intently, and the next, a group of friends in coordinated outfits snapping photos under the grandstand.
From celebrity sightings to kids in miniature jockey silks, there’s always something to see. People-watching here isn’t just an idle pastime — it’s a full part of the Saratoga experience.
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6. The Music — Your Soundtrack to the Season
Live music drifts through the air from morning until the last race, creating a festive backdrop for your day. Strolling brass bands, acoustic duos, and jazz ensembles add energy to the grounds. Sometimes you’ll catch an impromptu dance circle or hear a crowd singing along to a familiar tune. Each race day begins with the stirring call of the buglers, their bright notes echoing through the grandstand and setting a joyful, timeless tone for an unforgettable day at Saratoga.
The music adds another sensory layer to the racing experience, turning an afternoon at the track into a celebration of Saratoga’s arts and culture scene.
7. Big Red Spring — Taste the Tradition
Saratoga is world-famous for its naturally carbonated mineral waters, and Big Red Spring is the track’s own tribute to this heritage. Tucked on the far side of the paddock, the spring is shaded by mature trees and surrounded by benches, making it a peaceful break from the excitement.
Bring a cup and taste the cool, mineral-rich water — its distinct flavor has been a conversation starter among visitors for generations. Sampling Big Red is like sipping a piece of Saratoga’s history.
8. The Paddock — Up Close with the Champions
The paddock offers a behind-the-scenes look at the sport’s finest athletes before they head to the starting gate. Here, you can watch grooms tend to the horses, see jockeys receive last-minute instructions, and admire the grace and power of the thoroughbreds from just a few feet away.
It’s an intimate vantage point that lets you appreciate the hard work, care, and precision that go into preparing for each race.
9. Travers Day — Saratoga’s Midsummer Derby
Travers Day is the crown jewel of the Saratoga racing season. Held on the last Saturday in August, it’s the oldest stakes race in the country and attracts the best three-year-old horses from around the nation.
The entire week leading up to Travers is packed with events, from charity galas to special breakfasts at the track. On the day itself, the air buzzes with anticipation — fans arrive at sunrise, the grandstand is electric, and the race is a memory you’ll carry for years.
10. The Experience — A Bucket-List Venue
More than a race track, Saratoga is a living piece of sporting history. Named one of the Top 10 Sporting Venues of the 20th Century by Sports Illustrated, the Race Course offers a blend of tradition, elegance, and excitement you won’t find anywhere else.
Whether it’s snapping a photo under the historic spires, collecting an autograph from your favorite jockey, or simply sitting back and soaking in the atmosphere, a day at the Saratoga Race Course is the kind of experience you’ll talk about for years.
Stay with Saratoga Arms — Your Race Season Retreat
After an exhilarating day at the track, return to the welcoming elegance of Saratoga Arms Hotel. Our family-owned, award-winning hotel blends the charm of a historic 1870 Second Empire building with modern comforts designed for today’s traveler. Each guest room is individually decorated, offering plush bedding, luxurious bathrooms, and thoughtful touches that make your stay feel personal.
Mornings begin with a complimentary farm-to-table breakfast, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients to fuel another day of exploration. In the evenings, relax on our wrap-around porch with a glass of wine or a Saratoga-inspired cocktail, sharing stories from the day’s adventures.
Located right on Broadway, we’re just a short stroll to both the Saratoga Race Course and the city’s best dining, shopping, and entertainment. And with our knowledgeable staff ready to help plan your perfect itinerary — from race-day logistics to dinner reservations — Saratoga Arms is more than just a place to stay; it’s your home in the heart of racing season.