National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, Saratoga Springs

51

National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, Saratoga Springs

National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, Saratoga Springs (must see)

The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame is a must-visit destination for horse racing enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Established in 1950, the museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the legacy of American Thoroughbred racing, honoring the sport’s most accomplished horses, jockeys, and trainers. Since its move to Union Avenue in 1955, the museum has inducted numerous racing legends, recognizing their contributions to the sport.

Visitors can explore an extensive collection of artifacts, trophies, photographs, and memorabilia that document horse racing’s evolution from the 18th century to the present day. With exhibits that showcase everything from Triple Crown winners to historic moments in racing history, the museum offers an in-depth look at the sport’s profound impact on American culture.

The Hall of Fame is the centerpiece of the museum, where the sport’s most distinguished figures receive the highest honor in Thoroughbred racing. Each year, inductees are announced in May, typically during Kentucky Derby Week, with the official induction ceremony held in August during Saratoga’s race meeting. The selection process has evolved over the years, now allowing multiple inductees from a single category.

The museum showcases the Stockbridge Cup, awarded to the champion horse Iroquois by the Prince of Wales, and a rare collection of Triple Crown trophies, including those of Count Fleet’s 1943 victory. The museum also highlights legendary horses like Secretariat, who was inducted just a year after his retirement, and Ruffian, whose tragic story remains an unforgettable part of racing history.

Beyond the Hall of Fame, the museum features interactive exhibits, fine art collections, and educational programs that bring the history of Thoroughbred racing to life. Located just across from the Saratoga Race Course, the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame is a tribute to the dedication, skill, and passion that define American horse racing.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Saratoga Springs. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

Download The 51 App

National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame on Map

Sight Name: National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame
Sight Location: Saratoga Springs, USA (See walking tours in Saratoga Springs)
Sight Type: Museum/Gallery
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Saratoga Springs, New York

Create Your Own Walk in Saratoga Springs

Create Your Own Walk in Saratoga Springs

Creating your own self-guided walk in Saratoga Springs is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Saratoga Springs Introduction Walking Tour

Saratoga Springs Introduction Walking Tour

Saratoga Springs, New York, is a city that wears its history well. The name Saratoga comes from the Mohawk word Sarachtogue, meaning “place of swift water,” and reflects the presence of mineral springs in the area. The Mohawk Indigenous peoples had long valued these springs before the arrival of Europeans.

The British built Fort Saratoga in 1691. The area’s first permanent settlement...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles
Saratoga Springs Historical Buildings Walk

Saratoga Springs Historical Buildings Walk

Saratoga Springs, New York, has a rich architectural heritage that reflects its past as a hub for tourism, horse racing, and health retreats. The Broadway Historic District is the heart of the city, featuring 19th- and early 20th-century buildings that house shops, restaurants, and grand hotels. One of these landmarks is the Adelphi Hotel, a luxurious 1877 structure that still exudes Gilded Age...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles