Saratoga Springs Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Saratoga Springs
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 emerged around 1776. Since the 18th century, the region’s natural mineral springs rich in iron, calcium, and even radium, have drawn visitors seeking their healing properties. Saratoga Springs grew rapidly with the arrival of the railroad in 1832.
In the 19th century, the town gained fame as a luxury resort, becoming synonymous with leisure and high society. The Adelphi Hotel, dating back to 1877, reflects the golden era of Saratoga’s grand hotels, when the elite came for horse racing season. Tourism gained further momentum after the 1950s with improved accessibility and cultural institutions, solidifying Saratoga’s status as a premier destination.
A good place to start exploring Saratoga Springs is the local Visitor Center, housed in an old trolley station. Nearby, the Bethesda Episcopal Church, built in the 1840s, showcases Gothic Revival architecture and a connection to the city’s influential families. Another striking building is the Universal Preservation Hall, a former Methodist church turned cultural venue, which proves that history here isn’t just preserved—it’s actively used.
Modern-day visitors can browse the Saratoga Marketplace, a collection of local shops housed in a historic building, before wandering through the East Side Historic District, known for its Victorian homes which whisper stories of Saratoga’s glamorous past.
Of course, no visit is complete without stopping by the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, located on Union Avenue. This area is famous for its historic homes and proximity to the Saratoga Race Course, one of the oldest horse tracks in America.
For a glimpse into the city’s high-stakes past, Canfield Casino in Congress Park is a must-see. Once an exclusive gambling club for the wealthy, today it is part of the Saratoga Springs History Museum. Congress Park itself, designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, is a scenic spot where history, art, and leisure meet.
More than just its past, Saratoga Springs continues to charm with its cultural and vibrant present. Take this self-guided walk to immerse yourself in the elegance and excitement that defines Saratoga – where world-class attractions and genuine hospitality unite to craft an unforgettable experience!
The British built Fort Saratoga in 1691. The area’s first permanent settlement emerged around 1776. Since the 18th century, the region’s natural mineral springs rich in iron, calcium, and even radium, have drawn visitors seeking their healing properties. Saratoga Springs grew rapidly with the arrival of the railroad in 1832.
In the 19th century, the town gained fame as a luxury resort, becoming synonymous with leisure and high society. The Adelphi Hotel, dating back to 1877, reflects the golden era of Saratoga’s grand hotels, when the elite came for horse racing season. Tourism gained further momentum after the 1950s with improved accessibility and cultural institutions, solidifying Saratoga’s status as a premier destination.
A good place to start exploring Saratoga Springs is the local Visitor Center, housed in an old trolley station. Nearby, the Bethesda Episcopal Church, built in the 1840s, showcases Gothic Revival architecture and a connection to the city’s influential families. Another striking building is the Universal Preservation Hall, a former Methodist church turned cultural venue, which proves that history here isn’t just preserved—it’s actively used.
Modern-day visitors can browse the Saratoga Marketplace, a collection of local shops housed in a historic building, before wandering through the East Side Historic District, known for its Victorian homes which whisper stories of Saratoga’s glamorous past.
Of course, no visit is complete without stopping by the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, located on Union Avenue. This area is famous for its historic homes and proximity to the Saratoga Race Course, one of the oldest horse tracks in America.
For a glimpse into the city’s high-stakes past, Canfield Casino in Congress Park is a must-see. Once an exclusive gambling club for the wealthy, today it is part of the Saratoga Springs History Museum. Congress Park itself, designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, is a scenic spot where history, art, and leisure meet.
More than just its past, Saratoga Springs continues to charm with its cultural and vibrant present. Take this self-guided walk to immerse yourself in the elegance and excitement that defines Saratoga – where world-class attractions and genuine hospitality unite to craft an unforgettable experience!
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Saratoga Springs Introduction Walking Tour Map
Guide Name: Saratoga Springs Introduction Walking Tour
Guide Location: USA » Saratoga Springs (See other walking tours in Saratoga Springs)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 10
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles
Author: nataly
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: USA » Saratoga Springs (See other walking tours in Saratoga Springs)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 10
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.3 Km or 2.1 Miles
Author: nataly
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Saratoga Springs Visitor Center
- Bethesda Episcopal Church
- Universal Preservation Hall
- Adelphi Hotel
- Saratoga Marketplace
- East Side Historic District
- National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame
- Union Avenue Historic District
- Canfield Casino
- Congress Park
1) Saratoga Springs Visitor Center
The Saratoga Springs Visitor Center serves as a welcoming gateway for travelers exploring the city. Housed in the historic Drinkhall, a Beaux-Arts style building originally constructed in 1915 as a trolley station by the Hudson Valley Railroad, the Visitor Center provides a wealth of resources for visitors. Inside, guests will find informative exhibits, brochures, and friendly staff ready to assist with local recommendations and travel guidance. Conveniently situated across from Congress Park, this historic landmark is an essential first stop for anyone looking to make the most of their time in Saratoga Springs.
The building itself is a beautiful architectural gem, designed by Ludlow and Peabody in the Beaux-Arts style. It features a stuccoed central block flanked by two lower wings, and a rear porch that once functioned as a trolley platform. Decorative details such as the arrowhead frieze and ornamental panels add to its grandeur. The high barrel-vaulted ceiling inside the central hall enhances its historic charm, making it not just a resource center but also an attraction in its own right.
The building was repurposed in the 1940s as a mineral water drink hall, a nod to the city's renowned healing springs, before eventually being recognized on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. With its central location, informative exhibits, and stunning architecture, the Visitor Center is both a practical resource and a must-see stop for history enthusiasts.
The building itself is a beautiful architectural gem, designed by Ludlow and Peabody in the Beaux-Arts style. It features a stuccoed central block flanked by two lower wings, and a rear porch that once functioned as a trolley platform. Decorative details such as the arrowhead frieze and ornamental panels add to its grandeur. The high barrel-vaulted ceiling inside the central hall enhances its historic charm, making it not just a resource center but also an attraction in its own right.
The building was repurposed in the 1940s as a mineral water drink hall, a nod to the city's renowned healing springs, before eventually being recognized on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. With its central location, informative exhibits, and stunning architecture, the Visitor Center is both a practical resource and a must-see stop for history enthusiasts.
2) Bethesda Episcopal Church
Bethesda Episcopal Church is a historic landmark and a prominent place of worship in Saratoga Springs. Incorporated in 1830, the parish initially held services in a refitted spring house donated by John Clarke, located at what is now Congress Park. As the city grew and summer visitors increased, the need for a larger building became evident.
In 1841, the church acquired its current site on Washington Street, and under the design of renowned architect Richard Upjohn, construction began on an English Gothic-style stone church. The first services were held in 1844, with further additions, including side aisles, completed by 1856. The church's distinctive Norman Romanesque tower, designed by A. Page Brown and funded by Mrs. Rockwell Putnam in memory of her late husband, was added in 1887, along with stunning Tiffany stained-glass windows that enhance the building’s grandeur.
Listed as a contributing property in the Broadway Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places, Bethesda Episcopal Church stands as a testament to faith, resilience, and architectural beauty. The interior of the church features a striking hammer-beamed ceiling and is well known for its music programs, including a long tradition of choral and organ performances.
As Bethesda Episcopal Church approaches its bicentennial in 2030, it continues to thrive as a center of spiritual life and community service. Its location in the heart of Saratoga Springs, combined with its historical significance and architectural splendor, makes it an interesting landmark for those interested in history, faith, and the arts. Whether attending a service, enjoying a concert, or simply admiring its historic beauty, Bethesda Episcopal Church continues to inspire and uplift all who walk through its doors.
In 1841, the church acquired its current site on Washington Street, and under the design of renowned architect Richard Upjohn, construction began on an English Gothic-style stone church. The first services were held in 1844, with further additions, including side aisles, completed by 1856. The church's distinctive Norman Romanesque tower, designed by A. Page Brown and funded by Mrs. Rockwell Putnam in memory of her late husband, was added in 1887, along with stunning Tiffany stained-glass windows that enhance the building’s grandeur.
Listed as a contributing property in the Broadway Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places, Bethesda Episcopal Church stands as a testament to faith, resilience, and architectural beauty. The interior of the church features a striking hammer-beamed ceiling and is well known for its music programs, including a long tradition of choral and organ performances.
As Bethesda Episcopal Church approaches its bicentennial in 2030, it continues to thrive as a center of spiritual life and community service. Its location in the heart of Saratoga Springs, combined with its historical significance and architectural splendor, makes it an interesting landmark for those interested in history, faith, and the arts. Whether attending a service, enjoying a concert, or simply admiring its historic beauty, Bethesda Episcopal Church continues to inspire and uplift all who walk through its doors.
3) Universal Preservation Hall
Universal Preservation Hall (UPH) is a premier arts and community events venue. Originally built in 1871 as the First Methodist Episcopal Church, this historic structure is considered one of the earliest and finest examples of High Victorian Gothic architecture in the country. Designed by E. Boyden & Son, the building features striking rose-colored brick contrasted with Ohio sandstone to emphasize its pointed Gothic arches, defining both the doors and windows.
Inside, its magnificent walnut and ash staircases lead to the main theatre, where the soaring 45-foot ceilings and Tiffany-inspired stained glass windows create a truly breathtaking atmosphere. The 3,000-pound Meneely bell, housed in the tallest tower in Saratoga Springs, is a lasting testament to the building’s storied past.
After years of neglect, the hall was condemned in 2000, but a dedicated group of local preservationists worked tirelessly to restore its grandeur. The venue hosts an impressive array of events, including concerts, theatrical performances, lectures, weddings, conferences, and art exhibits. Despite its transformation into a major cultural destination, UPH continues to honor its roots, serving as the worship space for the Universal Baptist Church, a historically African-American congregation that remains an integral part of the building’s legacy.
UPH is a sought-after venue for weddings and special events, offering several unique spaces that exude historic charm and elegance. The Chapel, with its classic design, can accommodate up to 90 guests for intimate ceremonies. The crown jewel of UPH is the Great Hall, an expansive 5,500-square-foot ballroom featuring cathedral ceilings, wraparound balconies, and intricate hand-carved details.
Inside, its magnificent walnut and ash staircases lead to the main theatre, where the soaring 45-foot ceilings and Tiffany-inspired stained glass windows create a truly breathtaking atmosphere. The 3,000-pound Meneely bell, housed in the tallest tower in Saratoga Springs, is a lasting testament to the building’s storied past.
After years of neglect, the hall was condemned in 2000, but a dedicated group of local preservationists worked tirelessly to restore its grandeur. The venue hosts an impressive array of events, including concerts, theatrical performances, lectures, weddings, conferences, and art exhibits. Despite its transformation into a major cultural destination, UPH continues to honor its roots, serving as the worship space for the Universal Baptist Church, a historically African-American congregation that remains an integral part of the building’s legacy.
UPH is a sought-after venue for weddings and special events, offering several unique spaces that exude historic charm and elegance. The Chapel, with its classic design, can accommodate up to 90 guests for intimate ceremonies. The crown jewel of UPH is the Great Hall, an expansive 5,500-square-foot ballroom featuring cathedral ceilings, wraparound balconies, and intricate hand-carved details.
4) Adelphi Hotel
The Adelphi Hotel, a cherished landmark in Saratoga Springs, has been synonymous with luxury and prestige since its grand opening in 1877. Originally established to cater to the wealthy visitors drawn to the city’s famed natural mineral springs, horse racing, and opulent resorts, the hotel quickly became a focal point of high society. Business magnates, politicians, and prominent figures such as John Morrissey, the founder of the Saratoga Race Course, and Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt, a titan of industry, frequented the hotel.
In fact, Morrissey spent his final days at the Adelphi, passing away in 1878 at the age of 47. His body was laid in state in a second-floor parlor overlooking the piazza. As Saratoga’s reputation as a premier vacation destination grew, the Adelphi Hotel cemented itself as an enduring symbol of the city's Victorian grandeur.
The Adelphi Hotel managed to withstand the shifting tides of history while many of its contemporaries, such as the Grand Union Hotel and the United States Hotel, succumbed to demolition in the mid-20th century. In 1978, after five years of vacancy, Sheila Parkert and Gregg Siefker purchased the Adelphi, painstakingly restoring it room by room to recapture its former glory.
Today, the Adelphi Hotel's Victorian-style architecture, refined interior décor, and rich heritage continue to attract visitors who seek an authentic Saratoga Springs experience. As a restored Gilded Age gem, the Adelphi offers guests a chance to step back in time while indulging in the finest contemporary amenities.
In fact, Morrissey spent his final days at the Adelphi, passing away in 1878 at the age of 47. His body was laid in state in a second-floor parlor overlooking the piazza. As Saratoga’s reputation as a premier vacation destination grew, the Adelphi Hotel cemented itself as an enduring symbol of the city's Victorian grandeur.
The Adelphi Hotel managed to withstand the shifting tides of history while many of its contemporaries, such as the Grand Union Hotel and the United States Hotel, succumbed to demolition in the mid-20th century. In 1978, after five years of vacancy, Sheila Parkert and Gregg Siefker purchased the Adelphi, painstakingly restoring it room by room to recapture its former glory.
Today, the Adelphi Hotel's Victorian-style architecture, refined interior décor, and rich heritage continue to attract visitors who seek an authentic Saratoga Springs experience. As a restored Gilded Age gem, the Adelphi offers guests a chance to step back in time while indulging in the finest contemporary amenities.
5) Saratoga Marketplace (must see)
The Saratoga Marketplace is a vibrant shopping destination in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs, housed in a beautifully restored historic building. Originally part of the city’s architectural decline in the 1970s, the building was revitalized by entrepreneurs Mark and Elizabeth Straus, who played a key role in restoring Saratoga’s historic charm. Today, this marketplace is home to more than a dozen eclectic shops, galleries, and eateries, offering a diverse shopping experience. The exposed brick walls, restored woodwork, and hardwood floors create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a cozy indoor shopping spot during any season.
Visitors to the Saratoga Marketplace will find an array of unique boutiques and specialty stores. The marketplace features a mix of apparel and accessory shops, art galleries, and gift stores, catering to a wide range of tastes and interests. Whether you’re looking for handmade jewelry, stylish clothing, home décor, or fine art, the Marketplace offers an intimate and curated shopping experience. The layout of the building is designed around an open staircase connecting two floors, allowing shoppers to browse effortlessly between the different levels while enjoying the historic charm of the space.
Located along the lively Broadway district, Saratoga Marketplace is the perfect stop while exploring downtown. With entrances from Broadway at street level and another on the lower level at the back, it provides easy access to a mix of shops and a lower-level restaurant. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Marketplace, then step outside to explore Broadway’s vibrant streetscape, filled with additional shops, cafes, and restaurants. Whether you’re a local looking for a special gift or a traveler seeking a memorable keepsake, the Saratoga Marketplace blends history, charm, and commerce in a truly unique setting.
Visitors to the Saratoga Marketplace will find an array of unique boutiques and specialty stores. The marketplace features a mix of apparel and accessory shops, art galleries, and gift stores, catering to a wide range of tastes and interests. Whether you’re looking for handmade jewelry, stylish clothing, home décor, or fine art, the Marketplace offers an intimate and curated shopping experience. The layout of the building is designed around an open staircase connecting two floors, allowing shoppers to browse effortlessly between the different levels while enjoying the historic charm of the space.
Located along the lively Broadway district, Saratoga Marketplace is the perfect stop while exploring downtown. With entrances from Broadway at street level and another on the lower level at the back, it provides easy access to a mix of shops and a lower-level restaurant. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Marketplace, then step outside to explore Broadway’s vibrant streetscape, filled with additional shops, cafes, and restaurants. Whether you’re a local looking for a special gift or a traveler seeking a memorable keepsake, the Saratoga Marketplace blends history, charm, and commerce in a truly unique setting.
6) East Side Historic District
The East Side Historic District is a predominantly residential neighborhood that reflects the city's Gilded Age prosperity. Spanning 114 acres, the district is located just east of downtown, extending near Saratoga Race Course. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, this area became home to the city’s affluent residents, who built elegant homes when Saratoga Springs was one of the premier resort destinations in the United States. Recognizing its architectural and historical significance, the East Side Historic District was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
Within the district, there are 379 buildings, most of which retain their historic character. The architectural styles range from Gothic Revival to Bungalow, with many homes featuring clapboard or brick facades. Notably, only 15 buildings are of modern construction, including a supermarket, which does not contribute to the district’s historical integrity.
Several important institutional structures remain from the district’s past, such as Skidmore College’s former art school, a church, a fire station, and an elementary school. While none of the buildings are individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places, their collective preservation helps maintain the district's historic charm.
Among the significant properties in the district is the R. Newton Brezee House at 119 Caroline Street, a Queen Anne-style residence built in 1892 by one of the city's leading architects. Another notable building is the New York State Armory at 60 Lake Avenue, a Romanesque Revival brick structure designed by state architect Isaac Perry in 1890. Additionally, the Regent Street Theatre at 153 Regent Street, built in 1903, was the first structure designed for Skidmore College and showcases Colonial Revival architecture.
Within the district, there are 379 buildings, most of which retain their historic character. The architectural styles range from Gothic Revival to Bungalow, with many homes featuring clapboard or brick facades. Notably, only 15 buildings are of modern construction, including a supermarket, which does not contribute to the district’s historical integrity.
Several important institutional structures remain from the district’s past, such as Skidmore College’s former art school, a church, a fire station, and an elementary school. While none of the buildings are individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places, their collective preservation helps maintain the district's historic charm.
Among the significant properties in the district is the R. Newton Brezee House at 119 Caroline Street, a Queen Anne-style residence built in 1892 by one of the city's leading architects. Another notable building is the New York State Armory at 60 Lake Avenue, a Romanesque Revival brick structure designed by state architect Isaac Perry in 1890. Additionally, the Regent Street Theatre at 153 Regent Street, built in 1903, was the first structure designed for Skidmore College and showcases Colonial Revival architecture.
7) National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame (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.
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.
8) Union Avenue Historic District
The Union Avenue Historic District is a striking corridor of Victorian-era architecture that stretches 1.5 miles from Congress Park to the Adirondack Northway (Interstate 87). Lined with towering Queen Anne mansions, lush lawns, and ornate stonework, Union Avenue is one of the city's most picturesque historic areas. The Victorian mansions, set back from the street, boast elaborate facades, rusticated masonry, and intricate carvings, making them a defining feature of this historic corridor.
The Saratoga Race Track, an integral part of Union Avenue's heritage, dates back to 1864 and features an iconic turreted grandstand and historic horse barns. The district's easternmost landmark, Yaddo, is a late Victorian castellated mansion perched atop a hill, offering a commanding view of its 245-acre estate. The estate, owned by the Corporation of Yaddo, includes formal rose gardens, five lakes, and thirteen historic buildings showcasing cobblestone, shingle, and stucco exteriors.
Union Avenue serves as a showcase of the Queen Anne architectural style, with fourteen classic examples featuring towers, turrets, bay windows, decorative stonework, and half-timbered facades. While colonial and Italianate elements can be found throughout the district, the grandest and most ornate buildings are concentrated at the western end, while smaller, yet equally historic residences are situated closer to the race track.
The district remains remarkably intact, with only a handful of modern intrusions, such as a Skidmore dormitory and a gas station, disrupting the historic landscape. Despite these few non-historic structures, the Union Avenue Historic District remains an architectural gem, preserving the Gilded Age splendor of Saratoga Springs.
The Saratoga Race Track, an integral part of Union Avenue's heritage, dates back to 1864 and features an iconic turreted grandstand and historic horse barns. The district's easternmost landmark, Yaddo, is a late Victorian castellated mansion perched atop a hill, offering a commanding view of its 245-acre estate. The estate, owned by the Corporation of Yaddo, includes formal rose gardens, five lakes, and thirteen historic buildings showcasing cobblestone, shingle, and stucco exteriors.
Union Avenue serves as a showcase of the Queen Anne architectural style, with fourteen classic examples featuring towers, turrets, bay windows, decorative stonework, and half-timbered facades. While colonial and Italianate elements can be found throughout the district, the grandest and most ornate buildings are concentrated at the western end, while smaller, yet equally historic residences are situated closer to the race track.
The district remains remarkably intact, with only a handful of modern intrusions, such as a Skidmore dormitory and a gas station, disrupting the historic landscape. Despite these few non-historic structures, the Union Avenue Historic District remains an architectural gem, preserving the Gilded Age splendor of Saratoga Springs.
9) Canfield Casino
The Canfield Casino is an architectural and historical landmark dating back to 1870. Originally built as a gambling venue, the three-story brick building is a striking example of High Victorian design, featuring an ornate bracketed cornice, sandstone window trim, and intricate pediment detailing on each floor. The grand entrance hall, adorned with original mirrors and statuettes, leads to what was once the bustling gambling room, with private rooms for high-stakes games on the upper floors.
Over the years, additional wings were added, including a spacious dining hall in 1902-1903, designed by architect Clarence Luce, with stained-glass windows depicting horses, barrel-vaulted ceilings, and an early air-conditioning system. Today, the building remains one of the most well-preserved historic sites in Saratoga Springs.
Since 1911, the Canfield Casino has housed the Saratoga Springs History Museum. The museum’s permanent collection includes historical documents, photographs, artworks, and artifacts that provide insight into the cultural and social evolution of Saratoga Springs. Among its treasures are the Bolster Collection, which holds 375,000 photographic negatives spanning from 1855 to 1980, and the Walworth Memorial Museum, which preserves records and belongings from the influential Walworth family.
The Beatrice Sweeney Archive offers a deep dive into local business history, including records from Caffè Lena, the nation’s longest-running folk music venue. The museum also houses artifacts from George S. Batcheller, a distinguished lawyer, diplomat, and politician, whose mansion remains a historic highlight of the city.
Beyond its museum function, Canfield Casino has remained a prestigious event venue. For decades, the Whitney family, known for their deep ties to horse racing, hosted extravagant gala events at the casino to celebrate the start of the racing season. Today, the casino is a popular location for weddings, social events, and historical tours, drawing visitors who are fascinated by its opulent interiors, its legacy as a Gilded Age gambling parlor, and its significance in Saratoga’s thriving cultural scene.
Over the years, additional wings were added, including a spacious dining hall in 1902-1903, designed by architect Clarence Luce, with stained-glass windows depicting horses, barrel-vaulted ceilings, and an early air-conditioning system. Today, the building remains one of the most well-preserved historic sites in Saratoga Springs.
Since 1911, the Canfield Casino has housed the Saratoga Springs History Museum. The museum’s permanent collection includes historical documents, photographs, artworks, and artifacts that provide insight into the cultural and social evolution of Saratoga Springs. Among its treasures are the Bolster Collection, which holds 375,000 photographic negatives spanning from 1855 to 1980, and the Walworth Memorial Museum, which preserves records and belongings from the influential Walworth family.
The Beatrice Sweeney Archive offers a deep dive into local business history, including records from Caffè Lena, the nation’s longest-running folk music venue. The museum also houses artifacts from George S. Batcheller, a distinguished lawyer, diplomat, and politician, whose mansion remains a historic highlight of the city.
Beyond its museum function, Canfield Casino has remained a prestigious event venue. For decades, the Whitney family, known for their deep ties to horse racing, hosted extravagant gala events at the casino to celebrate the start of the racing season. Today, the casino is a popular location for weddings, social events, and historical tours, drawing visitors who are fascinated by its opulent interiors, its legacy as a Gilded Age gambling parlor, and its significance in Saratoga’s thriving cultural scene.
10) Congress Park (must see)
Congress Park is a beloved green space that blends history, relaxation, and natural beauty. This centrally located park is home to mineral spring water fountains, scenic walking paths, and the historic Canfield Casino, which now houses the Saratoga Springs History Museum. Visitors can stroll through the Italian Gardens, an elegant section of the park featuring marble statues and manicured landscapes, originally developed by Richard Canfield in the late 19th century.
One of the park’s most charming attractions is its historic wooden carousel, a 120-year-old masterpiece that still delights visitors with rides for just $1. Congress Park also features picturesque fountains, including the famous Spit and Spat fountain, designed in 1903 by an Italian sculptor. The statue, depicting two mermen playfully shooting water from marble conch shells, has become an enduring symbol of Saratoga Springs. Once part of the Canfield Casino sculpture garden, these statues remain a highlight for visitors exploring the park’s artistic and architectural heritage.
Beyond its historical appeal, Congress Park is a vibrant outdoor space where visitors can watch wildlife in the ponds, enjoy seasonal activities, and experience the unique mineral springs that have made Saratoga famous. Whether it's snowshoeing in the winter, lounging on the lawns in summer, or simply taking in the sights and sounds of nature, the park is a year-round haven for locals and tourists alike. With its stunning landscapes, historic landmarks, and cultural significance, Congress Park is an essential stop for anyone visiting Saratoga Springs.
One of the park’s most charming attractions is its historic wooden carousel, a 120-year-old masterpiece that still delights visitors with rides for just $1. Congress Park also features picturesque fountains, including the famous Spit and Spat fountain, designed in 1903 by an Italian sculptor. The statue, depicting two mermen playfully shooting water from marble conch shells, has become an enduring symbol of Saratoga Springs. Once part of the Canfield Casino sculpture garden, these statues remain a highlight for visitors exploring the park’s artistic and architectural heritage.
Beyond its historical appeal, Congress Park is a vibrant outdoor space where visitors can watch wildlife in the ponds, enjoy seasonal activities, and experience the unique mineral springs that have made Saratoga famous. Whether it's snowshoeing in the winter, lounging on the lawns in summer, or simply taking in the sights and sounds of nature, the park is a year-round haven for locals and tourists alike. With its stunning landscapes, historic landmarks, and cultural significance, Congress Park is an essential stop for anyone visiting Saratoga Springs.
Walking Tours in Saratoga Springs, New York
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 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
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.6 Km or 1.6 Miles
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