Saratoga: Health, History, Horses

An Itinerary on the Alfred Z. Solomon Cultural Heritage Trail

Nationally acclaimed museums, performing arts, fine dining, and racing are just a few of exciting things that can be experienced in and around Saratoga Springs. Natural mineral springs were the driving force for the growth for this promising small city. “Taking the waters,” long a European tradition attracted Presidents, political leader, and celebrities of the 19th century. The Vanderbilts, Rockefellers, J.P Morgan and others added glamor to the City, building their ornate homes in the various architectural styling of their day. With the arrival of the social elite and the wealthy, horseracing was a natural development; it flourished until the name Saratoga became synonymous with racing.

Today, Saratoga encompasses bubbling springs, the Saratoga Spa State Park, eight historic districts, and is sought after year-round for its Victorian architecture, vibrant downtown, flourishing cultural life, as well as racing season in the summer Best Times to Go
The track season is from mid-July to early September, but the City of Saratoga Springs has events and places to go and see year-round.

What You Should Know Before You Go
Drinking and bathing in the waters of Saratoga Springs was regarded as medicine by the Iroquois hundreds of years ago. Once discovered by settlers, spacious hotels and spas were erected to cater to the multitude of visitors looking to “take the waters.” Over time, natural mineral water from Saratoga Springs was reputed to cure diseases of the kidney and liver, diabetes, heartburn, cancer, malaria, and even hangovers! There are 17 mineral springs in Saratoga, each spring is naturally carbonated and has its own unique taste. Go to the Saratoga Springs Visitors Center and ask for a brochure to guide you to all the springs in the city.

What About this Experience is Distinctive or Authentic to the Character of the Region?
Character, history, and charm are just a few of the reasons Saratoga was named as one of America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. However, this sort of acclaim is nothing new to Saratoga. For centuries, Saratoga Springs has been a premier destination.

Fees (if any)
Check the fee schedule for individual sites and attractions.

Location

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