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Getaways: Saratoga Springs |
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Quaint Victorian charm awaits you in Upstate New York
by Amy Luft
For many Montrealers, Saratoga Springs, New York, is the first pit stop people make on their way to somewhere else. But if you stop long enough in this quaint little city of 27,000, you'll discover a place that has all you could ask for in a terrific getaway.
Saratoga Springs is a mere three hours south of Montreal. Off Interstate 87, it's nestled at the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains. Saratoga is most famous for having the oldest thoroughbred racetrack in the United States. It draws visitors from around the globe every summer between late July and Labour Day. The biggest racing event on the summer calendar is the Midsummer Derby, which runs on the last weekend of August. An overall elegant affair, the racetrack is where you're likely to see women wearing pearls and white gloves and men at their chivalry best.
But Saratoga is more than just a racetrack town. A historical area, Saratoga is the place where significant battles of the American Revolution were fought. There are a number of museums and historical sites that illustrate Saratoga's pivotal place in American history. Other museums worth checking out include the National Museum of Racing, the National Museum of Dance and the National Bottle Museum.
Saratoga Springs got its name because of the natural mineral springs in the area. So if you're looking for some pure R&R, you've come to the right place. The Crystal Spa, featuring the therapeutic Rosemary Spring which was discovered in 1964, on South Broadway won't disappoint. If you're looking for something that's a little more tucked away, consider the Gideon Putman Resort and Spa. The 1930s hotel, reminiscent of the Georgian era, is an impressive building with a striking exterior and spectacular grounds. There you can treat yourself to a massage at the Roosevelt Baths and Spa. If you prefer to get your R&R elsewhere, like on a golf course, you'll have plenty to choose from: Saratoga has some of the best public golf courses in Upstate New York.
The racetrack is where you're likely to see women wearing pearls and white gloves and men at their chivalry best.
A little downtown action
Saratoga's downtown core is charming and very walker-friendly with tony shops, restaurants and bistros lining the main drag. Uncommon Grounds, known for its selection of fresh roasted and specialty coffees, baked breads, bagel sandwiches and decadent desserts is a favourite breakfast place among the locals. If you're feeling peckish later in the day, visit the Wine Bar and try their tapas or selection of gourmet cheeses. Other things to do, in and around the area, include a stroll through the Yaddo Rose Gardens or a drive up North Broadway to check out the Victorian estates.
A night under the stars in Saratoga wouldn't be complete until you experience a musical performance at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC). Located in the woods of the Saratoga Springs Spa State Park, SPAC, summer home of the New York Ballet, the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Boys Choir of Harlem, is considered one of the best outdoor venues in the Northeast. SPAC presents regular showings of ballet, opera, jazz and classical concerts, as well as contemporary acts like Bruce Springsteen and Dave Matthews.
So whether it's music, horse racing, a little history or R&R, Saratoga Springs has it all if you want to get away for a couple days this summer.
If you go...
Saratoga Race Track
267 Union Avenue
www.saratogaracetrack.com
The Crystal Spa
120 South Broadway
Phone: (518) 584-2556
www.thecrystalspa.com
Uncommon Grounds Coffee & Bagels
402 Broadway
Phone: (518) 581-0656
Saratoga Performing Arts Center
108 Avenue of The Pines
Phone: (518) 587-3330
www.spac.org
Gideon Putnam Resort and Spa
24 Gideon Putnam Rd
Phone: (518) 584-3000
www.gideonputnam.com |
Ultimate Experience Packages
If you're thinking of going to Saratoga Springs this summer, there are a number of packages geared to suit all tastes and budgets. For more information, call 800-653-0231 or visit www.saratoga.org/ultimate |
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