School may be out for summer, but this Upstate New York town only keeps getting better and better.
We know what you’re thinking—when it comes to New York college towns, the usual suspects come to mind: Ithaca, maybe Poughkeepsie, definitely somewhere upstate you’ve never actually visited.
But according to USA Today readers, there’s one small city you should be paying attention to: Saratoga Springs.
The small town in the capital region of New York was just named one of the top 10 best small college towns in the entire country thanks to its charming and walkable downtown, leafy campuses, thriving arts scene, and storied horse racing history.
Where is Saratoga Springs, NY and what colleges are there?
Located about 3.5 hours north of NYC and just 45 minutes from Albany, Saratoga Springs is nestled at the foot of the Adirondacks and known for its mineral springs, historic racetrack, and thriving arts scene.
It’s also home to Skidmore College, a private liberal arts school where slightly less than 2,800 students are enrolled…just a mile away from the town’s incredible main strip.
Think: tree-lined streets, Victorian architecture, buzzing cafés, boutique shops, and enough cultural events to rival cities three times its size.
Many New Yorkers are happy to confirm (including us at Secret NYC) that it’s way better than the neighboring capital, Albany.
The best things to do in Saratoga Springs
Although home to less than 30,000 people, Saratoga Springs’ size certainly doesn’t equal the amount of amazing things to do here.
From music to shopping to of course, horse racing, we’ve broken down why you need to give this hidden gem a visit this summer:
- Saratoga Race Course – This stoic course is one of the oldest and most iconic horse racing tracks in the country. It should be a bucket list item for every single New Yorker.
- Roosevelt Baths & Spa – Saratoga is known for its famous mineral waters, and this spa will make you feel like you’re in the Gilded Age.
- Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) – One of the country’s best amphitheaters for outdoor concerts, ballet, and performances—all tucked away in a dreamy little forest.
- Congress Park – A gorgeous public park open year-round with founatins, a wooden carousel, live concerts in the summer, and so much more.
- Yaddo Gardens – What was once a private artist colony is now an open to the public with serene walking paths and European-style gardens.
- Downtown boutiques – Shop locally at various local businesses along Broadway, including bookstores, local wine shops, apothecary stores, and more.
How to get to Saratoga Springs from NYC
You’ve got options!
Amtrak’s Adirondack Line makes for a scenic, stress-free train ride right into the heart of town, and tickets only cost around $50.
Or you can make the drive in just over three hours if you’re looking for a weekend escape.