Getting Around Saratoga Springs, NY Without a Car | CDTA & More
Traveling to Saratoga Springs car-free? It’s easier than you might expect. This vibrant, walkable city offers a wide range of transportation options—CDTA buses, a free seasonal trolley, bike-share, Amtrak access, and rideshare services.
You can easily get to SPAC, the Race Course, or explore the shops and restaurants along Broadway without relying on a vehicle. Getting around is simple, reliable, and budget-friendly.
Ride the CDTA Bus Network
The Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) operates year-round bus service throughout Saratoga Springs and surrounding communities, including Ballston Spa and Wilton.
Buses run daily and connect important destinations like downtown, Wilton Mall, Saratoga Hospital, Skidmore College, and the Saratoga Rail Station.
Saratoga Springs Division Routes
- Route 450: Downtown Schenectady to Wilton Mall via Route 50 (Nearest stop to SPAC is at Route 50 and Geyser Road, a short walk to the venue)
- Route 451: Ballston Spa to West Saratoga via East Ave and Lake Avenue
- Route 452: Skidmore College to Wilton Mall via Downtown Saratoga
- Route 540 (NX Express): Weekday commuter service to Corporate Woods via I-87
All CDTA buses are wheelchair accessible and equipped with front bike racks. Schedules are available online, on buses, and through the Navigator mobile app.
Travel Regionally With CDTA
CDTA also connects Saratoga Springs to neighboring communities, making it easy to leave your car behind for regional travel.
Route 713 Between Downtown Saratoga Springs and Glens Falls
According to CDTA, Route 713 began operating on August 25, 2025, offering the first direct commuter connection between Saratoga Springs and Downtown Glens Falls.
- Operates Monday through Friday
- Travels between Saratoga Rail Station and Ridge Street Terminal in Glens Falls
- Uses I-87 and Route 9 corridor
- Accepts CDTA’s Navigator fare system
- Offers access to Amtrak service, jobs, shopping, and healthcare
Fare Info and the Navigator System
CDTA’s Navigator fare system is available throughout the Capital Region, including all Saratoga Springs routes.
- Use a Navigator card or the Navigator mobile app
- Fares are capped daily and monthly to save riders money
- Half-fare is available for seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities
- Cash is also accepted on board (exact change only)
Where to Get a Navigator Card in Saratoga Springs:
- Saratoga Springs Train Station (CDTA/Greyhound Ticket Office)
- Price Chopper/Market 32 locations in Saratoga County
- Additional sales locations available at cdta.org
Once you have a card, you can reload it online, via the app, or in person at participating retail outlets.
Hop on the Saratoga Summer Trolley
The CDTA Saratoga Summer Trolley is a free seasonal service that operates Wednesday through Sunday during the summer.
- Travels between Saratoga Casino, Saratoga Race Course, and Downtown Saratoga Springs
- Ideal for summer events, festivals, and racing season
- No fare required
- Runs on a loop connecting key visitor attractions
Use Uber or Lyft
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available across Saratoga Springs and are especially useful during off-peak transit hours or after events.
- SPAC Drop-Off/Pick-Up: Located in the Route 50 East Lot (Main Parking Lot). Enter, turn right, and follow signs to the rideshare zone
- Saratoga Race Course Drop-Off/Pick-Up: Designated area located just across Union Avenue from the main entrance
- Useful for quick trips to and from hotels, downtown, events, and train station
- Surge pricing may apply during high-traffic events
Call a Local Taxi Service
If you prefer to call ahead or don’t use app-based services, Saratoga Springs is served by several taxi companies, such as:
- Saratoga Taxi
- Capitaland Taxi
Taxis are a solid backup during crowded weekends or when you need a ride to or from the Amtrak station or airport.
Rent a CDPHP Cycle! Bike
CDPHP Cycle! offers a convenient bike-share program throughout Saratoga Springs and nearby. It’s a great way to explore the city on your own time.
- Use the CDPHP Cycle! mobile app to locate and unlock bikes
- Pay-as-you-go and monthly pass options available
- CDTA buses also accommodate bikes with racks mounted on the front
Does Amtrak go to Saratoga Springs?
Yes. Saratoga Springs is home to a full-service Amtrak station located west of downtown. It's served by both the Ethan Allen Express and Adirondack routes.
- Direct access to Albany, New York City, and Montreal
- CDTA Routes 451 and 713 serve the station
- Taxis and rideshare options are available curbside
- A great option for long-distance travelers arriving without a car
Plan a Car-Free Visit With Ease
Thanks to CDTA’s year-round service, seasonal trolley, bike-share, and convenient Amtrak access, Saratoga Springs is one of the most accessible cities in Upstate New York for visitors without a vehicle.
Whether you’re here to enjoy a performance at SPAC, spend the day downtown, or head north to Glens Falls, reliable transportation is always within reach.
Looking for more ways to plan your visit? Explore local lodging, dining, and event options throughout Saratoga Springs—no car required.
Or, find places to park in downtown Saratoga >>
