Skip to main content

Tour of the Battenkill 2024: Plan Your Trip for This Premier Upstate NY Cycling Race

Experience the Beauty and Challenge of Washington County

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the picturesque landscapes of Washington County during the Tour of the Battenkill 2024 on May 18th. Unlike other events taking place in cities, this Upstate NY cycling race is renowned for its scenic route. You will ride past farms, across historic covered bridges, and over rolling hills.

Learn more about this premier race, why you should register for it, and tips for planning your trip to the region.

battenkill bike race

Scenic Route, Challenging Terrain

Venturing through the heart of Washington County, the Tour of the Battenkill promises a cycling experience you’ll never forget. Although scenic, don’t let the course fool you. There is challenging terrain throughout as it varies between paved and unpaved roads.

Riders can choose between three events during registration:

  • The legendary 75.7-mile Gran Fondo
  • The 45-mile Medio Fondo
  • The 24.2-mile Piccolo Fondo

Your endurance will be tested during the Tour of the Battenkill, offering a superb time in the countryside. The competition is high as the event attracts cyclists from across the country. This will be a memorable journey for any competitive rider.

What to Expect at the Race

bikers riding down a dirt path

This year’s race will start and end at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Greenwich, which offers plenty of parking. Over 400 volunteers, 80 police officers, 50 EMS personnel, and 60 staff will be on-site to support this popular event and all of the participants. 

The Tour of the Battenkill features a mass start with a neutral roll out for all three distances.

2024 Start Times:

  • Gran Fondo - 8:30 AM
  • Medio Fondo - 9:00 AM
  • Piccolo Fondo - 9:30 AM

This single-day cycling extravaganza culminates with a well-deserved celebration at the finish line, featuring a party, live music, food, and complimentary beer garden courtesy of Artisanal Brew Works.

cyclists holding up beer after a race

Save the Date: May 18th, 2024

Mark your calendars for May 18th, 2024, when the "Queen of the Classics" returns to Washington County. Race registration is available online, and it includes:

  • 2024 Tour of the Battenkill Swag Item
  • Athletic Long Sleeve
  • Ceramic Mug
  • Free Beer After the Race
  • Full SAG and Medical Route Support

Register for the Tour of the Battenkill today, and read on for tips about local lodging, dining spots, and popular attractions in the area.

Comfortable & Convenient Lodging: Best Places to Stay

For those seeking accommodations, there are a wide range of lodging options to suit every preference.

Washington County Fairgrounds

tent camping and open tent

The Washington County Fairgrounds isn’t just the race venue, but it will also be available for one or two night stays for campers. If you enjoy camping and want to be near the start line, then this is a top lodging option. Visit the race website for additional details about reserving a campsite.

Holiday Inn Saratoga Springs

holiday inn saratoga

Located 13.4 miles from the Washington County Fairgrounds is Holiday Inn Saratoga Springs. They offer free on-site parking and their restaurant, Bookmakers. With their location, they are very close to Broadway which offers shopping, dining, and historic sights.

Bluebird Spa City Motor Lodge

bluebird spa city hotel

In the heart of Downtown Saratoga is Bluebird Spa City Motor Lodge, located 13.2 miles from the starting line. With a modern approach to their rooms, this is a cozy place to enjoy the Saratoga region. Head out the door to explore, and be sure to grab a bagel across the road at Uncommon Grounds!

Residence Inn by Marriott

residence inn saratoga

Another hotel worth checking out is the Residence Inn by Marriott, only 12.9 miles from the Fairgrounds. A stone’s throw away from Saratoga’s Broadway, this allows a bit of solitude from town. It will be a bit shorter of a drive as it is directly off of the highway.

Adirondack Inn

adirondack inn

The last hotel on our list is the Adirondack Inn in Saratoga, which is 14.6 miles from Washington County Fairgrounds. This option is affordable and quiet, as you are settled in away from the bustling downtown.

Fueling Your Adventures: Great Places to Eat

Make sure you have a good meal before and after the Tour of the Battenkill. Here are some recommended dining options near the race venue.

Wallie’s of Greenwich

wallies of greenwich

One of the most classic restaurants in Washington County is none other than Wallie’s of Greenwich. Serving great dishes since 1929, you will be in good hands for this dining experience. Some of their choices on the menu include a Turkey BLT, Blackened Mahi Taco, and Fish n Chips.

Old Saratoga Eatery

old saratoga eatery

Old Saratoga Eatery is a local favorite in Schuylerville, and it’s just two miles from the starting line. Offering some of the best pizzas around, customers can choose from a taco pizza, chicken bacon ranch, Mediterranean, and more. Other options include fantastic sandwiches such as the club sandwich above! This might be just the place to fill up after a long day on the bike.

Sweeney’s

turkey, gravy, stuffing, and green beans on a plate

Another great spot in Schuylerville that you should visit is Sweeney’s. After a full day of cycling, this could be a perfect spot to grab some dinner. Their menu includes items such as sweet chili meatballs, chicken club, a sunrise burger, and other options.

Saratoga Gluten Free Goods

saratoga gluten free goods

The last dining spot in the Schuylerville area is Saratoga Gluten Free Goods. They are located 2.2 miles from the starting line. Offering some of the best breakfast and lunch in Schuylerville, this is a must stop. If you prefer gluten free foods, this is their specialty and they serve some wicked good items.

Country Corner Cafe

country corner cafe

Heading into Saratoga Springs, this is a bit farther of a drive from the Fairgrounds. At 13.1 miles away, you can enjoy a tasty breakfast at the Country Corner Cafe. They have incredible breakfast sandwiches, French toast, oat pancakes, and if you’re interested…fantastic polenta fries. 

The Brook Tavern

the brook tavern

The Brook Tavern is 13.4 miles from the Washington Fairgrounds and offers a more casual dining experience. For handheld options, they feature a Pulled Pork Sandwich, Fried Chicken Sandwich, Brook Tavern Burger, and more.

Explore Beyond the Race: Things to Do Nearby

Take some time to experience the region during your race weekend. Here are a few hotspots to check out nearby.

Saratoga National Historical Park

historical park road

For those history lovers out there, a place worth spending some time at is the Saratoga National Historical Park. This is located in Stillwater, 10.2 miles away from the Fairgrounds.

As part of the Revolutionary War, this destination was a turning point for America in 1777. Explore the grounds to learn more about what happened and our nation’s fight to create the country we know today.

The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame

museum of racing exterior and jockey statues

Near the Brook Tavern is the National Museum of Racing. If you are staying in the Saratoga area, you can learn a lot about the history of horse racing. There are special screenings of historic horse races and trophies that are on display. This museum is located 13.2 miles from Washington County.

Hudson Crossing Park

hudson crossing park bridge

Another beautiful place on this list is the Hudson Crossing Park. For a recovery from race day, enjoy their trails or sit by the water. They have a variety of spots for a picnic, or you can find solitude on their Sensory Trail. The park is located just 3 miles from the Fairgrounds.

Bound By Fate Brewing

bound by fate brews on a railing
Photo Courtesy of Megan Joyce

The last place on this list is to drink a fresh brew after a long day of cycling around the region. This is Bound By Fate Brewing. It is a farm brewery and taproom, offering some fantastic brews in Schuylerville.

Try out their uniquely named brews such as Kegasus, Precious Mettle, and Here Be Dragoons. The brewery is located just 2 miles from the starting point for the race.

The Tour of the Battenkill 2024 awaits! Finalize your plans to experience this one-of-a-kind cycling race in Upstate NY.

<< Back to Things to Do