The Ultimate Kids Itinerary for Fall in Saratoga Springs, NY
Enjoy a Fall Weekend With the Family
Planning a fall weekend getaway with the family? Saratoga Springs offers the perfect mix of outdoor adventure, delicious food, and local charm to keep both kids and parents happy. From colorful parks to pumpkin patches and cozy dining spots, you’ll find no shortage of things to do in Saratoga Springs with kids this fall.
Friday Evening: Easy Start to Your Weekend
Dinner at BWP Saratoga
Start your weekend at BWP, a local favorite off the beaten path but minutes from downtown. Kids will love the dedicated children's menu, and parents can relax with one of their many great beer, wine, or cocktail options.
If the weather is nice, the outdoor patio offers a casual and comfortable spot to dine al fresco.
Bonus Tip: If your trip begins on a Thursday, you can take advantage of BWP’s Kids Eat Free offer with the purchase of an adult meal. A great excuse to extend your festivities by a day!
Stay at the Holiday Inn Saratoga Springs
Just a short walk from downtown, this family-friendly hotel features spacious suites, an indoor (and outdoor) pool, and an on-site restaurant where kids eat free.
The Holiday Inn Saratoga Springs is ideal for families who want a convenient, affordable home base with all the amenities!
Saturday: Local Shops, Parks & Seasonal Fun
Breakfast at the Holiday Inn
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast right at your hotel. With kids eating free, it's a budget-friendly way to start the day.
Morning Fun at G. Willikers Toys
This beloved local toy store opens at 10am and is filled with games, books, puzzles, and gifts for all ages. It’s the kind of spot kids (and adults) won’t want to leave.
Picnic in Congress Park & Carousel Ride
Pack a picnic lunch from Saratoga Broadway Deli or The Brook Tavern, both offering easy online ordering for a quick pickup.
Congress Park is one of the best parks for kids around Saratoga Springs, with wide open spaces, a duck pond, historic statues, and a charming carousel that runs rides for just $1. Bring a blanket, relax under the trees, and let the kids play.
Afternoon at Sunnyside Gardens
Just a short drive away, Sunnyside Gardens transforms into a fall wonderland with pumpkin picking, hayrides, and festive displays. Kids can explore play areas, check out the farm animals, and enjoy classic fall treats.
Wondering “Are there any local farms with pumpkin picking, hayrides, or corn mazes?” This is one of the top spots near Saratoga for just that.
Dinner at Cantina
End the day with a lively dinner at Cantina. The kids’ menu has build-your-own tacos, burritos, or quesadillas - plus kid-friendly staples like chicken tenders and hot dogs. Adults will appreciate the modern Mexican dishes and creative cocktails.
Rainy Day Alternative: Children's Museum at Saratoga
If weather derails your outdoor plans, head to the Children’s Museum at Saratoga, located in Saratoga Spa State Park. This interactive museum features hands-on exhibits designed for kids 0–10 and is perfect for rainy-day energy burning.
Sunday: Cozy Breakfast & Fall Farm Adventure
Breakfast at Country Corner Cafe
A cozy spot popular with locals, Country Corner Cafe serves up classic breakfasts with a warm, family-friendly vibe. The kids' menu has all the favorites, from silver dollar pancakes to scrambled eggs and toast.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid the weekend wait. You can also order ahead online if you prefer a quicker option.
Alternative: Looking for more of a diner experience? Try Triangle Diner, where you’ll find hearty portions and a retro-style setting.
Spend the Day at Ellms Family Farm
No fall weekend is complete without a visit to Ellms Family Farm in Ballston Spa. Plan to spend a good part of your day here - the farm features a massive corn maze, pumpkin patch, jumping pillows, pedal carts, and over 40 kid-friendly attractions!
This destination checks all the boxes for family-friendly things to do in Saratoga Springs in the fall. The farm is open on weekends and is well worth the short drive.
Potential Add-on Activity: National Bottle Museum
While you're in the Ballston Spa area of Saratoga County, if you have time, the National Bottle Museum is always a fun stop. They're only open until 4pm, so you'd have to plan ahead, but this is a unique, inexpensive place to bring kids.
For a $5 donation, you can "adopt" an "orphan" bottle to take home!
Dinner Before You Head Home: Carson’s Woodside Tavern
Wrap up your weekend with a relaxed dinner at Carson’s in Malta, just over 15 minutes from Ellms. The kids’ menu includes grilled cheese, beef sliders, hot dogs, and mac and cheese, while the adult menu boasts wraps, burgers, fish and chips, and hot sandwiches.
If the weather’s good, take advantage of the patio dining overlooking Saratoga Lake.
Bonus Tip: Check for Family-Friendly Events
Before your trip, explore what’s happening around town. Fall is festival season in Saratoga, and many events are geared toward families.
Check out the latest happenings here:
- Top Fall Festivals in Saratoga
- Saratoga Events Calendar - you can filter for kids events, free events, events this weekend, etc.!
Ready to Plan Your Weekend?
Now that you've got your weekend itinerary planned out the next step is to book your lodging at the Holiday Inn or another top lodging choice!
Discover kid-friendly trails and hikes >>
