2026 Belmont Stakes in Saratoga Springs: Best Things to Do & Local Attractions
If you are joining the crowds of horse racing fans heading to the historic 2026 Belmont Stakes in Saratoga Springs (June 3-7, 2026), you are in for an unforgettable weekend. But the excitement doesn't stop at the racetrack gates. Beyond the grandstand, the Spa City is bursting with vibrant culture, world-class relaxation, and rich American history.
To help you maximize your race-day getaway, we’ve rounded up the ultimate list of Saratoga Springs attractions, hotspots, and more that every horse racing enthusiast and visitor should experience during the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival.
Impressions of Saratoga / Dark Horse Mercantile: Enjoy Saratoga Souvenirs & Special Events
Located in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs, Impressions of Saratoga and Dark Horse Mercantile are two sister stores that are well worth a visit during the 2026 Belmont Stakes Racing Festival.
Both shops are known for their Saratoga-inspired apparel, locally themed gifts, home décor, artwork, and horse racing merchandise, making them perfect stops for visitors looking to experience Saratoga beyond the track.
During Belmont week, the stores will also host several special events featuring artists, fashion, and exclusive racing-inspired pieces.
Trunk Show with Nicole Bracken
Fashion lovers can browse handcrafted millinery pieces during a special trunk show with Nicole Bracken Millinery, known for elegant statement hats and Kentucky Derby-inspired styles perfect for race day fashion.
- June 5 through June 7, 2026
- 9:30am to 2:00pm
- Hosted at Impressions of Saratoga
- Features custom millinery and race day fashion pieces
Melissa Crase Artist Pop Up Event
Visitors can meet Lexington-based artist Melissa Crase during this Belmont weekend pop-up event featuring equestrian-inspired artwork and original pieces celebrating horse racing culture.
- June 5 through June 7, 2026
- 10:00am to 3:00pm
- Pop-up art event featuring Melissa Crase
- Equestrian and racing-inspired artwork on display
Greg Montgomery: Belmont at Saratoga Poster Signing
Fans of Saratoga racing history can stop by for a special appearance from artist Greg Montgomery, known for his iconic Belmont and Travers Stakes posters. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the artist and view commemorative racing artwork during Belmont weekend.
- Sunday, June 7, 2026
- 11:00am to 1:00pm
- Meet-and-greet and poster signing with Greg Montgomery
- Belmont and Saratoga-inspired artwork available
Bonus Event: Handicapping Seminar with John and Tom Edgette
Join John and Tom Edgette for an expert handicapping seminar designed to elevate your racing game. Attendees will learn how to analyze data, evaluate racing forms, and make informed betting predictions to improve their track picks.
- Friday, June 5, 2026
- 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm (Featuring two different talks starting at 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm)
- Handicapping seminar and strategy session
- Copies of Dr. John Edgette’s books, Psych Horse Handicapping and The New Complete Horse Racing Logbook, will be available to help improve your picks
Roosevelt Baths & Spa: Soak in the Legacy of Saratoga’s Mineral Springs
Established in 1935, Roosevelt Baths & Spa offers a healing sanctuary steeped in history and renowned for its hydrotherapy. Set in the heart of Saratoga Springs, the spa is known for its mineral-rich waters and transformative wellness experiences, providing guests with a relaxing escape that blends the area’s natural therapeutic benefits with personalized care from a dedicated staff.
At the Roosevelt Baths & Spa, guests can begin their restorative journey with a soothing soak in Saratoga’s naturally effervescent mineral waters, designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation. With 42 treatment rooms, the spa offers a range of services, including mineral baths, massages, facials, body treatments, and wellness therapies.
Let nature’s healing powers and expert care guide you to a revitalized sense of well-being at this historic destination.
Saratoga Battlefield: Epic Vistas and Revolutionary History
The Saratoga National Historical Park in Stillwater, between 15 and 20 minutes from the race track, holds significant importance relating to the American Revolutionary War - but you don’t need to be a history buff to appreciate the beauty and meaning of the land.
The Saratoga Battlefield was the site of the crucial Battle of Saratoga, a turning point in the Revolutionary War. The grounds are free to visit and are open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Also worth checking out while here: the Visitor Center, the Saratoga Monument, Victory Woods, the Saratoga Surrender Site, and the General Philip Schuyler House, which is about 7 miles north of the park.
Saratoga Casino Hotel: Saddle Up for a High Stakes Belmont Weekend
If you want to experience the full thrill of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, Saratoga Casino Hotel is pulling out all the stops. The casino is transforming into the ultimate hub for race fans with a weekend packed full of promotions, viewing parties, and big giveaways.
Action kicks off early in the Mezzanine with Belmont at Saratoga Simulcasting starting at 9:00 AM on both Friday and Saturday. Here is what else is on the schedule:
- Friday, June 5 (5:00 PM – 10:00 PM): Spin Pong Drawings offer a chance to play a brand-new game and win Free Play and cash.
- Saturday, June 6 (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM): Sip & Score features Surfside drink specials at the Mane Bar, Vapor, and Diamond Jim’s, plus free Superfecta tickets.
- Saturday, June 6 (Starting at 4:00 PM): Watch, Wager & Win in Vapor lets you catch the race, place bets, and enter to win a JBL Surfside Portable Speaker.
- Triple Jackpot Mania: Anyone who hit a casino jackpot between March 6 and June 4, 2026, gets a shot at tripling their big win.
Once the final race is run, keep the energy going at the Belmont Stakes After-Party in Vapor. Doors open at 8:00 PM, featuring DJ NPG spinning throwback tracks from the 80s and 90s late into the night.
Saratoga Candy Co.: Savor the Sweetness of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival
If you are looking to satisfy your sweet tooth while soaking in the high-stakes excitement of the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, a pit stop at the Saratoga Candy Co. is a must. Located right in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs, this beloved local staple transforms into a confectionery heaven tailored specifically for racing fans.
The shop has rolled out an exclusive lineup of themed treats that make perfect gifts or personal race-day fuel. You can snag commemorative Belmont glasses filled with goodies for $17.99, or bet on sweetness with their Superfecta Snack Pack for just $6.99. For a little extra luck before you head to the betting windows, don't miss their signature chocolate horseshoes for $4.99—a delicious nod to the weekend's equine stars.
To accommodate the festival crowds, Saratoga Candy Co. is adjusting its schedule so you won't miss out on the action. During Belmont week, the hours are:
- Wednesday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Whether you are celebrating a big win or just love great chocolate, it's a sweet addition to any Belmont itinerary.
Saratoga Spa State Park: A National Historic Landmark of Wellness and Beauty
Saratoga Spa State Park, just 1.3 miles from the race track, is home to many of the Spa City’s famed mineral springs in addition to the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), the Roosevelt Baths & Spa, the Saratoga Auto Museum, the Children’s Museum at Saratoga, a golf course, walking trails, pools, and more.
Mineral springs in the park include:
- Geyser Spring
- Polaris Spring
- Karista Spring
- Charlie Spring
- Orenda Spring
- Ferndell Spring
- Hathorn Spring No 3
- Hayes Well Spring
- State Seal Spring
- Geyser Island Spouter
- Coesa Spouter
- Big Red Spring
The Big Red Spring is located at the Saratoga Race Course itself.
Congress Park: The Elegant Heart of Downtown Saratoga Springs
Congress Park is the other major must-visit park in the Spa City besides the Saratoga Spa State Park. It's home to the Canfield Casino, a vintage Carousel, three mineral springs, walking trails, fountains, and the park’s infamous ducks. (Please don’t feed the ducks.)
The 100+ year-old, hand-carved carousel features horses with real horse hair and is open May through October at only $1 per ride.
FAQs About Visiting Saratoga Springs for the Belmont Stakes
When and where is the 2026 Belmont Stakes being held?
The 158th running of the Grade 1 Belmont Stakes takes place on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the historic Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, NY. The race is the crown jewel of the five-day Belmont Stakes Racing Festival, which runs from Wednesday, June 3 through Sunday, June 7, 2026.
What are the best things to do in Saratoga Springs outside of the race track?
Beyond the track gates, top activities include relaxing at the historic Roosevelt Baths & Spa, exploring the mineral springs at Saratoga Spa State Park, and shopping along Broadway in downtown Saratoga. For local events, stop by downtown retailers like Impressions of Saratoga for racing-themed artist pop-ups, custom hat trunk shows, and exclusive souvenirs.
Are there free attractions to visit during Belmont week in Saratoga?
Yes! Both Congress Park (located right downtown) and the Saratoga National Historical Park (Saratoga Battlefield, located 15–20 minutes away) are entirely free to enter. Congress Park is famous for its historic walking paths, spring fountains, and a 100+ year-old carousel, while the Battlefield offers scenic driving tours and stunning vistas of Revolutionary War history.
Can you drink the water from the Saratoga mineral springs?
Yes, the natural mineral springs running throughout Congress Park and Saratoga Spa State Park are entirely safe to drink, and each has a completely unique taste profile. If you want a fresh, crisp taste popular with locals, bring a water bottle to fill up at the State Seal Spring in Saratoga Spa State Park.
Plan Your Perfect Belmont Weekend in Saratoga
Whether you are celebrating a massive win at the track or simply soaking up the electric festival atmosphere, downtown Saratoga Springs offers the perfect mix of relaxation and history.
From soothing mineral baths to exclusive racing memorabilia, making time for these local staples ensures your trip to the 2026 Belmont Stakes is a winner. Ensure you check local venue hours in advance, as many shops and hotspots extend their schedules to welcome racing fans all weekend long.
