Cool Off With These 8 Fun Things to Do in Saratoga This Summer
As temperatures soar in summer, finding a refreshing cool-off spot becomes essential. Fortunately, Saratoga County offers a variety of places where you can beat the heat while having fun. From pristine pools to charming ice cream parlors and more, join us as we explore 8 things to do in Saratoga on a hot summer day!
Splash Around in Saratoga Spa State Park
Nestled on over 2,000 acres, Saratoga Spa State Park is a beautiful oasis boasting natural mineral springs and a multitude of recreational activities. Take a dip in the refreshing waters at the Victoria and Peerless Pools, where visitors are invited to cool off and also lounge on the surrounding chairs.
Visitors love seeing the geyser, along with other picturesque spots such as waterfalls and trees. There are also plenty of picnic areas, ranging from tables or places where you can lay out a picnic blanket.
Also, make sure to try the Saratoga mineral springs in the park! Guests near and far rave about it.
Go Paddleboarding and Kayaking on Saratoga Lake
Saratoga Lake is a true local gem. Relax on the sandy shores and go for a swim at Brown’s Beach, the main public swimming spot on the lake. The beach has a shallow launch for kayaks and canoes.
You can also consider renting a kayak or paddleboard from one of the nearby outfitters, like Lake Lonely Watersports or the Kayak Shak. The Kayak Shak offers guests the unique experience of paddleboard yoga classes on the lake.
Explore Saratoga Lake With a Boat
For a different Saratoga Lake adventure, look into renting or chartering a boat where you can feel the cooling breeze on your face and enjoy the views.
Both Original Tiki Tours and Daleys Adventure Boat Tours provide a safe and fun guided boating experience where you can cruise around the water and mingle with friends!
For more experienced boaters, Salvi Aquatic Boat Rentals offers a variety of pontoon boat rentals. Previous guests have raved about the amazing staff and fun times they have had while taking their own boating adventure.
Experience a Thrilling Adventure on the River
Want to be IN the water instead of ON it? Check out Sacandaga Outdoor Center in Hadley, where you can experience the thrill of navigating through rushing rapids and feeling the spray of cool water against your skin.
SOC offers guided whitewater rafting trips that friends and family will love, along with whitewater tubing for even more excitement in the water.
"It’s a good activity for [the] hot summertime," said one past visitor. [You] can jump in and swim where the river is calm."
Hit the Saratoga Ice Cream Trail
One of the best ways to cool off in the summer is, of course, with ice cream! Saratoga boasts a ton of charming parlors that feature a wide array of flavors and frosty treats.
Whether you're in the mood for classic favorites or adventurous combinations, our local ice cream spots have something to satisfy every craving. You can even have ice cream with a side of mini golf at some places, like The Wind-Chill Factory in Ballston Spa.
According to one visitor, The Wind-Chill Factory's ice cream is "obscenely large and delicious," and the mini golf experience is "great and reasonably priced."
Check out our Saratoga ice cream trail for an irresistible path of goodness >>
Raise a Chilled Glass This Summer
Another great way to stay cool is to visit the many wineries and breweries scattered throughout the region. Unwind in the tasting rooms where you can sample handcrafted wines, from crisp whites to bold reds, and indulge in a chilled glass while enjoying the beautiful summer views.
If beer is more your style, the Saratoga region offers a wide selection of craft brews that are sure to quench your thirst on a hot summer day, from refreshing IPAs to tangy sour ales.
For a fun summer alcoholic beverage, stop by The Speckled Pig in downtown Ballston Spa! The Speckled Pig has spiked slushies, seltzers, and craft beers on the menu.
Also check out Artisanal Brew Works in Saratoga Springs for food and beer as good as their service. They have a spacious patio, live music and special events, and are famous for their Warheads Sour Ales. The taproom is just a short drive north of downtown.
Explore Saratoga’s Arts & Culture Scene
When the heat is truly too hot to beat, Saratoga is full of incredible museums, like The Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery, art galleries, and more where you can indulge in some air conditioning while still being out on the town! The county's museums and art galleries offer a cooling escape from the sun.
All over Saratoga County, find local and regional artists' works showcased in art galleries. In Schuylerville, The Laffer Gallery features rotating exhibits of contemporary fine art. From traditional paintings to avant-garde sculptures, galleries offer a diverse range of artistic expressions.
Stay Frosty With Indoor Ice Skating
We all know ice skating comes to mind when trying to find activities to do in the colder months, but did you think of doing this in the summer?
When it comes to finding a different way to cool off, look no further than ice skating at the Saratoga Springs Ice Rink. This arena offers year-round public indoor ice skating sessions and free skate sessions starting in July and skate rentals.
Get Ready to Cool Off in Saratoga!
When the summer heat becomes too much to bear, Saratoga offers plenty of activities that can keep you cool and rejuvenated. Plan your journey through Saratoga's top cool-off spots.
This article is sponsored by Saratoga County Tourism. Note: The opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions or view of Saratoga County Tourism or its members.