Discover 8 of the Best Winter Activities in Saratoga Springs & Nearby
If there is any place that has an abundance of things to do in the winter, it's Saratoga Springs. From snowshoe trails to cozy bars, magnificent museums, relaxing spas, day trips, and more, there is a lot to experience all season long. Here are our top 8 picks for winter activities in Saratoga Springs and the nearby area.
Seek Out Your Next Snow-Filled Adventure
Some of the best winter days are spent on the trails right here in the Saratoga area. One of our favorite spots is Saratoga Spa State Park, which features a large trail system for all ski levels. Whether you are interested in cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, there is a variety of land to explore.
Other nearby locations to snowshoe or ski include:
Relax Inside a Historic Oasis in Saratoga Springs
Maybe the colder weather really isn't your thing. Don't worry, we have ideas for those who prefer warmth in the winter too!
One of the best places to visit is the historic Roosevelt Baths & Spa in Saratoga. Although hidden, the most important part of this spa is being run with mineral rich spring water located underground. It has been celebrated since 1935 for its restorative healing powers and continues to heal people today.
If a mineral bath isn’t your typical outing for relaxation, there are alternatives too. These are other beautiful spas that locals have fallen in love with:
The question comes down to one thing…which spa will you be choosing on a cold winter day? Will you go for the historic beauty and healing powers of Roosevelt Baths & Spa or choose something else?
Head Into a Cozy Bar on a Frigid Day
Saratoga Springs offers a diverse selection of restaurants where you can unwind in a cozy atmosphere complete with a crackling fireplace and delicious cuisine. One spot to consider is The Local Pub & Teahouse, where you can try their tasty brews on tap or indulge in Irish cuisine. They offer coffee too, or inquire about their nitro cold brew, which is delicious!
The community is home to several cozy bars that you can visit for warming up next to a fireplace or enjoying a meal with friends, including:
- The Brook Tavern
- The Wishing Well Restaurant
- The Olde Bryan Inn
- Tavern & Side Room at The Inn in Saratoga
Learn About History, Art, and Culture in a Museum
Searching for a museum to learn something new? Saratoga has many of them which may be beneficial for yourself. They can teach you about art, horse racing, cars, or something for your kids too!
The Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery (pictured above) can educate you about art and maybe inspire you too.
Another museum worth visiting based on Saratoga’s history is the National Museum of Racing & Hall of Fame. Here you will learn about the history of horse racing and its impact over the years. If cars are more your speed, then take a drive to the Saratoga Automobile Museum.
Lastly, if it's too cold for your kids to play outside, you can bring them to the Children's Museum at Saratoga. This is a great spot for kids to learn through interactive displays.
Hit the Jackpot at Saratoga Casino Hotel
One of the premier entertainment locations in the Capital Region is right in the heart of Saratoga. At Saratoga Casino Hotel, you can aim to win great prizes by playing games in the casino. This includes popular games such as Monopoly, Quick Hits, and Wheel of Fortune.
More interested in horse racing? They have that too! When you visit this attraction, you should check out their harness racetrack, which is open from February - December each year.
Step Into a Dream in Lake George
Ignite the creativity of your imagination at the brand new Lake George’s Winter’s Dream. This magical attraction was created by the award-winning multidisciplinary studio known as Moment Factory. This is a truly immersive experience that you can find at the Fort William Henry Historic Fortress in Lake George.
Once you step foot inside Lake George Winter’s Dream, you can begin exploring vivid scenes and installations that you will never forget, including:
- Frozen Lakes
- Cabin of Dreams
- Full Moons
- Dreamscapes
- First Snow
- Winter Woods
Being located under an hour from Saratoga Springs, it’s the perfect addition to a Lake George winter day trip. Plan in advance and purchase your tickets today!
Hit the Slopes & Feel the Adrenaline
Whether you’re an avid skier or snowboarder, our region has some fantastic slopes to hit during the winter season. Just a short drive from Saratoga is West Mountain which has great terrain to test out your skills. Interested in bringing a friend but don’t have the gear for them? West Mountain offers equipment rentals to allow your friends to join you on this adventure.
Maple Ski Ridge in Schenectady and Willard Mountain in Greenwich are two other locations that are close to Saratoga Springs. If West Mountain is too busy or you want to try a new ski area, these are excellent alternatives.
Experience the Fun of Igloo Dining
If there is something that everyone should experience once in their life, it is to dine inside an igloo. Driving up to Lake George or heading through Bolton, you will spot these little igloos at different restaurants. Some local places that offer this unique dining experience include:
Be sure to call in advance to reserve an igloo for your group!
Where Will You Head To?
With a vast selection of activities to choose from in Saratoga and its nearby neighbors, you’re sure to have an amazing time during these winter months. Plan your next outing today!
