Saratoga Race Course

No name is so synonymous with a particular sport as Saratoga is with horse racing. The track is a great experience for those who love horse racing and those who have only a passing interest in it. Saratoga is the oldest racetrack and oldest sporting venue in the US dating all the way back to 1863. Altogether, there are over two hundred buildings here on the most historic of racetracks. Saratoga provides different and unique experiences for anyone who visits. It is the only racetrack where the horses are walked through an immense crowd of people before they get to the starting gate. This is just a cool experience for all ages. There are many monuments to the great horses who raced here. The racetrack also contains the Big Red spring, one of the many springs in Saratoga Springs. If you’re interested in seeing more of the track for free. The track still offers “Breakfast at Saratoga” where you can go to the track before 11 am and take in the sights and sounds. There are no races at this time, but you can watch the horses workout. This is a great way to see more of the track than you would see during race times. The track offers what might be one of the widest range of concessions offered at any sports venue. Some of the best choices include Taco Republic, Carnegie Deli, Dunkin Donuts, Shake Shack, Union Ave Grill, and Capital Q. You can also picnic at the track and bring your own food. There are hundreds of picnic tables located around the campus of the track. Betting at the track is a fairly easy experience. They do have mutuel windows where you can place a bet with a live teller. Most of the windows are now automated and you can bet on the track’s app on your phone or at a window where there are self-service computers. Programs and racing sheets are available both inside and outside the track. If you’re just curious about the track and don’t want to deal with large crowds the best days to attend are Wednesday and Thursday. The big crowds come for the major stakes races on Saturdays and Sundays. You can purchase admission tickets online ahead of time to save money. You can also purchase admission tickets at the gate. Grandstand seats can also be purchased online. On most days it is possible to stand close to the rails and watch the horses race by. Overall, there is a great experience to be had by all here because you can make a day at Saratoga the way you want it to be.

Always a good time and a classic experience! ✨️ Recommend bringing your own cooler with drinks and snacks since they are heavily over priced once inside. That said, it's a great time with friends and family. If you are visiting from out of town, this is definitely going in the to-do list!

So this place is iconic! Beautiful track and it really is part of American horse racing history. We ran a horse and I have to say all the back stretch staff was wonderful and welcoming to out of state ship ins! Gate 13 barn area security ladies were amazing. Very helpful and kind! All the workers from the racing office to security are very accommodating and friendly to visitors. Lots of parking in all areas. Lots of food choices. Lots to see and do in the area ! The entire track was kept very clean Felt very safe there. Highly recommend to all ! A must see !

This historic place was my 1st stop while I visited this cool town for the first time. Due to it being summer and was a big race taking place today the place was super busy. After parking which was steep in my eyes $25 but atleast is for the whole day. The line was very long but once gates open they move quickly. Buying tickets online is the best option because it speeds up your entry time. It offers a huge area to to relax with friends and family. Restrooms are available plus you can buy food here aswell. You can buy general admission ticket which is $8 before fees $11.75 after. This grants you access to the park area and regular seating to the race track. The regular seating is located right in front of the track with no shade which an umbrella csn solve. The area is very nice decorated and different food options are available of course you can place bets here. They have tvs throughout the park area. Overall a very cool experience and definitely a must of your visiting this historic city.

i had a nice time. it was so hot tho i kept pouring water over myself to cool off. i brought my knitting needles in they didn’t care. however i cared once i saw how many finance bros were all around me. yall could go ahead and hire an exterminator that would be great thanks. oh yeah also bet $150 on the silly names you’ll win. also saw a motorcycle while walking 10/10

1st time going to sight see. This is not for everyone but I'm sure people had a good time. The grounds are definitely a money maker with $20 parking, $10 basic entrance, $30 for the upper level seating with a canopy above. Many food items to choose from that start at around $14 minimum. Soda starts at $6.95. Alcohol drinks like beer start at around $14 and upwards. Lemonade and fruit drinks are fake -I saw them pouring bottled lemon juice into the containers. Many people who are regulars know to bring their coolers with food and drinks. Just don't have any glass bottled drinks. There are more than enough seats for everyone but the grounds themselves look a bit outdated with small tv screens that display the scores and horse race. I wouldn't really bring kids to this place although I did see plenty of kids, but there is nothing for them do it. They have plenty of terminals for online betting as well as paper betting which looks like you need to buy the book/form for $10 just to start betting at the counter. The Big Red Spring water is enclosed within the Saratoga Racetrack grounds. Good to check out once just to experience it, but if you're not a gambler, pass on this. The race themselves are anti-climactic and you don't really get to see the racehorses but for a brief second passing by and far away even when you are up against the fence.

We’ve been several times and had seating in the clubhouse, the kitchen and the pick six picnic area. All areas offered great fun.

We absolutely love this park/track! My husband has been coming here since the late 70's when a friend of his was a "hot walker", it holds a special place in his heart. We love to pack a cooler and sit at the picnic tables and watch the races from the monitors & the rails! We have also introduced many friends to this experience and they love it too! Seeing the horses up close as they make their way through the paddock is pretty awesome!

Splendid Upstate race course - particularly in the mid-summer and fall months, when most of the races are held. Saratoga has a national name and is known as New York's premier horse racing venue. It is an alternative to the Belmont races in Elmont. Great for families. Saratoga races are known for food stands! Review: 5+

The racing and betting is so much fun and there really isn't a bad seat in the house. So much food produced on site for every taste possible available for purchase throughout. We ordered 6 pizzas from the wood burning pizza place and we were loving it. ( if you have a keen sense of smell, there is basil growing in the planters that makes the pizza that much better.) All in all a good way to spend the day- Betting, eating and people watching!

Enjoyed Breakfast at the track on the patio of the Clubhouse with my daughter and three grandchildren. It is delightful to watch the horses receiving workouts and exercise on the track a few feet away from your dining table. The buffet breakfast was good, especially the variety of cut fresh fruit, the hash brown potatoes, the sausages, and the bacon. Coffee, tea, and water are served at the table. Plain bagels and three kinds of muffins were available. I miss the small fresh Danish pastries served in the past. Plastic utensils and plates are used with high quality paper napkins. Free backstretch Tram tours are available during breakfast hours. We enjoyed it on another visit. The cost is $30. for adults and $12. For children under twelve. You pay for the ambiance not the food.

We had clubhouse seats in section k. It was nice to have coverage from the blazing sun. It was our first time there. I wish they had better signage. We had no idea where to go to find our seats. We had fun and there was plenty of time before each race to place bets. Next time we go we will bring a cooler and food. The concessions were quite expensive. $15 hotdogs? $13 beer, $5.50 for small bag of chips?

The race track was beautiful . Fun to walk around see all the history . But what we went fir was the Chowder Shack Manhattan Clam Chowder all Tedie has talked about where he recipe is from . It was very good . I would pay 9.00 again for it !!

We were attending a wedding in northern New Jersey and my husband added a couple of days to our trip so we could visit Saratoga Race Track. I am so glad he did because I really enjoyed it. We arrived around 11:30 and walked around and took some pictutes. While doing so, a nice young man gave us upgraded box tickets from Ticketmaster. That was a nice surprise and we really appreciated it. The track is beautiful and has so many different food and drink options. There are also so many ticket agents to take your bets. A great experience overall.

Visited from out of town. I had a good time it was a spacious place, unsure if you could sit in the actual seating area if you had the cheaper tickets. On July 4 plenty of people visiting and camping out and they had $1 hot dogs.

Very cool experience. As someone who did a little bit training in horse riding both western and English style, it was so worth being in the heat waiting for the race. I didn't bet but watching the race was fun and exciting. Just a FYI- This is definitely a white dominated event, barely saw any other races but still cool event. hahaha but still worth attending

Everything so expensive, and dirty place! Why? I don't understand!!! Food is very versatile bad and disgusting Not visit again

This place rocks. The people are friendly, the worker are helpful, and the horses are fast. It is humid today, but the drinks are flowing.. I use NYRA ONLINE BETTING... once I figured it out, I don't have Togo to windows to bet. Lots of fun, good times for adults and lots of kids.

I came up here every year to catch up with friends that live up here. This is always a fun place to do some betting, have a few drinks, cheer on some horses, and hang out. If you can avoid Travers, I'd avoid it as they intentionally charge a lot more as it's the biggest race at Saratoga (except for temporarily hosting Belmont) and the crowds are ridiculous to deal with.

Ridiculously expensive food and drink. Taste of New York had tiny granola samples (good though) and tiny ice cream samples and nothing else savory just bunch of booze. Where were the apples and other New York things? Peking was also horrible. No clue why they're charging admission for the pre-races and why they don't accept cash at anywhere other than the. Betting places

Beautiful place to go to the horse races. Lots of F&B options, you bet as little as you like (or not at all), great people watching and lots of beautiful race horses. Historic venue. You have to go at least once. You won't regret it!

Racing season is here (usually July to September). It's one of the oldest major sporting venue of any kind in the country. Tickets can be purchased at the venue or online for a discount. They only place they accept a credit card, everything else is a cash transaction.. so make sure to bring cash if you want to place bets. Just in case, they have an ATM inside. They do accept card payment for food and beverage, the only negative is ...they are very pricey. They offer tours for $10pp (cash only) .. it's an hour or 1.5hrs long .. totally worth it if it's your first visit. Lots of view points and screen.. so don't worry you won't miss the action. There is reserved seating but I don't know how that works. The whole experience is awesome you could pretty much go anywhere on the grounds. It's very laid back and something fun to do with kids ..you are definitely in for a great day of fun.

What is to say? It's Saratoga in the summer - great weather, pretty horses, fun crowd and lots to do. Everyone should so Saratoga at least once a season.

Great horseracing and great time for all. Regardless if you like the Horse Racing or betting, a good time for all ages. A MUST VISIT if you're into Horse Racing!

Such a great place to spend the day. Everybody is friendly. Great service almost everywhere. Many food venders to choose from. The access to the horses is great. We will return.

The Saratoga meet is the best in the country. I have been going there every year for quite some time to visit my money.

The Saratoga Race Course is an experience everyone should try at least once, and once you do, you'll likely return year after year. While the track seating is available, we prefer the family picnic area, which is fantastic. To secure your tables, plan to arrive early, around 6:30 a.m. We typically reserve three picnic tables by covering them with tablecloths. The honor system is still in place, so there's no need to worry. The course features TV screens throughout, along with kiosks and live betting stations. There are also plenty of food and beverage vendors but bringing your own food and beverages (adult drinks are welcome - no glass) is so much more economical and enjoyable. There are ample bathroom facilities, which is always important. This year marked our 10th visit to the racecourse with family and friends, and our group keeps growing because it's such a fun and relaxing venue.

I attended races on June 6, 2024, and June 8 the Belmont steaks. Both of these events were during the Belmont racing festival at Saratoga. Purchase my tickets prior to arrival from Ticketmaster and general admission. The crowds were controlled perfectly and it was easy to obtain food or alcohol as well as use the restrooms. Considering the venue had over 50,000 people there on steaks day it was a fantastic experience. it was hard to find anyone that was complaining, arguing or unhappy. The food that I witnessed looked very good and was moderately priced considering it was an event similar to a Super Bowl or major league sporting event. Additionally, we were able to bring in a cooler with food and beverage as well as chairs so we are very comfortable wherever we choose to sit. I will definitely attend any further races at Saratoga. Wood did not park a car we used Uber/Lyft and that was a fantastic experience because we got dropped off within 50 feet of the gate.

Saratoga Race Course is a Thoroughbred horse racing track located in Saratoga Springs, New York, United States. The track opened in 1863 and is considered to be the oldest major sporting venue of any kind in the country, but is actually the fourth oldest racetrack in the US. The course includes 1 dirt and 2 turf race tracks. We were able to walk around for a while as we got there early at noon for a 1pm race. I would like to thank my employer who actually provided the tickets. Mid week I get an email that they had 8 tickets for the opening weekend. I ended up requesting 3 of them. Since the table was in the club house right by the finish line inside turf terrace (restaurant), we decided to eat at turf terrace. The venue includes picnic tables, restaurants, music, celebrity days and gambling. They also have give aways on specific days. So check out the calendar.

Had such a fun fun time here! I love this racetrack, the vibe is so old timey and the wait staff are soo nice! The food was perfect! We got a table in the clubhouse next to the track and could see all the horses and the finish line. For food we had: Gazpacho- the Italian version which isn't my favorite but it was perfect for this time because we ordered so much food. I typically like the Mediterranean style more. Chicken tenders and fries Shrimp cocktail Chips and onion dip - sooo good home made carmelized onion dip and freshly made chips Prosciutto platter with yummy pickled cauliflower and carrots Lobster roll on croissant- very salty! I just love the ambiance here and of course the cashier at the track were so sweet and nice when I was asking a million questions because it was my first time horse betting. Will definitely be back next time! All the hotels were booked in the area due to the race so we stayed in Albany which is only a short 30min away.

This was our second trip to Saratoga. We are on a mission to visit every major racetrack, especially the ones where Chad, Todd, and Brad race. It was a beautiful day and we got autographs and met all the trainers including Chad Brown, Linda Rice, and Jenna Antonucci. We made sure to stop by the Big Red Spring. It was disgusting, I didn't expect it to be carbonated. It tasted like carbonated metal water, RJ said it was "ok". We were told that it's an acquired taste and that it's good luck so down the hatch it went before we placed all our bets! We pretty much broke even at the end of the day so maybe it helped us a little bit, at least we weren't in the negative. Saratoga is our favorite racetrack by far. The grounds are beautiful and they have plenty of drinks and concessions all over the property. It's always a beautiful day at Saratoga!

Great day at the track. I love this place. All kinds of things to do including live music, many different food,and souvenir vendors. Also there are restaurants and places to grab your favorite cocktail.You can sit outside at a picnic table and watch the race on the TV above you, or there is also the reserve seating, and bench seating trackside. Great outdoor atmosphere.They also have a great clubhouse.There's nothing more exciting than rooting for your favorite horses to win.

First time at the race track and I had to much fun! I lost $20 betting but the experience was worth it! Stop by if you're in Saratoga!

SUPER SUPER SUPER CROWDED. I have a new appreciation for Belmont. It was a legit party yesterday in Saratoga, call it a rager. The way Saratoga is set up, it's impossible to get to the track. And the fence area that separates the track from the people is mobbed. I wasn't star struck, but there were a couple figures there. So many people, even in the fields, people were dressed to the nines, enjoying the tradition with bow ties, fancy hats and the like. It was a beautiful day. The food truck section was standout. We got some wood fired pizzas that were as gourmet as anything else I've had. Glad we came by yesterday, it was a great day at the park.

Very cool place to hang out during the summer. Even if you don't bet on horses, there's a ton to do and see. Highly recommend spending a few days throughout summer!

We have been coming up to the Saratoga Race Course to enjoy the races for many years . It has always been such a quaint and beautiful place and over the years as they have renovated and improved the grounds it has become an even more enchanting place to visit . Whether you enjoy betting on the horses or not you will be overwhelmed with your surroundings! If you get there early you can even watch the horses workout and don't forget to check out the Big Red Springs , it tastes awful but it's a must ! Dress up , wear a fancy hat or just be casual, anything goes . There is however a dress code if you sit in the clubhouse.You can purchase tickets and sit in the grandstand or relax in the backyard area and enjoy the park like setting. They do have picnic tables but they get taken quickly. so just bring your own chairs . There are a variety of places to eat but it can get a bit pricey . You can opt to bring a picnic lunch .. but no glass bottles ! They have a lot of vendors selling high quality foods such as the new Italia Piazza , Pies on Wheels pizza , Hatties famous Chicken , Shack Shack , Taco truck , Mac truck , ice cream , coffee , drinks and more ... there is a-lot to choose from ! We ate at the Piazza Italia , serving authentic Italian panini sandwiches made with Italian cheeses , mozzarella, prosciutto, salami and ham , they also have Italian beer and wine and even Gelato! The panini was so delicious and fresh and made on the most delicious focaccia bread . The owner Giacomo told us everything was imported from Italy ! We also enjoyed a scrumptious gelato , I had pistachio it was so creamy and packed with whole pistachios ! You can just relax and enjoy watching the horses and jockeys but if you choose to bet you can download the NYRA app and bet right from your phone or purchase a voucher and use the monitor , there are some betting windows open but they are few and the lines are sometimes very long . Go , and experience an exciting time and have fun ... good luck !

This was such a fun experience! The coolest thing is that you can bring in your own beverages and food! We paid $7 each for general admission and brought in our own camping chairs. We sat in between the Miller Lite picnic tables (that you have to pay for) and we were much more comfortable than at a picnic table. We hauled our stuff in, in a wagon, which I suggest. Then we kept our food and cooler in the wagon. This was a great set-up! We sat way at the beginning of the picnic tables near the paddock, a giant screen, and the food trucks and it was the perfect location. There is not a dress code for the general admission area. There's a large variety of food trucks including pizza and Mac n cheese, as well as bars. If you've never bet electronically, I suggest asking where real people are to bet with-plus it makes it more fun! By the way, parking was around $25. This was such a fun time!

So much fun!! Loved every minute! Can't wait for the races next year. If you pay for a Terrace Club ticket it is for the day so you can get up and go back to your table all day without it ever being given to someone else-only rule is you have to spend at least $25 a person which you'll easily do anyways!

In terms of horse tracks this is one of the best. Great environment during the day but the crowd does leave a little early even if some stakes races remain. Plenty of food and drink options. The bathrooms could use an upgrade and they need to monitor the grandstand seating as people would sit who didn't pay? Don't bother paying for grandstand seating. They don't check. If you have someone's seat just get up and move to an open set.

the track itself was very nice. staff all pleasant and friendly.......that's the only reason i give 2 stars . We drove five hours to get there hoping to enjoy a summer day out. however if you don't smoke cigars, cigarettes or marijuana this is not the place for you. i understand it may be legal in New York but there were children present and exposed to this . I'm very disappointed with Saratoga racetrack! All the money they bring in and they choose to allow this and allow thier patrons to be exposed to all the drugs?!?!? Very disappointing We left early and will not be returning.

This is a fun place to spend time with friends and watch magnificent creatures running on the track. Betting is reasonable - if you are doing it for fun - it's cheaper than a dinner on the town. Even more fun when our friends' horse is racing!

I got to experience vip 1863 club a 25 k room Bc I was someone guest me and 2 of my friends ! It was spectacular! Open bar and a buffet I don't drink by my friend did and we enjoyed a day of racing and air conditioning and just a great time and the group that hosted us was wonderful and the staff there was wonderful!

Unfortunately Saratoga Race Course has put to death 14 thoroughbred horses so far during their 2023 racing season. During my recent trip to Saratoga I had to witness 2 horses go down right before the finish line. The track has a nickname "Graveyard of the favorite" They now can add "Graveyard of the thoroughbred horse" GREAT facility with a horrible 2023 season reputation. Hope they get their act together in 2024.

Very old and well maintained to bring the original traditions of the old school horse racing. You would think the track was built yesterday that how well the grounds are. There several places to eat scattered all around the grounds, all decent places but my go to is usually the new shake shack

Iconic, and for good reason. The gorgeous 19th century architecture, the park-like grounds, the ability to get right up close and personal with jockeys,, horses, trainers, outriders. Best memory ever: going in July before the meet started with my two young sons, early 2000's, climbing all the way up in the grandstands and into the box that overlooks the start-finish line. It felt like you were hanging right over the track, in all that beautiful old fashion wooden construction, like one of the original roller coasters. Back then you could also stroll around the stables on the Oklahoma side, chatting with all the central American grooms and patting the beautiful horses as they were getting slicked down after a bath. Do you want to see some characters? Saratoga is not a bad place to do so; it attracts what we might call a cross-section of society.

Now that I've lived in this area for several years, I can certainly report that I've been to the track a few times. I'm not really into horse racing. Admittedly, I like the track for camaraderie, adult beverages and food. I place bets from time to time....but the Shake Shack is only open at the track during the season....so if I want one of those decadent, overpriced concoctions, I need to get my fix during that limited timeframe. I've never paid for grandstand seating nor have I ever been seated with the pretty people in big hats. I like to chill with the riff-raff....us commoners that are looking for something to do on a hot day in Saratoga. The horses are beautiful. Majestic, even. Again...I'm just not into racing. I know it's a deep part of the history of the town, but I hear about so many horse deaths every year that my attendance has waned recently. I didn't go once this past year. Besides the races and actual track activities, there's always live music, great people-watching and a variety of food/beverage options. If you're into giveaways, they usually have a variety of baseball caps, bobble-heads, blankets, shirts, mugs....etc. Goodies are given away four times per season (check the calendar for what the items are and when they'll be distributed).

I heard Saratoga Springs was famous for their Summer horse racing but I was like, "horse racing? That doesn't sounds that fun." Boy was I wrong! Saratoga Race Course turned into a whole day of fun and thrills. I was invited to go by my friend so we went early about 11:30am and we got to look around, scope out the food places and figure out how to make some bets on the horses. Betting on the horses can be complicated but the friendly betting booth lady helped me through the betting and I got to make all my bets prior to first race starting. They have lots of food options at the race course, shack shack, Eddie Fs, Hatties chicken, ice cream, pizza, and lots more options. We bought the $10 ticket on Ticketmaster for general admission and could watch all the races from very near the finish line. I think we could have paid $7 at the gate but I wasn't too worried about paying little more to enter. We brought in our hand carried coolers of drinks which was so convenient and saved money for our drinks. My friend and I ended up on the TV live cast cause we were in the front row by the finish line. Seeing the horses up close was really awesome and they really were in peak form. I made friends with several people I didn't know at the race track and the whole atmosphere of the track was awesome. Overall, I won three of ten bets I made losing $17 total but it was so much fun cheering but your horses. I advised one of my newly made friends on the last race and she ended up winning picking the top four horses. I left the race track a little drunk but I totally had lots of fun at the race course and definitely want to go again before I return to Hawai'i.

I was super excited to go to the famous Saratoga horse races. It was pretty exciting as a first timer! I love that they give prizes out for coming (we got horse clocks...don't know what I'd do with it but hey, it's a horse clock. Hay?). I bet a dollar on a horse because I liked his name and won a couple of more back because it ran faster than the other horses. Okay, so maybe I don't understand horse racing and I never will. However, this was a fun first and last experience. It gets busy here, I'm sure it's expensive, and I spent a total of 15 minutes at the race. I also didn't see fancy hats. So don't visit here if you're looking to stare at people's fancy head wear.

Really lovely track which could do with a few minor upgrades such as better signage. The grandstand is a bit better maintained than Belmont (close to where I live) but the grounds itself are a bit more labyrinth-styled. We had originally planned to do the buffet breakfast but didn't know that it ends at 9:30... we showed up at a quarter to 11 am, so we were hungry and not a lot of food options were open. People get there early and claim their picnic tables so if you want to sit there, come prepared. I liked the little museum they had on-premise but it's more for if you're a diehard racing fan. As someone who knows next to a brick, it was just cool to see the silks and riding gear up close. We spent a few hours here, watched one race and then decided to go forth and explore the town. I feel like it's one of those things you go for the experience. There's live music on the grounds which is fun, but if you miss out on the picnic tables there isn't much seating.

My experience with race tracks is fairly limited... I mean... I've only been to Santa Anita (CA) and Churchill Downs (KY) and Keeneland (KY), but I think these 3 give me a good bench mark to measure Saratoga by. My opinion... Saratoga is AWESOME! And here's why: 1. Layout is simple and easy to figure out. It's Big but doesn't feel intimidating. It's very homey-feeling. 2. AMAZING food options. The other 3 courses did not come even close to offering as many food options for the common folk. I can't speak to what they serve in the upper echelons and the Turf Clubs of the other 3 because I can't afford them. For the normal folks at Saratoga, you can get pretty much anything.... the norm of sandwiches, nachos, burgers and hot dogs of course... but you can also get fresh made salads, super meaty (not overly mayo-ee) lobster rolls, fried clams, Asian bowls, kabobs and more! 3. This venue has a huge park-like layout with tons of picnic tables where you can bring your own coolers and hang out for the day. AND... dispersed throughout this park-like, woodsy area with lots of shade (which is huge by the way... did I mention it's big?) .... there are TVs so that you can watch the races from the comfort and shade of your picnic table and don't need to go to the track itself. AND there's a long barn-like building with what must have been like 50 windows where you can place your bets. So... you really don't need to enter the stadium area to do that either. AND... there's food/drink booths that dot the picnic-like area. It's sort of a Fair meets your Backyard Family and Friends Get Together. Oh... and the Paddock is in this area... and parades by the picnic area so you are sure to see and smell horses in case you need to be reminded that you are at a race track because you were too busy picnic-ing and visiting with your friends and neighbors. 4. There are all sorts of vendors out in the picnic-like / backyard area! If you forgot your fancy hat... no worries.... there's a vendor for that. If you need a stogie... no worries... there's a vendor for that. If you feel the need to buy some expensive and beautiful jewelry... no worries... there's a vendor for that and they even had Tanzanite! If you need to get your Tequila fix for the day... no worries... there's a vendor for that and you can even buy a boot to drink it out of. Seriously! So many great vendors! #iLoveThisPlace We went the Saturday of Labor Day which was closing weekend. I'm already planning our trip back for next year!

For many years the family spent every Sunday at the track. 2022 was probably the last. Not sure how anyone can bring kids to the picnic area anymore with all the pot. Sad.

Great race day experience Old school racetrack, as close to Churchill Downs as you can get on the east coast Folks are very friendly The suite service is very good Excellent views from every spot Traffic and parking are the biggest issues you will face when making the trip It is my 2nd trip and I would always recommend getting there early Post time for the first race is 1pm You want to be there between 1130 and 12 if you are not picnicking The town of Saratoga reminds me a little bit of Cape May. Quaint old victorians, cafes, coffee shops, small pubs, art galleries etc. A hotel room in Sarasota can be very pricey. You can stay 20 miles away for half the price. Hotel rooms in Saratoga go for approx $400 a night, a decent room 30 minutes away is approximately $200 a night

I've come to this race track the last 2 years for the Travers Day Race. The group I'm with generally has several tables at the Porch, as well as a a couple of boxes. It's fun to go back and forth between the experiences, watching live and on the TVs. Betting is really easy and while people still need to go to a person, the electronic betting machines seem to be able to handle a lot of people between races. There are a lot of dining options with some good variety around the grounds, though you may have to walk a bit to find what you're looking for. Always enjoy my time here and look forward to coming back!

Came here for closing weekend of the season (labor day weekend) Was very nastolgic . Seats are made for the 20's so your butt will hurt after a couple hours of watching the ponies. Box seats are set for 5-6 but really unless you're an anorexic and travel with others there's no way to sit there comfortably with more then 3 to 4. Great selection of food, nice paddock area, turf and dirt racing , friendly people and uber efficient gate keepers with awesome people flow considering how many people go through. Nice picnic area for families. I haven't been to many tracks (ok only 2) but I liked this one

Oh man, the Saratoga Race Course is nothing short of a good time. I would highly recommend it, regardless of age or what you plan to do while you're there. There is something for everyone and anyone. Your day is certainly what you make of it. The admission fee is $5 (although I've heard it can be more expensive later in the day). Admission is cash only! With that said, you literally don't have to spend a dollar more than that if you choose. They allow you to bring in coolers/picnic baskets. So, I would recommend coming prepared with food and drinks. But don't worry, if you decide not to, there are plenty of food/beverage vendors. There are many picnic tables but you definitely want to come early (aka before 11am on a Saturday) if you plan on snagging one. They are hot commodities and get taken quickly. Pro tip: bring an inexpensive plastic table cloth to "claim" your table. I noticed a lot of people did this. That way they were able to walk around and return to the table later on. I noticed some people brought their own lawn chairs. Races are rain or shine, so be prepared. There are covered areas in case it rains. I also noticed some groups with large tents. The grounds are kept pretty clean. I was highly impressed by the bathroom facilities... quite honestly, I was expecting them to be run down and dirty but they were far from that. Service is quick. The lines for the betting stations moved very quickly. Lastly, don't forget to visit the paddock while you're there. You can get pretty close to the horses. This was definitely one of my favorite parts.

PLEASE READ MY ORIGINAL, MORE COMPREHENSIVE, REVIEW PRIOR TO THIS UPDATE 2019 Update: Forty (40) racing days, beginning Thursday, July 11 and ending on Labor Day. Track now "dark" (closed) on Mondays AND Tuesdays (except Labor Day - Monday). New in 2019: reservations in one of the Spa's popular restaurants, The Club Terrace, The Porch and The Turf Terrace, can be made through their new online reservation system - TOCK. During the following weekends, restaurant reservations will be sold as a three-day, Friday-Sunday package only: -Opening Weekend (July 12-14) -Whitney (August 2-4) -Alabama (August 16-18) -Travers (August 23-25) Those unable to reserve on their desired dates may check the Wait List Kiosk on-track for same-day availability. If a reservation is cancelled, the table will be made available to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. Years ago, those who generously greased the palm of the maitre d' got first crack at a the best tables at the track. Thankfully, the internet appears to have leveled the playing field in this regard. In my original review, I referenced Craigslist vacation rentals as a primary source for lodging. While CL may remain an option, currently Airbnb appears to be the most popular avenue for finding a place to stay. Another reasonable option for the budget minded or for those unable to find lodging in Saratoga Springs is to book a room at one of many hotels on Central Ave. (NY Rte 5) in Colonie, NY which is a 35 minute drive away from Saratoga Springs along the Northway (I-87). Just as in 2018, a mere $7 gets you grandstand admission in 2019 (a few bucks more on Travers Day). Children under 12 are free with an adult. Everything else I wrote in my original review still holds true. Remember, the $7 or $10 admission does NOT grant you an actual seat in the grandstand or clubhouse proper as you must purchase reserved seating separately at the venue or in advance through the NYRA website or by phone. Once again, StubHub or eBay a week or so prior to your visit can yield reserved seats at below face value on many race days. Best of luck.

This is our favorite place on earth. Seriously. You come here, and you go back 150 years. I look at the stretch, and I see them all...Secretariat, Man O War, Holy Bull, Point Given, Rachael Alexandra, and many, MANY more of the greats that have run here. This is a bucket list place for sure. Come see a future KY Derby winner since every super good two year old comes to run here. I park myself on Man O' War Way in the backyard, where you can bring anything you want as long as it's not glass. This is truly a great party that features world-class racing. One word of advice, to fully appreciate it here, go to any other track so you have something to compare this to. Trust me. I can't wait until next year!