Saratoga Springs: Where History, Horses, And Healing Waters Meet In New York
Photo by The Empire City Wire.
Location
Nestled at the foothills of the Adirondacks just north of Albany—is a charming city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty.
From its early days in the 1700s as a Native American and colonial mineral spring destination, it blossomed into a premier resort town by the 1800s, powered by therapeutic spa culture and the arrival of the Saratoga & Schenectady Railroad in 1832. Today, the city offers an exquisite blend of old-world allure and modern vitality.
At its heart lies the Saratoga Race Course, established in 1863 and renowned as one of America’s oldest major thoroughbred tracks. Nearby Saratoga Spa State Park enriches your visit with mineral baths, outdoor pools, lush trails, and the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), an acclaimed amphitheater where the New York City Ballet, Philadelphia Orchestra, and top-tier concerts convene during the warmer months.
Mommy’s Turn, a first place winner. Photo by The Empire City Wire.
Thoroughbred Racing
Saratoga Springs’ vibrant summer pulse is driven by the thrilling season of thoroughbred racing at historic Saratoga Race Course. For over 160 years, this storied venue—opened in 1863—has attracted racing aficionados from around the world, showcasing top-tier events that blend sport, elegance, and local flair.
The 2025 meet spans July 10 to September 1, offering 40 days of electrifying action with races Wednesday through Sunday. This year kicks off with the July 4 Racing Festival (July 3–6), featuring ten stakes races, hot dog specials, free beer, and family fun, including a potential Ferris wheel on-site.
The Grade II Jim Dandy Stakes (July 26), a key Travers prep with a $500k purse.
The Grade I Whitney Stakes (August 2), a major showdown for older horses.
The signature Grade I Travers Stakes ("Midsummer Derby") on August 23—with a $1.25 million purse and often featuring Derby and Belmont winners.
The 2025 Saratoga meet has already delivered memorable performances and unexpected victories—none more striking than Mommy’s Turn, who, despite being notoriously difficult to handle, broke away from the field to win the $150,000 Suzie O’Cain Stakes under jockey Jose Lezcano on Wednesday, July 16. The filly’s commanding win added to the drama and unpredictability that make Saratoga’s summer season so iconic.
A betting slip from the race with the winning horse Mommy’s Turn. Photo by The Empire City Wire.
Beyond The Races
Beyond the races, Saratoga Race Course fosters a festive atmosphere. "Opening Day" dazzles with giveaways—Hawaiian shirts, drink samples—and charitable events like Aftercare Day and Make‑A‑Wish’s Wish Wednesday.
The venue's charm is steeped in tradition: classic grandstands, picnic lawns beside the mineral spring, paddock tours, and vintage gate operations overseen by new NYRA head starter Scott Jordan, who brought decades of expertise from Churchill Downs.
In essence, Saratoga’s horse racing season isn’t just a series of races—it’s a cultural tapestry. From historic stakes and champion thoroughbreds to fan-favorite events and communal spirit, the Race Course offers an unmatched summer spectacle that cements its legacy as the beating heart of American horse racing.
