5 Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Saratoga Springs

Updated: July 2025

Saratoga Springs, nestled in upstate New York, is not just a destination for horse racing enthusiasts and mineral springs aficionados—it’s also a haven for families seeking memorable adventures. From outdoor excursions to cultural experiences, Saratoga offers a plethora of activities that cater to visitors of all ages. Here are five family-friendly things to do in Saratoga Springs that are sure to delight both kids and adults alike…

Step into nature’s playground at Saratoga Spa State Park, where endless outdoor adventures await. Embark on scenic hikes along miles of wooded trails, rent bikes and cruise along paved pathways, or pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch amidst picturesque surroundings. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Saratoga Spa State Park’s iconic mineral springs, where you can fill up water bottles with naturally carbonated mineral water. With playgrounds, picnic areas, and even a swimming pool, Saratoga Spa State Park offers something for every member of the family to enjoy.

Ignite your child’s imagination and curiosity at the Children’s Museum at Saratoga, a hands-on interactive museum designed for young learners. With exhibits ranging from a pint-sized grocery store and a make-believe fire station to a creative arts studio and a nature exploration area, the museum provides endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Kids can role-play, experiment, and engage in educational activities that inspire creativity and learning in a fun and stimulating environment. The Children’s Museum at Saratoga is the perfect destination for a day of family fun and learning.

All aboard the Saratoga and North Creek Railway for a scenic journey through the breathtaking Adirondack Mountains. Hop aboard a vintage train and embark on a leisurely ride through charming towns, verdant forests, and alongside sparkling rivers. Choose from a variety of themed excursions, such as the Polar Express during the holiday season or the Great Saratoga Train Robbery for a Wild West adventure. With panoramic views from the comfort of your seat, the Saratoga and North Creek Railway offers a memorable experience that the whole family will cherish.

Beat the summer heat with a day of fun in the sun at Saratoga Lake. Pack your swimsuits, sunscreen, and beach toys, and head to one of the lake’s public beaches for a day of swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Rent kayaks, paddleboards, or pontoon boats and explore the tranquil waters of the lake, or simply relax on the sandy shores and enjoy a picnic with the family. With stunning views of the surrounding mountains and plenty of recreational opportunities, Saratoga Lake is the perfect destination for a family-friendly day by the water.

Immerse yourself in the arts at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), a world-class venue nestled within the picturesque grounds of Saratoga Spa State Park. From classical concerts by the Philadelphia Orchestra to electrifying performances by top-tier rock and pop artists, SPAC offers a diverse array of live entertainment that appeals to audiences of all ages. Pack a picnic and enjoy a lawn seat during a summer concert or dress up for a night at the ballet or opera. With its stunning outdoor amphitheater and stellar lineup of performances, SPAC promises an unforgettable cultural experience for the whole family.

  • Written by: Gabby Fisher

5 CapNY Family-Friendly Horse-Themed Activities

The Saratoga Racetrack may be the most well-known place to see horses in CapNY, but it’s not the only option for getting up close and personal with a horse.

You can immerse yourself in the history of horses in the region or find a piece of the west in the east with these five family-friendly horse activities. Some of these activities are seasonal so check out their websites or call ahead before hitting the road.

  • History and Horses at the Racing Museum

Driving at 44 miles per hour on the Northway feels maddeningly slow. But on the racetrack, that’s top speed for the fastest thoroughbreds. Perched high on the horse’s back, whipping wind, crisp morning air and flying dirt brings tears to the eyes of the most fearless.

The jockeys won’t give you a turn in the saddle, but a simulator at the National Racing Museum and Hall of Fame lets you feel like you’re bounding down the track. The interactive galleries provide a taste of a day at the races from the paddock to the winner’s circle.

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  • Behind the Scenes With Thoroughbreds

Ever wondered what the inside of a stable looks like?  In late summer Saratoga County Cooperative Extension hosts a self-guided, drive-through tour of multiple horse farms throughout the county. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at Thoroughbred breeding facilities, riding and training barns.

Over in Greenfield Center (not far from Saratoga Springs), Old Friends at Cabin Creek, a home for retired racehorses, calls itself a living museum of horse racing. Visitors are invited to meet and play with the horses all summer long and weekends in the winter. One resident retired thoroughbred challenges foot runners to a sprint down the fence. This experience is free, donations accepted.

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  • Backstretch Walking Tour at Saratoga Race Track

A third option for getting close to the action is the Backstretch Walking Tour at Saratoga Race Track. The 45-minute tour is great for kids. Guides cover history and highlights with loads of fascinating oddities about the track.

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  • Capital Region Rodeo

Slip into a pair of boots and grab a cowboy hat. Where the blacktop ends and the dirt road begins, the Painted Pony Championship Rodeo in Lake Luzerne brings the west alive each summer. The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association-sanctioned rodeo runs every weekend from July through Labor Day with classic like steer wrestling, bareback riding, and roping plus Texas barbecue.

Come fall they take the show on the road with Adirondack Stampede, which is held at the Glens Falls Civic Center. Painted Pony owner-breeders Shawn and Shana Graham have earned national championships for their livestock.

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  • Written by: Katie Navarra

Katie Navarra is a professional writer based in the Capital Region. She has written for Popular Science, The Motley Fool Blueprint, Western Horseman, Horse & Rider and others. She is also a life and executive career coach who helps clients find clarity and success in and out of the office. Learn more at katienavarra.com.