A Much-Needed Summer Covid Escape

DAY 3

Neither of us had actually been to Saratoga Springs even though we had passed it many times on the road. We arrived in Saratoga Springs in the afternoon during a heavy summer rainstorm. Although there were many foodie recommendations we came across, there werent many covered outdoor seating options for a late brunch so we decided on Morrissey's Lounge at the Aldephi Hotel. There are probably better options out there - the food was mediocre and overpriced.

We then walked along Broadway, their main street, and checked out Congress Park as the rain dwindled down. The park was quaint, with an old-school Carousel, fountains, ponds, ducks and memorials, but much smaller than I imagined. Right across the street was a Ben&Jerry's, perfect for a late evening dessert. Although we didnt go out, there were lots of bar and lounge options in town. There was a bit of a college town sort of feel with some of the bars. We stay at an average Airbnb apt close to town.

DAY 4

The next morning we were planning to head home but the presence of sunlight in the city made us want to check out more of the place. Unfortunately, the Saratoga Race Track was closed to the public due to Covid. We grabbed breakfast at what seems to be THE #coffeeshop in town, Uncommon Grounds Coffee & Bagels. Many customizable options for food and drink and we enjoyed our tasty bagel sandwiches at Congress Park, only a minute away. We then did a short but very lovely walk at Saratoga Spa State Park. We attempted the five-mile trail but it was difficult to follow and we went off path for a large portion of it. The park was well-maintained with lots of lovely wooded areas, fresh water springs, #frisbeegolf, and more populated areas. We then headed back to the center of town for lunch and window shopping. We grabbed food from Putnam market (a gourmet market with lots of packaged and fresh food options) and enjoyed it again in Congress park before our ride back home on I-87. Highly recommend a pit stop (1-2days) to explore Saratoga Springs.