Hear from Michael Dubb talking about how special Saratoga Springs is to him at the 2026 Belmont Stakes Festival.
A snowy weekend in Saratoga Springs is a weekend well spent. Well-known for its summer horse racing season and cozy foliage vibes in fall, winter brings a slower, cozier pace, plus its own seasonal splendor to this Capital Region city. Wander the festively decorated downtown, browse boutiques, warm up in coffee shops before indulging in the city’s exceptional dining and live entertainment. Savor serenity in the famed mineral spa or explore the snow-covered trails and towering pines of Saratoga Spa State Park. Enjoy a winter weekend in Saratoga Springs.
For a swanky stay right in the heart of Broadway, the Adelphi Hotel is the place to be. Upscale amenities, like a spa, sauna, game room, and library, complement world-class fare, igloo dining, and a lavish bar and lounge. And even if you’re not staying at the Adelphi, its bar is well worth a visit for a cocktail or mocktail and the atmosphere alone.
For an equally convenient but more affordable option, the 1843 Inn at Saratoga offers modern amenities, cozy comforts including working fireplaces and a tavern, all housed in a beautifully updated Victorian venue.
In the winter chill, the Southern home cooking at Hattie’s is sure to warm you up. For more than 80 years, this local legend has been serving up Louisiana-style soul food with charm. Their award-winning fried chicken (featured on Bobby Flay’s Throwdown) is a must-try, but the menu also features fried green tomatoes, savory prawns, red beans and rice, slow-cooked BBQ spare ribs, jambalaya, and chicken and waffles. Be sure to save room for a slice of key lime or pecan pie.
Right next door to Hattie’s, step into Caffè Lena, the oldest continuously operating folk music venue in the United States. Since opening in 1960 in a former woodworking shop, this legendary stage has seen some of America’s greatest songwriters, from Bob Dylan to Anaïs Mitchell. Recognized by The GRAMMY Foundation for its important contributions to the development of American music, the venue hosts a full lineup of live performances in an intimate, history-filled setting.
There’s almost always a line out the door at Sweet Mimi’s, but don’t let that stop you, it’s absolutely worth the wait. This beloved café may be small in size, but it’s big on flavor and national accolades. Featured on the Food Network for its pancakes that went head-to-head with Bobby Flay, Sweet Mimi’s is a must-stop breakfast spot for both sweet and savory bites. Just inside the door, the bakery case tempts with an ever-changing lineup of made-from-scratch treats, while the menu features favorites like lemon ricotta pancakes, cinnamon roll pancakes, and savory specialties like the cornmeal, cheddar, and scallion waffle, truffled home fries, seasonal scramble, and the Mexican burrito platter.
The nearly 2,400-acre Saratoga Spa State Park transforms into a winter wonderland when the snow falls. Well-known for its mineral springs, the park is home to 11 public springs, each safe to drink from (bring a bottle) and offering its own distinct flavor and mineral profile. The park offers ample opportunities to embrace the season! Lace up your skates for hockey or ice skating on two outdoor ice rinks near the historic Victoria Pool, or traverse 12 miles of scenic trails surrounded by towering snow-capped pines, perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, or fat biking. Warm up afterward inside the Creekside Classroom Environmental Education Center, where you can learn more about the region’s flora and fauna.
Also found in the expansive Saratoga Spa State Park is the Saratoga Automobile Museum, nestled in a repurposed bottling plant. Marvel at some of the greatest cars from around the world as you learn about the innovation and impact of the automobile in New York State and beyond. Permanent exhibits include Racing in New York State, Evolution of the Race Helmer, and East of Detroit, while the featured rotating exhibit showcases Pontiac: The Dawn of Muscle (through April 26, 2026).
3:30pm: Browse around Broadway
Lined with one-of-a-kind boutiques, renowned restaurants, and cozy coffee shops, Broadway is Saratoga’s bustling “Main Street.” Delight in seasonal décor, horse-themed sculptures, stunning fountains, and natural beauty as you stroll through Congress Park between shops. Stop by Impressions for all things Saratoga, from collectibles and souvenirs to apparel, home goods, and equestrian-inspired treasures.
Discover your new favorite premium olive oils and balsamics at Saratoga Olive Oil Co. Families and the young at heart will delight in the playful aisles of G. Willikers specializes in unique and classic toys, games and gifts for all ages. And book lovers can lose themselves in the shelves of Northshire Bookstore, one of the largest independent bookstores in the region.
You’ll want to make a reservation for 15 Church, where fresh seafood is flown in daily and the finest USDA prime aged beef will have your mouth watering the moment you step inside. Start with fried oysters or house-made olive oil focaccia, then savor entrees like Falkland Islands sea bass, prime filet mignon, or cappelletti with butter-poached lobster. Vegans can indulge in their own dedicated menu featuring Lion’s mane mushroom with potato puree and black truffle, or pea protein “lamb” kebabs. Make sure to save room for desserts like the vanilla custard trifle or chocolate layer cake.
Cap off your night with some live, local entertainment. Comedy Works, upstate New York’s longest-running comedy club, has been bringing belly laughs for over 40 years. All that jazz and more can be found at 9 Maple Ave., an intimate 40-seat jazz bar boasting the largest selection of single malt scotches between Manhattan and Montreal, plus a martini menu with over 250 options. Or get tickets to a headline performance at Universal Preservation Hall, once a 19th-century High Victorian Gothic church that has been transformed into a state-of-the-art performance space.
The Merc offers a casual yet trendy atmosphere with top-notch American fare and inventive beverages. Start your brunch with a peach Bellini or a spicy Bloody Mary alongside the carnitas benedict, vegan “No Huevos Rancheros”, custard-soaked brioche French toast, or biscuits and gravy.
12pm: Afternoon Tea at Saratoga Tea & Honey
Tea and honey enthusiasts will easily find paradise at Saratoga Tea & Honey Company, where shelves are stocked with a wide array of loose-leaf teas, locally and globally-sourced honeys, and curated teaware. Sample dozens of infused honeys and fine teas before settling in at the tea bar for a freshly-brewed cup.
Indulge in a spa service at The Roosevelt Baths & Spa at the Gideon Putnam, a historic wellness oasis that has been soothing guests since 1935. With 42 treatment rooms, the spa offers a range of rejuvenating services, from signature mineral baths and restorative facials to therapeutic massages and holistic body treatments.
By car:
From NYC: 3 hours, 30 minutes
From Boston: 3 hours, 30 minutes
From Philadelphia: 4 hours, 25 minutes
From Montreal: 3 hours
Closest airport: Albany International Airport, 33-minute drive
By train: Amtrak to Saratoga Springs Train Station.
By bus: Trailways Bus to Saratoga Bus Station.
Saratoga Springs’ Broadway is the kind of main street that makes you want to slow down, wander, and soak it all in.
The historic downtown, just a short drive from Albany and only about 3.5–4 hours from NYC, has been recognized for its lively culture, boutique-lined sidewalks, and photogenic charm — and it’s easy to see why locals and visitors alike keep returning.
It’s also part of what makes Saratoga Springs one of New York’s top college towns, blending youthful energy with historic sophistication.
Recently, WorldAtlas named Broadway one of the 10 standout main streets in New York, joining a list of downtowns praised for walkability, character, and cultural highlights.
And Broadway lives up to the hype.
From its theaters and boutique shops to cafés and vintage arcades, the street is packed with things to see, do, and taste — all framed by Congress Park and the city’s signature historic architecture.
Broadway wasn’t just built to be a street — it was designed to impress.
As the story goes, town founder Gideon Putnam laid out the wide thoroughfare in the early 1800s, aiming to create a grand resort community.
It connected the “Upper Village” near High Rock Spring with the “Lower Village” at Congress Spring and was once lined with opulent hotels, including the massive Grand Union Hotel.
While many of those hotels are now gone, Broadway’s sweeping sidewalks, Colonial Revival, and Beaux-Arts buildings still convey a sense of old-world glamour.
Through careful preservation and revitalization beginning in the 1960s, Broadway has regained its vitality, blending historic charm with contemporary flair — from high-end boutiques to cozy cafés!
The Adelphi Hotel – A stunning Victorian gem right on Broadway with porches overlooking the main street, elegant bars, in-house dining rooms, and accommodation.
Northshire Bookstore – A cute family-run indie bookstore that sells books, stationery, magazines, cards, calendars, and so much more.
Saratoga Trunk – An upscale women’s store that sells apparel and signature race-day hats.
Impressions of Saratoga – A classic Saratoga Springs-themed gift shop with racing-themed gifts and local souvenirs.
The Historic Canfield Casino – Just off Broadway and tucked into Congress Park, this National Historic Landmark was once a gambling hotspot, now a museum and events space.
Forno Bistro – A lovely Italian restaurant in a historic old firehouse building serving traditional Tuscan recipes.
Salt & Char – Located inside The Adelphi Hotel, this steakhouse is one of the town’s best, and is right on Broadway.
Darling Doughnuts – Only open sine 2020, this spot sells the most tasty and creative doughnuts you’ll ever try —coffee, tea, and other things too.
Mrs. London’s Bakery – A staple on Broadway for over 20 years, the bakery serves an extensive repertoire of breakfast pastries, breads, desserts, drinks and savory lunch options.
Broadway is the center of Saratoga Springs’ social life, especially during racing season.
From mid-July through Labor Day in particular, the street buzzes with energy as visitors dress up for the track and spill into restaurants, bars, and shops. Other seasonal highlights include:
- Chowderfest – Winter’s biggest downtown festival, drawing crowds for local chowder competitions. The next one is in the coming months— February 7, 2026.
- Belmont on Broadway – Horse racing events transform the street with live music and free concerts. This usually happens during the summer in June! (2025’s has passed).
- Holiday happenings – Broadway becomes a holiday wonderland come end of year— like the Saratoga Tree Lighting on December 4 and the Saratoga Festival of Trees from December 3 – 7.
Broadway sits at the heart of it all, but there’s so much more in the town to explore too.
These have to be on your bucket list should you make the weekend trip:
- Congress Park – The town’s beautiful year-round public park that’s home to lush green space, a historic wooden carousel, mineral springs, and more.
- Saratoga Race Course – The world-famous thoroughbred racing venue that defines the city’s culture. Races usually happen annually during the summer and people flock from all over the country to check out the sporting spectacle.
- Mineral Springs – Taste-test the naturally carbonated mineral waters from springs that first put Saratoga Springs on the map as a historic health resort.
Saratoga Springs is roughly a 3.5–4 hour drive north of Manhattan via I-87.
For those without a car, Amtrak trains connect Penn Station to Saratoga Springs in just over four hours, making it an easy weekend getaway as well!
Following five and a half years of hard work and dedication, the Adelphi Hotel recently celebrated its grand reopening, marking the culmination of its $90 million renovation of the hotel.
Friends and family, those who worked on the project, as well as members of the community, recently came out to celebrate the massive additions and renovations to the space.
“Since envisioning the transformation of The Adelphi Hotel, Larry (Roth) and I could not be prouder of this new chapter for this historic property,” Michael Dubb, project developer, founder and CEO of The Beechwood Organization, and co-owner of The Adelphi Hotel, said via statement. “We welcome local officials and members of the community to see what we’ve created at the corner of Broadway and Washington Street, both inside and out.
“We hope that this landmark property continues to be a cornerstone of the time-honored and vibrant identity of Saratoga Springs for generations to come.”
The project included almost doubling the number of accommodations the Adelphi could provide, taking it from 32 to 65 guestrooms, as well as a larger and redesigned lobby, a new ballroom that doubled its size to accommodate 225 guests, upgrades to outdoor gathering space, and creation of 79 condominium residences — which the hotel celebrated the completion of last summer.
There were also extensive upgrades to restaurants, including The Adelphi’s farm-to-table steakhouse, Salt & Char, which underwent significant renovations, including enhancements to its state-of-the-art kitchen, which will now be shared with the hotel’s restaurant lounge, Morrissey’s.
“It starts with the guests, and this renovation truly is guest-centric – and that’s because of our owners. The attention to detail here, everything that we get to provide for our guests is just truly a privilege. I’m humbled and honored to be part of this, and it doesn’t start with the building, but it’s the people in here, too. We have great staff, from our valet to our front desk to our housekeepers to my executive team,” Adelphi’s Managing Director, David Hayes, said.
“I look forward to serving all of you, being part of this community, and bringing everything that the ownership’s vision has brought to the table here. So, thank you again for being here.”
Renovations also included the opening of a brand-new luxury spa and fitness center, designed to provide easy accessibility for hotel guests in mind, which includes personalized spa services such as massages, facials and body treatments, alongside a fully equipped fitness center that caters to both casual and dedicated wellness enthusiasts.
Something that businessman and co-owner of The Adelphi Hotel, Larry Roth, noted was how excited both he and Dubb were to see this project reach fruition, noting that it was a true labor of love and something the duo feels proud to have completed.
“The people in this room really don’t understand the satisfaction that both Mike and I have today. From a vision in 2019 to reality in 2025, five and a half years, and in those five and a half years we went through a lot of obstacles – COVID in 2020 which created a lot of issues and then past couple years, the inflation rate and the interest rates, which has caused us to pay a lot more for the construction,” Roth noted.
“This renovation and expansion signifies and cements our place alongside Saratoga Springs’ rich history of racing, wellness, entertainment, and excellence. Saratoga is no longer just a summer destination. The investment in our transformation and creation of The Residences at The Adelphi Hotel proves that.”
Another one of the many people at the ceremony celebrating this accomplishment for the Adelphi was Spa City’s mayor, John Safford, who acknowledged the hard work put in by Roth and Dubb.
“The mayor’s office is responsible for the building departments and their (Roth and Dubb’s) willingness to jump through the hoops that it takes to do this kind of a project — which because of its uniqueness of rooms and condos, was a very, very, very unique kind of concept and a challenge for many of us,” Safford said. “But, they were willing to stick with it, they were willing to make it happen, and that is what makes our city so incredibly wonderful.
“This is a great city, and I’m so happy to have Larry and Michael as constituents and residents here in this beautiful historic facility.”
On July 2, the iconic Adelphi Hotel in Saratoga, NY, is having its official Grand Reopening replete with special speakers, dignitaries, celebrations and tours.
The Adelphi Hotel, a MICHELIN Key property located in historic downtown Saratoga Springs, is putting the final touches on its $75 million-plus expansion and renovation. The Adelphi Hotel is the last surviving example of Saratoga’s famed 19th-century grand hotels, remaining a rare bridge from the Gilded Age to the present day.
On July 2, the Adelphi is having its official Grand Reopening replete with special speakers, dignitaries, celebrations and tours. It coincides with the Saratoga Race Course hosting for the first time the July 4th Racing Festival. From July 3-6, the track will hold several major stakes races, including the Belmont Derby on July 4 and the Belmont Oaks Invitational on July 5. As with the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival this week, Saratoga Springs should be hopping during the Festival.
The classic Victorian hotel's transformation includes additional guest rooms (from 32 to 65) with luxe touches like ultra-modern bathrooms and radiant-heated floors, luxury condominiums, an upgraded lobby, a ballroom and a spa. The hotel and residences also provide residents and guests with concierge services, housekeeping, on-site restaurants, including Salt & Char and Morrissey’s, and business and fitness amenities.
Outside, the Adelphi Hotel Gardens, which once offered a sanctuary for guests just steps from the bustle of Broadway, have been reimagined for the modern-day traveler, blending beauty, privacy and historic storytelling.
Since its opening in 1877, The Adelphi Hotel has welcomed socialites, politicians and stars of state and sport. The guestbook includes signatures from a rich cast of characters over nearly 150 years, from famed jockeys to racing elites. As the hotel underwent restoration, echoes of the past were uncovered from architectural relics, to rumors of underground tunnels possibly leading toward the Saratoga National Bank and Congress Park Casino. While unconfirmed, these stories are part of the lore that makes The Adelphi Hotel more than a hotel; it's a time capsule. Today, The Adelphi Hotel continues to host tastemakers and travelers alike, proving its legacy is not just history.
Already a MICHELIN Key hotel, renovations and enhancements include:
The Adelphi sits on the most coveted real estate in downtown Saratoga Springs, a city rich in culture and history. The demand was there for something far more ambitious. When the Rip Van Dam property next door became available in 2019, my business partner Larry Roth and I immediately saw the opportunity to do something extraordinary.
We reimagined the hotel and the corner of Broadway and Washington Street. We connected the two buildings. We introduced 79 luxury condominium residences and expanded from 32 to 65 hotel guest rooms. Residents and guests now share in the elevated five-star lifestyle we’ve created. This expansion gave us the space to enhance the Adelphi experience. Our world-class amenities incorporate an expanded lobby and larger indoor/outdoor event space, full-service spa and salon, high-end fitness center, game room and business lounge. We wanted The Adelphi to offer a level of hospitality and luxury that has never before been seen in this region. I truly believe we’ve achieved that.
The outdoor gardens that connect to the ballroom were completely transformed. There is new stone flooring, a retractable roof and design features for an intimate indoor-outdoor experience with fire pits and lounge seating. The ballroom now accommodates up to 225 guests and is a destination for weddings, private events and live music.
This was never just about expansion. It was about elevating the Adelphi brand and creating an unmatched guest experience. This was a $90 million investment that revitalized not only The Adelphi Hotel, but the entire downtown and Saratoga Springs community. We installed heated sidewalks, redesigned the landscaping and brought new life to the heart of the city. It took hundreds of thousands of labor hours and a commitment to excellence in every detail. Preserving the hotel's historic character was essential. I’ve had a personal connection to Saratoga for over 50 years. To restore and elevate a 175-year-old landmark that means so much to this city was deeply important to me. It wasn’t just about development. It was about honoring a legacy while creating something exceptional for the future.
The Adelphi delivers a true five-star experience with a warm, approachable atmosphere. From the moment guests arrive, they are welcomed by professional staff who take pride in every detail. The interiors are elegant and timeless. The ambience is relaxed yet refined.
The guest rooms are a standout. They are spacious, filled with natural light and designed with comfort and sophistication in mind. Features like heated hardwood floors, oversized bathrooms and high-end finishes create a level of luxury that exceeds what many well-known luxury hotels offer.
Dining at The Adelphi is just as impressive. Salt & Char serves some of the finest steaks I’ve ever had, and Morrissey’s offers an elevated American bistro experience. We also added a private dining room at Salt & Char that seats 25 guests, perfect for intimate gatherings. Every part of the hotel reflects a commitment to excellence and an experience that feels both exclusive and welcoming.
By Roger Sands
As the next season of the HBO TV series premieres on June 22, see where remnants of this abundantly wealthy period remain statewide.
“The Gilded Age” returns for its third season on HBO on June 22. This period soap opera tells of fictional and real-life characters from this era of tremendous wealth accumulation and rapid industrial growth.
While this show is largely set in New York City, there are physical locations throughout New York State that were built amid the Gilded Age and remain today. Here’s where to find the Gilded Age in New York.
Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue was once referred to as Millionaire’s Row and aligned with stately homes. Many have been razed or repurposed for commercial development but other mansions still remain.
The Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum was originally the family residence of industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, and his wife, Louise Whitfield Carnegie. In 1976, the mansion became the home for this Smithsonian-affiliated institution and design museum that’s the only one of its kind in the United States; it promotes all disciplines of design.
The Frick Collection reopened in spring 2025 after a major five-year renovation within its permanent space at the former mansion of Henry Clay Frick, a financier, arts patron and industrialist. It is a repository of Old World master paintings and European sculpture and art along with having welcomed its first-ever onsite restaurant in June.
In Manhattan’s Murray Hill, The Morgan Library & Museum is derived from John Pierpont "J.P." Morgan’s personal library. The financier amassed an impressive collection of manuscripts, early printed books and old master drawings and prints.
Now part of the Lotte New York Palace Hotel, the Villard Houses were a set of former residences for Henry Villard, president of the Northern Pacific Railway. In Brooklyn, season two of HBO’s “The Gilded Age” featured the construction and opening of the Brooklyn Bridge, which was unveiled in 1883.
In the 19th century, Saratoga Springs became a popular resort destination for its natural mineral waters and Saratoga Race Course.
First opened in 1877, The Adelphi Hotel in downtown Saratoga Springs welcomed financiers, politicians and celebrities. A five-year restoration was completed in 2017 and preserved her original architectural details while adding in modern guest amenities.
Other Gilded Age hotels in Saratoga Springs are the Batcheller Mansion Inn and Union Gables Inn. Then there’s Saratoga Springs History Museum, within the circa 1870s Canfield Casino, and Yaddo Gardens, part of the former summer estate of financier Spencer Trask.
Troy has been used often as a film set in HBO’s “The Gilded Age.” Sites include the Oakwood Cemetery; Rensselaer County Courthouse; Hart Cluett Museum; Washington Park; Troy Savings Bank Music Hall; and Paine Castle.
This New York region along the U.S.-Canada border attracted many well-to-do travelers amid the Gilded Age.
Boldt Castle was spearheaded by hotelier George C. Boldt, as a summer home for his wife, Louise. Its construction was ceased when Louise suddenly died. Having been abandoned for over 70 years, the castle was revitalized by Thousand Islands Bridge Authority and is open for tours in warmer months.
Singer Castle was commissioned by Frederick Bourne, president of the Singer Sewing Machine Company, as a hunting lodge and summer family retreat. Unlike Boldt Castle, the medieval-looking Singer Castle was fully completed and used for many years. Guests can stay overnight in a special suite.
The Hudson Valley has many impressive locations connected to the Gilded Age.
Purchased by railroad baron Jay Gould, Lyndhurst in Tarrytown is a strong example of Gothic Revival architecture in America, with castle-like crenelations and stained glass in arched windows. Leave time to stroll Lyndhurst’s 67 acres packed with Hudson River vistas and gardens and a recently restored, circa 1894 bowling alley.
Kykuit, The Rockefeller Estate in Sleepy Hollow was the home of John D. Rockefeller, Standard Oil magnate and the richest American of his time. This six-story structure still holds this family’s collections, ranging from antique furniture to classic cars to works by world-famous artists.
Armour-Stiner Octagon House in Irvington was built toward the end of what was then known as the “octagon style craze.” As one of only two domed octagons in the United States, this New York house is amid just over three acres of restored 19th-century landscape design.
In Yonkers, Glenview Mansion at the Hudson River Museum is tucked within its main building. This former home of stockbroker John Bond Trevor was staged as the home for Mrs. Astor in “The Gilded Age’s” first two seasons.
Yonkers’ Untermyer Gardens are at what was originally Greystone, the estate of hat manufacturer John T. Waring and then its later owner and social progressive, Samuel Untermyer. Wind along sculpted griffins, a hilltop tempietto, fountains, a grotto, marble colonnades, a reflection pool and an amphitheater amid Hudson views.
Long Island’s Gold Coast region is often linked to F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” but it also has strong ties to the Gilded Age.
Old Westbury Gardens reflects the era’s opulence with a 23-room English manor house and over 200 acres of traditional, formal gardens. Once the home of lawyer and businessman John S. Phipps and his wife, Margarita Grace Phipps, this estate has been featured in many movies and TV shows. The listing includes “The Gilded Age,” along with “North by Northwest” and “Love Story.”
Oheka Castle is a historic hotel and wedding venue in Huntington that is also open to public estate and garden tours. This French-style chateau, built as a summer residence for financier and philanthropist Otto Hermann Kahn, sits on the highest peak in Long Island.
The Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium in Centerport is linked to William Vanderbilt II, a yachtsman and motor race driver. While creating an onsite museum for his collection of marine specimens, Vanderbilt established a trust fund for his estate to fully become a museum upon his death in 1944.
The Adirondacks are credited as the birthplace of the American vacation and the Gilded Age elite would come and build sprawling compounds designed to reflect the Adirondack landscape and known as “Great Camps.”
Many Great Camps were built by the Rockefeller, Durant, Post and Carnegie families, and are still used as private residences or have guest accommodations.
Great Camp Sagamore in Raquette Lake was crafted in 1897 by William West Durant, who is credited with starting the “Great Camp” movement. This wilderness retreat was a cherished haven for the Vanderbilt family for over five decades. Today, you can stay at this landmark and see its storied buildings and lush grounds.
Great Camp Santanoni in Newcomb was built by and for the Pruyn family and welcomed its first guests in the spring of 1893. This secluded National Historic Landmark is also one of the earliest examples of an Adirondack Great Camp.
White Pine Camp in Paul Smiths was the summer White House of President Calvin Coolidge. This year-round retreat offers 13 distinct cabins and cottages featuring handcrafted Adirondack-style furniture and cozy stone fireplaces or wood stoves. Unique facilities include a Japanese tea house, bowling alley, tennis house and boat houses.
Other ways to learn more about the Adirondacks’ vacation history are at the museum, Adirondack Experience, or by taking a scenic lake cruise with the Raquette Lake Navigation Company.
The Adirondack Trail is being built along the former New York Central railroad line between Lake Placid and Tupper Lake, as a multi-use recreation trail and partly with restored train service. It is to be finished later this summer.
By Michele Herrmann
David Hayes is the new Managing Director of the historic Adelphi Hotel, which accommodated a record number of guests for last year’s Belmont Stakes and is anticipated to do the same this year.
1 — Tell us a little about The Adelphi Hotel and its historical significance in Saratoga Springs.
“The Adelphi Hotel first opened its doors in 1877 and remains the last surviving grand hotel of Saratoga Springs Gilded Age. During a time when the city was known as the “Queen of the Spas” and a summer playground for America’s elite, The Adelphi Hotel stood proudly among a sea of opulent hotels that once lined Broadway. While dozens have since been lost to time, The Adelphi endures, as an emblem of elegance, history, and reinvention. Over the decades, The Adelphi Hotel has welcomed an array of prominent guests, from politicians and socialites to artists, gamblers, and horse racing legends.
“The hotel’s original features, including its broad verandas, sweeping staircase, and ornate Victorian detailing, made it a cornerstone of Saratoga society. After closing for many years, The Adelphi underwent an extraordinary restoration, preserving historic architectural elements; like the iconic glass marquee and intricate crown moldings, while elevating the guest experience with modern luxury. Today, the hotel honors its storied past with thoughtful design, refined hospitality, and a deep respect for the cultural legacy of Saratoga Springs. Every corner whispers a piece of history, from its richly restored library to the preserved beams and details discovered during renovation. The Adelphi Hotel isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a living testament to over 145 years of Saratoga’s charm, grandeur, and enduring spirit.”
2 — How did the Belmont Stakes affect The Adelphi Hotel’s business last year, and do you anticipate this year being the same?
“Last year’s Belmont brought new level of energy and activity to Saratoga Springs. Welcoming one of horse racing’s most prestigious events into our city last summer was a milestone event, and with it came a massive wave of tourism, hospitality demand, and high expectations. The increase in population of tourists alone was astounding, and many businesses, including ours, began their peak season nearly a month earlier than usual. This early season adjustment not only took a significant amount of coordination, training, and flexibility, but I feel it also brought a strong sense of pride and purpose within Saratoga Springs.
“Of course, there were challenges. Street closures, increased traffic, and high visitor volume meant downtown could feel congested at times, and we had to adapt quickly. This year, we’re coming into the season with clearer expectations and more proactive strategies in place. We’ve expanded guest services and community spaces, implemented additional security measures, and are coordinating closely with local officials to manage logistics and safety. Our goal is to welcome the Belmont crowds with the grace and professionalism we’re known for, while continuing to offer a refined and seamless experience for every guest who walks through our doors.”
3 — Is The Adelphi doing anything special to accommodate guests coming for the Belmont?
“Absolutely. We’ve already seen an uptick in interest, so we’re encouraging guests to book early, especially since room availability tightens up fast. Beyond that, we’re creating custom gifts for all of our guests, enhancing guest services, and curating special experiences across the hotel to align with the spirit of the Belmont.
“It’s all about making the stay feel elevated and memorable for both racing fans, and those just here for the atmosphere.”
4 — What have you learned from last year’s Festival that is guiding decision-making for The Adelphi this year?
“Last year was an incredible learning experience. We saw just how big the draw is, but also how important clear communication and planning are, especially around logistics like parking, traffic, and guest flow. This time around, we’re doubling down on coordination with our local partners and city officials, making sure we’re ahead of the curve.
“We want to ensure our guests have a seamless experience, from check-in to the final toast at our bar after the races.”
5 — Do you plan on visiting the racetrack during the Belmont Festival?
“You can bet on it! The racetrack is a huge part of what makes Saratoga so magical, especially during Belmont weekend. It’s not just about the races, it’s the energy, the people, the fashion, the traditions. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, it never gets old. And for those staying at The Adelphi, we’re just a short ride away, so it’s easy to enjoy both the thrill of the track and the luxury of unwinding at the hotel afterward.”
Salt & Char, the Adelphi Hotel's high-end steakhouse, is now open again with a new look and a new menu after a three-week closure.
The restaurant underwent a remodel earlier this year to accommodate the hotel's growing hospitality operation, which included the build-out of a brand-new, two-level kitchen, general manager Helen Watson said.
Salt & Char is one of two on-site restaurants at the hotel, the other being Morrissey's Lounge & Bistro.
In the last few years, the hotel has doubled its number of rooms from 32 to 65. It's also added 79 condos, which began to sell last summer. They're part of a $90 million-plus expansion and renovation of the Adelphi into a 200,000-square-foot resort.
"The change has been exponential," Watson said. "With the hotel expanding, the restaurants organically — there's an uptick in business there."
The kitchen(s)
The $1 million kitchen project brought the hotel's three kitchens under one roof. Prior to the project, each restaurant had its own kitchen and there was also a commissary space a half block away.
Salt & Char and Morrisey's now share a kitchen space but still have separate lines and culinary teams.
"In terms of food running and logistics, it wasn't the most ideal for the staff going upstairs, down hallways, things like that," Watson said. "So when we were expanding into the [adjacent] Rip Van Dam building with expanding the rooms and Salt & Char, we decided to build a kitchen that can encompass everything all in one space."
Having all of the kitchens in the same building will increase efficiency and food consistency, Watson said. The hotel is still working out how to cross-utilize cooks, bussers and runners.
"Labor costs, food costs, being all in one kitchen should help us with all of them. That's somewhat of the goal," she said.
The former Salt & Char kitchen will become an extension of the lobby. That is still under construction.
With the combination of the two restaurant kitchens, the downstairs banquet kitchen can go back to being just that, Watson said. Future plans include adding direct kitchen access to the hotel's atrium event space to smooth operations.
The restaurants
Salt & Char closed for three weeks in January for its own gut renovation. The restaurant's black-and-white decor has been replaced with deep greens, more brass and exposed beams.
The restaurant added space that allows an additiona 30-40 additional covers during service in the newly added south dining room and the wine room in the Rip Van Dam building. Both double as private areas to host business meetings and other events.
"We do pharmaceutical lunches, dinners, meetings. It can do meeting space as well as dining," Watson said.
The menu has also been updated. It includes caviar, the restaurant's signature cuts of steak as well as other main courses, like venison tenderloin and chicken roulade.
Salt & Char is currently between executive chefs, Watson said.
More accommodations at The Adelphi and a longer track season with the temporary move of the Belmont Stakes to Saratoga are driving growth at the hotel's other restaurant, Morrissey's, which is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
"Track season I definitely noticed more breakfast. People were having breakfast here because we were 100% sold out. You've got 65 rooms, so you're 120 people, give or take, whereas before that, we were having maybe six covers for breakfast," Watson said.
Outside of hotel traffic, Morrissey's is becoming a popular location for business lunches, she said. The renovation of a second dining room for the lounge and bistro, called the tack room, is meant to accommodate that too.
"I think it's because Morrissey's is conducive to that — the ambience, the decor, the interior design. And we're open seven days a week for lunch, so we've been able to kind of build that lunch crowd," she said.
By Sam Raudins
Saratoga Springs in the Capital region of upstate New York is an ideal place to visit, live and play. For centuries, Saratoga Springs New York has been known as the Spa City. Given its name for its multitude of mineral rich natural springs, the water was once thought to provide rejuvenation, and health benefits. This is just one reason that Saratoga Springs has been a playground for the rich and famous, and it continues to be a cultural entertainment and lifestyle capital today. Throughout history, it has been known for its recreational opportunities and now it is also known as a great place to raise a family in New York.
The Saratoga region is well known for its highly ranked public-school districts like Burnt Hills- Ballston Lake Central School District, Shenendehowa Central School District, Saratoga City School District, Schuylerville Central School District and Stillwater Central School District just to name a few. The region is also known for excellent universities like Skidmore College, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), University at Albany (SUNY), Russell Sage College, Siena College, The College of Saint Rose, Empire State College, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Union College, and many more.
There is excellent Healthcare available in the region. Local Hospitals include Saratoga Hospital, Albany Med, Samaritan Hospital, Albany Memorial Hospital, and St. Peter’s Hospital among others.
One of the big draws for the area is its connection to horse racing. The Saratoga Racecourse offers thoroughbred horseracing during its six-week season from late July through early September. The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame showcases the sport’s history, from colonial times through the present day. Surrounded by incredible works of fine art, trophies, and historical artifacts, visitors experience all aspects of this thrilling sport. Another museum in the area centered around the sport is the Saratoga Harness Museum and Hall of Fame.
Other notable area museums are The Saratoga Automobile Museum, New York State Military Museum, and the Tang Teaching Museum to name a few. There is also the Saratoga Springs History Museum- located in the Canfield Casino in Congress Park. Since 1912 this museum has told the story of Saratoga Springs from its beginnings to the present day.
Congress Park Located in the center of town is a spectacular highlight all its own. This beautifully landscaped park features the historic Canfield Casino and many of the famous springs that made the area famous.
Saratoga Spa State Park, a national historic landmark is also located in Saratoga Springs. This amazing park is home to Saratoga Spa Golf Course, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, the National Museum of Dance, the Spa Little Theater, the Saratoga Automobile Museum, and Roosevelt Baths and Spa. The park offers a multitude of traditional recreation opportunities including biking, hiking, equestrian trails, fishing, ice skating, playgrounds, snowshoeing, x-country skiing, swimming and tennis.
Yaddo Gardens Formal rose and rock gardens are part of the magnificent Yaddo estate, a working artists' community. Saratoga Spa State Park This National Historic Landmark offers diverse cultural, aesthetic and recreational activities in such venues as the Lincoln mineral baths, Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Spa Little Theater, National Museum of Dance and the historic Gideon Putnam Hotel. Another notable historic hotel is the Adelphi hotel located right in the heart of Downtown Saratoga Springs. The Adelphi is undergoing a transformation with an expansion and addition of luxury condos.
Downtown Saratoga Springs is a unique and vibrant place where specialty Mom & pop shops and charming restaurants lore visitors from near and far. Route 9, Route 50 and Route 29 all converge at Broadway, the center of town. The energy is bustling but friendly where people often stop to say hello.
Historic boutique hotels like the Adelphi Hotel (est.1877) The Adelphi Hotel house tourists in this popular vacation destination. Unique green spaces like Congress park (dotted with centuries old fountains) and High Rock Park (home to the Farmers Market) are at the town center. Great restaurants that have lasted decades and have storied pasts include Morrissey’s Lounge & Bistro, Misses London’s, Karavalli Saratoga and The Mouzon House to name a few.
Saratoga Springs, NY, is the perfect destination for those looking to make a new home. With its top-rated schools, rich historical and cultural attractions, and vibrant community, it's easy to see why so many choose to settle here. Whether you're captivated by the excitement of horse racing, the stunning natural beauty, or the friendly neighborhoods, Saratoga Springs offers a welcoming environment for everyone.
If you’re looking into moving to Saratoga Springs, Beechwood Homes offers new luxury custom homes https://www.beechwoodhomes.com/oak-ridge/ and luxury condos https://www.beechwoodhomes.com/adelphi-residences/ featuring exquisite finishes and modern living.
End of content
No more pages to load