Rest and relaxation count among the most popular vacation goals, but when so many out-of-town trips involve packed itineraries and busy activities, it can be hard to slow down. That’s where a “soft trip” comes in. These escapes are all about ease and simplicity. With our striking natural beauty and abundance of hotels, wellness activities, and comforting restaurants, Saratoga County has proven to be the ideal spot for a slow escape.
Saratoga National Historical Park photo by: Joshua House
Unwind In The Great Outdoors
Saratoga County boasts numerous parks, woodlands, and lakes for nature lovers to explore. If you’re visiting the area on a “soft trip,” the mineral springs at Saratoga Spa State Park are a must-visit! These effervescent waters are packed with unique healing properties. Enjoy a restorative soak at the Roosevelt Baths and recharge at your own pace.
Hikers will love visiting Saratoga County, as this region offers an impressive network of trails for hikers of all skill levels. At the Graphite Range Community Forest in Wilton, for example, outdoorsy adventurers can explore over 200 acres of woodlands and hike over 5 miles of trails.
Fresh air and historical sites can be found at Saratoga National Historical Park, where hikers and park visitors can explore Revolutionary War monuments while enjoying picturesque views of the Hudson River. If your crew yearns for a swim or waterfront fun, Brown’s Beach on Saratoga Lake is a can’t-miss destination. Saratoga Lake also offers canoeing and kayaking, so be sure to rent a boat at the Kayak Shak!
Saratoga Arms Hotel
Where To Stay on Your Relaxing Saratoga Getaway?
Soft trips rely on comfortable accommodations that provide peace and serenity, and Saratoga County has plenty!
The Saratoga Arms Hotel, a 4-Diamond hotel located in Downtown Saratoga Springs, offers travelers an upscale stay with numerous perks, including a farm-to-table gourmet breakfast, a 24-hour fitness center, plush bathrobes, high-end toiletries, and more.
If you’d rather stay right in the Saratoga Spa State Park with the easiest possible access to the mineral springs, consider the Gideon Putnam, a resort hotel with classic charm at every turn. Outdoor enthusiasts interested in a quirkier stay will love the shipping container cabins on the banks of the Hudson River at the Schuyler Yacht Basin, while those determined to “take it slow” can do just that at The Springwater Bed & Breakfast, a B&B that prides itself on its personalized service.
And if you dream of a mountainous New York camping trip, head to Camp Hudson Pines in the Adirondacks, which includes cabins, “glamping”-worthy houses, tent and RV plots, and more!
Cozy Saratoga County Restaurants
Dining options in Saratoga County range from family-friendly establishments to fine dining destinations. If you're looking for comforting dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, you’ll have plenty of choices!
- Mouzon House: Offers an upscale experience with ingredients sourced from local organic farms and a well-curated wine list.
- Next Door Kitchen and Bar: Located at Ballston Spa, they serve chef-driven comfort food made with locally grown and raised ingredients
- Seneca Restaurant: Features an open kitchen allowing guests to watch their skilled team prep new American cuisine with local items
- Forno Bistro: Focuses on Tuscan-style food, all made from scratch in true Italian fashion.
For more cozy options, the Wishing Well Restaurant in Gansevoort has been providing homestyle cooking for over 30 years. The Olde Bryan Inn serves hearty American fare in a historic building dating back to the Revolutionary era! Hamlet & Ghost is a modern speakeasy with creative dishes designed to pair with their celebrated craft cocktails.
Focus On Wellness and Culture In Saratoga County
There’s no doubt that Saratoga County is an excellent destination to find activities geared toward wellness and relaxation. From the Scandinavian-inspired floating Kos Sauna on Saratoga Lake to the famed mineral baths at Roosevelt Baths & Spa, to restorative yoga sessions and peaceful walks (accompanied by goats) at Into the Woods Farm or Himalayan salt soaks at Adirondack Foot Sanctuary. For more comforting activities, engage with art at the Hyde Collection in Glens Falls or the Tang Teaching Museum at Skidmore College.
No matter what you choose, Saratoga County will make sure that you leave your “soft trip” feeling fresh, well-rested, and energized!
