Welcome to Destination Saratoga: All Access

For things to do, where to go, who’s who, and what’s new—Destination Saratoga: All Access is your ultimate guide to Saratoga County! From iconic attractions and can’t-miss events to hidden gems and inspiring local stories, this podcast offers exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes access every other Friday.

Stream now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and more, Destination Saratoga is your all-access pass to the heart of Saratoga. Don’t just listen—be part of the excitement!

This podcast is sponsored by Phinney Design Group

The National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame

Gallop into the heart of Saratoga Springs as we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame! Join us for an exclusive conversation with Director Cate Masterson, where we uncover the museum’s evolution, iconic milestones, and the thrilling experiences that bring racing history to life. From legendary races and Hall of Fame inductions to behind-the-scenes stories and the deep human-horse bond, this episode is packed with passion, insight, and excitement.

Saratoga's Caffè Lena: America’s Oldest Folk Venue

Explore the rich history and cultural significance of Caffé Lena, the longest-running folk music coffee house in the U.S. Joined by Executive Director Sarah Craig, they discuss the venue's founding by Lena Spencer, its role in the community, and the impact of music on local culture. The conversation highlights Lena's pioneering spirit, her dedication to nurturing artists, and the intimate atmosphere that makes Café Lena a beloved landmark in Saratoga Springs.

After Hours with Saratoga Living: Treehouse, Mom Prom & Intentional Living

Treehouse Brewery, Intentional living at Pantry Hill and Fashion events like Overdress to Impress are some of the topics discussed in this month's After Hours episode of Destination Saratoga. Join MacKenzie Zarzycki and Saratoga Living Editor Natalie Moore, as they uncover the latest in Saratoga Springs! They explore new restaurant openings, local hotspots, and must-attend events, keeping you in the loop on everything happening in town.

Hattie's Fried Chicken: A Taste of Tradition

Explore the rich history and legacy of Hattie's Restaurant, a legendary restaurant in Saratoga Springs known for its iconic fried chicken. Joined by Jasper Alexander, they discuss Hattie's impact on the local dining scene, its commitment to community, and the evolution of its recipes. The conversation also touches on the restaurant's expansion, philanthropic efforts, and the changing landscape of the Saratoga restaurant scene. And we have a special guest, Anthony Tringale of Eat Local New York.

Saratoga's Unique Shopping Scene: Impressions of Saratoga

The downtown Saratoga Springs shopping experience is uniquely wonderful and is one of may people's favorite things about the city. In this episode, MacKenzie sits down with Maddy Zanetti, the co-owner of Impressions of Saratoga and The Dark Horse Mercantile. Together they discuss Maddy's experiences at the store, the impact it has had on the local community, and the unique branding story behind the Dark Horse Mercantile. The conversation also highlights the adorable Upset, a miniature horse who serves as the mascot for the brand, showcasing the fun and personal touch that Maddie brings to her businesses.

Honoring Black History Month with MLK Saratoga & The Frederick Allen Lodge

Join MacKenzie for an inspiring conversation with Jocelyn Khoury, President of MLK Saratoga, and Joy King, recorded at the historic Frederick Allen Lodge. In celebration of Black History Month, they spotlight the impactful work of MLK Saratoga and the enduring legacy of the Frederick Allen Lodge. Discover how MLK Saratoga uses art and entertainment to educate the community about social justice issues, and explore the rich history of the Frederick Allen Lodge as a pillar of the African American community in Saratoga Springs. Through personal stories and heartfelt reflections, the guests share their deep connections to these organizations and emphasize the power of love, understanding, and community engagement in building a more inclusive society

Chowderfest: Inside a Saratoga Tradition

Host MacKenzie Zarzycki interviews Kelsey Trudel, the Executive Director of Sustainable Saratoga, about the upcoming Chowderfest and the organization's initiatives to promote sustainability. They discuss the collaboration between Discover Saratoga and Sustainable Saratoga to provide reusable bowls and washing stations at Chowderfest, as well as tips for sustainable living and the importance of community involvement in environmental practices. This conversation explores various aspects of sustainability, focusing on practical living practices, community partnerships, composting, and engaging youth in environmental education.

After Hours with Saratoga Living : Natalie Moore Talks Saratoga

Natalie Moore, editor of Saratoga Living, discusses the newsletter 'After Hours,' which focuses on local happenings, particularly in the restaurant and craft beer scenes of Saratoga Springs. The discussion covers new restaurant openings, the growing craft beer culture, the impact of cannabis legalization, and the importance of supporting local businesses. The conversation highlights the vibrant community and the exciting developments in the area.

Painting Mt. Mansfield with ‘Paint’ Director Brit McAdams

Filmmaker Brit McAdams, writer and director of “Paint,” shares insights on shooting in Saratoga County, the creative process, and the evolution of gender roles in comedy. He discusses filming challenges, the charm of Saratoga, and changes in his perspective on portraying women in film. McAdams explores emerging acting talent, the importance of location choices, and future projects. He touches on family life, social media’s impact on relationships, and the evolving landscape of cinema and television. McAdams also reflects the California wildfires and the role of community support in recovery efforts.

Health & Wellness: A Trip to Complexions Spa

Denise Dubois, founder of Complexions Spa For Beauty and Wellness, joins MacKenzie in sharing her journey into the wellness field, emphasizing the significance of skincare and healthy aging. The conversation also covers practical tips for winter skincare and the benefits of spa memberships for overall wellness.

Miss New York Loves Saratoga County! (Highlight)

Abigail Quammen, Miss New York 2024, shares her journey from Kentucky to New York City, her experiences as a titleholder, and her passion for literacy advocacy. She discusses the supportive community within the Miss America organization, her preparations for the upcoming Miss America competition, and the importance of personal growth and female empowerment. Abigail emphasizes the significance of literacy in shaping lives and expresses her excitement for future opportunities.

Saratoga New Year's Eve (Live Show Replay)

Join Destination Saratoga hosts MacKenzie Zarzycki and Jessie House as they take you behind the scenes of a spectacular New Year's Eve celebration LIVE from Saratoga Springs, NY. Streaming from the front porch of Saratoga Arms Hotel, the conversation explores the intricacies of organizing events in Saratoga Springs, highlighting the collaborative efforts of local organizations, the importance of live music venues, and the community's engagement in promoting local businesses. Guests share their experiences and insights on the significance of these events in fostering community spirit and supporting local culture, while also reflecting on personal resolutions for the new year.

Saratoga Springs Hotels: From Victorian Charm to Modern Chic

Saratoga Springs: A historical and vibrant city known for its natural beauty, mineral springs, and rich cultural heritage. The city boasts a diverse collection of hotels, each offering unique experiences for travelers. This video explores the unique charm of Saratoga Springs hotels, from grand Victorian gems to stylish modern properties.