Museums of Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs is steeped in history, making it a great destination for those looking to explore the past. The city’s museums offer both locals and visitors a chance to discover everything from horse racing and military history to the fine arts. These six museums do an excellent job of educating and inspiring, giving guests a deeper appreciation for all that Saratoga Springs has to offer.

Saratoga Automobile Museum

If you’re a car enthusiast, the Saratoga Automobile Museum is a must-see. Housed in a beautifully restored building that once served as a bottling plant, the museum showcases everything from stock cars to luxury racers.

Rotating exhibitions feature iconic brands like Ferrari and Porsche, making it a dream destination for sports car fans. The museum also hosts auctions and car shows, so if you’re in the market for a unique collector’s item, this might just be the place to find your next treasure.

National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame

The Saratoga Race Course is arguably the most famous attraction in Saratoga Springs, and the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame pays tribute to this iconic track. 

The museum celebrates jockeys and racehorses from across the country but pays particular attention to those who have made names for themselves in Saratoga. Race trophies, sculptures of iconic horses like Secretariat, paintings, and historic installations give attendees a full view of what horse racing means, and no trip to this part of Upstate New York would be complete without a visit. 

Saratoga Springs History Museum

The history of Saratoga Springs is the central focus of the Saratoga Springs History Museum, and this museum’s exhibits take many forms to communicate their message to visitors and residents alike. In addition to on-site installations, museum guests can participate in walking tours that show off the city’s most fascinating buildings and locations – like the acclaimed “Grand, Gilded, and Glorious Tour,” a tour that highlights the glitz and glamour of 19th century Saratoga. You’ll also find seasonal ghost tours, seasonal programming, and other exciting events throughout the year! 

New York State Military Museum & Veterans Research Center

New York State has a long tradition of military service, and at the New York State Military Museum and Veterans Research Center in Saratoga Springs, visitors can learn all about these fascinating stories, these brave veterans, and the events and battles that took place right on New York soil. 

Children’s Museum at Saratoga

If you’re traveling with kids, the Children’s Museum at Saratoga is a must! This interactive museum has made it their mission to educate and entertain children for over 30 years. Here, kids can take charge of their own model farm, ice cream shop, or fire station while also learning about science, space exploration, and, of course, the colorful history of Saratoga Springs.

Tang Teaching Museum & Art Gallery

Located on the Skidmore College campus, the Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery specializes in immersive artwork that can be approached, walked through, and experienced up close and in person! From paintings and photography to sculpture, the Tang Museum’s mission is to engage visitors. Their permanent collection contains works by acclaimed artists like Andy Warhol, Nan Goldin, and Kara Walker, while seasonal exhibitions ensure there’s always something new. The museum also offers guided tours, workshops, and artist talks, so check their calendar for the latest updates.