My trip to Saratoga....

[1st time lasix]

Arrived from my flight in on Tuesday afternoon..... In order to properly get "in the mood" we went immediately to the Racing Hall of Fame Museum. Browsed through all the paintings,..sculptures,...pictures.... and video history of the greats of the game. Met our local hosts at Sperry's Restaurant downtown where they have solid fare, an all-mahogany wood bar and plenty of racing illustrations on the walls. At dawn-- we went to the Oklahoma training track to watch some works and the busy actions of all the hands at the stables. The following morning we went to the backside of the main track to get a cheap breakfast sandwich and watch the works at the sun rose. So many horses with the Chad brown, Todd Pletcher, Chris Clement and Linda Rice saddlecloths. We experienced the afternoon racing from many different angles...the rail, the grandstand, reserved seats and even in a private owners box sipping champagne on Thursday. My lady wore a different summer dress and a fancy hat each day. Fortunately, we had credentials that allowed us to enter the paddock pre-race before the juvenile and feature races about three times each day. It was neat to be so close to observe the game's star personalities. The crowd on the weekend was massive.. but very well behaved. There was music playing and people having fun near the picnic tables between races. The racing itself was spectacular and rather unpredictable. After the last race...we had to stop at Siro's for a cold one or two before walking back home. Got some Hattie's chicken, a Marino's pizza and rubbed shoulders with horse people at a couple of classic bars in town. We admired the expensive racing artwork and seeing all the majestic animals. Wish I could tell you I won a lot of coin.... but the memories will last far longer than the painful sting of a missed photo finish. Hope I get to return someday.

[wisconsin]

There is nothing anywhere like Saratoga, and I am wishing I could go back this year, it's simply not in the cards.

[ReplayRandall]

There is nothing anywhere like Saratoga, and I am wishing I could go back this year, it's simply not in the cards.

It's obvious you've never been to Del Mar......Pure horse racing Paradise.

[Cratos]

Arrived from my flight in on Tuesday afternoon..... In order to properly get "in the mood" we went immediately to the Racing Hall of Fame Museum. Browsed through all the paintings,..sculptures,...pictures.... and video history of the greats of the game. Met our local hosts at Sperry's Restaurant downtown where they have solid fare, an all-mahogany wood bar and plenty of racing illustrations on the walls. At dawn-- we went to the Oklahoma training track to watch some works and the busy actions of all the hands at the stables. The following morning we went to the backside of the main track to get a cheap breakfast sandwich and watch the works at the sun rose. So many horses with the Chad brown, Todd Pletcher, Chris Clement and Linda Rice saddlecloths. We experienced the afternoon racing from many different angles...the rail, the grandstand, reserved seats and even in a private owners box sipping champagne on Thursday. My lady wore a different summer dress and a fancy hat each day. Fortunately, we had credentials that allowed us to enter the paddock pre-race before the juvenile and feature races about three times each day. It was neat to be so close to observe the game's star personalities. The crowd on the weekend was massive.. but very well behaved. There was music playing and people having fun near the picnic tables between races. The racing itself was spectacular and rather unpredictable. After the last race...we had to stop at Siro's for a cold one or two before walking back home. Got some Hattie's chicken, a Marino's pizza and rubbed shoulders with horse people at a couple of classic bars in town. We admired the expensive racing artwork and seeing all the majestic animals. Wish I could tell you I won a lot of coin.... but the memories will last far longer than the painful sting of a missed photo finish. Hope I get to return someday.
I am glad that you had an enjoyable trip to the Spa; I have been going there for 40+ years and it has always been fun.

[wisconsin]

It's obvious you've never been to Del Mar......Pure horse racing Paradise.


Yeah, been there a couple of times as well. Not the same as Saratoga, the city or the atmosphere.

I will admit, racing in the afternoon followed by wading in the ocean is pretty cool, followed by dinner at the Corvette Diner.

[lamboguy]

i will be there on August 13th for the FOURSTARDAVE

[Cratos]

It's obvious you've never been to Del Mar......Pure horse racing Paradise.
I have been to Santa Anita and the bygone Hollywood Park, but never to Del Mar; why do you consider it a "paradise"?

I am not questioning your description of Del Mar, I just want an understanding.

[Redboard]

It's obvious you've never been to Del Mar......Pure horse racing Paradise.

Not sure if this is a joke, but I'll bite.

How many times have you been to the SPA?

[Mike at A+]

Just got back from 6 days in Saratoga and going again 8/13-15. We hit our usual places (George's Steakhouse for Prime Rib in Lake George, Forno on the strip for good Italian, Siam Thai/Sushi and Davidson's Brew Pub in Glens Falls, Adirondack Pub in Lake George, Adirondack Steak and Seafood on a day trip to Lake Placid). As we were leaving yesterday, we decided to have lunch on the strip before hitting the road. Parked the car, got out and started walking north toward Caroline St. It was then that we noticed .....

LILLIAN'S IS CLOSED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

One of the most famous spots on the strip closed down after 30 years! We only ate there a handful of times but always stopped in for one of their classic Bloody Marys. Very sad that such a Saratoga mainstay is now gone.

[thespaah]

i will be there on August 13th for the FOURSTARDAVE
That's the only day you'll be there>
I am headed up on the 16th. Most likely i will be at the track on that Wednesday for a few races anyway.

[biggestal99]

It's obvious you've never been to Del Mar......Pure horse racing Paradise.

Been to both many times first time at Saratoga 1976 and first time at del mar 1984, each track is unique, handicapping slightly easier at Del mar due to the weather and lack of shippers.

Both rate very highly for great tracks to visit.

Allan

[lamboguy]

That's the only day you'll be there>
I am headed up on the 16th. Most likely i will be at the track on that Wednesday for a few races anyway.i will probably be there the 14th as well for the sale across the street.

[BMustang]

Call me crazy, but my trip to Saratoga now stops at Presque Isle Downs.

For years I drove to Saratoga from Cincinnati via Presque Isle and Finger Lakes, but since my last trip to the spa, the year that Tom Durkin retired, I now come to Presque Isle, devotedly play the Saratoga races by day and the Presque live card by evening/night without venturing farther east on I-90.

I really miss breakfast at the Malta Diner and the hub-bub around the track and downtown, while staying down at Round Lake for a song. However, old age and lack of buddies to make the trip with, brings me here for a week each summer and it is quite nice. There are a couple of nice Italian restaurants downtown Eire, Pa, and at $67 a night in the nicest Super 8 in the world it works for me.

There is nothing like Saratoga (for us Easterners) and if you have the chance by all means go.

[Ocala Mike]

I will be making a "pilgrimage" up there next week, and will be at the track 8/10-8/13. Will be staying at the Spa Motel on Ballston St. downtown. Reliving old times when I used to work up there every August; kind of a "bucket list" trip.

[tanner12oz]

Its a great place up there. Will be there with the masses again for Travers weekend. Great times. I stay in Albany make the trek from Pittsburgh area.

[Dave Schwartz]

Oh, man.

Every time you guys post this stuff, I am reminded of how much I miss being there.

Hope you all have a great time.

Maybe next year for me. :-(

[jefftune]

I will be making a "pilgrimage" up there next week, and will be at the track 8/10-8/13. Will be staying at the Spa Motel on Ballston St. downtown. Reliving old times when I used to work up there every August; kind of a "bucket list" trip.

I was up to Saratoga last week. Great time as usual. I've been staying at the Spa Motel for about 20 years now. The motel is up for sale, may have to find a new home next year!

[wisconsin]

Call me crazy, but my trip to Saratoga now stops at Presque Isle Downs.

For years I drove to Saratoga from Cincinnati via Presque Isle and Finger Lakes, but since my last trip to the spa, the year that Tom Durkin retired, I now come to Presque Isle, devotedly play the Saratoga races by day and the Presque live card by evening/night without venturing farther east on I-90.

I really miss breakfast at the Malta Diner and the hub-bub around the track and downtown, while staying down at Round Lake for a song. However, old age and lack of buddies to make the trip with, brings me here for a week each summer and it is quite nice. There are a couple of nice Italian restaurants downtown Eire, Pa, and at $67 a night in the nicest Super 8 in the world it works for me.

There is nothing like Saratoga (for us Easterners) and if you have the chance by all means go.

Presque Isle Downs ranks near the top of my favorite tracks visited. Great sightlines, even standing near the rail, like a patio party with a racetrack in the backyard.

[Storm Cadet]

Just returned from my annual trip to Saratoga for Friday/Saturday on Whitney weekend.

Stayed down in the Albany area in my usual hotel. I miss the days of renting a home right in Saratoga with Bill W, CJ and his brother and dad, and all the others! Was so convenient being right in town for the racing.

This year I was the guest of Team Valor and America's Best Racing. Had a great location on the 4th floor Club Terrace right past the finish line with 20 other guests. Programs, all day paddock passes, lunch and drinks all day, Team Valor gifts, as well as the opportunity to network with some great handicappers. Team Valor had an entry Saturday in R5 so we all headed down to meet their jockey- trainer.

One of the guys in our group had the winner of the Test BIG, super, pick 4, ex, and I believe he was one of the winners of the pick 6. He watched the last race in a private area.

After a profitable Friday, I got slammed Saturday but that's racing. Maybe next year Mike PA can entice CJ to return to Upstate!

[cj]

Just returned from my annual trip to Saratoga for Friday/Saturday on Whitney weekend.

Stayed down in the Albany area in my usual hotel. I miss the days of renting a home right in Saratoga with Bill W, CJ and his brother and dad, and all the others! Was so convenient being right in town for the racing.

This year I was the guest of Team Valor and America's Best Racing. Had a great location on the 4th floor Club Terrace right past the finish line with 20 other guests. Programs, all day paddock passes, lunch and drinks all day, Team Valor gifts, as well as the opportunity to network with some great handicappers. Team Valor had an entry Saturday in R5 so we all headed down to meet their jockey- trainer.

One of the guys in our group had the winner of the Test BIG, super, pick 4, ex, and I believe he was one of the winners of the pick 6. He watched the last race in a private area.

After a profitable Friday, I got slammed Saturday but that's racing. Maybe next year Mike PA can entice CJ to return to Upstate!

I've been there most years but most likely won't this year. Thinking of doing the Woodbine Mile this year and have a big family trip to Mexico in November before my daughter deploys to Turkey. ( :( ) Next year is definitely doable.

[lamboguy]

Just returned from my annual trip to Saratoga for Friday/Saturday on Whitney weekend.

Stayed down in the Albany area in my usual hotel. I miss the days of renting a home right in Saratoga with Bill W, CJ and his brother and dad, and all the others! Was so convenient being right in town for the racing.

This year I was the guest of Team Valor and America's Best Racing. Had a great location on the 4th floor Club Terrace right past the finish line with 20 other guests. Programs, all day paddock passes, lunch and drinks all day, Team Valor gifts, as well as the opportunity to network with some great handicappers. Team Valor had an entry Saturday in R5 so we all headed down to meet their jockey- trainer.

One of the guys in our group had the winner of the Test BIG, super, pick 4, ex, and I believe he was one of the winners of the pick 6. He watched the last race in a private area.

After a profitable Friday, I got slammed Saturday but that's racing. Maybe next year Mike PA can entice CJ to return to Upstate!sorry you lost yesterday, but you have to admit it was an amazing card

[Ocala Mike]

I was up to Saratoga last week. Great time as usual. I've been staying at the Spa Motel for about 20 years now. The motel is up for sale, may have to find a new home next year!

I'm sharing a room with an old racetrack pal who's pretty tight with Cecilia, the owner, and Nadine, the manager. Didn't know it was up for sale, but I know that the owner is getting on in years (me too!).

[BMustang]

I almost feel sorry for those who stay in Albany.

For me the one time I did, it really spoiled the "adventure." Albany, especially near the Airport is very generic with nothing but chain stores, hotels, and restaurants. Driving back and forth up and down that expressway is no pleasure tour.

There are places around Saratoga along Route 9 in the Malta area where you can find rooms for @$100 a night. Lake George has a certain Saratogaesque charm and the folks who stay there are all horse players, reading their racing forms and going to the track and dinner. If you have to stay along the expressways there are hotels/motels at each interchange, which even beats staying in Albany. Do your homework, make some notes, and then book early.

Maybe others enjoy it, but for me, staying in Albany really ruins the total Saratoga experience.

[tanner12oz]

I almost feel sorry for those who stay in Albany.

For me the one time I did, it really spoiled the "adventure." Albany, especially near the Airport is very generic with nothing but chain stores, hotels, and restaurants. Driving back and forth up and down that expressway is no pleasure tour.

There are places around Saratoga along Route 9 in the Malta area where you can find rooms for @$100 a night. Lake George has a certain Saratogaesque charm and the folks who stay there are all horse players, reading their racing forms and going to the track and dinner. If you have to stay along the expressways there are hotels/motels at each interchange, which even beats staying in Albany. Do your homework, make some notes, and then book early.

Maybe others enjoy it, but for me, staying in Albany really ruins the total Saratoga experience.

check out ralphs Italian restaurant down by the airport..not a chain, pretty good, huge portions

[Redboard]

When I go to Saratoga I either stay at yaddo gardens, the reading room, the gideon putnam or the best western Albany airport.

:)

By the way for you Tom Durkin fans, he will be appearing with the Philadelphia Orchestra on this Wednesday evening at the SPAC. I saw this show a few years ago when it first premiered - they were honoring the 150 anniversary of the track. The orchestra plays works that have an equine theme such as Aaron Copeland’s hoedown(beef, it’s what’s for dinner). Tom gives a spine-tingling performance .

http://www.spac.org/events/2016/08/10/philadelphia-orchestra

[OTM Al]

Drove up to Saratoga Wednesday and came back Saturday. Will be back on closing weekend, but a quick review of things seen and experienced.

Pretty smooth trip up. Left from midtown about 4 pm and once we got off the streets and through the FDR it was fine. Even got a performance from a big fan of some sort of Latin music (sorry don't know the genre well enough) who was playing along on his maracas while stuck in traffic. Don't usually think of driving and maraca playing going together, but hey, learn something new every day in this town.

Stayed in Malta (exit 12) at the Fairfield, which was actually quite nice and a very short hop from town. We ate that night in Malta at the Spicy Tomater...sorry, that's the Ripe Tomato and a private joke. It was ok fare for up there but do not become fascinated by something called Oreo Mousse. Something with a name like that should be gloriously decadent but in fact it was tasteless and cased a bit of indigestion.

A little shopping the next morning to add to the fall wardrobe with very nice 50% discount on average. I love shopping in Saratoga. Then picked up a dozen cupcakes at the Bread Basket on Spring St.and headed to the track. The wife had been invited to picnic being held by Drawing Away Stables, which was nice. They had a great spread going.

Got to say though the track itself was a bit of a downer. They have crammed 100 more picnic tables in back there and it looks even more a mess than ever. Watching the last vestiges of the green grass being stomped into dirt always depresses me. But it was a nice day and we got to see several friends as we walked about. Was glad to see the TRF was on track in the community space (though I wish they let them have that spot every day) so was also able give a donation to them as I like to do every year. Rolled three pick 3s starting in the 5th. DQed from the first leg of the first and downhill from there. i still can't figure out why I bet this place.

Left around the 7th as we had reservations at the new Osteria Danny and wanted to change and get cleaned up. It is run by the chef formerly of Maestro's. Food was actually a bit better than Maestro's was. Started with the simple olives and provolone and had the backed cod. Both were very good. To be honest though, I can't see this place lasting more than a couple years though and given choice, would likely go elsewhere. we walked down Henry to try to catch the end of Andy's radio show but were a bit too late but did catch him on the street for a minute.

Friday we also did some shopping early. Right next to the Saratoga Olive Oil store on Broadway is a place called The Savory Pantry. Not sure when this place opened, but they have all the super tasty foods that Putnam Market used to have but doesn't seem to anymore. I found goat cheese stuffed olives. Sooooo gooood!!!!! Had lunch at Boca Bistro, which I like very much. Lunch menu very different from dinner, sandwich oriented. Had a chicken sandwich on pretzel roll special along with a cup of their stew (bacon, white beans and chorizo...what's not to like?)

I put some bets in, 4 rolling pick 3s, starting with the 5th race, but then we decided that neither of us really felt like going back to the track so we walked around a bit and went back to the hotel for a little afternoon nap/pool time/catch up with work. Hit 5 straight races and thus 3 pick 3s in a row. This wiped out all previous losses on Saratoga bets this year and put me slightly in the black (this was lost on the single p3 I played Sunday. I should just stop now and call it a draw...). Did nothing different in my handicapping, just the difference a day can make. Came back into town that night for dinner at the vastly ignored and extremely good Karavalli. Chicken Ammwala. Trust me.

Headed back home a bit before noon Saturday. Albany area was a parking lot on the Northway. Hideous. Managed to get home in 4 1/2 hrs, not even close to the worst time (3 1/2 is pretty much optimal), but it felt like ages.

I think I've gotten jaded. After being able to stay right in town and be there on and off from a week before everything started to Labor Day has spoiled me I'm pretty sure. The track is pretty much the last place I want to go in that town anymore. At times it just feels so uncomfortable. I very much miss being able to host the group as well. That was the thing that made the meet the most fun for me I think. Without that it's just a sea of people who very likely will annoy me. To be honest, since we started going up there in the winter, I've started to prefer that time of year to be there. The town is still great fun, so those of you that love going to the track, don't miss the rest of what is going on. Maybe closing weekend will be a little calmer and enjoyable. Missed Mexican Connection this time and we are definitely going to do Sunday brunch at Prime (highly recommended) and do need to get my HoF museum membership renewed (buy a membership and support this place, it is worth it).

So that's that. Hope it didn't sound like too much a downer as I did enjoy getting out of the city for a few days. Guess I've just seen a bit too much there which has caused the mystique to wear off a bit. If you haven't been there yet, you must see it, that still stands.

[v j stauffer]

Drove up to Saratoga Wednesday and came back Saturday. Will be back on closing weekend, but a quick review of things seen and experienced.

Pretty smooth trip up. Left from midtown about 4 pm and once we got off the streets and through the FDR it was fine. Even got a performance from a big fan of some sort of Latin music (sorry don't know the genre well enough) who was playing along on his maracas while stuck in traffic. Don't usually think of driving and maraca playing going together, but hey, learn something new every day in this town.

Stayed in Malta (exit 12) at the Fairfield, which was actually quite nice and a very short hop from town. We ate that night in Malta at the Spicy Tomater...sorry, that's the Ripe Tomato and a private joke. It was ok fare for up there but do not become fascinated by something called Oreo Mousse. Something with a name like that should be gloriously decadent but in fact it was tasteless and cased a bit of indigestion.

A little shopping the next morning to add to the fall wardrobe with very nice 50% discount on average. I love shopping in Saratoga. Then picked up a dozen cupcakes at the Bread Basket on Spring St.and headed to the track. The wife had been invited to picnic being held by Drawing Away Stables, which was nice. They had a great spread going.

Got to say though the track itself was a bit of a downer. They have crammed 100 more picnic tables in back there and it looks even more a mess than ever. Watching the last vestiges of the green grass being stomped into dirt always depresses me. But it was a nice day and we got to see several friends as we walked about. Was glad to see the TRF was on track in the community space (though I wish they let them have that spot every day) so was also able give a donation to them as I like to do every year. Rolled three pick 3s starting in the 5th. DQed from the first leg of the first and downhill from there. i still can't figure out why I bet this place.

Left around the 7th as we had reservations at the new Osteria Danny and wanted to change and get cleaned up. It is run by the chef formerly of Maestro's. Food was actually a bit better than Maestro's was. Started with the simple olives and provolone and had the backed cod. Both were very good. To be honest though, I can't see this place lasting more than a couple years though and given choice, would likely go elsewhere. we walked down Henry to try to catch the end of Andy's radio show but were a bit too late but did catch him on the street for a minute.

Friday we also did some shopping early. Right next to the Saratoga Olive Oil store on Broadway is a place called The Savory Pantry. Not sure when this place opened, but they have all the super tasty foods that Putnam Market used to have but doesn't seem to anymore. I found goat cheese stuffed olives. Sooooo gooood!!!!! Had lunch at Boca Bistro, which I like very much. Lunch menu very different from dinner, sandwich oriented. Had a chicken sandwich on pretzel roll special along with a cup of their stew (bacon, white beans and chorizo...what's not to like?)

I put some bets in, 4 rolling pick 3s, starting with the 5th race, but then we decided that neither of us really felt like going back to the track so we walked around a bit and went back to the hotel for a little afternoon nap/pool time/catch up with work. Hit 5 straight races and thus 3 pick 3s in a row. This wiped out all previous losses on Saratoga bets this year and put me slightly in the black (this was lost on the single p3 I played Sunday. I should just stop now and call it a draw...). Did nothing different in my handicapping, just the difference a day can make. Came back into town that night for dinner at the vastly ignored and extremely good Karavalli. Chicken Ammwala. Trust me.

Headed back home a bit before noon Saturday. Albany area was a parking lot on the Northway. Hideous. Managed to get home in 4 1/2 hrs, not even close to the worst time (3 1/2 is pretty much optimal), but it felt like ages.

I think I've gotten jaded. After being able to stay right in town and be there on and off from a week before everything started to Labor Day has spoiled me I'm pretty sure. The track is pretty much the last place I want to go in that town anymore. At times it just feels so uncomfortable. I very much miss being able to host the group as well. That was the thing that made the meet the most fun for me I think. Without that it's just a sea of people who very likely will annoy me. To be honest, since we started going up there in the winter, I've started to prefer that time of year to be there. The town is still great fun, so those of you that love going to the track, don't miss the rest of what is going on. Maybe closing weekend will be a little calmer and enjoyable. Missed Mexican Connection this time and we are definitely going to do Sunday brunch at Prime (highly recommended) and do need to get my HoF museum membership renewed (buy a membership and support this place, it is worth it).

So that's that. Hope it didn't sound like too much a downer as I did enjoy getting out of the city for a few days. Guess I've just seen a bit too much there which has caused the mystique to wear off a bit. If you haven't been there yet, you must see it, that still stands.

Great post OTM.

Thank you for sharing with us your personal experiences of the weekend at Saratoga.

Amazingly I've never been.

Fortunately until this dam Ostrich moved into my backyard I was always working during the Saratoga season.

And of course, being a West Coast guy, there was always the allure of a little place called Del Mar. :)

[tanner12oz]

When I go to Saratoga I either stay at yaddo gardens, the reading room, the gideon putnam or the best western Albany airport.

:)

By the way for you Tom Durkin fans, he will be appearing with the Philadelphia Orchestra on this Wednesday evening at the SPAC. I saw this show a few years ago when it first premiered - they were honoring the 150 anniversary of the track. The orchestra plays works that have an equine theme such as Aaron Copeland’s hoedown(beef, it’s what’s for dinner). Tom gives a spine-tingling performance .

http://www.spac.org/events/2016/08/10/philadelphia-orchestra

I've done the best western and it ain't bad at all
the bar and restaurant in the hotel sucks though. Good breakfast. Stayed at springhill a little further south last year
was also nice with a good breakfast.

I got 3 people this year so we needed a pullout bed and stuff this year quality in Latham which I'm not too thrilled about

[MonmouthParkJoe]

Sorry you feel that way.

Over the years I have stayed all over the place, from Stephentown :( to Albany to right in the middle of Saratoga.

Each year presents it own set of challenges depending on where I am staying and who I go with, yet each year the place rejuvenates me. Yes it can be busy, but for those 40 days there is no place else in the world I would rather be. To each their own right?

On a side note, breadbasket is fantastic, so is Triangle Diner. I checked out Salt and Char, a new high end place in town. Some people love it, I was not impressed especially given the price of things. Prime is great, so is the Henry Street Tap room.

Best part of my day is the morning. Nothing quite like being there at the crack of dawn when it is like 60 degrees and crisp outside. The place is so quiet and beautiful.

[1st time lasix]

The past three or four years on my annual visit I have been many restaurants and bars in Saratoga Springs...its fun, particularly if with good friends in a vacation type mood-----but I agree that the truly most memorable time spent for me occurs as the morning sun comes up at the venue. For me.... it uplifts the soul and takes you a million miles away from the normal daily stresses of life. The air is usually cool and crisp and the people you do see all tend to say "good morning" because they know they are in a special place too. I enjoy both the Oklahoma training track and the main toga backside--- as the horses come out for their gallops and works. Great to see them get their daily baths by the barns. Interesting to hang around the practice starting gate as well. They are such magnificent animals. **** In the afternoons I have experienced the racing from all angles. (The rail, the grandstands, the private boxes and even the backside).....I still love to get in the paddock for those expensive maiden baby races: trying to see which might possibly be a future star.

[OTM Al]

Sorry you feel that way.

Over the years I have stayed all over the place, from Stephentown :( to Albany to right in the middle of Saratoga.

Each year presents it own set of challenges depending on where I am staying and who I go with, yet each year the place rejuvenates me. Yes it can be busy, but for those 40 days there is no place else in the world I would rather be. To each their own right?

On a side note, breadbasket is fantastic, so is Triangle Diner. I checked out Salt and Char, a new high end place in town. Some people love it, I was not impressed especially given the price of things. Prime is great, so is the Henry Street Tap room.

Best part of my day is the morning. Nothing quite like being there at the crack of dawn when it is like 60 degrees and crisp outside. The place is so quiet and beautiful.

Hadn't got a chance to try Salt and Char just yet. Prices are NYC steakhouse prices, so they didn't really phase me when i saw them, but did make me wonder if they would be able to have enough clientele up there to last. Heard mixed things so far. Prime is the best up there IMO and for those concerned that the dinner prices are a bit too high, I recommend the Sunday brunch. fantastic spread and great value. After that, I'm a big fan of Il Forno, Chiante, Boca Bistro (those 3 are all owned by the same people and have consistent quality). A little lower scale but also quite good are Phila Fusion (Asian fusion), Karavalli (Indian), Merry Monk (Belgian), Longfellows (American) and Mexican Connection. Mio Posto is very good, but if you are over 5'8'' forget it. It is so small that I was very uncomfortable there. 15 Church is also good but that is a place I have to rate as overpriced. One Caroline and Mouzon House have nice atmosphere (same owner on these too I believe) but I was underwhelmed by the food. Can't get good cajun outside Louisiana anyway. If you have to go to Hattie's don't order anything other than the fried chicken and corn on the cob. The rest I had when there was awful, especially the pathetic excuse for red beans and rice they served.

Cocktails at Druthers or Sperry's are also a must. Haven't eaten at Sperry's for a while. When it reopened it was spectacular but feel its slipped a bit the last few years, but the bar is still a fun place to people watch. 9 Maple is also good for that if you can get a seat. Wouldn't eat at Siro's if someone else was paying, but worth having one ridiculously overpriced drink there to say you have. Best time to go is around the 7th race if you don't care about the rest of the card. if you feel like dive barring it, I've had some fun at Tin and Lint. the Horseshoe frightens me. Do not stay late if you go. if you want to watch a ball game, Stadium is an ok place to go, but service is generally awful. West side version is a little better than Broadway in that regard, but fewer TVs too.

Have some ice cream from Stewart's (pronounce that as "Sterts", doesn't matter which one as far as I know) if it is a nice warm day.

been several other places about town but those are the ones that make most of an impression.

[Redboard]

I've done the best western and it ain't bad at all
the bar and restaurant in the hotel sucks though. Good breakfast. Stayed at ........

My wife & I used to always stay in Saratoga and if one is visiting for the first time I’d highly recommend that. But we got tired of getting ripped off. It shocks the sensibilities to pay two or three times the amount you’d pay if you were staying at any other time of the year. The drive is about 25 minutes and is manageable. You’d be surprised at how many people we meet in the breakfast room who are in the same boat - they used to stay around the track but got fed up.

The Best Western Albany airport is not bad and meets our needs. Nice breakfast room and a computer room with three terminals that you can print out PPs. It’s on Wolf Road which has developed in recent years as far as malls and restaurants. It has a Whole Foods which my wife likes. There are also some parks and golf courses nearby so we might golf early then catch the later races or vice versa. I used to think it was sacrilegious and “broke the spell” when one crossed the Mohawk river but that ceased to become an issue as time went on.

[depalma113]

We stayed at the Super 8 in Amsterdam last year for Travers weekend. The drive in to Saratoga was about 35 minutes going through Balston Spa. The room was quiet, especially for being off of I90, the breakfast was free and very good. Free Wifi that worked great and plenty of room for two people to spread out and handicap the races.

Granted we were there for the racing and not the after the races partying. It's a good place to stay outside of Saratoga to save money.

[thespaah]

I almost feel sorry for those who stay in Albany.

For me the one time I did, it really spoiled the "adventure." Albany, especially near the Airport is very generic with nothing but chain stores, hotels, and restaurants. Driving back and forth up and down that expressway is no pleasure tour.

There are places around Saratoga along Route 9 in the Malta area where you can find rooms for @$100 a night. Lake George has a certain Saratogaesque charm and the folks who stay there are all horse players, reading their racing forms and going to the track and dinner. If you have to stay along the expressways there are hotels/motels at each interchange, which even beats staying in Albany. Do your homework, make some notes, and then book early.

Maybe others enjoy it, but for me, staying in Albany really ruins the total Saratoga experience.
Next year, try Queensbury which is next to Glens Falls. There are plenty of the chain motels at exits 18 and 19. If you are looking for something a little more upscale, the Queensbury Hotel in down town Glens Falls is a decent place to stay. Rates for rooms are not over priced. The trip to and from the track is 20 mins.

[BMustang]

Next year, try Queensbury which is next to Glens Falls. There are plenty of the chain motels at exits 18 and 19. If you are looking for something a little more upscale, the Queensbury Hotel in down town Glens Falls is a decent place to stay. Rates for rooms are not over priced. The trip to and from the track is 20 mins.

:):):) I'm never looking for anything "upscale." I've even stayed at the Chamber Lane Motel at Round Lake. Accommodating with some green space.

I just came out of 9 days at the Super 8 in Erie, Pa., while playing out of Presque Isle Downs earlier this month. A very nice Super 8 incidentally.

[BettinBilly]

I always stay around Albany and the Wolf Road area hotels are just fine for me and my wallet. I agree, paying 3 or even 4 times what those rooms are worth near the track just rubs me raw and I gave up on staying track-side years ago.

I used to do business in Albany and started staying on Wolf Road and just stuck with it even through Saratoga visits. Nice location and the drive (to me) is not bad, considering how much you save in room rental. Plus, since I fly in and out of Albany anyway, it's convenient to be close to the airport for departure.

[cj]

I've stayed in town and out. Both are fine by me, but I do like being in town for the night life and being able to imbibe a bit and walk without having to worry about driving.

[EMD4ME]

I've stayed in town and out. Both are fine by me, but I do like being in town for the night life and being able to imbibe a bit and walk without having to worry about driving.

Imbibe


I like that CJ! In more ways than 1! 1 for doing it and 2 for using the intellectual word !

[HalvOnHorseracing]

i will be there on August 13th for the FOURSTARDAVE
I made an executive decision to bolt out of Saratoga about two hours before all hell broke loose. I thought it was a pretty competitive race though.

[HalvOnHorseracing]

When I go to Saratoga I either stay at yaddo gardens, the reading room, the gideon putnam or the best western Albany airport.

:)

By the way for you Tom Durkin fans, he will be appearing with the Philadelphia Orchestra on this Wednesday evening at the SPAC. I saw this show a few years ago when it first premiered - they were honoring the 150 anniversary of the track. The orchestra plays works that have an equine theme such as Aaron Copeland’s hoedown(beef, it’s what’s for dinner). Tom gives a spine-tingling performance .

http://www.spac.org/events/2016/08/10/philadelphia-orchestra
I was there for the show. This year they were honoring SPAC's 50th year - SPAC and the Track. SPAC holds a special spot for me since that is where I saw my first big time concert - Chicago.

While they didn't play anything from Rodeo, they did play a suite from Billy the Kid. They also had a really great baritone do some folk selections of songs collected by Copeland. They also did a stirring version of the Ride of the Valkyries and finished the concert with the William Tell Overture. And yes, Durkin's reading during the multi-media presentation about the horse was stirring. The orchestra came back for an encore and did the Theme from the Magnificent Seven.

[HalvOnHorseracing]

I spent the week in Saratoga last week. I have one advantage in that I can visit anytime - my mom still lives in Saratoga two blocks from the downtown.

For over 40 years I've been parking in the same spot on the corner of Crescent Street and Nelson Avenue and frankly accounting for inflation it's still a pretty good deal. $5 on Mon-Wed-Thurs, $6 Friday. I like that spot for a few reasons. You can get there without having to battle traffic on Union Ave. or Nelson. And when you leave you can head down Nelson to the Racino/Harness Track for the Doubleheader, continue down Nelson and catch the secret entrance ramp to the Northway south (at the intersection of the other Crescent), or head back into town on local streets.

I think Saratoga is the one track where I don't mind paying the nut. $5 parking, $8 clubhouse admission, and if you don't bring a picnic plan on about $20 for lunch and a drink.

Wednesday turned out to be a busy day having nothing to do with playing the races. I spent some time catching up with Andy Serling (and Friday with David Aragona), hanging out with Gary Contessa for a while, and catching up with Eric Hammelback the Director of the National HBPA.

Thursday I spent some time on the Oklahoma side of the backside in the morning then caught lunch at Hattie's - they are certainly on my short list for best fried chicken in the world. I'd also highly recommend the red beans and rice (with a piece of fried chicken on the side). Pretty good Cajun cooking for northeast NY state.

I had two excellent betting days at the track on Thursday and Friday. I post all my picks on my web site ahead of time, so no redboarding. On Thursday I took the stickout Chad Brown horse, Call Provision, in the 8th and keyed him with some of the longer priced contenders in rolling pick 3's and the pick 4. I got lucky when the horses in the P3/P4 sequence all paid between $11 and $20. On Friday a first timer in the 5th named Zero Zee trained by George Weaver was one of my selections, and at 19-1 I bet him to win. I also caught some good sized P3's and the late P4, as well as an exacta that paid over $100 in the 9th.

One other recommendation for food - The Thirsty Owl. I went there when it first opened and they had an excellent chef. A couple of years ago they changed chefs, but I still think the food is good. They have some really nice small plates and they serve their own wines that they bottle at their winery in the Finger Lakes region.

The weather all week was incredibly oppressive. High temps and high humidity. It was about as miserable as I can remember, and I lived there for a lot of years. The weather report for Saturday sounded really dicey, so I passed the track and bolted downstate. As it turns out the skies opened up over the track, leaving the area behind the grandstand flooded and all the races after the 5th cancelled.

I've been to both Del Mar and Saratoga. Both are places that should be on your track bucket list, but Saratoga is unique in a lot of ways. The picnic area, the food trucks the multiple entertainment playing in different places around the track - it's a lot more choices and a lot more sensory overload relative to Del Mar. Del Mar is like a day at the beach - kind of laid back. Saratoga is like a day at the state fair - lots of noise, always something going on. Good racing at both places though.

For me, there is no such thing as a bad day at Saratoga. As a place to watch people and the races, it's pretty special.

[thespaah]

I've stayed in town and out. Both are fine by me, but I do like being in town for the night life and being able to imbibe a bit and walk without having to worry about driving.
Uber is your friend. Plus cabs run up and back to Glens Falls and Q'by all the time.....Anyway.....

[cj]

Uber is your friend. Plus cabs run up and back to Glens Falls and Q'by all the time.....Anyway.....

Yeah, I haven't been back since Uber became a thing for me. I use it here often now and did for the Preakness also. Hadn't thought of that and certainly worth staying on the outskirts.

[zawaaa]

there's nothing that beats soaking up the morning atmosphere if you stay near the track

sadly i'm going to have to resort to something less than that this year

[SG4]

Imbibe


I like that CJ! In more ways than 1! 1 for doing it and 2 for using the intellectual word !

Can I add another positive reason for liking use of this word? Any words that have been added to my vocabulary via horse names always make me happy. Thank you 1989 Belmont Stakes entrant Imbibe! And no, I should not have known what that word meant already at that point in my life :)

[lamboguy]

I made an executive decision to bolt out of Saratoga about two hours before all hell broke loose. I thought it was a pretty competitive race though. i never made it there either. my wife fell flat on her face on the street while walking her dog and broke her nose and got cut up pretty good. she will be fine, but she was my driver. i not only missed the stake race but i missed the first race that i had a horse in that wound up running dead last. the races got cancelled early and they cancelled the sale so everything worked out for the best. my horse will be ok too, but he will make Finger Lakes his home for the rest of the year and hope he gets his confidence back somehow.

[Ocala Mike]

Well, I made it there, and I'm glad to be back home again. Thanks to poor travel connections, extreme weather (you all know what happened Saturday), and no luck with the ponies, the trip was quite anticlimactic.

Fortunately, did manage to get together with some old racetrack buds, and we rekindled memories of working up there during the 80's and earlier. Ate at some pretty good places, including Carson's on the lake - new ownership and menu. Used to be Italian food, now pub menu, but good.