Advice for my first trip to Saratoga, Whitney day

[Aerocraft67]

That time of year. I see this thread got referenced in a new, similar thread. I never closed the loop on this as OP, so let me do it now.

For my early arrival from a few hours out of town, the Horseshoe for breakfast was perfect. I parked in their lot (or one right next to it) for the day for $10. Easy in, easy out. There was a huge line to enter the Horseshoe when I left, so harder to recommend for après.

The third response in this thread was from TLG himself. I introduced myself in person after Talking Horses on the day. He was as gracious yet ballbusting as you'd imagine. Made my trip really special. Can't imagine a better ambassador for NYRA and the sport.

Not in the cards for me this year, but I look forward to my next visit for sure. It's truly a special experience.

[thespaah]

Originally Posted by Aerocraft67

Excited about my first trip to Saratoga and looking for tips on how to navigate a big day. Grabbed a single clubhouse seat for Whitney day. It's a day trip, driving about 3.5 hours each way from the west.

I've been to the Preakness twice and Belmont once (for Justify's win), so I'm somewhat familiar with big track days, but I had my plans more sorted for those.

Parking. I don't mind paying, walking, or shuttling to avoid traffic, but hard to tell when lots open, when they fill, when they just become inaccessible. I can arrive pretty early despite my commute.

Biding time. Assuming I can park early, where's a good place to hang out and handicap until the gates open? Where's a good spot to cool down and let the crowd thin out before heading home?

Wagering. What's the outlook for cellular or WiFi to bet on Whitney day? I'm guessing WiFi craps out before cellular mid-card, just when lines get prohibitively long at the windows. I'm a vertical player and do most of my betting reasonably close to post time on my mobile. I've never used a terminal. But I do have a NYRA Bets account (it didn't help with mobility on Belmont day), and I can adjust.

Talking Horses. Shouldn't be hard to find on site, but wondering where I might take in the show to actually pay attention, take a few notes.

Those are the things I thought to ask about, but grateful for any general tips you have to enjoy a prime day at Saratoga.

I'm a veteran of sorts of The Spa.
I'll PM you

[The Arbiter]

Originally Posted by thespaah

I'm a veteran of sorts of The Spa.
I'll PM you

Don't go too crazy, that's a post from last year.

[thespaah]

Originally Posted by PA.race.fan

Is there anywhere to park an RV overnight? Can you park an RV in someone’s yard?

Ya know what? I've been going to The Spa since 1977 and have never given that a single thought. Reason...I do not ever recall seeing an RV parked on a private property yard/lawn....
I guess it depends upon what type of RV you have.

[burnsy]

Originally Posted by PA.race.fan

Is there anywhere to park an RV overnight? Can you park an RV in someone’s yard?

Wal Mart. Northbound I 87 exit 15 , right, first left. I’ve seen them at the Casino/Harness track back parking lot. Walking distance to track . But don’t know the official policy . Exit 16 , northbound, right , quick left. RV park that rents spots. There’s a couple guys on Pace that stay there every Whitney weekend. Coldbrook. Out route 50 north in Ganesvoort is Saratoga RV Park

[thespaah]

Originally Posted by The Arbiter

Don't go too crazy, that's a post from last year.

I didn;t even notice the date...Shhhh....I mean shoot