Home Place: Saratoga Springs

This month we were invited by the folks at America's Best Racing to visit the Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York. This was such a wonderful event, not just because of the horse races, but also because the historic Saratoga Race Course is celebrating 150 years of horse racing.

And, of course, I'm a girl who loves tradition, and what could be better than 150 years of horse racing tradition! (#Saratoga150).

Traveling from Connecticut, we took CT's I-91 to the Massachusetts Pike to the New York Thruway, right through the beautiful, scenic Berkshire Mountains. It took a little over 3 hours, with a few short stops to stretch our legs. Not a bad drive at all. We left home about 8am and arrived at the course about 11:45.

The New York Thruway through the Berkshires

There's plenty of parking in the area, with private lots that charge $5.00 to $10.00. And there's even a lot that provides free general parking, however, we chose a lot that cost $5.00 because it was directly across from our entrance. The $10.00 lot is trackside, adjacent to the course. Of course, price is dependent on proximity.

Admission is so affordable! It's only $3.00 for general grandstand admission and $5.00 for the clubhouse admission.

The brand ambassadors from America's Best Racing couldn't have been nicer! I was lucky enough to team up with them for this great afternoon of lunch and cocktails in the clubhouse, and a behind the scenes tour of the Saratoga Race Track. A great big thank you to Chip McGaughey who invited me, as well as the great hospitality from John Cox, Jose Contreros and everyone else at America's Best Racing who were such wonderful and gracious hosts.

America's Best Racing

Because it was my first time there, these patient gentlemen and their female counterparts took me under their wing, and made sure we were situated with all the information we needed to enjoy a fun day at the track!

We started with the buffet lunch ($35.00) in the clubhouse, which consisted of a variety of choices from a well-stocked salad bar, and pasta, fish, chicken, and beef stations. We kept it healthy, with portioned protein and lots of salad and fruit!

Buffet at the Clubhouse Saratoga Race Course

Buffet Stations at the Club House at the Saratoga Race Course

And while everyone was looking over the racing form...I decided to concentrate on a nice glass of Riesling from the Carousel Bar.

The Carousel Bar at Saratoga Race Course

Then the fun began - we placed our wagers on each race...sometimes winning! Sometimes losing! My best race was winning with the #7 horse, "In Trouble", in the 6th Race. But all in all it was fun. Never wager more than you can afford to lose, my mom always said!

Wagers - you win some - you lose some!

We also had passes to visit the paddock and the jockey room! What a wonderful opportunity to see the horses, up close. They are truly absolutely magnificent!

The Paddock at Saratoga Race Course

Here's what you should know when visiting the race track. Dress is casual but there are plenty who dress to the nines. Women are typically in dresses, and some in hats, and men are in collared shirts and trousers. While shorts and denim are worn by some, they aren't allowed in some of the more exclusive areas. There are some areas that require a jacket be worn by gentlemen. Check the Saratoga Race Course information area for details here: http://www.nyra.com/saratoga/information/

There are grounds inside the track where you are allowed to bring in lawn chairs and coolers, etc. Please note ==> NO GLASS items are allowed. So, if you're looking to save some dollars to put towards your wagering, pack a picnic lunch, some chairs, and a couple of cans of beer or soda, and have a picnic outside!
Here's some candids from around the course.

The Saratoga Race Course Candids

There is a true sense of festivity in the air at Saratoga Race Course. Vendors, crafts, music, and loads of entertainment for every age. Truly something for everyone!