Saratoga Springs is charming at every time of year, but there is something special about Upstate New York when the leaves are changing and outdoor activities abound. Get away from the normal hustle and bustle of the city and plan a fun weekend with these recommendations.
Fall for the Season
New York is one of the largest producers of apples in the country and when you stay in Saratoga Springs you’re just minutes from several you-pick apple orchards. When is the best time to plan your trip? We suggest mid-September through mid-October, but many orchards and local farms offer fun activities in addition to apple picking through the end of October!
Our favorite place to enjoy the season is Saratoga Apple Orchard & Farm Stand, just about 10 miles from the hotel. Feel like a kid again as you walk through the orchard, finding that perfect apple to place in your basket. After picking, reward yourself with freshly made apple cider doughnuts and visit their tasting room featuring local hard cider, beer and even mead! Before leaving, stroll through their cute country store offering a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, delicious baked goods and unique gifts.
South of Saratoga Springs, are two additional apple farms. Located 25 miles away in Rexford, NY Bowman Orchards features you-pick apple picking of countless varieties, farm animals, a farm store, and ample photo-ops around the orchard. In Ballston Lake is Lakeside Farms a quick 15 minute drive from Saratoga Springs. They boast a country store, restaurant, gift shop and Apple Barn.
Wanting to get into the autumn spirit but not interested in apple picking? It’s only a short drive from Saratoga Springs to Ellms Family Farm, in Ballston Spa, for pick-your-own pumpkins and loads of fall activities! Enjoy homemade cider donuts, a corn maze, and over 40 other activities for people of all ages. You can also experience a Pumpkin Glow & Light Show Drive-Thru with thousands of hand carved pumpkins.
Did you know there is a farm IN Saratoga? Pitney Meadows Community Farm is a non-profit organization located on West Avenue, which is less than two miles from Saratoga Arms! They offer a variety of programs throughout the year to promote agriculture education and healthy food production, so this makes for another great opportunity to enjoy the change in season and get outside within the city’s limits. Check their website for regular updates about upcoming programs and fall-related activities.
*Saratoga Arms Tip: There is a wonderful 1.7 mile walking loop around the farm. A perfect early morning or sunset walk.
Interested in the more spooky side of this season? There are a plethora of haunted history attractions in Saratoga Springs to enjoy from day to night.
Upstate New York is the perfect destination to enjoy everything fall has to offer. Plan your trip to enjoy the changing leaves, pick out your favorite apples and pumpkins, and warm up with a cup of cider at these wonderful orchards and farms.
Pick a Path Less Traveled
Saratoga Springs is the perfect place to escape from the fast pace of the city and enjoy some time in nature. The days are still warm enough to get outside, and the nights are cool enough to enjoy a cozy evening in one of our romantic rooms with a fireplace. Our historic hotel is conveniently located in downtown Saratoga Springs for easy access to all of the fantastic restaurants and things to do in town. Yet, we’re just minutes to the gorgeous Adirondack Mountains. Home to 46 high peaks, the Adirondacks is a perfect place for a day hike. We love this area so we created our Top 10 favorite hikes within an hour from Saratoga Springs.
Whether you’re in the mood for a more rigorous hike or would like to take a more casual stroll, there are lots of options in and around Saratoga Springs. For some easier trails visit the 5-mile trail at the National Historic Landmark Saratoga Spa State Park or the 4 1/4 mile Wilkinson Trail at Saratoga National Historic Park, also known as the Saratoga Battlefield, to immerse yourself in nature and history without needing to lace up your hiking boots.
*Saratoga Arms Tip: Take a leisurely stroll through our popular outdoor farmers’ markets through the end of October – Saratoga Farmers’ Market takes place on Saturdays from 9AM-1PM and the Spa City Farmers’ Market is on Sundays from 10AM-1PM.
We’ve made it easy to explore our quaint town and the trails in Upstate New York with our Pick Your Path Package. You’re guaranteed to find out what makes our area so special and unique.
Whether you’re looking for a fall getaway from NYC, want to explore the beautiful fall colors, or just visit one of the top hotels in the country, start planning your visit to Saratoga Springs now to ensure the best experience with a stay at Saratoga Arms. Choose your ideal experience as part of our Pick Your Path Package or book a time to explore a local orchard and enjoy your getaway to Saratoga Springs! Not only can you immerse yourself in nature while you are here, but you can also immerse yourself in our luxurious boutique hotel with modern amenities. Every morning, our gourmet breakfast showcases the freshest ingredients from our local farms and purveyors. At night, indulge in fine wines, craft beer and a variety of small plates. We can’t wait to welcome you to Saratoga Springs to experience all the best that autumn has to offer.
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