A local visitor center is always great, and the staff here were friendly and willing to tell me a little bit about the building and its history. This was the site of several early businesses, all of which had burned down! The woman at the desk explained that the sites included the Grand Central Hotel, the Favorite Spring building, and the Hamilton. “In 1902, the Hudson Valley Trolley Company built a wooden structure that served as a station,” she said. “Lines ran between Schenectady, Saratoga Springs and Glens Falls before it was torn down in 1914.” When I commented that the building here on the corner seemed pretty unlucky, she laughed. “Yes, I think I’d have to agree.” The present building’s architecture (1915-1916) is stunning and typical of turn-of-the-century landmarks. It was considered the most beautiful Trolley Station in the Northeast. After the line was abandoned, it was renovated into a drinking hall that operated until 1964. It opened as the visitor center in 1992. It holds a plethora of information, and I’d gladly direct anyone here to learn more about Saratoga.

2  Bethesda Episcopal Church, Incorporated 

The stone church is in the English Gothic style, with a distinctive Norman Romanesque tower and several stunning Tiffany stained-glass windows that enhance its grandeur. I loved standing outside that Sunday morning. Services were ongoing, or I would have tried to step inside and snap a few pictures. When I am traveling, I’m always in search of a cathedral or chapel where I can venture in and be reflective in my faith for a few moments. In 2030, the church will celebrate its bicentennial, and I hope to be there to witness it. Stay tuned for the story and photos to come!

3 Much More Than Just a Facelift - Universal 

This building was built in 1871 as a Methodist Church. In 1976, it was sold to Universal Baptist Church and, over time, fell into disrepair. It was condemned in 2000, but a group of Saratoga Springs residents came forward to save it. It’s been interesting to watch the UPH transformation over the years. In 2015, the Universal Preservation Hall became part of Proctors Collaborative – a huge honor that excited all of us here in the city. Renovations began in 2018, and people were excited when it opened in 2020 as a performing arts and event venue in the heart of the Spa City. Rosanne Cash, the oldest daughter of Johnny Cash, was the inaugural act. 

4 Adelphi Hotel

I wasn’t surprised to see the historic Adelphi Hotel on the walking app; it’s such an icon in Saratoga. I used to visit this place before its renovation/remodel. I loved all the haunted stories surrounding the building and had a few paranormal experiences of my own staying overnight there. (Another day, another time, another story!) I decided to wander in and have a drink and a bite.

Morrissey’s is a pretty cool lounge, with a “place for locals” feel. It’s named after John Morrissey, prizefighter, high-stakes gambler, and one of Saratoga’s most notorious gentlemen.

They’re promoting their happy hour, from Sunday to Thursday, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm; time literally pays off. Going at 5:00 for an early meal? Five bucks will buy you a selection of beers, wine, and well cocktails. Meeting friends for a drink around 6:00 pm? Six bucks will do the same. Leaving work on time never sounded better! Hurry, though, the promotion ends July 2nd.

And, if you ever have the chance to stay overnight here, ask if you can sleep in room 205. It’s said to be the most haunted! I’m hoping to stay there one day myself, (and write all about it of course!)

5 Saratoga Marketplace

In the 1970s, Saratoga was changing, big time. This building had been in decline and was revitalized by true entrepreneurs; Mark and Elizabeth Straus, who played a key role in helping restore the unique charm of Saratoga Springs.

Walking through the front doors of this indoor shopping plaza is like opening little sparkling gifts; with more than a dozen eclectic shops, galleries, and eateries – I could, and have, spent hours here choosing gifts for family, friends, and even myself. Such a diverse shopping experience! 

During COVID-19, when the world was shut down, the owners pivoted like so many others and modified the retail destination. The interior and exterior updates that were done to the individual shops, (the restored tin ceiling, new paint and fixtures, to name a few) are well worth seeing.

While There’s More….
Although there were other places on the app that I visited, it’s too much to write about here. Canfield Casino, Congress Park, the East Side Historic District, National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, and a leisurely stroll down the Union Ave Historic District were a real pleasure.

I had so much fun on this tour and appreciated how easy the app was to use. At each place, you could find out some information about the site, and I loved how two little red footprints appeared next to the stop, indicating that I’d been there. The directions were very concise and accurate. I had a great morning visiting places I go by every day, running errands, or meeting up with friends. I was happy to spend a little time getting acquainted with Saratoga in a unique, “touristy” way for a change. You will too!