Relaxing and Refreshing in Saratoga Springs, New York

Situated about three hours north of Manhattan, Saratoga Springs is a charming city just south of the Adirondack Park that truly comes alive every summer with the start of its horse racing track season. The population surges as enthusiastic patrons rush to the teller windows to place bets, cheer from the stands, and either celebrate their victories or drown their sorrows in the many bars and restaurants downtown. It's a vibrant, energetic, and boisterous experience.

However, there's a quieter side to Saratoga. The city was established around numerous natural springs, found in Saratoga Spa State Park, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat. Here's a guide to discovering this tranquil destination.

Sip on the health benefits

Saratoga Springs, known as "the Spa City," reveals its charm in just a few days spent in the expansive 2,370-acre Saratoga Spa State Park. Throughout the city, visitors can fill their water bottles at 21 complimentary natural springs. Each spring delivers cold, naturally carbonated water infused with varying minerals such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, iron, and calcium, providing a range of health benefits depending on the spring selected.

Consider the water from the Red Spring, rich in iron and reputed to assist with skin conditions, versus the centrally located Orenda Spring, known for its potential to promote healthy blood. Nestled in downtown Saratoga, opposite the Congress Park carousel, Hathorn Spring One lies beneath a charming gazebo and is the deepest of the springs. Its water has a notably metallic taste and is believed to aid in digestive issues.

One of the most frequented spots is the State Seal Spring, situated on Avenue of the Pines, across from the automobile museum and the old bottling plant. It’s known for its appealing, crisp flavor.

Navigating Saratoga Spa State Park

Exploring the springs through a self-guided tour is straightforward with a map and information at your fingertips. On weekends, the state park offers fully guided tours starting from the Creekside Classroom, an education center that operates year-round with a focus on environmental programs.

While it may seem trivial to plan a trip around drinking water, it’s actually a delightful way to spend a few days enjoying the park—strolling along the trails, sampling various springs, and relaxing in the mineral baths.

Roosevelt Baths & Spa

The most renowned place to indulge in relaxation is the Roosevelt Baths & Spa, located within the Gideon Putnam Hotel. This historic site, established in 1935, honors President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who played a crucial role in preserving the springs and the city itself. An advocate for hydrotherapy to manage his polio, he initiated funding for the Roosevelt Baths project during his governorship in New York State.

Nestled at the park's edge and opposite the Hall of Springs, the Roosevelt Baths & Spa offers a sanctuary where nature and wellness harmonize, featuring an expansive courtyard, towering arches, and a serene reflective pond. The spa retains its original subway tile and draws from the Lincoln spring for its mineral soaking treatments in 42 private treatment rooms.

The soaking experience

Your spa treatment at Roosevelt begins in the relaxation room, where you'll be given a cozy robe. An attendant will then guide you to a treatment room, sharing intriguing details about the spa's history and outlining your 20-minute or 40-minute soak (priced between $30 and $55). Though the water's brown hue—caused by iron oxidation—might be off-putting, you'll find yourself captivated once you step into the spacious tub.

The spring water is naturally cold at 55 degrees, but the tub maintains a perfectly warm temperature thanks to the addition of warm bathwater, enhanced by a slight effervescence from the minerals. You can adjust the temperature with cold water as needed, and a warm towel delivery will signal the end of your soak. The spa offers an extensive menu of traditional massages, facials, and other treatments that can be booked alongside your soaking experience.

It might seem strange that just a few miles from the tranquil Roosevelt Baths, crowds are fervently betting on horses like Hot Rod Charlie and Mostly Harmless while cheering from the grandstands. Yet, this contrast often highlights the value of quiet moments, relaxation, and mindful rejuvenation. With its stunning scenery, refreshing natural springs, and historic mineral baths, Saratoga Springs offers a perfect trifecta for slow travel—a refreshing weekend escape we all could benefit from now and then.