Horse racing has a long history in America, that’s for sure. Although the sport has been brought here from overseas (particularly London), over the years America’s horse racing culture has grown to be one of the biggest in the world.
This got us thinking, what if horse racing had a birthplace in America? – Well, it wouldn’t be a big city, under stadium lights. It would be a small town, where time seems to move a bit slower.
So, which is the oldest and most historic race town in North America that you probably never visited? – Welcome to Saratoga Springs, New York. This is the oldest town where horse racing flourished for hundreds of years.
Now, before you ask: “Isn’t Kentucky the horse racing capital?” Well, yes, but only in sheer volume and big-money races. When it comes to horse racing tradition, Saratoga Springs is a place where horse racing has survived longer.
Let’s find out more about this place.
A Racetrack Older Than Most Family Trees
So, let’s start by explaining why we choose Saratoga Springs before we get all the hate from our Kentucky friends. We are talking about a place with the longest history with horse racing in America, right? Well, did you know that the Saratoga Racecourse, is established in 1863, making it the not just the oldest racetrack, but the oldest organized sporting venue of any kind in the United States.
That’s not just old-it’s Civil War old. This means that horses were racing here before electric lights, sliced bread, and just to put it in perspective, the Kentucky Derby first race happened in 1875.
The best thing is that the Saratoga Racecourse is still active and hosts some incredible Thoroughbred horse racing events. Every summer, Saratoga Springs is packed with tourists that specifically go for the horse racing culture. The place is low key, and has a casual vibe, making it both accessible and pleasant for casual horse racing fans.
This probably inspired you to go to Saratoga Racecourse and place a bet. But before you do, make sure you are familiar with horse racing strategies. According to TwinSpires, treating each race separately is the key for improving your winning chances.
The Town Itself Feels Like a Living Museum
Saratoga Springs isn’t just a backdrop for the racetrack. The whole town has leaned into its heritage like a well-bred thoroughbred lean into a turn. There’s something cozy and romantic about walking down Broadway and realizing you’re tracing the same steps gamblers, jockeys, and socialites took a century ago.
The architecture? Straight out of a vintage postcard. You’ve got Victorian-style inns, old-school bathhouses (yes, actual mineral springs), and boutiques that make you feel like you need a parasol just to window shop.
Even if you’re not into racing, the town has this undeniable charm that grabs you by the collar and whispers, “Slow down. Have a cocktail. Maybe buy a funny hat.”
Legends Were Made Here
You know how Yankee Stadium has Babe Ruth, and Augusta has Tiger Woods? Saratoga has Upset. No really—Upset is the name of the horse that beat the legendary Man o’ War in 1919, giving him the only loss of his career. It’s the reason we even have the term “upset” in sports today.
Saratoga is nicknamed “The Graveyard of Champions” for a reason. It’s where the mighty fall. Champions like Secretariat, Gallant Fox, and American Pharoah have all been taken down here.
You don’t just watch history at Saratoga—you live it.
It’s Not All High Stakes and High Society
Sure, you’ll see folks in suits sipping on $15 mint juleps, but Saratoga is also delightfully down-to-earth. One of the most charming things about the racetrack? The picnic area.
It’s massive. Locals and tourists alike show up early—like, 6 a.m. early—to claim their spot under the trees. They bring coolers, radios, folding chairs, board games… sometimes it feels more like a family BBQ than a gambling venue.
You’ll hear laughter, see kids running around, and smell grilled sausages. Oh, and yes—there’s horse racing happening just a few steps away.
No VIP badge required.
Beyond the Track: What Else is There?
Glad you asked, because Saratoga isn’t just a one-trick pony.
- Mineral Springs Spas: This town was once America’s wellness capital. The naturally carbonated mineral springs are said to have healing properties. Whether that’s legit or just 19th-century marketing? Who knows. But soaking in a 100-year-old spa tub definitely feels like a cure for something.
- The Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC): During race season, it’s not just about horses. The New York City Ballet and big-name music acts perform here. Picture this: a day at the races followed by a night with Dave Matthews or Tchaikovsky under the stars.
- Horse Culture 24/7: Walk into any bar or restaurant and odds are there’s a race replay on TV, a retired jockey at the bar, or a bartender who can name every Triple Crown winner since 1973.
When To Go (And What To Expect)
The Saratoga meet typically runs from mid-July to early September. That’s when the town truly comes alive. Hotels book out months in advance. Restaurants are buzzing. Everyone’s either in seersucker or sundresses. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported into a stylish 1940s-time capsule.
If you want to avoid the crowds but still soak in the ambiance, visit in June or late September. The leaves are changing, the air is crisp, and you can explore without waiting in line for a sandwich or cocktail.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and let’s go and explore some horse racing history.
Photo credit: Mohawk Towpath Scenic Byways Inc.(1) Link or reference required to http://www.byways.org and (2) copyright and credits from above author’s field, Attribution, via Wikimedia Commons
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