Discover unforgettable experiences, from historic donut carts & horse-related events to hiking, birding and cycling hotspots.

Are you planning to attend the Belmont Stakes in Saratoga Springs, New York? While you’re in the area, be sure to explore the many other unforgettable local activities & attractions available just over the river.

Within Washington County, you’ll find a range of fun things to do to bring your visit to the next level, from local events & hidden gems to trail riding, cycling & birding experiences.

Here are a few ideas for fun things to do during your Belmont Stakes trip!

There are many great Washington County events coinciding with the Belmont Stakes Festival! Supplement your trip with some of these neat happenings:

• “Godspell” at Fort Salem Theater – Catch one of Godspell’s last 3 performances on June 7, June 8 and June 9, 2024!
• Rooted In Salem Presents: Benj Gleeksman – “The Land of Milk and Hot Dogs” – Opening Reception Friday, June 7 from 5:30 – 7:30 PM; show June 7 – June 27.
• Gymkhana Under the Lights at the Washington County Fairgrounds – Saturday, June 8, 2024 starting at 5 PM. Cheer on PeeWee/Leadline, Junior and Adult eventing groups in these fast-paced timed trials.
• Music on the Hill at Salem Art Works, featuring Laura Leigh Band –Saturday, June 8, 2024 from 4 – 8 PM. Featuring Jamerican Cuisine Food Truck, great music, incredible views & a complimentary bus ride to the top of the hill.
• Cambridge Saddle Club Horse Show – Sunday, June 9, 2024 starting at 8:30 AM. See local horses & riders judged by Amanda LaMoureaux & Joey Moore in this picturesque location.

While you’re in the area, why not immerse yourself in local culture? Explore our agricultural roots through delicious food, craft beverages and more!

Savor the Sweets at King Bakery Donut Cart

Of course, no Washington County visit is complete without a visit to this local hidden gem! Only open 8 AM – 12 PM on Sundays in Cambridge, NY, this local family serves delicious homemade pastries from historic donut carts.

And just down the road, you’ll want to visit New Skete Monastery, whose scenic grounds are home to monks well-known for their dog training skills as well as nuns whose cheesecake is simply divine.

Shop at Local Farmers Markets

Pick up some fresh produce, locally-made items or unique gifts for your loved ones at our area’s many farmers markets!

• Thursdays, 4 to 7 PM at the Canal Street Marketplace in Fort Edward, NY
• Thursdays, 2 to 5 PM at 88 Quaker Street (Mountview Commons) in Granville, NY
• Saturdays, 10 AM to 1 PM at the Gazebo on Main Street in Salem, NY
• Sundays, 10 AM to 1 PM at Owlkill Commons in Cambridge, NY

Indulge in Dairy at Argyle Cheese Farmer

Love dairy & dairy products like cheese curds, yogurt and cheesecake? You’ll want to stop by Argyle Cheese Farmer’s store in Hudson Falls to stock up on their delicious products made right here in Washington County!

Tour the Upper Hudson Valley Wine Trail

Did you know Washington County is home to several vineyards, whose special cold-hardy grapes have transformed this region into a wine-lover’s destination? It’s now part of what’s called the Upper Hudson Valley Wine Trail.

Explore some of this area’s top wineries, including Victory View Vineyard, South Dominion Vineyard and Northern Cross Vineyard! You’ll love taking a tour, strolling the vineyards and sampling their delicious varieties of wine.

Of course, that’s just a small sample of the many great small businesses across the county who provide a variety of arts, boutique shops, dining options, experiences and more.

There are even more great things to do in the area outdoors, including:

Take a Hike in the Adirondacks

The many forests, hills & waterways of Washington County hide a variety of trails fit for hikers of all levels! From breathtaking Lake George views near Putnam to enchanting forests near Cambridge, you’ll find a variety of nature to explore just across the river from the Belmont Stakes in Saratoga Springs.

Explore the World-Famous Battenkill

Are you looking for a fully-customized on-the-water adventure? Check out Battenkill Valley Outdoors, a popular choice for floatable rentals, including canoes, kayaks, tubes, commercial rafts and more. Plus, large groups love the views from BVO’s Long Lodge, which also enjoys close proximity to some of the area’s most picturesque hiking trails! Or, discover more ways to experience the Battenkill.

Spot Rare Birds in Our Protected Areas

Did you know many rare and endangered species of birds call the grasslands of Washington County, New York home, even if it’s just part of the year? In every season, owls, hawks, songbirds, waterfowl and more can be found across the county.

Visit the Alfred Z. Solomon Viewing Area for great views of scenery & grassland birds alike. Or, visit the Livingston Brook Heron Rookery to see a nest of great blue herons, as well as a variety of other birds.

See History, Nature and Modern Life Along our Cycling Trails

There are miles and miles of trails just for cyclists & pedestrians! Explore some of the most beautiful parts of Washington County while biking the Empire State Trail as it follows the historic Champlain Canal. Explore more great cycling spots.

Are you still looking for somewhere to stay during this once-in-a-lifetime occurrence?

There’s more occupancy available just over the county line! Less than an hour from the Saratoga Race Course, Washington County offers a range of unique and charming accommodations to suit every taste and budget.

From cozy bed & breakfasts to historic inns and unique rentals, there’s something for everyone in Saratoga’s backyard. Explore more great local accommodations.

Want More Washington County, NY?

Washington County, NY is a beautiful & welcoming destination for all interests & activity levels! If you’re looking for even more great ag-focused events, come back and visit for the Washington County Fair in August or the Adirondack Wool & Arts Festival in September.

No matter what you choose, you’ll have a great time visiting Washington County’s beautiful countryside.