If you frequent Saratoga in the summer, you know that there’s lots to do when the horses aren’t racing. But if you’re looking to explore a bit further during “Dark Days” this year, look no further than Washington County, NY. There’s so much to discover on Mondays and Tuesdays, and much of it is under 30 minutes from Saratoga Race Course!

World-Class Performances and Live Music Near Saratoga

Set in the same historic building as Hudson Falls’ original Strand Theater from 1923, the new Strand Theater offers a wide range of performances, often nearly every night of the week! From National touring musicians to free movie nights and theater and storytelling, you’re sure to find a performance to enjoy!

While you’re in Hudson Falls, don’t forget to explore the dining and shopping available nearby: DeNatale’s Italian Restaurant and Bar, The McKernon Gallery, Village Booksmith, Helen of New York, and more!

Wondering what to do on a Tuesday in Saratoga?

Hop in the car and head to Fort Edward, NY. This riverside town is teeming with great restaurants and community spirit. And now you can enjoy even more on Tuesdays in the summer, all around the town! Visit Fort Edwards is featuring “Tuesdays on the Hudson,” which is all about enjoying the great outdoors. Both daytime and “happy hour” activities are available weekly, including free yoga on the Hudson River from 5 to 6 PM, opportunities to explore the Empire State Trail by bike, food and drink specials, and more!

Unique Experiences Near Saratoga Race Course

Less than 30 minutes from Saratoga, along the scenic Route 29 that connects the Spa City to its namesake monument in Schuylerville and historic battle locations in Saratoga National Historical Park. As you head over the river into Washington County, you’ll discover the scenic views of Victory View Vineyard. This boutique estate vineyard, one of just a handful in our county, is celebrated for its award-winning wines made exclusively from grapes grown at their vineyard in North Easton.

Near “V3” you’ll find Casa Reyes’ Jalisco-style Mexican food and the Farm Store at Tiashoke, and you can add another vineyard to your visit: South Dominion is just 10 or so minutes away!

Get a taste of Alsatian classics in Greenwich! Not familiar? Alsace is a French region along the west bank of the upper Rhine next to Germany and Switzerland, known for its cultural blend of all three countries! At Elsasser’s at 111 on Main Street, you can taste the Alsatian-style flatbreads, called Flammkuchen, traditional German dishes such as spaetzle, schnitzel, krauts, and more in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere! The region is known for its white wines, including Gewurztraminer and riesling, and is also the main beer-producing region of France. Naturally, Elsasser’s offers quite the selection of both, imported from the region, and selected to perfectly pair with their menu!

For even more adventure, spend the day exploring Washington County’s unique “experience trails,” with themes from Antiques to Ice Cream to U-Pick. >>

Visit the Washington County Fair

Heading to the track at the end of August? Explore the Washington County Fair on August 21-27, 2023! It’s New York’s #1 Agricultural Fair, with plenty of other activities for families and adults alike.

On Monday, August 21 you can see the Greene Brothers w/ special guest Smokey Greene, the Stoney Roberts Demolition Derby, rides, displays, farm animals, and classic fair foods, plus enjoy the official opening ceremonies at 5 PM. Tuesday is a full day of fun, with artisan re-enactors, mini farmers’ market, county craft beverage tastings from 12 to 4 PM and by the glass from 4 PM, Open Ox Versatility Challenge, WCF Pro-Rodeo in the Motorsports Arena​ presented by the Painted Pony Rodeo, and more daily fun.

Visiting with kids? Here are 8 more family-friendly activities near Saratoga perfect for boredom-busting on “dark days” at the track>>