The Country Corner Cafe on Church Street If you are a resident or regular visitor to Saratoga Springs, you know that The Country Corner Cafe is not new to the area. However, it does have (fairly) new owners and they just happen to be friends of mine! Julee and Mark O'Callaghan purchased The Country Corner Cafe from Roseann Hotaling in January 2023 and are picking up where Ms. Hotaling left off by providing a great local spot to grab a delicious breakfast. The Country Corner Cafe and the O'Callaghan's Story: The Country Corner Cafe is located at 25 Church Street (one block off Broadway) and was opened in 1991 by Roseann Hotaling. During her ownership, the Cafe started as a 19 seat diner and eventually expanded its footprint within the building to be able to serve the growing loyal customer base. The Country Corner Cafe become known for its friendly staff and the delicious food. I used to live across the street from the Cafe and would always see a bunch of people waiting to be seated. Whenever I see a crowd gathered like that I know it is a great spot I need to try! While Ms. Hotaling was building The Country Corner Cafe's business, Mark and Julee were living their lives downstate in NYC. Mark and Julee were getting their feet wet in the restaurant business by both working at the upscale Morton's Steakhouse on 5th Avenue. Mark was a server and Julee was a cocktail waitress. Morton's Steakhouse is where they met and fell in love. Soon after, they got married and had triplets. Julee spent 16 years working at Morton's Steakhouse and ultimately became the Assistant GM at a Morton's location in Brooklyn. She eventually left Morton's, but continued to work in the restaurant industry at Nordstroms employed in their restaurant division. She took a brief break from the food industry to work for Apple. During that time, Mark had left the restaurant biz to go back to school to get his degree and began a career in IT. Life was good and the O'Callaghan's loved raising their family in Long Island. But when their triplets went off to college, Mark and Julee started thinking about their future plans as empty-nesters. They had visited the Saratoga Springs area a few times and were enchanted by the charming city. Julee always had a dream to own her own restaurant or bed and breakfast and started looking for opportunities upstate. On one of their exploration trips upstate, they stopped in to The Country Corner Cafe to grab some coffee and chat about their options. Julee recalls that they were seated at Table 14 and that they noticed the groups of waiting customers. She also remembers being impressed by the delicious food and the superior customer service they received. Julee thought the place looked familiar and realized she had seen it offered For Sale on line several months earlier. She inquired and found out it was available. Mark encouraged Julee to buy it to follow her dreams. She did...and the rest is history! Mark and Julee O'Callaghan-Happy New Owners What's New At the Country Corner Cafe? Because Julee and Mark were so impressed by the food and the service at The Country Corner Cafe, they didn't change much when they purchased it. Julee spent time before the sale closed coming up to meet with the staff and see how they did things. As they got to know each other a mutual admiration developed, so the team stayed on after the sale. Julee has a clear intention to honor the good will and great reputation that Roseann Hotaling worked so hard to create and she wants to maintain the familiar experience that Saratoga residents and visitors have come to expect and love. Country Corner Eggs Benedict and French Toast The menu is basically unchanged because there is no need to change something that is already a hit. But the O'Callaghans did decide to bring back an old Country Corner favorite...Ida's Famous Oatmeal Pancakes! Proof that not dramatically changing the menu was a great idea, The Country Corner Cafe was selected as the Best Breakfast in Saratoga for 2024. Country Corner Cafe Best Breakfast in Saratoga 2024! There are also Daily Specials to choose from in addition to the regular menut. Julee did give me some insider information about upcoming specials for Belmont weekend. They plan to offer some breakfast and brunch specials with a "Long Island twist". She wouldn't divulge any more information, so we will just have to go to The Country Corner Cafe to check it out! Here was the Daily Special menu when I visited. Daily Specials at Country Corner Cafe The Country Corner Cafe also has take out service if you would rather enjoy your breakfast at Congress Park or on your own porch! To check out the menu and to order on-line click here . A few other new things from The Country Corner Cafe: There are no reservations taken at The Country Corner Cafe. But now, if you have to wait for a table there is designated waiting area so you don't have to wait outside if the weather isn't nice. During track season, there will be a hostess outside to help manage the customer seating and wait list. AND MOST EXCITING NEW NEWS OF ALL (WHICH IS HOT OFF THE PRESSES!): The Country Corner Cafe will have a cart at the Saratoga Race Course during the regular Saratoga track season! The cart will offer easy grab and go light bites like fruit cups, bagels, yogurt parfaits and iced coffees. You will also be able to purchase the famous Country Corner jams at the track. So, if you find yourself in Saratoga check out The "new" Country Corner Cafe to try the same great food they have been serving since 1991! If you go, say hi to Mark and Julee and tell them Amy sent ya! Enjoy Breakfast or Brunch at The Country Corner Cafe

A new place to grab a drink and a bite to eat has opened in Saratoga Springs! Familiar Creature, a new restaurant opened by the owners of the famous Hamlet & Ghost, is described as "a wine bar for all in Saratoga Springs". The name of the new venue is taken from Shakespeare's Othello (quoted above) and the vibe is inspired by French and Quebecois wine bars. Familiar Creature is located at 42 Phila Street across from local favorite Sweet Mimi's and next to Sushi Thai Garden. The Drinks: White Negroni with Edible Flower Garnish Familiar Creature is a wine bar, so wine is the star here. They have a wide selection of specially curated wines. The wine list features wines from small wineries and passionate winemakers and the wine choices are highlighted by unique and fun categories such as "No Troubles, Just Bubbles", "Old Dogs, New Tricks", "Good Funk", and "The Road Less Traveled". There is also a category of "Chicken Wines" that completely stumped my wine knowledge. When I asked what a Chicken Wine was, I was informed that it was a selection of wines that specifically pairs well with the Roast Chicken served at Familiar Creature. Sometimes the most obvious answer is overlooked. Haha. Check out the interesting drink menu here. I am also in a period of my life where I am seeking to reduce my alcohol intake (not eliminate, just reduce) and they had a nice selection of non-alcoholic wines. I tried zero proof German Reisling and a Sparkling Blanc de Blancs, both from Wolffer Estate. They were delicious! They also have a Phony Negroni and non-alcoholic beer if you are seeking non-alcoholic choices like me. Plenty of Non-alcoholic Choices at Familiar Creature If you are not a wine lover, no worries! You can still join your wine loving friends at Familiar Creature. They have a menu of inventive cocktails and signature drinks, including a house version of an Aperol Spritz (with Aperol, Passion Fruit and Cava) that is served on tap! There is also a carefully selected variety of local beers. The Food: The former head chef at Hamlet & Ghost returned (after a few years working elsewhere) to join the H&G owners in opening Familiar Creature. I didn't order food on my visit, but my friends did and gave great reviews. I have heard rave reviews of the House Focaccia from multiple people. Specialty small plate dishes include Parisian Gnocchi made with black pearl mushrooms, Skate Wing Shnitzel, Manila Clams, and Candy Roaster Squash. The sole main plate is a quarter, half or whole Roast Chicken which is 100% antibiotic free and free range. You can order a side of Schmaltzy Potatoes, Broccolini or Cauliflower au Gratin. As noted above, the wine list identifies specific wines that pair well with the Roast Chicken! If you are in the mood for lighter fare, Familiar Creature's menu allows you to build your own Board to share with friends. There is a selection of speciality cheeses, meats and other items to create your own Charcuterie Board to pair with your wine selection. Such a unique and creative idea! Check out all your food options here. The Important Details: Familiar Creature is currently open from Tuesday to Sunday from 5 to close. Currently only limited. reservations are accepted. There is inside seating for around 50 guests. Once the weather warms up, they have an outdoor patio that will seat an additional 30+ guests. Click here to find up to the minute informaton on opening hours and status of reservations. The Familiar Creature management has also indicated that they hope to have additional offerings at some point such as wine tastings, winemaker dinners and wine classes. I am definitely interested in these kind of events so will keep my eye out for any announcements. Of course, I will be sure to pass the information on to you so keep your eye on my Instagram and this blog!

Photo from the Rooftop Bar at Cantina in Downtown Saratoga Springs (A Bonus Spot!) Welcome to the vibrant and picturesque city of Saratoga Springs! I have no doubt that after you visit, you will love this charming city as much as I do. While you are exploring Saratoga Springs, you will definitely want to take some photos that capture the essence of this magical spot to show your friends and to remember your wonderful experience. While there are beautiful things to snap pictures of around every corner, there are a few quintessential Saratoga locations that you won't want to miss. So, get ready to explore my picks for the top 10 Insta-worthy Saratoga spots that will elevate your vacation (and your Instagram account!) and showcase the beauty of your new favorite destination. Oh, and just a head's up, this post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend places or experiences that I have personally vetted...I got you covered! 1. Saratoga Springs Welcome Statue Welcome to Saratoga Springs! Start your Saratoga Springs visit with a selfie at the Welcome statue near the Saratoga Race Course. The statue features a jockey on a race horse, set against the backdrop of Congress Park. Visit day or night for a memorable photo op! You can find the Welcome statue at the end of Union Avenue (the street that the Saratoga Race Course is on). 2. Historic Congress Park Entrance to Historic Congress Park from Broadway Just past the Welcome statue, you will find the Historic Congress Park. You can also enter the Park through a pictureque entrance gate off of Broadway (the main street through Downtown Saratoga). You will want to spend some time wandering around the Historic Congress Park because there are lots of great photo ops throughout the Park. A few of the sights you will definitely want to capture are: Catch yourself taking a sip of Saratoga's healing waters! You have to get a pic of the iconic Spirit of Life statue Can't leave the park without a photo or video of the infamous Spit and Spat! 3. Saratoga Race Course Jockey Circle Fountain at Entrance off Nelson Ave. If you are visiting in the summer, you will probably go to the Saratoga Race Course to experience the excitement live horseracing. There are so many opportunities for amazing photos at the track. Whether you are capturing the elegant architecture of the historic track buildings or the thrill of horse racing action, you will have an abundance of Insta-worthy photos. Trackside is a great place for a photo (and if you are lucky you can catch racing action in the background!) Catch the whole track vibe with pics of hats and horses 4. Saratoga Spa State Park Entrance to the Saratoga Spa State Park off of Broadway The Saratoga Spa State Park is an amazing place where lush green hiking trails and serene streams combine with beautiful historic architecture. You will definitely want to make time in your vacation schedule to visit. The whole Park is a perfect background for unforgettable photos. There are beautiful historical buildings throughout the Park. Architectural elements provide visual interest. Hiking trails provide breathtaking natural settings. Seasonal displays at the Park entrance provide amazing backdrops for portraits or group photos! 5. The Adelphi Hotel The Magic of The Adelphi Hotel at Christmastime. The Adelphi Hotel is a quintessential Saratoga landmark. It is located in downtown Saratoga right on Broadway (if you are on the main drag it is pretty hard to miss!). With its timeless architecture and sophisticated interiors, this historical hotel is a perfect setting for a photo to capture the classic elegance of Saratoga. The Adelphi is beautiful all year long, but as you can see from the photo above, there is a special magic during the holidays. Want to stay at this iconic hotel? Click here to book your room! 6. Downtown Saratoga Springs Summertime View Down Broadway The vibrant streets of downtown Saratoga Springs are filled with colorful storefronts and bustling cafes creating a lively backdrop for your vacation photos. If you are here during the summer, you will feel the bustling energy of horse racing fans as you stroll past storefronts decorated to celebrate the current racing season. If you are here during the holidays, you will feel like you stepped into a Hallmark Christmas movie with all of the Christmas decorations and small town holiday celebrations. Either way, you will capture some of your favorite photos in the downtown area. Christmastime in Downtown Saratoga Springs 7. Lucy's Bar on Caroline Street Springtime Entrance to Lucy's Bar Lucy's Bar is one of my favorite places on Caroline Street. Not only do they serve up unique and delicious cocktails (and the cocktail menu changes seasonally), but they have the most amazing decorations (that also change with the seasons). I love the spring/summer decor shown in the above photo, but my favorite has to be the holiday decor. It is the perfect place for that great Instagram photo highlighting the creative cocktails and the festive surroundings. Indoor Holiday Decor at Lucy's Bar Holiday Entrance to Lucy's Bar Artistic Cocktail Display 8. The Saratoga Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame Parade of Lawn Jockeys in Front of the Saratoga Museum of Racing Outside of the Saratoga Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame (which is across the street from the Race Course), you will find a colorful row of painted jockeys that symbolizes the importance of horse racing to the city of Saratoga and also recognizes the accomplishments of special horses, jockeys and trainers who have reached the pinnacle of their sport. In addition to taking a selfie with the jockeys, you can also snap of picture with a statue of Seabiscuit or a lifesize statue of a horse and jockey racing to the finish line. I suggest you take photos with all three! Seabiscuit Statue Racing Horses Statue Outside the Museum of Racing 9. Adirondack Trust Zodiac Globe Adirondack Trust Zodiac Globe Located behind the Adirondack Trust Building on Broadway, the Zodiac Globe is a hidden gem for photographers searching for that unique focal point. During the spring and summer, this spot is adorned with numerous bright red flowers. 10. High Rock Park The Springs at High Rock Park High Rock Park is home to two of the many active springs still dispensing water today. Taste at your own risk as the various mineral content can make the water taste a little funky. Make sure to capture the taste test on film to catch your natural reaction! In addition to the springs, there is also a 9/11 Memorial crafted with steel beams actually taken from the World Trade Center. They were gifted to Saratoga Springs after the city generously provided much needed respite to NYC firefighters and others who were impacted by the terrorist attacks. It is a moving monument tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the main downtown area. This is a true insider tip as most visitors are probably not aware of the location or the significance of the statue. Unsuspecting tourists about to taste the funky spring water! Conclusion As you can see, Saratoga Springs is a treasure trove of Instagrammable spots just waiting to be explored. Whether you're drawn to the beauty of nature, the allure of history, or the vibrancy of the bustling downtown area, this city has something for every photography enthusiast. So grab your camera or phone, head out to these top 10 photo spots, and start snapping away to create an Insta feed that truly shines!

Welcome Sign at the End of Union Ave Quick Links: Short on time? Use these quick links to jump to the important information you are looking for! Active things to Do In Saratoga Springs Fun Things to Do in Saratoga Springs Pamper Yourself in Saratoga Springs Entertaining Things to do in Saratoga Springs Saratoga Springs, NY Tours Need a Place to Stay in Saratoga Springs, NY? Just a head's up, this post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend places or experiences that I have personally vetted...I got you covered! Now on to the good stuff... A Saratoga Summer: There is a palpable change in the energy in Saratoga Springs as summer approaches. When I see the outside seating areas of restaurants on Broadway reappear, I know consistent warmer weather is coming and the horse racing season is just around the corner! There is so much to see and explore here in Saratoga Springs, so start planning your visit to discover its charm. If you do plan to visit my beautiful hometown of Saratoga Springs this summer, here is a list of the variety of fun things there are to do while you are here! Active Things To Do In Saratoga Springs: Hike or walk the trails in Saratoga Spa State Park. Saratoga Spa State Park is a beautiful spot just a short distance from downtown Broadway. There are beautiful trails (varying in difficulty), gorgeous historic buildings, and many other hidden gems to check out in this crown jewel of Saratoga. Read my blog about the Saratoga Spa State Park to find out all there is to see and do within the Park. Do a self-guided walking tour of all the historic springs. Saratoga is home to several carbonated mineral springs. It is a long held belief that the mineral water flowing from these springs possess healing powers. As word spread of the magical healing powers of the "waters", Saratoga became known as the "Queen of the Spas" and is still called the "Spa City" today. In the mid to late 1800's and the early 1900's, the rich and famous flowed to the city to get "healed" and Saratoga became a place to see and be seen by the rich and famous. Walking up and down Broadway today it still feels a little like that! Click here for a map that will take you past all 17 springs in the city. Don't forget to bring a cup or water bottle so you can try a sip at each spring as each one has its own distinct flavor and chemical make up. Some are very refreshing...others not so much, but just remember they all have magical healing powers! Take a road trip up to Lake George and hike in the Adirondacks. Lake George is a beautiful lake about 20 to 25 minutes drive from Saratoga. You can explore the town on Lake George (including the beautiful Sagamore Hotel right on the water) before taking one of several hikes in the surrounding Adirondack region. Check out All Trails to discover the different hikes in the area. Fun Things To Do In Saratoga Springs Shopping on Broadway (and surrounding area). There are so many unique shops and boutiques in downtown Saratoga Springs you will probably want to schedule at least a half a day for this. Saratoga is filled with locally owned clothing boutiques, jewelry stores, home decor shops and gift stores to find that unique souvenir or gift to bring home. Make sure to venture off of Broadway to explore the shops on the side streets as well. Some of my favorites are Silverado Jewelry Gallery (and check out my blog about them here), Lifestyles of Saratoga, Caroline & Main, Silverwood Home and Gallery, Northshire Book Store, and Saratoga Olive Oil. And these are just the tip of the shopping iceberg! There is so much to see...and buy! And don't worry, there are also a ton of restaurants and food vendors along Broadway to grab a bite and a drink to re-energize. Iconic Adirondack Trust Clock on Broadway Saratoga Farmer's Market in High Rock Park. From May-October, the Saratoga's Farmer's Market is held in High Rock Park (just two blocks off Broadway) on Saturday mornings from 9 am to 1 pm and Wednesday afternoons from 3 pm to 6 pm. There are a variety of vendors selling local products. You can find organic fruits and vegetables, meats, baked goods and other food items, hand made crafts and beautiful flower bouquets. Live music entertains you as you browse and you can grab a snack from the food stands. I love to walk the Farmer's Market on Saturday mornings and stock up for the coming week. It is a great way to kick off my weekend. Chill in Congress Park. Right on Broadway is the Historic Congress Park. It is a peaceful place with a pond, fountains, a couple of Saratoga's natural springs and a historic carousel for the kiddos! There are also plenty of picnic tables and park benches scattered throughout the park to have a picnic or just sit and relax and watch the world go by. Read my blog about all there is to do and see in the park here. Watch the racehorses train at the Oklahoma Race Track. During horse racing season (which runs eight weeks from July 13 through Labor Day in 2023), you can find the thoroughbred horses training every morning at the Oklahoma Race Track. The Oklahoma Track is across the street from the Saratoga Race Track. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday mornings from 7-10, the public is welcome to sit trackside and watch the horses and jockeys up close getting ready for race day. You can bring your own chairs or you can climb the Whitney viewing tower to get a bird's eye view of the horses training around the track. Pamper Yourself in Saratoga Springs Drop in to a yoga class at Yoga Mandali. If you are looking for some zen on your getaway to Saratoga Springs, you should drop in and take a yoga class at Yoga Mandali. I am a regular attendee at Yoga Mandali and highly recommend any of their classes. They offer all types of yoga classes including Vinyasa, Yin, Restorative, Kripalu and Sutra. They also have regular sound healing classes if that is your cup of tea. I have attended some sound healing classes and they are so relaxing! Check out their schedule here to see what class works best with your schedule. Price per class varies, but they also offer 5 and 10 class bundles which result in a discounted price per class. Namasté. Sunny morning in the Yoga Mandali studio Get a spa treatment at the historic Roosevelt Spas and Baths. The Roosevelt Spas and Baths was established in 1935 thanks to President Roosevelt's visionary act to preserve the mineral springs in Saratoga Springs. The beautiful building stands in the middle of the Saratoga Spa State Park and still provides guests with treatments designed to improve health and wellness. Guests can expect an authentic hydrotherapy spa experience using the naturally effervescent mineral water drawn from Saratoga's springs. Roosevelt Spa offers a wide selection of different natural wellness treatments including mineral soaks, facials, massages and body treatments. Historic Roosevelt Baths & Spas building in Saratoga Spa State Park Pamper your tootsies after all the exploring you will be doing at the Adirondack Foot Sanctuary. This spa focuses just on your feet and provides an amazing experience that will refresh your feet after a day at the track and get you ready for a night on the town. Read my blog about the special experience you can get at the Adirondack Foot Sanctuary. Adirondack Foot Sanctuary Entrance on Phila Street Entertaining Things To Do In Saratoga Springs Experience live horse racing at the historic Saratoga Race Track. Named one of the world's greatest sporting venue by Sports Illustrated, there is nothing like spending an afternoon at the Saratoga Race Track. Every summer from mid-July through Labor Day, Saratoga Springs is the place to be! The track is open Wednesday through Sunday (with quiet days on Monday and Tuesday). Races usually start around 1, but the gates open at 11 for people to come in and secure a picnic table or spot on the grass. Reserved seats in the grandstands are available for an additional cost. In addition to the races, there are vendors selling fancy hats to sport at railing, artwork and souvenirs. There are multiple food trucks and restaurants as well as various bars to grab a drink. One thing that is great about the Saratoga Race Track is that you can also pack your own cooler with food and drinks for your party in the paddock! Another unique thing to experience is the parade of race horses and jockeys that occurs before every race. They walk right through the crowd on their way to the race track. Big race days are scheduled for August 2, 2025 (Whitney Day) and August 23, 2025 (Runhappy Travers Day), so these days will be more crowded then usual, but the experience is also more electric. No matter what race day it is, you will have a great time betting, cheering the horses and watching the people. This is a MUST DO when in Saratoga Springs during track season. Fancy hats a must when visiting the Saratoga Race Track. Go to a concert or performance at SPAC (Saratoga Performing Art Center). Inside of Saratoga State Park, is the Saratoga Performing Arts Center. SPAC is an outdoor amphitheater that hosts various shows and concerts during the warmer months. In addition to concerts, you can also see performance by the New York City Ballet, the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. Check out the calendar of SPAC events here to see if there is a show or performance you would like to schedule a trip around. You can buy reserved seats or just grab a lawn ticket and experience the show with a bunch of new friends. Enjoying a beautiful sunset while listening to Dave Matthews Band at SPAC. Check out one of the many museums in Saratoga. Even though Saratoga is a small town, there are many museums crammed into the small vicinity. Take your pick of several within walking distance of downtown: the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame (see my blog here), the Saratoga Automobile Museum (in Spa State Park), Saratoga Springs History Museum (in the historic Canfield Casino building in Congress Park), or the New York State Military Museum and Veteran's Research Center (right off Broadway). If you have a car, you can take a short drive to Stillwater to check out the Saratoga Battlefield. It was at this spot, in 1777, the Battle of Saratoga was fought and the American troops defeated the British troops marking the turning point in the American Revolution. The Battlefield is a 10 mile loop with several stops along the way. You can drive, or if you have access to bikes, you can bike the loop (but there are some fairly steep sections). The Battlefield is the largest of 4 parts of the Saratoga National Historical Park with the other three being Philip Schuyler's house, the Saratoga Monument and Victory Woods. Find out more about these locations here. Museum of the Historical Society of Saratoga Springs housed in the Canfield Casino in Congress Park. Join in the nightlife in downtown Saratoga. You can always find a good time in downtown Saratoga, especially on Caroline Street where bars line the street. But Saratoga in the summertime? It's a whole different experience. Every night the restaurants and bars are crowded and live music spills out into the street as you walk around looking for a place with your vibe. At any other time of the year, mostly young people frequent the Caroline Street establishments, but during track season it's a free for all. You will find all ages enjoying drinks and live music all around downtown. Here are my favorite summertime haunts: Spa City Tavern: This is a four story building with different music on each floor. The first floor generally has a live band. Spa City Tavern has a rooftop with amazing views of the city so be sure to check that out as well! Wild Horses (formerly Dango's): I must admit this is one of my favorite spots during the summer. Wild Horses is an outdoor area with live bands. My favorite band that plays here regularly is the Refrigerators. They play all kinds of cover songs that get the crowd going. If you like to dance, this is your place! It does get packed and hot under the tent where the band plays so wear some cooler clothing if you check out this spot! Lucy's Bar: If you follow me, you know this is one of my favorite year round spots. The cocktails are amazing and the seasonal decor is insta-worthy. It is a great starting spot to grab a quick cocktail before heading out for the night. Stop here for a yummy drink and a perfect vacation photo! Cantina Rooftop: They offer margaritas in all kinds of flavors. My personal favorite is the Coconut Margarita with a sugar rim! It is the perfect summer drink and I always encourage any one who is with me to order it (and no, I don't get a commission for each Coconut Margarita sold...I wish I did!. NOTE: The rooftop does not serve food, so if you need to eat first, get a table downstairs before venturing up to the rooftop for the vibe and the views. Siro's: This place is not in the same spot in downtown Saratoga as the places listed above, but it is a hot spot located right next to the Saratoga Race Course. It always has a live band and a huge crowd right after the races. If you go the track, make sure to plan to head to Siro's to celebrate your wins (or mourn your losses) with a bunch of other race fans. Hopefully these suggestions can get you started planning your Saratoga Springs getaway. If you need even more information, visit my blog at Rambleandroam.org for additional tips and suggestions for visiting Saratoga Springs. I have blogs about new restaurants in town, the inside "scoop" on the best ice cream in town, the best places to grab a cocktail and more! Use my site as your ultimate resource on all things Saratoga! Sign up for the email list to keep up to date on what's happening in this charming little town. See ya here!

Ganesh calling before yoga class. Tucked away off the hustle and bustle of Broadway in downtown Saratoga Springs, is a peaceful haven of tranquility called Yoga Mandali. Yoga Mandali is a yoga studio providing a wide range of classes, teacher trainings, workshops, kirtans and other special events. It has been voted Best Yoga Studio by The Saratogian, Saratoga Today and Capital Region Living. I can personally say it was instrumental in my healing following my divorce. Yoga Mandali provided me a community, a way to heal my mind and my body and a peaceful retreat to just BREATHE. But you don't need to live in Saratoga Springs to enjoy a class at Yoga Mandali. Drop ins are always welcome! If you want to continue your yoga practice while you are away, or if you just need to decompress after an exciting day at the track, Yoga Mandali is here for you. Peaceful space at Yoga Mandali to practice yoga. The Studio Space: Yoga Mandali is located right on Broadway right smack in the middle of downtown Saratoga Springs. The studio is on the second floor of the Saratoga Marketplace. A sign outside of the door directs you up a set of stairs that take you to a beautiful space above all the activity happening on Broadway below. There are two different rooms where classes occur and a store for all of your yoga and meditation needs. The main yoga room, pictured above, has beautiful arched windows, an abundance of plants and candles and plenty of room to provide the perfect space to find your zen. During the summer, they also offer rooftop classes which is a nice option and is really enjoyable. Yoga Classes, Workshops and Special Events: Yoga Mandali offers a variety of classes and can accommodate all yogis from beginners to more advanced. They also offer classes in different types of yoga so you can expand your practice by incorporating Vinyasa, Kripalu, Yin and Restorative classes. Yoga Mandali provides Pre-Natal and Post-Natal classes for new mothers. Yoga Mandali's website provides a great description of the various types of yoga, recommendations of specific classes based on ability level from beginner to advanced, and a weekly schedule of classes. Check out that information here. I love to incorporate Yin and Restorative Yoga with the traditional Vinyasa practice. Doing these classes on a regular basis has noticeably improved my flexibility and has reduced some of those aches and pains that tend to increase with each birthday. In addition to weekly yoga classes, Yoga Mandali offers a wide variety of special events and workshops. These events are open to the public and are a great addition to a regular yoga practice. Upcoming special events include a Full Spectrum Healing Chakra Series, Introduction to Ashtanga Yoga, Womens's Circle: A Journey to Self Healing and Unwinding Your Fascinating Fascia. There are many other upcoming events in a wide-range of topics. A description of all upcoming events and to register, click here. As mentioned above, Yoga Mandali also offers teacher training for those interested in becoming a yoga teacher. They are constantly offering different certification courses for current or future yoga teachers to complete their training. Information on those trainings can be found on their website. Pricing: Price for a drop in class varries (discount with student ID). Local Saratoga residents get their first class FREE! There are a variety of other pricing plans including 5 and 10 class packages and monthly unlimited passes. They also offer unlimited class yearly memberships which include additional perks like monthly guest passes, discounts on store merchandise and discounts on special events and workshops. If you are visiting from out of town, they also offer an unlimited weekly pass. Check out all the different pricing packages here. Meditative candles for peaceful yoga practice. Yoga Mandali is one of my favorite things about living in Saratoga Springs. If you live nearby, I encourage you to check it out. Your body and mind will thank you! If you are just visiting, be sure to include a class (or two or three) in your itinerary. Again, your body and mind will thank you! I personally recommend a Yin or Restorative class for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Namaste.

Amazing Architecture in the Saratoga Spa State Park Just a short distance from the bustling downtown area of Saratoga Springs, is a magical place filled with history, nature, architecture, music and activity. Saratoga Spa State Park is a 2,379 acre state park that is recognized as a National Historical Landmark due to its historical and cultural relevance. It has long been a destination for people seeking the health benefits from Saratoga's healing mineral waters. The Park contains 10 mineral springs, an historic hotel, bath houses and spas, miles of hiking and biking trails, two golf courses, a performance venue, two swimming pools and much, much more. I must admit that the Park holds a special place in my heart. I have made so many memories over the years from times spent in the Park. I cross country skied here when we first moved to upstate New York in 2004, I have attended several concerts and ballet performances at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, I have celebrated high moments and consoled low moments over the years that my younger daughter ran cross country races through the trails in the Park, prom pictures have been taken around the scenic area, and I have attended events at the historic Gideon Putnam Hotel. My oldest daughter worked as a caterer at weddings and events held at the historic Hall of Springs. If you live in the Saratoga area, you can't help but become interconnected with the beautiful Park and all it offers. And those experiences are only the tip of the iceberg! If you are visiting Saratoga Springs, you need to make time to do something in the Park. This blog will give you a ton of options depending on the time of year you are visiting and what your personal interests are! Things to Do In Saratoga Spa State Park: Spa City Farmer's Market. A Farmer's Market takes place at the Park every Sunday from10-2. If the weather is good, it is held outside at the entrance to the Park off of Broadway and Avenue of the Pines. When weather is bad, it is held inside the Lincoln Bath house. If you go to the Farmer's Market, make sure to stop and snap some photos at the entrance to the Park because it is always beautifully decorated with seasonal flowers and plants. The fall decor is renowned and is a perfect place to grab that holiday card family photo! Check out this year's display below. Check Out the Classic Architecture of the Historic Bath Houses. At the center of the park there is a large open area with historic bath houses around the perimeter. It is a great place to spread a blanket for a picnic or a nap and check out the beautiful buildings and plaza. Historic Bath Houses Saratoga Performing Arts Center. Take in a live performance at SPAC. Summer includes a full line up of rock and country concerts, comedy shows, Saratoga Jazz Festival and performances by the Philadelphia Orchestra and the New York City Ballet. Beautiful Sunset and Great Music at SPAC Spa Little Theater. An intimate 500-seat theater showcasing Opera Saratoga, Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center as well as other vocal ensembles, small theater performances and holiday events. Saratoga Automobile Museum. My dad is a car enthusiast and he loves to visit this Museum whenever he is in town. They have several ongoing exhibits including one about the history of auto racing in New York, as well as rotating special exhibits. The Museum building originally housed the facility that bottled the waters of Saratoga Spa State Park. This facility was owned and operated by the State of New York when the healing properties of the mineral water of Saratoga Springs was all the rage. There is an exhibit in the Museum outlining the bottling history of the building. Find out more about the Museum's exhibit schedules and hours here. Roosevelt Baths and Spas. The Roosevelt Baths and Spas was originally established in 1935 following President Franklin Roosevelt's visionary act to preserve the Saratoga Springs. The mineral water that was abundant in the Saratoga Springs area was believed to have medicinal qualities and people flocked to the area to drink and bathe in the water. Today, you can still receive the benefits of the healing water at the Roosevelt Baths and Spas. They provide hydrotherapy spa treatments including mineral baths, massages, body treatments and facials. Every treatment begins with a soak in Saratoga's naturally effervescent waters. Check out the services offered at the Roosevelt Baths and Spas here. Have a Relaxing Day at Roosevelt Baths and Spa Gideon Putnam Hotel. The Gideon Putnam Hotel is a boutique hotel with historic charm and ambiance that is located in the heart of the Saratoga Spa State Park. The hotel opened in 1935, along with the Roosevelt Baths and Spas, for health and wellness seekers to "take the waters" of Saratoga Springs. It was built by prominent New Yorker Gideon Putnam, hence the name. The Hotel continues operation to this day and is a perfect place to stay if you are in town to take in a show at SPAC (as it is walking distance to the venue). Note that the website states that the Hotel will suspend all food, beverage and lodging operations for the winter season beginning November 14, 2022 and will reopen May 1, 2023. The Roosevelt Baths and Spas will continue to operate 7 days a week through the winter. Check out availability and rates for the Gideon Putnam Hotel hre. Golfing. There are two golf courses located in the Park. There is a championship 18-hole course as well as a challenging 9-hole course. The courses are framed by towering pines creating a picturesque scene. There is also a pro shop and a restaurant for that 19th hole drink! Check out available tee times and fees here. Swimming Pools. There are two swimming pools located within the Saratoga Spa State Park. Peerless Pool is a more family oriented pool with a main pool area with a zero depth entrance, a kiddie pool and a water slide pool. There are showers, locker rooms and concessions available at the Peerless Pools. There is no admission fee for the Peerless Pools but there is the entrance fee to the Park which is $10 per vehicle. Find more information about Peerless Pool here. For a more historic Saratoga Springs experience, you will want to visit the Victoria Pool. Read my blog about this beautiful spot here. The Victoria Pool was built in the 1930's along with the Hotel and Roosevelt Baths and Spas and was used for the health treatments that visitors came seeking in Saratoga. The Victoria Pool is a more low-key pool with less child friendly facilities (although children are welcome). There is an additional fee for entrance to the Victoria Pool of $8 for adults and $4 for children 5-11 (no charge for children under 5). The Stunning Victoria Pool Hiking and Running Trails. There are over twelve miles of hiking and biking trails around the Park, including a certified running course used by high school and collegiate cross country runners (the one I spent several afternoons cheering on my daughter and her friends). The trails are beautiful and have varying levels of difficulty. Here is the link to All Trails with maps to the best hiking trails in the Park. Creekside Classroom. Creekside Classroom is a four-season environmental education center with programs offered year round. They offer guided hikes, tours and snowshoe walks. You can also pick up a brochure that will take you on a self-guided walk passing by all 12 mineral springs located in the Park. Each spring has water with different mineral compositions and different tastes. The Creekside Classroom can provide cups to taste the different healing waters in case you forgot yours! Have a Picnic. There are so many different places to have a picnic in Saratoga Spa State Park! Just pack your picnic basket and head out. Plop yourself down when you find a spot in the Park that you like. There are picnic tables scattered throughout the Park. Some are deeper in the forest, some are located next to a babbling creek, some are located right next to large playgrounds if you need something to occupy the kids. You have several options! If you have a bigger party, you can rent large covered pavilions with grilling stations. There are 10 pavilions of varying size that accommodate 50-250 people. The price ranges from $125-$300 depending on the location and the size. One of the pavilions has a volleyball net right next to it! Find our more information about the pavilions here. Other Activities. In addition to the above, there are other outdoor activities you can enjoy at the Park including Disc Golf, tennis courts, fishing, ice skating and biking. Also, the Hall of Springs is an historic building in the Saratoga Spa State Park that is one of Saratoga Spring's premier wedding and banquet facilities. If you are looking for an amazing spot with a beautiful backdrop for incredible photos, you need to check it out! Information on weddings and banquets at the Hall of Springs can be found here. So as you can see, there is no end the things you can do at the Saratoga Spa State Park. Regardless of the season in which you find yourself in Saratoga, make time to check out the natural beauty and the historical architecture that make this Park the Spa City's Crown Jewel!

I may be a little biased, but Silverado Jewelry Gallery is one of my favorite stores in Saratoga Springs! I have worked part-time at Silverado for a year now so I have an up close and personal view of the store. I love everything about Silverado...the jewelry collections, the store's vibe and most of all the incredibly friendly sales team that mother-daughter owners Robyn Hanst and Whitney DeChene have put together to help people shop for that special jewelry piece. Silverado has a prime location right in the center of Broadway so you can't miss it as you are strolling up and down the main drag. From the moment you enter the store you sense that you are going to have a different shopping experience. The natural wood display cases, the succulent wall displays and the warm wall colors immediately calm and relax you as you browse around. It is definitely a different feel from the traditional jewelry stores most of us are used to. Another difference you will notice right away is that customers are encouraged to try on and play with the jewelry. Even if you are not seriously shopping for a piece of jewelry, the sales team is more than happy to pull out any items that catch your eye. All customers are encouraged to try on and mix and match different pieces. One thing I have realized after working at Silverado is that a piece of jewelry comes to life when it is being worn by the right person. It is fun to watch people try on different things and see when that magic happens. You will know it when it does. The customer experience that Silverado has created makes each guest feel special and attended to. Robyn and Whitney do a great job to curate a selection of jewelry in the store that will please a wide variety of tastes at a wide variety of price points. So if you are visiting Saratoga on a girl's trip, you can visit Silverado and there is something for everyone. They have carefully selected a number of jewelry designers to highlight in their store and each one has their own unique style. Here are some highlights from just a few of my favorite designers. Rene Escobar: I LOVE the bracelets Silverado carries from Rene Escobar. They are made from Sterling Silver and 18K Yellow Gold and Rose Gold. Warning: You will have a hard time stopping at just one! They look beautiful in a stack and they are addicting. Another bonus, they are very durable. You can sleep, sweat, swim, and shower in them without worrying about damaging them. I have learned that I am pretty hard on my jewelry just living my life, but these bracelets "take a licking and keep on ticking"! Maggie Harding Designs: Maggie actually works at Silverado when she is not busy designing and creating unique jewelry pieces. Maggie loves spending time in nature and this is reflected in her creations. The thing I love about Maggie's necklaces is the intricate metal work on the back of the stone setting. She creates a nature scene on reverse side of the stone setting that corresponds to the specific stone used in the piece (peep the reflection in the mirror below the necklaces). I love this very unique aspect to her designs. I also have one of her popular twig bracelets that adds a rustic element to my bracelet stack. So cool that you can actually meet the artist who designed your piece while shopping at Silverado! These are just a couple of the unique designers featured at Silverado Jewelry Gallery. They have just launched a beautiful new website where you can check out more of the various designers and easily make a purchase right on line! The link to the website is here. Not all items are available on the site, so if you are in Saratoga Springs make sure to stop in the store to see all the beautiful pieces in person. Also, trying on the jewelry is so fun you won't want to miss out on that experience! Silverado Jewelry Gallery is the perfect spot to buy a unique Saratoga memento for yourself to remember your visit. It is also a great spot to purchase that special gift for someone else. The staff, including myself, absolutely loves to help customers shop around the store and pick out that perfect piece. Make sure to stop by Silverado on your next visit to Saratoga and play with the jewelry!

Quaint Seating ARea at Henry Street Taproom Saratoga Springs is a foodie haven! There is no shortage of high end restaurants with acclaimed chefs to satisfy those with adventurous palates. But sometimes you just want to have a low-key, casual meal (or you have a picky eater in your group that doesn't want to venture into eclectic cuisine...ahem, that would be me). Luckily Saratoga has plenty of restaurants that are perfect for this kind of meal as well. Here are my three favorite Saratoga eateries perfect for a relaxed night with friends or for picky eaters like me! Cantina If you have been following along with my recent rebrand and relaunch of my website, this choice will come as no surprise to you. I gave away a gift card to this restaurant and went Live from this site to announce the winner. I always recommend Cantina to people looking for a place to eat when visiting Saratoga. Cantina serves fresh, contemporary Mexican and Southwest cuisine and "exceptional margaritas" (which I can personally confirm!). I grew up in Colorado and have had a hard time finding equivalent Mexican food on the East Coast. I finally stumbled on a couple of decent places, but for overall dining experience Cantina takes the prize. Cantina has a large space with lots of tables so even if they are busy, the wait is usually not too long. They also have a great outdoor seating area. If you get lucky enough to snag one of these tables in the peak summer season, you will get an unexpected entertainment bonus with people-watching as horse racing fans walk up and down the main drag. Even if you are seated inside, there is a great energy about the place that makes it a great choice for dinner with friends. If you have to wait for your table, make sure to head up to the rooftop bar to order a drink while you wait. I highly recommend the Coconut Margarita with a sugar rim! But note, they don't serve any food on the rooftop; you can only get drinks. The rooftop is a great spot to chill so rest assured you will not be impatiently waiting for your table! With regard to the food, I can only personally speak to the Chicken Chimichangas because I order the same thing every time I go here. It's that good! (But I switch out the black beans for a second serving of rice so if you order this meal it will have a serving of black beans with it!) All of the people I have taken to Cantina have praised the meal they had, so I think you are good no matter what you order from their menu. Cantina has a LARGE selection of flavored Margaritas including Mango, Peach, Guava, Prickly Pear, Blackberry, Pomegranate, Passion Fruit, Raspberry, Pineapple, Strawberry, Strawberry Rhubarb, Blood Orange, Coconut, Jalapeño, and Watermelon. Again, I usually push the Coconut Margarita and have never had a disappointed customer. If Margaritas are not your thing, Cantina also has a variety of speciality house cocktails, bottled and draft beers and a several styles of Tequila and Mezcal. If you are in the mood for Mexican food, put Cantina at the top of your list! Check out their menu here. Druthers Brewing Company If I'm not feeling Mexican food, Druthers is my next go- to. Again, they have a great outdoor area as well as an indoor dining and bar area. Their menu is varied and they brew their own craft beers. Druthers is well-known for their Mac and Cheese dishes. There is the original Mac and Cheese as well as gourmet flavors like BBQ, Street Corn, Buffalo Mac and Loaded Mac. The perfect comfort dish on those chilly upstate winter nights! They also have delicious wood-fired pizzas, burgers, seasonal salads and a number of unique appetizers for sharing. The food is so filling that I never have room for dessert, but I intend to head there some time for dessert only so I can try their Reeses Peanut Butter Pie or the Reeses Peanut Butter milkshake. Yum! My favorite thing to order when I go to Druthers is a half Strawberry Field salad and a Loaded Grilled Cheese sandwich. The Loaded Grilled Cheese has pulled chicken, bacon bits, muenster cheese, cheddar cheese, BBQ sauce and randh dressing grilled on sourdough bread. Certainly not diet-friendly but worth the calorie splurge! The combination of flavors is amazing! As I mentioned, there is a large outdoor patio area that has heaters making the space a year round extension of the restaurant. It is decorated with an abundance of greenery and hand-painted murals creating a vibey space for a fun lunch or dinner. It is a great space for a larger dinner party, but reservations would be necessary. Check out all of the menu and craft beer selections here. Henry Street Tap Room Henry Street Tap Room is located a couple of blocks off the hustle and bustle of Broadway. Because it is off the main drag, it feels more calm and relaxed which is a nice respite from the busy summer in Saratoga. Henry Street Taproom makes all of its menu items from scratch. Check out their menu here. They also have a wide selection of beers and ciders on tap with an everchanging 16 tap selection! You can order a flight of beer if you can't decide. Henry Street Tap Room has a beautiful inside dining room. They also have a nice outdoor setup for those warmer summer months. There is a picture of their quaint dining area at the start of this blog post! I will certainly highlight many more of the amazing restaurants here in the Saratoga area, but if you start with these you will not be disappointed. Let me know your favorite spot in Saratoga and tell me your favorite meal so I can highlight it on a future blog!

Entrance to the Coors Brewery One summer when I was in college (which was, ahem, several years ago), I was lucky enough to land a temporary job working at the Coors Brewery as a greeter/hostess welcoming tourists who wanted to come take a tour of the brewery and learn how the famous Rocky Mountain beer was made. My job was to organize guests into groups of 12 to take the guided tour. Those in the know would come in and ask to take the "short tour" which was basically a fast track to the tasting room. On my recent trip home, my sister and I decided to check out Coors Brewery for this blog and I found myself on the visitor side of the tour. Turns out we didn't plan far enough in advance to secure a spot for a guided tour and we were "forced" to take the infamous short tour (now known as a "Sampling Only" experience). While I was disappointed to miss the tour, I was very excited to get to taste freshly made Coors Light...my favorite beer! Regardless of which Coors experience you choose, visiting Coors Brewery and the surrounding small city of Golden is a great way to spend the afternoon. The Coors Mystique I may get teased incessantly about my love for Coors Light, but there was a point in time where Coors beer was a coveted beverage. For a long time, it was only sold west of the Mississippi and only in 11 western states. It was the number 1 selling beer in all of those states (except Texas because it was not distributed to all parts of the state). Coors didn't do a lot of paid advertising at the time, but the lack of wide spread distribution and resulting scarcity created a mystique around the beer that made it a highly desired beverage for East Coasters. Rumors spread of people smuggling cases of Coors back to family and friends living east of the Mississippi. Presidents and movie stars requested Coors to be provided in the White House and on set. The Coors mystique peaked in 1977 when the whole premise of the Smokey and the Bandit movie was for the main character (played by Burt Reynolds) to smuggle 400 cases of Coors from Texas to Georgia for a large sum of money. This plotline is highlighted in the Coors museum with a picture of the trunk of Smokey's car filled with cases of Coors. It wasn't until the late 1980's that Coors became licensed to sell east of the Mississippi. All varieties of Coors beers are widely available across the US so there is no longer such a mystique around the beer. The continuous ridicule I receive for basically drinking "water" when I order my Coors Light shows the respect has diminished. I am a loyal consumer though and would still be willing to smuggle cases of Coors Light if I couldn't get it here in New York. Thank goodness I don't have to face that moral dilemma! Planning Your Visit Things have changed since my college summer job days. The brewery has grown and gotten more popular. Coors Brewery claims to be the largest single site brewery in the world. Reservations are now required for both the Coors Brewery Tour and the Sampling Only experience. Guiding tours are made available 28 days in advance. A guided tour costs $20 and takes approximately 1.5 hours. If you are 21 or over, the tour will end in the tasting room with your choice of 3 samples in branded recyclable aluminum cups that you can keep for future beer drinking. Non-alcoholic beverages are also available for younger visitors and your designated driver! The Sampling Only costs $10 and will take you straight to the Coors hospitality lounge for the 3 samples. You do not have to plan as far in advance if you only want to do the tasting, but you still need a reservation. Spots for Sampling Only are made available 1 to 7 days in advance. Even if you choose to just do the Sampling Only, you will still get the branded recyclable aluminum cups to keep after your tasting. You can make your reservation for a Brewery Tour or a Sampling Only here. When You Get There There is a separate parking lot for tour parking with a shuttle bus to take you to the tour greeting area. TOURIST TIP: You should be aware that as Coors Brewery is a food manufacturing facility, so there are strict security and safety measures in place about what can be brought into the Brewery. The Brewery does not allow ANY bags so make sure to leave your purse, backpack, fanny pack or shopping bags in your hotel room or your car. Only a small wallet is permitted. A woman in front of us had to walk back to her hotel room to drop off her purse because they have no place to store or hold a prohibited bag. They will divide guests into groups based on whether you are taking a Brewery tour or a Sampling Only experience and further divide guests based on reserved entry time. It is good to get to the parking lot/shuttle bus loading area about 10-15 minutes early, especially if you are taking a tour so that you can get to the Brewery before the tour leaves. The shuttle bus ride is only a few minutes and the driver will give you an overview of what to expect when they drop you off. How My Expectations Were Built Up and Then Crushed..But Then Revived ! On the shuttle bus ride over to the Brewery, the driver told us about the beer that would be available to taste. She listed Coors Banquet (the original Coors beer brewed from Rocky Mountain Spring Water), a couple of Colorado Native brands (Coors answer to craft beer made with only Colorado ingredients, Blue Moon, Coors Edge (non-alcoholic) and my favorite...Coors Light! She also said that in addition to the Coors Light from the tap, we would have the chance to taste SUPER COLD Coors Light served just below freezing from a mountain of ice. Any one who knows me knows I have a tendency toward Disneyland expectations for every experience I plan to have. So given this information my mind immediately started picturing an adult Willy Wonka style beer tasting with a mountain ice sculpture in the center of the room with a blue light inside (to indicate that the beer was cold enough to drink of course) with Coors Light flowing from the top like lava so you could just reach your cup out and fill it up! Imagine my surprise and disappointment when this is what the mountain of ice looked like... My overzealous expectations aside, I will say Coors Light served Super Cold is amazing! I also tasted Coors Banquet and the Coors Native Wildflower Honey Helles (inspired by wildflowers found in the Colorado Mountains and made with Colorado-produced honey for a hint of sweetness). Both of those were also great-tasting. My sister went for her favorite Blue Moon. After enjoying the three tastings of your choosing, you can head over to the gift shop to purchase all kinds of Coors branded merchandise. Once you finish your Brewery Tour or your Short Tour, make sure to spend some time wandering on the main street in Golden right across from the Brewery. There are lots of cute shops and restaurants to make your visit to Coors Brewery and the City of Golden a full day! If you are visiting Colorado, you have to make time to tour the quintessential Colorado brewery (at least the "short tour"!) A trip to Coors and then a visit to Golden is the perfect Colorado afternoon!

Most people have heard of the iconic Red Rock Amphitheatre and have a Bucket List item to see a concert there. But Red Rocks is also nostalgic for me. I grew up in Colorado so I was fortunate enough to go to many concerts there. I took the experience for granted and didn't realize that I was setting the bar so high that any future concert venues would pale in comparison. Since my early concert going days, there have been many changes to the Amphitheatre that have improved the visitor experience whether you make it to a concert or just take a trip to see the famous red rocks. Back in the Day... When I used to go to concerts at Red Rocks, the whole place was General Admission. We would arrive SUPER early in the morning and line up at the gate. The doors (at the top of the Amphitheatre) opened at 11:00 am and everyone would run down the stairs (carrying their blankets and coolers) to grab their spots. I had great seats to a lot of concerts and made a lot of concert friends waiting in line and sitting in Red Rocks all day waiting for the concert to start. I also learned some hard lessons about day drinking in the sun! Back in the day, Red Rocks was a BYOB venue and you could pack your cooler full of drinks for a day of partying until the concert began. It should go without saying that drinking alcohol all day in the intense Colorado sun is not a good combination, but...YOUTH. I still can't drink Rum and Coke to this day. I learned it is VERY important to hydrate with water along the way AND to space out your drinks. At some point the venue switched to have mostly assigned seats with a small area of General Admission seats in the middle of the seating area. That changed the way people experienced Red Rocks. However, you can still snag good seats on the side of the seating area in flat planting garden areas if you get there early enough. Present Day... The Red Rocks Amphitheatre has been upgraded in many ways. As noted above, most seats are assigned so you don't have to arrive at the crack of dawn just to see your favorite band. My younger self wouldn't think this was an improvement, but my older self definitely appreciates this change. Another change occurred in 1997 when in-house concessions for wine and beer opened and ended the BYOB era. Red Rocks has also added a Red Rocks Museum at the top of the Amphitheatre which highlights the history of the park and documents all of the acts that have performed at Red Rocks over the years. It was interesting to learn that Red Rocks was named best performance venue so many times by Pollstar (a professional journal for concert promoters) that they finally removed Red Rocks from the yearly competition and named it the "Red Rocks Award". It was also fun to look at the list of shows at Red Rocks each year (especially for 1981-1987) and check off all of the shows I attended. Memories.... Not Just for Concerts... Here are some other ways to spend a day at Red Rocks in case you don't make a concert there: Head up for a work out on the Red Rock stairs. There is a 100 foot elevation difference from the stage to the top row. Go for a hike. The Red Rocks Park has several hiking trails around the area that provide heart-pumping climbs and beautiful views. We did the Red Rocks and Morrison Slide Trails and I took several Insta-worthy pics. Find a map and a description of the Red Rocks and Morrison Slide Trail from All Trails here. Eat lunch at Ship Rock Grille. Check out the Red Rocks Museum at the top of the Amphitheatre. Go the Trading Post just outside the Amphitheatre for Red Rocks souvenirs, apparel and historical memorabilia. You can also visit the Colorado Music Hall of Fame exhibit here. Other Interesting Facts... Check out this article from The Denver Post from June 2, 2016, for 75 interesting facts about the Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. Some historical info as well as some tidbits of gossip about acts that have played at Red Rocks. A Red Rocks Story That Involves One of My Biggest Regrets... In 1983, I was a young college student at CSU. My friend Shelley was a big fan of this up and coming band named U2 and she asked me if I wanted to attend their concert at Red Rocks. I think I initially said yes, but on the day of the show it was pouring rain. I didn't really know the band and didn't feel like sitting outside in the downpour so backed out at the last minute. Shelley, being the superfan that she was, went anyway and experienced rock and roll history. According to the exhibit at the Red Rocks Museum, U2 couldn't cancel the show without losing money on the film crew they had hired to film "Under a Blood Red Sky" so they played the show in the pouring rain and asked all the faithful fans who had shown up (only about 4,400 of the 9,000 ticket sold-out show) to crowd to the front so the venue looked full when they filmed the video. That video is iconic and rocketed U2 and Red Rocks to international acclaim. U2 has not ever played at Red Rocks again. Shelley will never let me forget this lapse in judgment and my missed opportunity to be part of a historic rock moment. Ironically I became a huge U2 fan after that and have huge regrets about that decision. Evidence of the Epic Missed U2 Show You should definitely try to plan a visit to Colorado around a Red Rocks concert you would like to see so you can experience this premier music venue. But if the scheduling doesn't work out, still make time to take a trip to Morrison to explore all that Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre has to offer. There is a lot more to see and do then just the awesome music!

Seattle is an area that is known for its fresh seafood, rich coffee and abundant microbrews. There are seafood restaurants and microbreweries on every corner. Need a cup of coffee? There is a Starbucks every few steps (of course), not to mention a gazillion other gourmet coffee shops every where you turn. But what is a girl to do if she finds herself in Seattle and she doesn't like seafood, microbrews OR coffee?!? Not to worry...I did not starve or go thirsty. Turns out there are lots of delicious options for us "foodie outcasts". After doing some investigative research and getting a recommendation from a Seattle local, I chose to grab lunch at a spot called The Pink Door which is located on Post Alley, just a few steps away from Seattle's famed Pike Place Market. As I wandered down Post Alley, I bumped into other "Pink Door" explorers looking for the restaurant. We came upon a pale pink door with the pale pink barred windows, but there was no external signage indicating that we had found the restaurant. I timidly opened the pale pink door and was greeted by a bustling, crowded room filled with people. It felt distinctly like the speakeasy I went to in Washington DC, the low-key exterior completely masking the activity and energy going on behind the door! The Lowkey Entrance into the Pink Door As I was alone, I made my way to the bar and snagged a seat. The local that gave me the head's up about this restaurant recommended that I order the Lasagne or the Bolognese (telling me it would be the best Bolognese I would ever have!). I decided on the Bolognese and can honestly report that it WAS the best Bolognese I have ever had! The meal was served with freshly baked bread which is always provided at no cost! All dishes are prepared using in season produce from small to medium local farms and are inspired by the owner's Italian-American upbringing in upstate New York. Although the Lasagne and Bolognese are especially popular, I don't think you can go wrong with any item on the menu. Complimenting the excellent food is the eclectic vibe of the restaurant. It is located in a historic space that used to house a violin shop. The space is filled with artistic touches and ephemeral design pieces creating an enchanting environment. Adding to the dreamlike feel is the unique and varied entertainment provided nightly. I intended to return the next night to catch the trapeze artist who performs tricks high above diners in the main dining room, but had a scheduling conflict and couldn't make it back to catch the show. They also have roving tarot card readers and cabaret acts for diner's enjoyment. Even if you are a fan of seafood, coffee and microbrews, I would make sure to visit The Pink Door if you find yourself in Seattle. And make sure you go for dinner so you don't miss the unique nightly entertainment. How many people can say they have eaten dinner with a trapeze artist doing tricks nearby!

Bats, BBQ and Breakfast Tacos? Must be in Austin, Texas. Austin has been on my travel bucket list for a long time. Austin is marketed as the "Live Music Capital of the World" and I love live music. I went expecting a Nashville vibe and was so excited because, as you know from my post about Nashville (which you can find here), I LOVE Nashville. However, I have to be honest and say I was a little disappointed when I first got to Austin. If there is a Nashville-type area with live music playing all day long, I never found it. There are a lot of different Districts in the downtown Austin area and it can be confusing to figure out where to stay and where to go if you are not familiar with the area. While our hotel was very cool and had a great location, I don't think we were in the best place for the live music experience. Despite my music letdown, we still had a great time exploring Austin and taking in all of the other things it has to offer like Bats, BBQ and Breakfast Tacos! I hope this blog helps you figure out what you want to experience in Austin and then find the best location to use as your home base to explore this very progressive and interesting city. Best Places to Stay: As I said, there are several different "Districts" in downtown Austin that each have their own distinct vibe. You should pick a hotel that is located in the District that is situated closest to the things you are most interested in. Here is a brief summary of some of the more popular entertainment Districts: Congress Ave Historical District: Congress Avenue runs through the center of downtown Austin from Lady Bird Lake to the Texas State Capitol. Hotels in this area will be close to the Texas State Capitol and government offices as well as Austin's central business district. South Congress Avenue (or "SoCo" as the locals call it) will probably be on your Austin To Do List. See my description below under Things To Do for the reasons. Sixth Street Entertainment District: This is the hub of Austin nightlife and has been dubbed "Dirty Sixth" by locals. There are many bars and restaurants and lots of activity nightly. Sixth Street is closed off to traffic from Thursday through Saturday night to accommodate crowds. Rainey Street District: Rainey Street is a trendy party area with colorful historic homes that have been converted to restaurants and bars. Red River Cultural District: Apparently this is the live music hub and where I should have stayed to check out why Austin is called "The Live Music Capital of the World"! I did love the hotel we stayed at though which I will describe below. Second Street District: This area is known as downtown Austin's shopping hub and is filled with local boutiques and trendy fashion shops. If you are looking for a retail fix, this is your spot! There are several other distinct Districts within the downtown area. I have just highlighted a few of the more popular ones. Check out Austin's Tourism site for a more complete description of all of the areas so you can determine which location is right for you! We stayed at the Driskill Hotel which is the oldest operating hotel in Austin. The Driskill was built in 1886 and, just like the Biltmore in Providence which I talked about here, the Driskill is rumored to be haunted. The incident that is responsible for one of the hauntings apparently happened in a room right down the hall from where we were staying! Alas (or thankfully, depending on your perspective), we did not experience any paranormal activity during our stay. If I keep staying in old, haunted hotels, I am bound to have a ghostly visitor someday! In any event, the Driskill Hotel is a beautiful building with a prime location right on Sixth Street so it is only a few short steps to rowdy nightlife if that's on your agenda. It is also easy walking distance to Congress Street and the Texas State Capitol. I highly recommend The Driskill Hotel! Best Things to Do: Congress Street Bats: This is the most iconic thing to do in Austin. Every night at sunset people gather on or around the Congress Street Bridge to watch millions of bats fly out from beneath the bridge. You can also sign up to take a tour boat out on the water to watch the bat show from below. This actually may be a better spot because the tour operators shine a red light up to the bridge which helps to see the flurry of bat activity more clearly. It was a little anti-climactic because we couldn't see the bats that clearly from the top of the bridge, but we caught glimpses and it is an amazing spectacle nonetheless. And you can't go to Austin and say you didn't see the Congress Street Bats! Added bonus...you can get a great sunset selfie with the Austin skyline in the background. Lady Bird Lake: The Colorado River runs through downtown Austin into Lady Bird Lake ("LBL"). LBL is not a true lake, but a damned portion of the Colorado River. In any event, it is a great outdoor space in the middle of the city where you can kayak, run, walk or bike. Swimming and motorized watercraft are not permitted on the Lake. The Ann and Roy Hike-and-Bike Trail makes a complete loop around LBL. The Trail is 10.1 miles long and mostly flat. Texas State Capitol: Check out the Texas State Capitol and the surrounding grounds. There are free guided tours daily that last between 30 and 45 minutes. You can also pick up a free brochure at the Capitol's north entrance or the Information Desk and do your own self guided tour. University of Texas at Austin: Check out the UT at Austin campus and keep your eye out for Matthew McConaughey or Brene Brown. They both teach classes here! You never know where you may bump into them. UT is proud to claim Matthew McConaughey as their own and even had a Christmas tree devoted just to him in the school bookstore! South Congress Street Shopping ("SoCo"): I mentioned this above when talking about the Congress Street District. It is a great place to spend an afternoon strolling and shopping. It is one of Austin's trendiest neighborhoods and is known for unique independent shops, galleries and vintage stores. For those more mainstream shoppers, the Yeti flagship store is here as well as Reformation and Kendra Scott jewelry. Esther's Follies: Located on Sixth Street, this comedy show has been described as a modern-day vaudeville mixed with political comedy...the "Texas answer to SNL". The windows open up to Sixth Street and the comedians utilize the outside and unsuspecting pedestrians to enhance the show! It usually sells out, so you may want to grab your tickets ahead of time here. Bars on Sixth Street: There are many to choose from and several have some form of entertainment. We stopped in at Pete's Dueling Piano Bar and had a great time singing along to the requested songs. Zilker Metropolitan Park/Barton Springs Pool/Zilker Botanical Garden: A great recreational area to spend the day. There are many park amenities such as picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a nature and science center. One of the premier features of the park is Barton Springs Pool which is a natural spring fed pool with year round average water temperature of 68 degrees. The Zilker Botanical Gardens are also nearby and provide a relaxing escape from the bustling city. Best Places to Eat: Jo's Coffee: As the intro to this blog suggests, Breakfast Tacos are a must have when visiting Austin and Jo's Coffee is a quintessential place to try them out. Jo's has a variety of breakfast tacos and coffee drinks, as well as burgers, sandwiches/wraps, salads and alcoholic drinks. Check out Jo's menu here. Cooper's Old Time Pit BBQ: Another thing you have to eat when in Texas is good ol' BBQ! There are many BBQ places to pick from and I am sure they are all fantastic. We went to Cooper's Old Time Pit BBQ and really enjoyed the vibe and the food! Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill: The motto for Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill is "Bootlegged & Bountiful" and you gotta love any place with a motto like that! Their website says they serve "Classic American Comfort Food" and I can attest to that. The vibe in the restaurant was really cool and the food was delicious! We left stuffed...uncomfortably so. This restaurant is always packed so reservations are a good idea. 1886 Cafe & Bakery: This quaint Victorian-style cafe is attached to the Driskill Hotel. They are open until 2 pm and for breakfast and lunch. They serve traditional Texas comfort food made with time-honored recipes. They also use locally sourced ingredients. We had a delicious breakfast there one morning before heading out to explore Austin. Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream: Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream is an incredible ice cream store with its flagship Austin shop right in SoCo. They have really unique flavors such as Everything Bagel, Salted Peanut Butter with Chocolate Flakes, Brown Butter Almond Brittle, Gooey Butter Cake, and Brambleberry Crisp. You definitely need to stop here for refreshment after an afternoon of shopping in SoCo!. If you look around your upscale grocery stores you might find it in your area! I recently discovered it here in Saratoga Springs (although not sure if that's a good thing). It is a bit pricier, but once you taste it you will realize it is worth every penny! Austin Eastciders Cider: This last item isn't a place, it is a local hard cider that must be tried if you are a fan of ciders. I had the Blackberry Cider and it was amazing! Conclusion: All in all, even though I personally don't think Austin competes with Nashville as the "Live Music Capital of the World", it is a very fun place to visit with lots to see, lots to do and a lot of delicious food to eat. I highly recommend a visit to Austin to check out the Bats, BBQ, and Breakfast Tacos! If you venture to Austin, you should definitely combine it with a visit to San Antonio! San Antonio is only about an hour and a half drive away with some really cool stops in between. Check out my Best of San Antonio blog for tips on the best places to stay, the best things to do and the best places to eat in San Antonio. Y'all come back, ya hear?