Saratoga Race Track FAQ: Admission, Facilities, and More (2024)

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Saratoga Race Track FAQ: Admission, Facilities, and More (1)

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Tickets & Reservations

How long is the Saratoga Race Course summer meet?

The2024 racing meetis 40 days long, and racing is conducted five days a week (except for the four-day opening weekend and the final week, which concludes on Labor Day).

It runs from Thursday, July 11 through Labor Day, which is Monday, September 2. Mondays and Tuesdays (with the exception of Labor Day) are commonly called Dark Days, as there's no racing.

Saratoga Race Track FAQ: Admission, Facilities, and More (2)

Is there reserved seating, or can I just sit wherever I want?

There isboth reserved seating and free-for-all seatingat the track.

Those who choose to picnic in the unreserved backyard grounds of the track can bring their own chairs or even a pop-up tent, and sit wherever they wish.

Those who are hoping to get a picnic table can participate in the 7:00 AM rush when the track opens for breakfast, where many people claim their picnic table for later by putting a cooler or tablecloth on it. After you've "reserved" your spot, you can leave until just before the gates open for general paid admission.

There are also reserved picnic tables in the Pick Six Picnic Paddock. These tables are limited to a maximum of six people each, and chairs, tents, and umbrellas are not allowed in this area.

Additionally, reserved tables are available in the Miller Time Fourstardave Sports Bar in the lower Carousel. These can accommodate two, four, and six people. Personal coolers and outside food and beverage are not permitted in the Miller Time Fourstardave Sports Bar.

Guests who want reserved seats in either the Grandstand or the Clubhouse, or a reserved picnic table, have to purchasereserved seating tickets.

Saratoga Race Track FAQ: Admission, Facilities, and More (3)

What is the cost of admission?

For 2024, NYRA has announced that Clubhouse and Grandstand admission will be one price, so fans will have access to both. The cost is $7 daily when purchased at least 24 hours in advance, and day-of admission is $10.

Travers Day admission prices are $25 in advance and $30 day-of, while supplies last.

Note: General admission does NOT grant you a seat - you must purchase reserved seating separately or in advance through Ticketmaster or by phone.

BUY TICKETS NOW

How can I purchase reserved seating?

Reserved seating can be purchased online in advance atTicketmaster.com, by phone at 1-844-NYRA-TIX or on the day of (subject to availability). Single-day reserved seats are typically available as well.

See more information about tickets and seating »

Saratoga Race Track FAQ: Admission, Facilities, and More (4)

How do I make Saratoga Race Course dining reservations?

Single-day dining reservations within The Turf Terrace, The Club Terrace, and The Porch, can be made on Ticketmaster.com.

To reserve group hospitality areas, like the Stella Artois Spa Verandas, 1863 Club, Paddock Suite, Tailgate at the Turn, and Easy Goer, you can contact the NYRA Box Office at 844-697-2849 orboxoffice@nyrainc.com.

Is there a Will Call Box Office where I can leave tickets for friends to pick up?

There are three Will-Call pick-up stations at the race course: one each for the Clubhouse, Grandstand, and Paddock. Visitors can call the Will Call Box Office at (844) 697-2849 to hold their tickets at a Will-Call window.

Saratoga Race Track FAQ: Admission, Facilities, and More (5)

Can any picnic areas be reserved?

A limited number of premiumpicnic tables can be reservedin the Pick Six Picnic Paddock for every day of the meet.

Those who are up for the 7:00 AM dash, can "claim" a table in the general admission backyard area by throwing a tablecloth over it. Most track patrons honor this informal "reservation" practice, but NYRA security will not enforce should any disputes arise.

Is the track open for visitors to watch horses train in the spring?

The Oklahoma Training Track, located across the street from the Race Course, opens for spring training and spectators (typically in April). Visitors are welcome to watch the horses' morning workouts each day.

Special Events & Giveaways

What are the giveaways for 2024?

There are fourgiveaway daysduring the 2024 meet at Saratoga. On these days, trackgoers are entitled to a free promotional gift with purchase of general admission while supplies last.

For 2024, the premium giveaway items include a Saratoga Drink Tumbler, a Saratoga Baseball Jersey, a Saratoga Trucker Hat, and a Saratoga Windbreaker.

Saratoga Race Track FAQ: Admission, Facilities, and More (6)

When are season special event dates and details usually announced?

Racing dates like Opening Day, Travers, Closing Day, etc. are usually announced by late February, while special event dates and details aren't announced until June-July.

Get details on this year's special events »

What is steeplechase racing in Saratoga?

Steeplechase races incorporate obstacles and fence jumping, rather than traditional flat horse racing. The Steeplechase races happen on certain days during the meet.

View the steeplechasing schedule for Saratoga here »

Facilities

Is there any air conditioning at the track?

Some locations are climate controlled:

  • Curlin Cafe
  • 1863 Club

Is there any internet connection available at the track?

Yes, there is FREE Wi-Fi at the track. Fans can take advantage of this amenity when they are able to return to the Race Course.

Saratoga Race Track FAQ: Admission, Facilities, and More (7)

Are there designated handicapped seating areas, services, and parking?

All NYRA lots have handicapped accessible parking spaces available. (A license plate, sticker or other handicapped-parking permit, hanging from rear-view mirror - the standard documentation of the need - is required in order to use these spaces.)

NYRA also offers accessible seating options. To learn more about accessible seating, visit https://www.nyra.com/saratoga/visit/accessible-seating or call NYRA at (800) 814-7846 or (518) 584-6200 ext. 3568. Service animals are permitted at the track.

There are no motorized vehicles or scooters available for rent at the Race Course, so any desired arrangements for such services must be made separately.

For the most up to date info, please visit NYRA's accessible seating & services guide »

Contact Info & Employment

How do I contact the Saratoga Race Course?

For information prior to the season, call (718) 641-4700 or (516) 488-6000 or visit NYRA.com. For information or questions during the Saratoga Racing Season, call (518) 584-6200.

Saratoga Race Track FAQ: Admission, Facilities, and More (8)

How do I get a job at Saratoga Race Course?

NYRA typically holds aJob Fairin June prior to the racing season to fill open positions at Saratoga Race Course. If you want to apply, or if you have specific questions, you can contact NYRA directly.

Arrival & Parking

What are my travel options for getting to Saratoga Race Course?

Saratoga Race Course is accessible by car from Interstate 87 and Interstate 90. You can also travel by air or train. Most flights will arrive atAlbany International Airportwhich is roughly 40 minutes south of Saratoga, however private plane charters and some regional flights can land at the Saratoga County Airport. Amtrak has services as well in the area.

You can also arrive to the track in style by bookinglimo transportationfrom the airport or train station.

Saratoga Race Track FAQ: Admission, Facilities, and More (9)

Where is the Saratoga Race Course located?

Saratoga Race Course, operated by NYRA (the New York Racing Association), is located between Union and Nelson Avenues in Saratoga Springs, New York.

The property is easily accessible by car from downtown Saratoga (Exit 13N), or directly via Exit 14 of Interstate 87. (Interstate 87 is known regionally as the Adirondack Northway, or simply, the Northway).

Click here for more detailed driving directions »

Where should I park?

General parking for the track is free, but visitors can expect to walk a long way to get to the track itself. Those who bringcoolers, children, or older folks - or attend the races in inclement weather - could find the walk a challenge, so there are also paid parking options.

NYRA offers preferred parking and trackside parking (details below), and those who go to the track from any direction but Exit 14 will see signs and people trying to wave you into their homemade parking lots. Lawns become lots, and as a general rule, the closer to the track, the more expensive the parking.

Preferred parking is available for a fee at the Oklahoma Training Track, which is at the corner of East Avenue and Union Avenue. Spaces there are limited, but it is worth it to arrive early to have a shorter walk. The gate to the preferred parking lot at the Oklahoma (on East Avenue) opens at 9 a.m.

Trackside parking is the most expensive paid parking option offered by Saratoga Race Course because it is the most convenient. The entrances for trackside parking are at the Union Avenue gate and next to the intersection of Nelson and Union (heading toward downtown). Gates open at 6:45 a.m.

Handicapped accessible parking spaces are available in all NYRA lots. Curbside drop off is not available.

See more parking details »

Saratoga Race Track FAQ: Admission, Facilities, and More (10)

When should I get to the track?

If you have reserved seats (tickets), you can arrive any time that you wish after the gates open. Parking is first-come-first-served, and the first post is in the early afternoon most days.

Breakfast at Saratogais a great way for trackgoers to enjoy the track before the races begin. Breakfast on The Porch of the Clubhouse at Saratoga Race Course is a really unique opportunity to watch the horses' morning workouts, while enjoying a delicious breakfast trackside.

Attire & What's Allowed

Saratoga Race Track FAQ: Admission, Facilities, and More (11)

What should I wear?

There are different dress code policies, depending on where you are enjoying the races at Saratoga Race Course when spectators are allowed to attend. Here's a quick reference guide:

Paddock Saddling Area and Winner's Circle
No shorts or abbreviated wear permitted.
Gentlemen: collared shirts required.

Box Seat Area
Gentlemen: Suits or sports jackets encouraged on weekdays, required on weekends. No jeans or shorts.
Ladies: Dresses, skirts or slacks. No jeans, shorts, rompers, or abbreviated wear permitted.

1863 Club
The Rail: Jackets and blazers are optional. Cargo shorts, halter tops, midriff tops, athletic wear, t-shirts, frayed or torn denim or shorts, and tennis shoes are not permitted. Vests, shirts with collars, polo shirts, dresses, sweaters, pantsuits, dress jeans, dress shorts, and slacks are appropriate.

The dress code does not apply to children under the age of 12, but is encouraged.

Legends Hall & Suites: Neat casual attire. No short shorts, cut-offs, or abbreviated wear. Gentlemen: no tank tops. Collared shirts required. Suits or sports jackets are optional.

Clubhouse
No short shorts, cut-offs, tank tops, or abbreviated wear permitted.
Proper attire at management's discretion.

Grandstand
Shirts and shoes required.

Dining Areas:

Turf Terrace
No jeans, shorts or abbreviated wear permitted. No sneakers or flip-flops.
Gentlemen: Collared shirts required.
Ladies: Dresses, skirts, or slack outfits.
Children ages 3-12: Neat casual.
Management reserves the right to use its discretion to determine "neat casual" attire.

The Porch, Club Terrace and the Easy Goer
Neat Casual Attire
Gentlemen: No tank tops.
No short-shorts, cut-offs or abbreviated wear permitted.
Proper attire is determined at management's discretion.

The Cutwater Stretch
Jackets and ties are not required.
Stylish casual attire encouraged.

See a visual guide to dress codes at Saratoga Race Course »

Are dogs allowed at the racetrack?

No pets of any kind are allowed at the track, except service animals, which are those necessary for medical purposes (ie. seeing-eye dog). This is a practical rule: safety first is essential. NYRA needs to assure the comfort and safety of everyone involved, horses and humans.

Saratoga Race Track FAQ: Admission, Facilities, and More (12)

Are coolers permitted?

Coolers (max size 12" x 18") are permitted on the trackside apron and at the Top of the Stretch. Larger coolers are allowed in the backyard area.

ALL GLASS CONTAINERS ARE PROHIBITED: you may bring in plastic bottles and cans, only. Coolers are subject to search by NYRA security.

Are grills permitted in the picnic area?

No. The use of small propane grills and charcoal grills are NOT permitted in the picnic area or any other area within the track.

See this year's racing schedule >>

Saratoga Race Track FAQ: Admission, Facilities, and More (2024)

FAQs

What can you bring into Saratoga Race Track? ›

Coolers (max size 12" x 18") are permitted on the trackside apron and at the Top of the Stretch. Larger coolers are allowed in the backyard area. ALL GLASS CONTAINERS ARE PROHIBITED: you may bring in plastic bottles and cans, only.

Where's the best place to sit at Saratoga Race Track? ›

Located right across the street from the Race Course is the Oklahoma Training Track, which is another place where the horses work out in the morning. The best spot for spectators is the Whitney Viewing Stand as it provides a picturesque look at the entire track. Free parking is available at the East Avenue gate.

What time do the gates open at Saratoga Race Course? ›

General Admission Ticket Purchased Day-Of: $10

Admission can also be purchased at all track entrances on live racing days, pending availability. Admission gates open at 11:00am daily, except for DraftKings Travers Day, which opens at 9:00am.

What is clubhouse admission at Saratoga Race Track? ›

Saratoga Race Course Fast Facts:

Grandstand and Clubhouse Admission (one price starting in 2024): $7 daily when purchased at least 24 hours in advance; $10 day-of; general admission does not include reserved seating, which is separate. 2024 gate times: 11:00am each racing day (exception is Travers Day, which is 7:00am)

Can you bring your own breakfast to Saratoga Race Track? ›

Can I bring my own food/drink into the track? You can bring all the food and drink you want!

Can you bring food into the Grandstand at Saratoga? ›

Visitors can feel free to pack up some sandwiches, snacks, and plenty to drink for a long, hot day in the sun. (Coolers are subject to search by NYRA). Glass is prohibited, and any drinks or condiments, including alcoholic beverages, need to be transferred into plastic containers to take along. Cans are permitted.

How much is parking at the Saratoga Race Track? ›

General Parking: Free

General parking lots are free every racing day. You can expect a long walk to the track and difficulty finding spots on popular race days. Gate A is the closest gate to the General Parking area and provides access to the Grandstand.

How to spend a day at Saratoga Race Track? ›

At The Track: Guide To Saratoga Race Course

Enjoy a free item with paid admission. There are lots of great dining options at the track, from sit-down restaurants to grab-and-go concessions. Start your day at the track early with breakfast on The Porch. Enjoy a delicious meal while watching the horses work out.

Is the grandstand covered at Saratoga? ›

- Saratoga Race Course. “Do grandstand seats have shade coverage or are they in full sun?” find a seating chart which indicates "sun seats" they are basically the front rows of the upper letter sections ( T,U,V, W X Y ) all others are under cover.

Do you need cash to bet at Saratoga? ›

Just insert a betting voucher, winning mutuel ticket, cash (where available), or swipe your NYRA Cash Card or NYRA Bets Account Card and enjoy the convenience and privacy of do-it-yourself wagering. Always double check your tickets before leaving the window or self-service terminal.

What size cooler can you bring on the Saratoga race track? ›

Coolers no larger than 12" x 18" are permitted at Saratoga Race Course.

Does Saratoga Race Track take cash? ›

The festival will be largely cashless; NYRA says cash won't be accepted "for food and beverage purchases, admission, parking or programs (with the exception of the official Saratoga store)" during the event.

What is Clubhouse vs grandstand at Saratoga? ›

Since 2019, daily clubhouse admission has stood at $10 and grandstand admission at $7. Fans will have universal access to amenities and attractions such as the Jim Dandy Bar and the portion of the apron by the Finish Line that had previously been limited to those with clubhouse admission.

Can you bring water into Saratoga race track? ›

Coolers are permitted in the backyard picnic areas only and must be kept off tables. One cooler permitted per picnic table. Coolers may contain plastic bottles or cans and are subject to search by the NYRA security at any time.

What food is at the track Saratoga? ›

Saratoga Race Course features a wide variety of delicious food & drink options including Carnegie Deli, Dunkin', Hattie's Fried Chicken, Shake Shack, Ben & Jerry's, Eddie F's Seafood, and many more!

Are coolers allowed at Saratoga? ›

Coolers no larger than 12" x 18" are permitted at Saratoga Race Course. Coolers are permitted in the Building and Clubhouse, the Trackside Apron and the Top of the Stretch and must be kept off seats and out of aisles. Coolers are permitted in the Backyard picnic areas and must be kept off tables.

What should I pack for Saratoga Springs? ›

What to Pack:
  • Pioneer clothing – 2 or 3 complete sets. ...
  • Shoes – 2 pairs (1 should be water shoes, not flip flops)
  • Jacket – lightweight but warm or a sweatshirt. ...
  • Sack lunch for the first day – take with you for travel.
  • Sleeping bag – warm, good quality. ...
  • Small pillow.

Can you bring a cooler to a race track? ›

FOR NASCAR EVENTS ONLY:

You can bring your food and drink (no glass) into the grandstands in a maximum of two bags per person that do not exceed 18"x18"x14" in size. Soft-sided coolers that do not exceed 14"x14"x14" are permitted.

Can I bring an umbrella to Saratoga Race Track? ›

Pop-Up Tents and umbrellas are prohibited on the Apron, along the Paddock, Horse Path, in and around the Clubhouse/Grandstand building and in the reserved picnic table area in the Backyard.

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