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Discover the 11 Best Instagrammable Photo Spots in Saratoga County

Love sharing stunning photos on Instagram? You’ve come to the right place! The Saratoga area is filled with picturesque photo spots, from parks to museums and beyond. We’ve rounded up our favorite Instagrammable photo spots in Saratoga County to add to your agenda next time you’re out and about in the region.

Yaddo Gardens

Photo credit: Gail Stein

The flowers. The gates. The columns. The statues. There’s so much to love about - and to photograph -in the historic Yaddo Gardens. This magnificent 400-acre estate has served as a source of inspiration for artists and creative types for decades.

Yaddo Gardens are off Union Avenue, just down the road from the Saratoga Race Course. The space is open to the public year-round from dawn to dusk, with the exception of Travers Day, and there’s no fee to walk around the grounds.

Saratoga Horse Statues

Photo credit: Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce

You can’t visit Saratoga Springs without seeing the creatively decorated fiberglass horse statues scattered amongst the city! Over a dozen colorful horses have made their home in the Spa City and Saratoga County.

You can find these artful beauties by the Olde Bryan Inn, the Saratoga National Golf Club, Longfellows Restaurant, and in other Saratoga hotspots. Can you find them all?

Caffe Lena

caffe lena guitars on wall

Caffe Lena is a historic music venue that features unique performances in an intimate space. Guests can enjoy drinks, light fare, and desserts, but when the lights go down all eyes are on the performers. Folk, jazz, bluegrass, acoustic pop, and other genres are featured here.

What makes this a great photo spot is the unique art, instruments, and clippings you can find on the walls! Make sure to snap some pictures on your way in for what’s sure to be an incredible musical experience.

Spirit of Life Sculpture
in Congress Park

spirit of life statue

Photo credit: SaratogaPhotographer.com

There’s lots to see and enjoy in Saratoga’s Congress Park, from the ducks to the carousel to the Canfield Casino. But the Spirit of Life sculpture is undeniably one of the most photographable spots in the park.

The eye-catching statue began as a memorial to Spencer Trask, one of the founders of Yaddo Gardens. The memorial was dedicated in 1915, the same year the City of Saratoga Springs was incorporated.

The Adelphi Hotel

Adelphi entrance

Standing tall and proud on Broadway the Adelphi Hotel is a Victorian-style boutique hotel originally constructed in 1877; the historic building underwent a major renovation in 2016 and reopened its doors in 2017.

The Adelphi brings back the charm of Saratoga from years past with its bold colors, elegant design, and sophisticated vibe. Inside, you’ll find a grand staircase, tall ceilings, and countless small details that contribute to the old world ambiance.

Lawn Jockeys in Front of
the National Museum of Racing & Hall of Fame

lawn jockey sculptures

Photo credit: SaratogaPhotographer.com

Inside the National Museum of Racing & Hall of Fame on Union Avenue Saratoga horse racing fans can find art, trophies, and memorabilia. But outside, a row of lawn jockeys stands at attention, ready for their Instagram debut. Each jockey sports bright colors, making for a vibrant display you can capture at different angles.

Saratoga Battlefield

saratoga battefield cannon

Photo credit: Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce

The lush SaratogaBattlefield, in Saratoga National Historical Park in Stillwater, was the site of the 1777 Battle of Saratoga. This battle was a significant turning point in the American Revolution.

The land is steeped with history, but it’s also the site of some great photo opportunities among the scenic fields, hiking trails, and cannons. As of 2016, there is no longer a fee to access the park.

Welcome to Saratoga
Springs Statue

welcome horse jockey statue

Photo credit: SaratogaPhotographer.com

Situated at the corner of Union Avenue and Circular Street is the spectacular Welcome to Saratoga Springs statute. The statue is of the famous horse Native Dancer and was donated by Marylou Whitney and her husband John Hendrickson in 2015.

Hadley Mountain Fire
Tower

hadley fire tower

Hadley Mountain, up in the northern part of Saratoga County, is an ideal hiking spot in the area. It’s a short journey at just about 3.5 miles, although it gets steep and rocky in some parts.

The area around the mountain has a history of forest fires, and that’s why you’ll find a magnificent fire tower at the summit. This restored fire tower is one of few remaining, that was once used to monitor the Adirondacks for forest fires.

Whether you take photos of the fire tower itself or you’re brave enough to climb to the top for panoramic views, you’re sure to get some Instagram-worthy pictures.

Erie Canal in Waterford

girl sitting by erie cannal

Photo credit: Alan Nudi

When you think of great photo spots by the water in the Saratoga area Saratoga Lake, Round Lake, or even the Great Sacandaga Lake might come to mind. But don’t forget about the Erie Canal!

Waterford is situated at the junction between the Erie Canal and the Hudson River. The Old Champlain Canal Trail runs from Mill Road to South Street, where you can check out Lock 2. Or, there are plenty of spots to view the canal and surrounding area.

Vischer Ferry Nature
& Historic Preserve in Clifton Park

visher ferry pond

Photo credit: Alan Nudi

The Vischer Ferry Nature & Historic Preserve in Clifton Park is a gorgeous area of land located along the shoreline of the Mohawk River, off the beaten path from other Saratoga area parks.

This 740-acre site contains trails and wetlands, and serves as an extensive habitat for many birds and amphibians. In fact, it’s designated as a Bird Conservation Area and an Important Bird Area. Grab photos of the preserve itself, or keep an eye out for wildlife - there have been several bald eagle sightings here!

From classic Saratoga Springs hotspots to picturesque places elsewhere in the county, you have your pick of Instagrammable spots. Remember to experiment with different angles, look for a unique perspective, and take advantage of natural light to grab that perfect picture.

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