Saratoga Springs: A Weekend Getaway Reachable by Train

If you're looking for a last-minute getaway, less than 4 hours from New York City by train, Saratoga Springs may be your answer. Embrace the chilly weather at the annual Winterfest, taking place from January 30 - February 8, 2015. There are plenty of activities for families and couples who want a weekend away from New York City. One of the most convenient ways to get to Saratoga is taking an Amtrak train from Penn Station.

Amtrak is running a promotion that allows customers to purchase a $90 round-trip ticket that they can use between any two Adirondack line stations, including Saratoga Springs. For details about the offer, go to Amtrak.com. With this great promotion, there's no better time to escape the city. 

If you only stay in beautiful Saratoga Springs for a weekend, Winterfest offers a wide array of activities to keep people of all ages entertained. The weekend kicks off with the Beer and Wine Tasting on January 30. The next day, eat your way through Saratoga at Chowderfest. At $1 a cup, you are free to eat as many bowls as you can and vote for your favorite. Other Winterfest opening weekend activities include the CANdlelight Ski & Snowshoe, Winterfest 5K Race, Limoncello's Taste of Italy and Winterfest at Complexions Spa for Beauty & Wellness. 

Photo courtesy of Saratoga Convention  and Tourism Bureau

Hockey fans can participate in or cheer at the Saratoga Frozen Springs Classic Pond Hockey Tournament on February 6-8. Whether you want to join in the excitement or sit back and sip cocoa from the sidelines, the event is a classic winter activity that draws tons of fans every year. On this final weekend of Winterfest, you can also attend the Bartender's Ball or take the kids to Wilton Wildlife: WinterFest Snowshoe Event at Camp Saratoga. 

Saratoga Springs is the perfect winter destination for New York City residents without a car because Amtrak takes you right to the city. From the Saratoga Springs Amtrak station you can take a cab for generally $10 or less to your choice of downtown hotels. The Pavilion Grand Hotel has a special Amtrak rate and is offering a free room upgrade upon availability for Winterfest visitors. Call the hotel at 518-583-2727 for details. The Pavilion Grand Hotel is a brand new boutique hotel that offers tons of amenities for the traveler looking for a comfy weekend in Saratoga. After a day spent walking around the city and chowing down on chowder, guests can enjoy the spa at The Pavilion Grand Hotel for ultimate relaxation. This hotel is central to most

Photo courtesy of Pavilion Grand Hotel

of the Winterfest activities as well as the clubs and restaurants that bring tourists back to Saratoga time after time. 

In downtown Saratoga, don't miss one of the most renowned and popular music venues, Cafe Lena; Bob Dylan and Arlo Guthrie are among the many famous musicians who have performed at this coffeehouse. You'll also find plenty of dancing, pubs and every kind of cuisine or restaurant you can imagine downtown. The Pavilion Grand Hotel's restaurant, Mingle on the Avenue, offers an eclectic menu featuring Korean-fusion and American comfort food. The restaurant uses local food and produce, guaranteeing fresh and delicious cuisine. 

By choosing to spend a weekend in Saratoga this winter, you'll be able to celebrate the season with locals and tourists. With Amtrak's $90 round-trip promotion, you can sit back and relax before arriving for a fun weekend in Saratoga, which will surely have you wanting to return. For more details about the promotion and other destinations accessible by train, see NewYorkByRail.com.