Plan a Family Day Out With These Kid-Friendly Things to Do at Saratoga Race Course
Looking for a day trip that's exciting for all members of the family? Plan a visit to Saratoga Race Course this summer! While the thrills of thoroughbred racing are a big draw, there are a variety of kid-friendly things to do at Saratoga Race Course that you should check out. Best of all, bringing the little ones along is highly affordable: children 12 and under are admitted free with an accompanying parent or guardian, and do not require an admission ticket.
To help you map out your perfect itinerary, here is a breakdown of the best family-friendly activities, events, and sights to check out during your visit.
Giddy Up for Family Sundays
Every Sunday during racing season, Saratoga Race Course hosts Family Sundays. This special event features a dedicated family zone near Gate A, packed with free, family-friendly games, activities, and attractions. Think dance classes, sports competitions, and interactive shows!
The Family Zone is smoke- and alcohol-free, offering a safe and interactive space for children to play. Don't forget the giant Adirondack-style chair – perfect for capturing a fun family photo opportunity!
Join the Free NYRA STAR Kids Program
Families visiting Saratoga Race Course should also sign up for the free NYRA STAR (Students of Thoroughbred Racing) program. Designed for children ages 12 and under, the program gives young racing fans behind-the-scenes experiences while teaching them about Thoroughbred racing in a fun, hands-on way.
New for 2026, the STAR program has expanded and now takes place Thursday through Sunday throughout much of the summer meet. Members can enjoy exclusive paddock and Winner's Circle tours, backstretch tours, educational activities, and opportunities to meet jockeys and other racing professionals.
Additional 2026 highlights include:
- Free membership for children ages 12 and under
- A personalized NYRA STAR membership card and lanyard
- A commemorative STAR water bottle
- Complimentary Oklahoma Training Track walking tour
- Kid-friendly emails and special on-track experiences throughout the summer
Registration is free online or at the NYRA STAR booth located inside the Family Zone.
Fuel Up for the Fun: Breakfast at the Track
Start your day off right with a delicious Breakfast at the Track! Every live racing day (except Travers Day and Labor Day) from 7:00 AM to 9:30 AM, enjoy a morning buffet on The Clubhouse Porch at Saratoga Race Course.
Watch the thoroughbreds train on the main track while you fuel up for a day of family fun.
Additional Tips
- Free Backstretch Tram Tour (weather permitting): Enhance your breakfast experience with a free backstretch tram tour offered by the CDTA. The first tram departs at 7:30 AM, with additional trams every 15 minutes. Tours last 45 minutes, and the last tram departs at 9:00 AM. Due to popularity, trams can fill up quickly, so plan your morning accordingly.
- Breakfast is first-come, first-served: No reservations are accepted for breakfast.
- Free Admission: Enjoy free admission to the track during breakfast hours.
Meet the Equine Stars
Get the kids up close and personal with the stars of the show – the magnificent horses. Before each race, head to the paddock to watch the thoroughbreds parade alongside their jockeys. This is a fantastic opportunity to pick a favorite and cheer them on to victory!
Mark Your Calendar: Special Family Days at Saratoga Race Course
Throughout the summer meet, Saratoga Race Course hosts special themed events that make a family trip even more memorable. If you're planning your visit, consider timing it around one of these popular traditions.
Horse Sense
On select Saturdays and Sundays, Horse Sense gives children the opportunity to meet retired Thoroughbreds and learn what happens after their racing careers end. Families can pet the horses, speak with volunteers, and discover how these athletes transition into new careers after life on the track.
Kids Day & Saratoga Horse Plushie Giveaway
One of the biggest family events of the summer is Kids Day, held on Sunday, July 26, 2026. The first 5,000 children ages 12 and under receive a complimentary Saratoga horse plushie while supplies last, making it one of the most anticipated giveaway days of the meet.
The Corgi Cup
One of Saratoga's most entertaining specialty events features dozens of adorable corgis racing down the stretch between Thoroughbred races. The annual Corgi Cup has quickly become a fan favorite and is guaranteed to bring smiles to kids and adults alike.
Stewart's Ice Cream Day & Live Entertainment
Families can also enjoy Stewart's Ice Cream Day, live music in the Backyard Festival Tent, and other themed celebrations throughout the season. Check the racing calendar before your visit to see what special events coincide with your trip.
Go Beyond the Races
Fashion Frenzy
Saratoga boasts a vibrant racing culture with one-of-a-kind fashion choices. From the moment you enter the gates, prepare to be dazzled by a kaleidoscope of color and creativity. From extravagant hats to colorful dresses, people-watching is a fun activity in itself!
Trackside Treats
No day at the races is complete without some delicious food and snacks. Check out local favorites like Hattie's Chicken and Eddie F's at the track, or, satisfy your cravings for ice cream and more. Follow your nose to all the best food options.
Go Behind the Scenes With a Guided Tour
If your family wants to experience even more of Saratoga Race Course, consider booking one of NYRA's guided tours. Several tours offer discounted children's pricing, making them a fun way to learn more about horse racing and Saratoga's rich history.
Breakfast & Thoroughbred Farm Tour
Pair Breakfast at the Track with a guided visit to a local Thoroughbred breeding farm. Families can watch the morning workouts from the Clubhouse Porch before traveling to a nearby horse farm to see where future racehorses are raised.
Walking Tours
Guided walking tours take visitors through some of Saratoga Race Course's most iconic locations while sharing stories about its legendary races, famous horses, and historic landmarks. Children's tickets are available, making this an enjoyable activity for older kids and teens interested in learning more about the sport.
A Taste of History (and Mineral Water)
Take a walk with your family to the historic Big Red Spring, located on the track grounds. Saratoga is famous for its naturally-bubbling mineral water, and visitors are welcome to sample it for free.
Be prepared for a unique taste – some might find it refreshing, while others might be surprised!
Make Memories that Last a Lifetime
A day at Saratoga Race Course is an experience your family won't soon forget. From the heart-pounding races to the unique sights and sounds, there's something for everyone. So pack your picnic basket, grab your hats, and get ready for a day of family fun at the races!
Need more ideas for things to do? View upcoming events in Saratoga »
