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What is the surrounding area like?

The center is on the grounds of Saratoga Spa State Park. For a decent meal, you might want to drive the 2.5 miles to the city of Saratoga Springs which is a popular resort known for its good food.

What are the 'must do' things in Saratoga Springs?

Having earned a rep as a National Historic Landmark, Saratoga Springs has more than its fair share of museums including Rogers Island Visitor Center (open May to October) and Grant Cottage (again, roughly May to October: exact dates vary each year, so check before you visit).

Fans of Mother Nature will be pleased, too. Take a tasting tour around the areas famous mineral springs and explore the various hiking and nature trails.

Where are the best places to eat and drink near Saratoga Performing Arts Center?

Places at the center:

Patron's Club

Tuck into some pre-concert dinner in the Hall of Springs, listed on the National Historic Register. This was once where locals drank from three separate spring fountains and today quenches thirst for style with its crystal chandeliers and arched ceilings.

The Jazz Bar

Those in need of a snack or salad can wander along to the Jazz Bar where crowds mill on the outdoor patio. It's a more casual alternative to Patron's Club, should your dinner jacket be 'at the dry cleaners'.

Outside of the center:

Thirsty Owl Wine Bar and Bistro

This upmarket bistro entices foodies with its indulgent, seafood-heavy menu and predictably great wine list. Try the shellfish paella, perhaps with a chilled rosé enjoyed on the sun-dappled veranda.

Olde Bryan Inn

A wood-burning fireplace crackling in the background, a plate of comfort food such as a turkey dinner, pumpkin ravioli or fish and chips... Diners love the colonial feel of this cozy restaurant.

View more restaurants near Saratoga Performing Arts Center

What's the best way to get to Saratoga Performing Arts Center?

The arts center is just southwest of Saratoga Springs city center. Head along Route 50 or Route 9, then look out for a set of lights and a sign for the entrance to the main parking lot and box office.

What can people expect in terms of food and drink?

The Hall of Springs restaurant is on site, offering pre-theatre and a la carte dining, with lunch also offered before ballet matinees. Beer is normally sold at pop and rock concerts, though don't hold it against us if not. There's a great sloping lawn in view of the stage for picnics - so feel free to pack food (in clear plastic bags) and sealed water bottles. The Jazz Bar is less formal, and open before most classical performances and during intermissions. It offers a range of salads and sandwiches, along with sharing plates for two. Wines are available by the glass.

Does the venue have WiFi?

No, you'll have to rely on your cell phone provider.

Is there parking?

Yes! There's the main parking lot, plus additional spaces in the Saratoga Spa State Park (though these will cost you extra). Gates generally open 90 minutes before show time.

You can reserve a spot in advance with VIP parking which you can get on the Live Nation website.

What time do doors normally open?

One hour before start time for most Live Nation events, and two hours before for classical events.

Any other information visitors should know?

To get comfy on the grass, visitors can bring along blankets and small lawn chairs, plus ponchos or rain jackets in case the sky should start to grumble. You're allowed to bring your own alcohol for the Jazz Festival, and for classical events, but not for Live Nation. It's worth reading the ground rules for your event before you go.