Things to do in Saratoga Springs in December

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Overview

December is a less popular time to visit Saratoga Springs. The weather is usually really cold with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 21—35°F (-6—2°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Saratoga Springs during this time. Some of our top recommendations: take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Congress Park, take a guided tour of the Saratoga Springs History Museum, take a dip in the Roosevelt Baths & Spa's mineral springs, and more!

Saratoga Springs has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your December trip to Saratoga Springs. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to December. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Saratoga Springs in December. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout December, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

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Don't take our word for it
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Best events and things to do in Saratoga Springs in December

Top experiences in December
Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Congress Park
Saratoga Springs is known for its rich history and beautiful architecture, and there's no better way to experience it than by taking a leisurely carriage ride through the picturesque Congress Park. In December, the park is adorned with holiday decorations, making it an even more enchanting experience. As you ride through the park, you'll be able to take in the sights and sounds of the holiday season while learning about the city's history from your knowledgeable driver.
Take a guided tour of the Saratoga Springs History Museum
Saratoga Springs has a rich and fascinating history, and in December, the Saratoga Springs History Museum offers guided tours that provide a unique look at the city's past. Visitors can explore the museum's exhibits and learn about the area's Native American heritage, its role in the Revolutionary War, and its rise as a popular resort destination. The museum's knowledgeable guides offer insights and anecdotes that bring the history of Saratoga Springs to life, making it
Take a dip in the Roosevelt Baths & Spa's mineral springs
Saratoga Springs is famous for its natural mineral springs, and there's no better time to experience their healing properties than in December. The Roosevelt Baths & Spa offers a variety of treatments and services that utilize the mineral-rich waters, including mineral baths, massages, and facials. It's the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate during the busy holiday season, and the historic setting of the spa adds an extra touch of charm to the experience.
Attend the Saratoga Springs Victorian Holiday Tea at the Canfield Casino
This elegant event takes place in the historic Canfield Casino and offers a unique opportunity to experience the holiday season in true Victorian style. Guests can enjoy a traditional afternoon tea service complete with finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries, all while surrounded by the grandeur of the beautifully decorated casino. Live music and entertainment add to the festive atmosphere, making it a truly special way to celebrate the holiday season.
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Visit the Saratoga Farmers' Market for holiday treats and gifts
The Saratoga Farmers' Market is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, and in December, it's the perfect place to stock up on delicious holiday treats and unique gifts. The market features a wide variety of vendors selling everything from fresh produce and baked goods to handmade crafts and artisanal products. It's a great place to find one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones while supporting local farmers and artisans.
Attend the Saratoga Festival of Trees at the Saratoga Springs City Center
This annual event features a stunning display of beautifully decorated Christmas trees, wreaths, and other holiday decorations. Visitors can stroll through the exhibit and marvel at the creativity and craftsmanship of the displays, which are created by local businesses, organizations, and individuals. The Festival of Trees is a beloved tradition in Saratoga Springs and is a must-see for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit.
Take a stroll down Broadway and admire the holiday window displays
Saratoga Springs' downtown area is known for its charming shops and boutiques, and in December, the storefronts come alive with beautiful holiday window displays. Take a leisurely stroll down Broadway and admire the creative and festive decorations that adorn the windows of the local businesses. It's a great way to soak in the holiday spirit while supporting the small businesses that make Saratoga Springs such a special place.
Go ice skating at the Saratoga Springs Ice Rink in Congress Park
In December, the Saratoga Springs Ice Rink opens for the season, offering a fun and festive activity for visitors of all ages. The rink is located in the heart of Congress Park, surrounded by beautiful holiday decorations and twinkling lights. Whether you're a seasoned skater or a beginner, the ice rink is a great place to enjoy some outdoor fun and get into the holiday spirit.
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Holidays in Saratoga Springs in December
December

There are no holidays in Saratoga Springs in December

Other notable holidays
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Weather in Saratoga Springs in December

Temperatures on an average day in Saratoga Springs in December

The average temperature in Saratoga Springs in December for a typical day ranges from a high of 35°F (2°C) to a low of 21°F (-6°C). Some would describe it as really cold with a gentle breeze.

For comparison, the hottest month in Saratoga Springs, July, has days with highs of 83°F (28°C) and lows of 62°F (17°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 29°F (-2°C) and lows of 13°F (-11°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Saratoga Springs in December based on historical data.

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Historical temperature average in December
35°F
highs
21°F
lows

General weather summary

Really cold with a gentle breeze
Feels like
33%
Chance of rain
0.136 in
Amount
10.8 mph
Wind speed
91%
Humidity
9.1 hrs
Daylight length
7:17 AM
Sunrise
4:22 PM
Sunset
37%
Cloud cover
Thick winter coat with gloves
What to wear
What to wear in December
With an average high of 35°F (2°C) and a low of 21°F (-6°C), it generally feels really cold with a gentle breeze. There might also be a small chance of rain. With that in mind, most people would dress in something toasty like a thick winter coat with gloves
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Best attractions for Saratoga Springs in December

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Saratoga Springs has to offer for travelers in December, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Saratoga Springs that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Saratoga Springs for December.
Saratoga Race Course
1. Saratoga Race Course
4.6
(4516)
Racecourse
Casinos & Gambling
Iconic thoroughbred track schedules summer racing 6 days a week & hosts annual Travers Stakes.
Saratoga Spa State Park
2. Saratoga Spa State Park
4.7
(5194)
State park
Nature & Parks
Landmark historic space with various art & culture exhibits as well as a pool complex & golf course.
Congress Park
3. Congress Park
4.7
(2056)
Park
Nature & Parks
Landscaped grounds with statuary, fountains & picknicking plus a historic former casino building.
Saratoga Performing Arts Center
4. Saratoga Performing Arts Center
4.5
(5466)
Live music venue
Concerts & Shows
Rock concerts, ballets & family events in a sunken theater with adjacent lawn for 20,000 spectators.
The Corporation of Yaddo
5. The Corporation of Yaddo
4.5
(248)
Scenic spot
Nature & Parks
National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame
6. National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame
4.8
(365)
Museum
Art museum
Art, films & a Hall of Fame gallery depicting 300+ years of U.S. horse racing, plus a kids' exhibit.
Saratoga Automobile Museum
7. Saratoga Automobile Museum
4.6
(832)
Museum
Specialty Museums
Enthusiasts view artifacts tracing the state's motor history plus race cars & other historic autos.
The Saratoga Winery
8. The Saratoga Winery
4.1
(382)
Restaurant
Food & Drink
Winery tasting room serving homemade wine & local beer in rustic digs with live music & light eats.
Saratoga Springs Visitor Center
9. Saratoga Springs Visitor Center
4.6
(182)
Tourist information center
Visitor Centers
National Museum of Dance & Hall of Fame
10. National Museum of Dance & Hall of Fame
4.5
(149)
Museum
Wedding venue
Museum in a former bathhouse space features photo, video, costume & dance exhibits plus art studios.
Children's Museum at Saratoga
11. Children's Museum at Saratoga
4.5
(410)
Children's museum
Museums
Designed for kids 7 & under, this hands-on museum features a series of themed play rooms & exhibits.
New York State Military Museum and Veterans Research Center
12. New York State Military Museum and Veterans Research Center
4.8
(231)
Museum
Heritage museum
Former 1889 armory displaying 10,000+ uniforms, weapons & art from the Civil War to the present.
The Saratoga Springs History Museum
13. The Saratoga Springs History Museum
4.7
(100)
History museum
Museums
3 floors of local-history exhibits & occasional live presentations in a landmark circa-1870s casino.
Tang Teaching Museum & Art Gallery
14. Tang Teaching Museum & Art Gallery
4.4
(113)
Museum
Art gallery
Contemporary art plus music & science exhibits in a modern building of stone, steel & concrete.
Saratoga Paint and Sip Studio
15. Saratoga Paint and Sip Studio
4.8
(132)
Art center
Shopping
Saratoga Farmers' Market
16. Saratoga Farmers' Market
4.7
(239)
Farmers' market
Shopping

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