Soaking in New York's Hot Springs
New York, often associated with bustling cityscapes and towering skyscrapers, also harbors a secret – natural hot springs.
Best Time to Go: Spring (March – May) and fall (September – November) offer the most comfortable soaking experiences with pleasant weather and moderate crowds. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be chilly.
1. Saratoga Spa State Park (Saratoga Springs)
Saratoga Spa State Park is a historic spa destination renowned for its naturally carbonated mineral springs. Several bathhouses offer soaking experiences, from the historic Roosevelt Baths to the more modern Saratoga National. While public bathhouses can be busy, the park's vibrant atmosphere and diverse amenities make it a popular choice.
Saratoga Spa State Park is open to the public year round, but during certain periods, there are fees you must pay at the toll booth to enter. Swimming is available for the entire family at the two pools in the park: there's the Peerless Pool complex, which includes a large main pool as well as separate smaller pools, or you can take a dip in the Victoria Pool. The Peerless Pool (below) is free, but there is a fee to access the Victoria Pool.
The Park includes Saratoga Performing Arts Center, the Spa Little Theater, the National Museum of Dance, the Saratoga Automobile Museum, the Gideon Putnam Resort and Roosevelt Baths and Spa (below).
The miles of nature trails allow visitors to explore the beauty of this state park. They are open for running, walking, and biking throughout the warmer months. During your adventure, make sure you visit some of the nearby mineral springs along the way, such as the Ferndell Spring (pictured above) and the Orenda Spring.
When the snow falls, you'll find approximately 12 miles of cross-country skiing trails and snowshoeing trails too.
Water Quality: 4 stars (Minor sulfur smell, various naturally occurring minerals)
Ease of Access: 5 stars (Easily accessible by paved road with ample parking)
Ability to Be Alone: 3 stars (Several public bathhouses, can be crowded)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (Comfortable soaking temperature with variations depending on the bathhouse)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (Noticeable mineral content, potential benefits for rheumatism and arthritis)
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars (Spa services, restaurants, lodging options, and various recreational activities within walking distance)
Secret Tip: Visit the Saratoga Springs History Museum to learn about the town's rich history as a spa destination.
2. The Gideon Putnam Resort (Saratoga Springs)
Located within Saratoga Spa State Park, The Gideon Putnam Resort offers a luxurious hot spring experience. Guests can choose from private soaking tubs with mineral water piped directly from the natural springs or indulge in traditional bathhouse treatments. The resort's upscale amenities and personalized service cater to those seeking a pampering getaway.
Established in 1935, the Roosevelt Baths & Spa Saratoga Springs spa resort opened thanks to President Franklin Roosevelt's visionary act to preserve the Saratoga Springs. Authentic and historic, today the Roosevelt Baths & Spa offers wellness in Saratoga Springs via a transforming hydrotherapy spa experience with naturally healing treatments, performed by an attentive staff known for caring and quality of service.
The Roosevelt Baths & Spa offers 42 original treatment rooms. Available Saratoga Springs wellness services include:
Water Quality: 4 stars (Minor sulfur smell, various naturally occurring minerals)
Ease of Access: 5 stars (Easily accessible by paved road with ample parking)
Ability to Be Alone: 4 stars (Private soaking tubs available, shared bath options)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (Comfortable soaking temperature with customizable options)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (Noticeable mineral content, potential benefits for rheumatism and arthritis)
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars (Luxury resort with spa services, restaurants, and various recreational activities)
Secret Tip: Book a couples massage treatment at the resort's spa for an extra dose of relaxation.
3. Peerless Pool & Mineral Springs (Saratoga Springs)
The Peerless Pool offers a more rustic hot spring experience within Saratoga Spa State Park. This single, outdoor pool is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. While the shared pool can be crowded, the natural setting and readily accessible location make it a convenient option.
Water Quality: 4 stars (Minor sulfur smell, various naturally occurring minerals)
Ease of Access: 4 stars (Short walk on a well-maintained path within the park)
Ability to Be Alone: 3 stars (Single, shared outdoor pool)
Water Temperature: 4 stars (Comfortable soaking temperature)
Health Benefits: 4 stars (Noticeable mineral content, potential benefits for rheumatism and arthritis)
Nearby Amenities: 4 stars (Restaurants and shops within walking distance in Saratoga Springs)