Destination Saratoga: All Access

Thinking about making Saratoga Springs your next home — or planning a summer getaway to see what all the buzz is about? ⬇️In this episode of Destination Saratoga, Mackenzie sits down with Julie Bonacio and Sheila Sperling of Julie & Co. Realty inside the iconic Palazzo Mansion to talk about what makes this town so magnetic 🐎From stunning homes and curated design to local culture & community values, this episode gives you an insider’s look at Saratoga’s unique lifestyle — whether you’re visiting for the season or thinking about staying for good.Sponsored By Julie & Co Realty: https://www.juliecorealty.comFEATURED MEMBERS: Discover Saratoga: https://www.discoversaratoga.org/⁠ Saratoga Living: https://saratogaliving.com/⁠ Bright Sighted Media: https://brightsighted.com/⁠ Julie & Co Realty LLC: https://www.juliecorealty.com/ Roohan Realty: https://www.roohanrealty.com/ Saratoga Spa State Park: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/saratogaspa Cafe Lena: https://www.caffelena.org/ Saratoga Automobile Museum: https://www.saratogaautomuseum.org/ Saratoga Children’s Museum: https://cmssny.org/ Saratoga History Museum: https://www.saratoga-springs.org/286/History-Museum Chapters:00:00 - Introduction and Setting the Scene08:44 - Exploring Real Estate in Saratoga16:44 - Personal Connections and Community Ties21:36 - The Journey of Julie in Real Estate30:30 - Current Market Trends and Insights33:56 - Legacy Properties and Their ImpactThank you to Julie & Co. for sponsoring today's episode.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Saratoga’s racing season kicks off with the thrilling and long-awaited Opening Day. From exciting new gluten-free and vegan bites at the track to kid-friendly activities and behind-the-scenes tours, this episode is packed with everything you need to know. They talk about jockeys to watch this season, like Katie and Dylan Davis, and how Mackenzie bumped into Dave Portnoy (yes, Stool President himself)—sparking a full-on campaign to get him on the podcast… Natalie’s new article also gets a major spotlight, covering all the can’t-miss events of the season. From ghost tours and museum visits to the excitement of horse ownership, Saratoga is packed with experiences this year.Sponsored By Julie & Co Realty https://saratogaliving.substack.com/p/seasons-greetings-9c2FEATURED MEMBERS: Discover Saratoga  https://www.discoversaratoga.org/  Saratoga Living  https://saratogaliving.com/  Bright Sighted Media  https://brightsighted.com/  Saratoga Race Course  https://www.saratogaracetrack.com/  NYRA https://www.nyrainc.com/ Purdy’s  https://www.purdyswine.com/ Side Cap https://www.sidecapbrew.com/about  Kru Coffee  https://www.krucoffee.com/  Ninth Planet https://www.ninthplanetbev.com/  By the Bottle https://bythebottleshop.com/  The Coat Room  https://thecoatroom.com/  Therapeutic Horses https://thsaratoga.org/  National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame  https://www.racingmuseum.org/  The Morning Show (during breakfast) Laura Breakfast at Saratoga  https://cms.nyra.com/saratoga/visit/breakfast-at-saratoga   Breakfast and Breeding Tour  https://oldtavernfarms.com/pages/breeding-breakfast-farm-tours Song Hill Thoroughbred Tavern Farm  https://www.jamesbondracing.com/  Sugar Plum Farm  https://www.sugarplumfarmsaratoga.com/  Winner’s Circle Experience https://cms.nyra.com/saratoga/visit/experiences  BEST (Backstretch Employee Service Team) https://www.bestbackstretch.org/ Third Race Call  Experience  https://www.nyra.com/saratoga/  NYRA STAR Program (Students of Thoroughbreds and Racing) https://www.nyra.com/saratoga/visit/nyra-star/  Kos Sauna  https://www.kossauna.com/  Lago by Druthers  https://www.druthersbrewing.com/   Standard Fair https://www.standardfaresaratoga.com/  Libby’s https://libbysupperclub.com/  History Museum Ghost Tours https://www.saratogahistory.org/ghost-tours-summer-2025  Heritage Area Visitors Center https://www.discoversaratoga.org/saratoga-springs-visitor-center/  Sara’s Kitchen  https://www.saraskitchen518.com/  Putnam Market https://putnammarket.com/  Cardona's https://www.cardonasmarket.com/ CHAPTERS: 00:00 Rental Fashion: Affordable Style Choices 00:44 Celebrity Encounters: Awkward Moments and Gossip 02:26 Saratoga Racing: Excitement and New Experiences 06:45 Culinary Delights: Food and Beverage Innovations at the Track 10:34 Local Business Spotlight: New Ventures and Collaborations 12:39 Horse Racing Culture: Community and Events 16:55 Unique Experiences: Naming Races and Special Tours 20:38 Celebrating Local Talent: Jockeys and Their Impact 24:26 Philanthropy and Community: Celebrity Contributions 26:57 Upcoming Attractions: New Restaurants and Events 30:52 Personal Connections: Becoming a Horse OwnerLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We visit the historic Saratoga Springs History Museum, housed in the legendary Canfield Casino, and sit down with Program Director Charlie Kuenzel for a fascinating conversation. From the glitz and glam of Saratoga’s Gilded Age—where elite vacationers came to gamble, socialize, and indulge in high-stakes horse racing—to the darker, haunted corners of the building featured on Ghost Hunters, this episode uncovers both the luxurious and mysterious layers of Saratoga’s past. Hear stories of million-dollar bets, lavish lifestyles, and the spirits that still linger in the halls of one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.Sponsor By Julie & Co Realty https://www.saratogahistory.org/events/0u3a3xly64c5uvao59rjxd6tolgy8a FEATURED MEMBERS: Discover Saratoga  https://www.discoversaratoga.org/  Saratoga Living  https://saratogaliving.com/  Bright Sighted Media  https://brightsighted.com/  The Saratoga Springs History Museum  https://www.saratogahistory.org/  The Canfield Casino  https://www.saratoga-springs.org/363/Canfield-Casino  SPAC https://spac.org/  The Adelphi  https://theadelphihotel.com/  Heritage Area Visitors Center  https://www.discoversaratoga.org/saratoga-springs-visitor-center/  Saratoga Race Course https://www.nyra.com/saratoga/ CHAPTERS: 00:00 Exploring Saratoga's Rich History 03:52 The Gilded Age: A Tale of Two Cities 11:06 The Role of Iconic Hotels in Saratoga's Legacy 15:51 Women's Suffrage and Saratoga's Influence 19:35 The Museum's Role in Preserving Saratoga's Identity 24:06 Ghost Stories and Haunted History 39:56 Reflections on Historical Figures and EventsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we’re diving into everything buzzing around Saratoga—from the glitz of a local film set (Jessie has stories!) to the growing excitement around the Fourth of July Racing Festival and the jam-packed calendar of summer events. We’re talking big names and big moves—like the NYC Ballet’s return to SPAC, Shania Twain’s generous surprise for a local food bank, and the pop culture chatter lighting up town (Jonas Brothers, anyone?).Plus, we get into the great Benson Boone debate, Anna Wintour's iconic exit, and… the ultimate showdown: best ice cream in Saratoga. (Dairy Haus, Humpty Dumpty’s, or Farmer’s Daughter—who wins?) With the Saratoga County Fair just around the corner, we're also reliving our favorite rides and deep-fried indulgences.Tune in for the laughs, the scoop, and a little birthday wish-casting—will the Jonas Brothers show up for Jessie’s big day?Sponsored By Julie & Co Realty LLCDiscover Saratoga https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ Saratoga Living https://saratogaliving.com/ Bright Sighted Media https://brightsighted.com/ The Children’s Museum at Saratoga https://cmssny.org/ Heritage Area Visitor’s Centerhttps://www.discoversaratoga.org/saratoga-springs-visitor-center/ Saratoga Springs History Museum https://www.saratogahistory.org/ Dairy Haushttps://dairyhaus.com/ Farmers Daughter https://www.farmersdaughtersdrivein.com/ Humpty Dumptyhttps://humptydumptyicecream.weebly.com/ Saratoga Gelato https://www.saratogagelato.com/ The Factory https://www.thefactoryeatery.com/menu Ribbon Cafe https://www.ribboncafeny.com/ Neighborhood Kitchen https://www.nkmilton.com/ The Whistling Kettle https://www.thewhistlingkettle.com/ Chapters: 00:00 Behind the Scenes of Filmmaking02:59 Celebrating Saratoga: Events and Festivals05:39 Cultural Highlights: Ballet and Concerts08:17 Pop Culture and Music Trends11:10 Summer Fun: Fairs and Local AttractionsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Natalie Moore gives us the inside scoop on 27 local businesses—from beloved mainstays saying goodbye to exciting new ventures popping up across town, we cover the evolving landscape of Saratoga's downtown and beyond. We also dive into the star-studded scene at the Belmont Stakes, preview Saratoga’s festive 4th of July celebrations, and spotlight the endless reasons to visit this summer.Sponsored By Phinney Design Group https://saratogaliving.substack.com/p/27-saratoga-businesses-that-are-opening https://saratogaliving.com/mvp-rj-burtt-is-saratogas-late-shift-hero/ Chapters: 00:00 Celebrating the Fourth of July in Saratoga00:53 Behind the Scenes at Belmont04:07 New Businesses and Openings in Saratoga06:31 Restaurant Closures and Changes10:17 Exciting New Dining Options16:49 Saratoga's Culinary Scene and Awards20:48 Community Developments and Upgrades24:45 Upcoming Events and FestivalsFeatured Members: Discover Saratoga https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ Saratoga Living https://saratogaliving.com/ Bright Sighted Media https://brightsighted.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We sat down with Elizabeth Sobol of the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), to explore how cultural tourism is transforming Saratoga Springs. From world-class performances like the New York City Ballet and the incredible musicians at Jazz Fest to the vibrant local art scene on Beekman Street, Sobol shares how SPAC and its partners are creating unforgettable experiences that fuel the local economy and enrich community life. We also dive into exciting updates like the Spa Little Theater renovation, and how nature, history, and the arts come together to make Saratoga County a one-of-a-kind destination. Whether you’re a local or planning your next trip, this episode will inspire you to see Saratoga in a whole new light.Sponsored By: Phinney Design GroupFeatured Members:Discover Saratoga https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ Saratoga Living https://saratogaliving.com/ Bright Sighted Media https://brightsighted.com/ SPAC (Saratoga Performing Arts Center) https://spac.org/ Phinney Design Group https://phinneydesign.com/ A Place of Yes Podcasthttps://jakeshelpfromheaven.org/news/podcast/ Afternoon Tea at Pantry Hill https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/afternoon-tea-at-pantry-hill/id1811713926 Yaddohttps://yaddo.org/ Mostly Modern Music Festival https://mostlymodernfestival.org/ SEDC (Saratoga Economic Development Corporation) https://saratogaedc.com/ NY State Parks https://parks.ny.gov/parks/saratogaspa Saratoga Artshttps://www.saratoga-arts.org/Saratoga Preservation Foundation https://www.saratogapreservation.org/ Live Nation https://www.livenation.com/ Cafe Lena https://www.caffelena.org/Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What makes Saratoga County such a powerful engine for economic and community growth? In this episode, Greg Connors of the Saratoga Economic Development Corporation and Darryl Leggieri from Discover Saratoga explore how tourism drives investments, supports local businesses, and enhances quality of life. From the iconic racecourse to year-round attractions and a thriving arts scene, Saratoga’s unique blend of history, accessibility, and collaboration makes it a magnet for visitors and investors alike. Tune in to learn how tourism shapes the region's vibrant economy and future.Sponsored By Phinney Design GroupChapters:00:00 Welcome to Destination Saratoga05:15 Promoting Local Businesses and Tourism10:32 The Connection Between Tourism and Economic Growth18:12 Preserving Saratoga's Historic Charm21:02 The Economic Impact of Saratoga's Attractions25:34 Long-Term Benefits of Tourism26:59 Success Stories in Economic Development30:05 Celebrating Saratoga's Historical Significance32:25 Transportation Infrastructure and Accessibility33:45 Saratoga's Unique Identity and Visitor Attraction34:57 Economic Impact of Meetings and Events36:41 Future Opportunities for Saratoga Springs39:16 Tourism's Role in Local Economy40:21 Outdoor Attractions and Community Health42:29 Hidden Gems of Saratoga County46:16 Heritage Tourism and Future Events50:31 Collaboration Among Stakeholders51:36 Elevator Pitch for Saratoga CountyFeatured Members: Discover Saratoga https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ Saratoga Living https://saratogaliving.com/ Bright Sighted Media https://brightsighted.com/ Saratoga Economic Development Corporation (SEDC)https://saratogaedc.com/ Whitman Brewing & Walt Cafe https://www.waltandwhitmanbrewing.com/ Phinney design Grouphttps://phinneydesign.com/ Coat Roomhttps://thecoatroom.com/ Global Foundries https://gf.com/ NYRAhttps://www.nyrainc.com/ Saratoga Race Course https://www.nyra.com/saratoga/ Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce https://www.saratoga.org/ Saratoga City Center https://www.saratogacitycenter.org/ Empire State Developmenthttps://esd.ny.gov/ The Brookside Museum https://brooksidemuseum.org/ Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation https://www.saratogapreservation.org/Roosevelt Bath and Spa https://www.gideonputnam.com/roosevelt-baths-and-spaSaratoga Spa State Parkhttps://parks.ny.gov/parks/saratogaspa SPAC (Saratoga Performing Arts Center) https://spac.org/ SPAC Little Theater https://spac.org/saratoga-performing-arts-center/your-visit/the-spac-experience/our-venues/spa-little-theater/ Saratoga National Historical Parkhttps://www.nps.gov/sara/index.htm Capital District Transportation Authority https://www.cdta.org/ Saratoga Casino Hotel https://saratogacasino.com/ Jazz Fest https://spac.org/saratoga-performing-arts-center/saratoga-jazz-festival/ Mostly Modern Music Festivalhttps://mostlymodernfestival.org/ Skidmore College https://www.skidmore.edu/SUNY https://www.suny.edu/Hudson Valley Community College https://www.hvcc.edu/ Soleno Manufacturinghttps://soleno.com/en/Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Part 2!On the eve of Belmont 2025, Saratoga Race Course legends, Race Caller Tom Durkin and Hall of Fame Jockey Ramon Dominguez share the importance of luck in life, their predictions for the 2025 Horse Racing Season, Jockeys to watch and their advice for people interested in becoming part of the industry.Sponsored By Phinney Design GroupSome footage provided by NYRAChapters:00:00 – Defining Moments in Racing Careers03:12 – Hall of Fame Induction and Its Significance05:18 – Unforgettable Racing Experiences06:59 – Passion for Horse Racing and Giving Back09:39 – The Unique Atmosphere of Saratoga Racecourse11:40 – The Special Connection to Saratoga14:08 – Experiencing Racing Up Close19:33 – Life Beyond the Track21:20 – Advice for Aspiring Racers24:09 – Lessons from Racing and Life28:12 – Reliving Memorable Days at Saratoga30:18 – Upcoming Races and Jockey Insights36:22 – Why Saratoga is a Must-Visit DestinationFeatured Members: Discover Saratoga https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ Saratoga Living https://saratogaliving.com/ Bright Sighted Media https://brightsighted.com/ National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame https://www.racingmuseum.org/NYRA Bets https://www.nyrabets.com/Saratoga Race Course https://www.nyra.com/saratoga/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Racing fans, horse lovers, curious minds, and anyone who simply enjoys a great time—you won’t want to miss this!We had the chance to sit down with two legends of the sport: iconic race caller Tom Durkin and Hall of Fame jockey Ramon Dominguez. Durkin takes us behind the mic, sharing stories from some of the most thrilling races he’s ever called—from the Kentucky Derby to the Belmont Stakes—and reflects on the career that ultimately led him to his favorite place: Saratoga Springs.Dominguez shares the story of his remarkable rise in the racing world, the highs and lows of life as a jockey, his superstitions, and timeless wisdom that reaches far beyond the track.Beyond their love of horse racing, both Durkin and Dominguez chose to retire in Springs—and there are so many reasons why.It was an honor to speak with them, and we know you’ll love every moment.Sponsored By: Phinney Design Group CHAPTERS:00:00 – Introduction to the Legends of Racing03:00 – The Rich History of Saratoga Racecourse05:57 – Anticipating the Upcoming Racing Season09:07 – Reflections on Race for the Crown and Media Representation12:01 – The Thrill of Being a Jockey15:08 – Understanding Jockey Dynamics and Competition17:46 – The Journey to Becoming a Race Caller21:52 – Inspiration from the Past23:03 – Pre-Race Rituals and Superstitions27:21 – Memorable Racehorses and Their Impact30:04 – Building Trust with Horses34:05 – The Nature of Racing and Horse Personalities35:55 – Age and Maturity in Racing Horses38:59 – The Challenges of Jockeying41:00 – A Legacy in Race CallingFEATURED MEMBERS:Discover Saratoga ⁠https://www.discoversaratoga.org/⁠ Saratoga Living ⁠https://saratogaliving.com/⁠ Bright Sighted Media ⁠https://www.brightsighted.com/⁠ National Museum of Racing & Hall of Fame ⁠https://www.racingmuseum.org/⁠ NYRA Bets ⁠https://www.nyrabets.com/⁠Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Check out Natalie Moore’s “22 Things You Didn’t Know About Saratoga,” featured in Saratoga Living After Hours on Substack—made free just for this episode! https://open.substack.com/pub/saratogaliving/p/23-things-you-didnt-know-about-saratoga?utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web In this episode, MacKenzie Zarzycki from Discover Saratoga teams up with Saratoga Living editor Natalie Moore to explore the magazine’s Substack feature, “22 Things You Didn’t Know About Saratoga.” From quirky facts to hidden history, they break down some of the most surprising and fun insights about the Spa City.Along the way, they share personal stories, local tips, and practical advice for experiencing Saratoga like an insider. They also highlight exciting upcoming events, community organizations, and the buzz surrounding the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival. If you're planning a visit—or looking for a reason to—this episode is packed with inspiration to help you make the most of your Saratoga experience.Sponsored By: Phinney Design Group CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Saratoga's Culinary Scene and Local Favorites02:59 - Upcoming Events: Belmont Stakes Racing Festival06:02 - Hidden Gems of Saratoga: 22 Things You Didn't Know08:58 - Community Engagement and Local Organizations11:57 - Saratoga's History and Cultural Heritage14:45 - Family-Friendly Activities and Attractions16:55 - Nostalgic Adventures and Local Secrets20:46 - Transportation Tips and Local Insights23:12 - Saratoga Racecourse Experiences28:11 - Community Events and Local Culture30:25 - Social Connections and New TrendsDiscover Saratoga https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ Saratoga Living https://saratogaliving.com/ Bright Sighted Media https://brightsighted.com/ Treehouse Brewery https://treehousebrew.com/Familiar Creaturehttps://www.familiarcreaturebar.com/Universal Preservation Hall https://atuph.org/National Racing Museum & Hall of Fame https://www.racingmuseum.org/SPAC - Saratoga Performing Arts Center https://spac.org/Saratoga Artshttps://www.saratoga-arts.org/The Coat Room https://www.thecoatroom.com/ Panza’s https://www.panzasrestaurant.com/Uncommon Grounds https://www.uncommongrounds.com/ Broadway Coffee Cohttps://www.broadwaycoffee.co/Saratoga City Center https://www.saratogacitycenter.orgNoah’s (COMING SOON)https://saratogaliving.com/siros-owner-and-chef-to-bring-new-restaurant-concept-to-43-phila-street/ Saratoga Farmer’s Market https://saratogafarmersmarket.org/Pitney Meadow Farms https://www.pitneymeadowscommunityfarm.org/Lyrical Ballad Bookstorehttps://www.facebook.com/people/Lyrical-Ballad-Bookstore/100069051170884/ The Vault Saratoga https://www.thevaultsaratoga.com/East Side Recreation Park https://www.saratoga-springs.org/Facilities/Facility/Details/East-Side-Rec-15Saratoga Recreation Center https://www.saratoga-springs.org/183/FacilitiesLeadership Saratoga https://www.leadershipsaratoga.org/Saratoga Library https://www.sspl.org/Saratoga Springs History Museumhttps://www.saratogahistory.org/Pizza 7https://saratogapizza7.com/Roosevelt Bath and Spa https://www.gideonputnam.com/roosevelt-baths-and-spa Lola Saratoga https://lolasaratoga.com/Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices