Saratoga County

Having information and knowledge about the local education systems is an integral part for families with children when considering where to live. Ballston Spa Central School District is known for its excellence in education and nurtures a conducive learning atmosphere. The district serves approximately 4,100 students which include four elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school.  

All within walking distance in the quaint downtown area of Ballston Spa, there is no shortage of things to do. There are farmers markets, outdoor concerts, unique gift shops, bakeries, eateries, and seasonal events, and more. If you enjoy breweries,  The  Speckled Pig Brewing Company is conveniently located and offers carefully selected specialty craft beers and an assortment of popular wood-fired pizzas.

Charlton is a combination of farmland, rolling hills,  forests, riverbanks, and a tight-knit community. Agriculture has always been the main industry in this town. There are many types working farms including dairy, livestock, vegetable, produce, horse, herb and flower farms.

One perk of living in Charlton is its proximity to nearby cities and towns such as Clifton Park. If you are looking for a comforting meal with family or to unwind with friends, The Charlton Tavern is a beloved cozy Irish restaurant known for its authentic and flavorful dishes as well as the captivating rustic atmosphere and impressive seasonal decor.

Currently, there are 21 different public springs available in Congress Park, the Spa State Park, and the High Rock Area. Each of these springs has its own unique characteristics, including mineral composition and taste. Native American tribes first acknowledged the therapeutic properties and considered them sacred. Since the 1700s and continuing through today, these natural seepages are believed to provide healing properties for various medical ailments ranging from hangovers, to cancer, diabetes, and more. You will find people filling up their water jugs 24 hours a day at these springs!

The last known remaining historical healing baths using these local water sources, providing the touted natural therapeutic treatments, are the Roosevelt Baths, located within the Gideon Putnam at the Saratoga Spa State Park.

As the oldest active sporting venue in the United States (Circa 1863), the Saratoga Racecourse has been a historical and popular footprint for some of the most competitive and prestigious horse races nationwide. Dedicated efforts have been successful in  preserving historical presence, i.e. the iconic grandstand and the paddocks.

Over the years, these thoroughbred racing grounds have been a gathering spot for families, friends, children, celebrities, politicians, and socialites. Also notable to mention is that this track has made featured appearances in movies like "Saratoga"(1937), "Billy Bathgate"(1991), and "Seabiscuit" (2003).

This area is home to many beautiful small lakes (Ballston, Galway, Lonely, Moreau State Park, Round, Saratoga), making it perfect for lakefront living. If you love activities like fishing, boating, camping, sailing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding, picnicing, or windsurfing, you will feel right at home here!

The Saratoga Battlefield, part of the Saratoga National Historical Park in Stillwater is a significant landmark dating back to September of 1777. This battle is considered the turning point of the American Revolutionary War where the American forces gained independence from British control.

Today, education is at the forefront of understanding the significance of events that changed our history and shaped our future including live exhibits, live re-enactments, self and in-person guided tours, museums, and monuments.

Another significant piece of history worth mentioning is Grant Cottage, located on Mount McGregor in Wilton. After being diagnosed with throat cancer, and at the recommendation of his medical team, Ulysses S. Grant moved here to complete his memoirs (published by Mark Twain) and live out his final days. The house has largely remained unchanged, featuring original furnishings, Grant's personal belongings, and the same preserved floral arrangements from his funeral that took place at the cottage.

USA Today ranked Broadway in Saratoga Springs as #7 out of the 10 best main streets in the USA. The historic buildings house restaurants, boutiques, art galleries, dance halls, and museums. All year round, the streets are bustling with activity, including events such as the annual Chowderfest and Brewfest. Additionally, the Victorian Streetwalk has become a favorite holiday kick-off tradition, where Broadway is closed off to vehicle traffic and lined with thousands of people who come to enjoy carolers, tree lighting, live performances, food, shopping, and more.

Aside from it's natural beauty, several unique attractions are nestled within the Saratoga Spa State Park making it filled with fun things to do all year long!

• Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC)- hosts a wide variety of performances, from classical music and ballet to rock concerts and festivals
• In the summer, there are 2 pools that many people enjoy and relax at which are the Peerless and Victoria pools
• 2 public  golf courses: the Saratoga Spa Championship Course and the Saratoga Spa Executive Course
• Several Biking and walking trails
• Pavilions for a variety of events including graduation parties and weddings
• Numerous picnic areas, some of which are equipped with grills,  tables, and nearby playgrounds
• 8  clay tennis courts
• Cross country skiing and snowshoeing
• Ice skating
• Events such as farmer's markets, wellness workshops, harvest fairs, food and wine festivals, arts and crafts, and more
• Educational Programs ~ offered year-round with a focus on the park's history