Destination Saratoga: All Access – Details, episodes & analysis

Get your All Access Pass To Saratoga County with host MacKenzie Zarzycki Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover Saratoga Spa State Park, a top destination in Saratoga Springs known for its historic mineral springs, world-class outdoor recreation, and rich cultural attractions. We explore the soothing Roosevelt Baths, the shimmering elegance of the Victoria Pool, and the family-friendly fun of the Peerless Pool. Learn why preserving this historic and natural landmark is essential—and why it should be on every visitor’s Saratoga itinerary. Sponsored by Julie & Co. Realty Featured Members: Discover Saratoga  https://www.discoversaratoga.org/  Saratoga Living  https://saratogaliving.com/  Bright Sighted Media  https://brightsighted.com/  Spa State Park  https://parks.ny.gov/parks/saratogaspa  Roosevelt Baths and Spa https://www.gideonputnam.com/roosevelt-baths-and-spa  Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) spac.org  Saratoga Spa Golf Course https://parks.ny.gov/golf/15/details.aspx  Saratoga Springs Automobile Museum  https://www.saratogaautomuseum.org/  Saratoga Springs Children’s Museum  https://cmssny.org/  Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation  https://www.saratogapreservation.org/  Spa Little Theater by SPAC ​​https://spac.org/saratoga-performing-arts-center/your-visit/the-spac-experience/our-venues/spa-little-theater/  Heritage Area Visitors Center  https://www.discoversaratoga.org/saratoga-springs-visitor-center/  Live Nation  https://www.livenation.com/  The Gideon Putnam Hotel  https://www.gideonputnam.com/  Chapters: 00:00 Exploring Saratoga Spa State Park 01:44 Unique Features of the Park 03:46 The Healing Power of Mineral Springs 05:52 Outdoor Recreation and Accessibility 07:08 Historical Significance of Roosevelt Baths 09:21 Cultural Events and Festivals 11:28 Understanding Mineral Springs 13:47 The Avenue of the Pines Experience 15:50 The Role of SPAC in the Park 17:55 The Hall of Springs: A Historical Venue 19:40 Attractions Beyond Recreation 21:50 Golf and Other Activities 24:04 The Victoria Pool Experience 25:06 The Geyser and Its Unique Features 27:28 The Importance of Preservation 29:29 Programming and Community Engagement 32:10 Seasonal Events and Activities 34:05 The Parks Explorer App 35:56 Art and History in the Park 37:26 Lightning Round: Quick Insights 41:04 Final Thoughts on Saratoga Spa State Park Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this delicious episode, host Mackenzie sits down with local culinary power duo Clark Gale and Zac Denham, the minds behind Bocage Champagne Bar, to talk about their newest venture: Standard Fare, opening August 15th in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs. From elevated comfort food (hello, meatloaf and apple chutney pork chops!) to a playful art gallery wall featuring horses, ducks—and a single goose—you’ll get the inside scoop on what makes Standard Fare a can’t-miss dinner destination for visitors and locals alike. Clark and Zac talk about their creative process, their passion for bringing people together through food, and what’s coming next (spoiler: brunch is on the way!). Whether you're in town for the Saratoga Race Course, spending the weekend on Broadway, or just here for the champagne and crepes, Standard Fare is your new go-to for unique dishes, warm vibes, and unexpected art. Sponsored By Julie & Co. Realty : https://www.juliecorealty.com FEATURED MEMBERS: Discover Saratoga  https://www.discoversaratoga.org/  Saratoga Living  https://saratogaliving.com/  Bright Sighted Media  https://brightsighted.com/  Standard Fare https://www.standardfaresaratoga.com/  Bocage Champagne Bar https://www.bocagechampagnebar.com/  CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast & Guests 01:05 From Bocage to Standard Fare 03:45 Collaborating with Local Artist Daniel 07:10 The Story Behind the Gallery Wall 10:30 Saratoga Horse Culture Meets Quirky Art 12:55 Finding the Goose: Interactive Art Details 15:40 Opening Timeline & Final Prep 17:55 Favorite Dishes on the Menu 21:00 Dessert, Salads & Blue Plate Specials 24:15 What’s Next: Lunch, Brunch & Crepes 26:50 Balancing Marriage & Business 29:30 Quick-Fire Fast Facts 32:00 Final Thoughts & How to Make Reservations Thank you to Julie & Co. for sponsoring this episode. 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 Group Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to Destination Saratoga 05:15 Promoting Local Businesses and Tourism 10:32 The Connection Between Tourism and Economic Growth 18:12 Preserving Saratoga's Historic Charm 21:02 The Economic Impact of Saratoga's Attractions 25:34 Long-Term Benefits of Tourism 26:59 Success Stories in Economic Development 30:05 Celebrating Saratoga's Historical Significance 32:25 Transportation Infrastructure and Accessibility 33:45 Saratoga's Unique Identity and Visitor Attraction 34:57 Economic Impact of Meetings and Events 36:41 Future Opportunities for Saratoga Springs 39:16 Tourism's Role in Local Economy 40:21 Outdoor Attractions and Community Health 42:29 Hidden Gems of Saratoga County 46:16 Heritage Tourism and Future Events 50:31 Collaboration Among Stakeholders 51:36 Elevator Pitch for Saratoga County Featured 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 Group https://phinneydesign.com/ Coat Room https://thecoatroom.com/ Global Foundries https://gf.com/ NYRA https://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 Development https://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-spa Saratoga Spa State Park https://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 Park https://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 Festival https://mostlymodernfestival.org/ Skidmore College https://www.skidmore.edu/ SUNY https://www.suny.edu/ Hudson Valley Community College https://www.hvcc.edu/ Soleno Manufacturing https://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 Group Some footage provided by NYRA Chapters: 00:00 – Defining Moments in Racing Careers 03:12 – Hall of Fame Induction and Its Significance 05:18 – Unforgettable Racing Experiences 06:59 – Passion for Horse Racing and Giving Back 09:39 – The Unique Atmosphere of Saratoga Racecourse 11:40 – The Special Connection to Saratoga 14:08 – Experiencing Racing Up Close 19:33 – Life Beyond the Track 21:20 – Advice for Aspiring Racers 24:09 – Lessons from Racing and Life 28:12 – Reliving Memorable Days at Saratoga 30:18 – Upcoming Races and Jockey Insights 36:22 – Why Saratoga is a Must-Visit Destination Featured 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 Racing 03:00 – The Rich History of Saratoga Racecourse 05:57 – Anticipating the Upcoming Racing Season 09:07 – Reflections on Race for the Crown and Media Representation 12:01 – The Thrill of Being a Jockey 15:08 – Understanding Jockey Dynamics and Competition 17:46 – The Journey to Becoming a Race Caller 21:52 – Inspiration from the Past 23:03 – Pre-Race Rituals and Superstitions 27:21 – Memorable Racehorses and Their Impact 30:04 – Building Trust with Horses 34:05 – The Nature of Racing and Horse Personalities 35:55 – Age and Maturity in Racing Horses 38:59 – The Challenges of Jockeying 41:00 – A Legacy in Race Calling FEATURED 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 Favorites 02:59 - Upcoming Events: Belmont Stakes Racing Festival 06:02 - Hidden Gems of Saratoga: 22 Things You Didn't Know 08:58 - Community Engagement and Local Organizations 11:57 - Saratoga's History and Cultural Heritage 14:45 - Family-Friendly Activities and Attractions 16:55 - Nostalgic Adventures and Local Secrets 20:46 - Transportation Tips and Local Insights 23:12 - Saratoga Racecourse Experiences 28:11 - Community Events and Local Culture 30:25 - Social Connections and New Trends Discover Saratoga  https://www.discoversaratoga.org/  Saratoga Living  https://saratogaliving.com/  Bright Sighted Media  https://brightsighted.com/  Treehouse Brewery  https://treehousebrew.com/ Familiar Creature https://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 Arts https://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 Co https://www.broadwaycoffee.co/ Saratoga City Center  https://www.saratogacitycenter.org Noah’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 Bookstore https://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-15 Saratoga Recreation Center  https://www.saratoga-springs.org/183/Facilities Leadership Saratoga  https://www.leadershipsaratoga.org/ Saratoga Library  https://www.sspl.org/ Saratoga Springs History Museum https://www.saratogahistory.org/ Pizza 7 https://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

Speakeasies, Victorian Mansions & Sustainable Design — this episode peels back the architectural layers of Saratoga Springs. Host Mackenzie Zarzycki sits down with Mike Phinney, Principal and Owner of Phinney Design Group, whose work blends modern sustainability with the deep-rooted character of Saratoga’s most iconic landmarks. From reimagining the historic elegance of the 1863 Club at the Saratoga Race Course, to contributing to projects at The Sagamore and Yaddo, Mike shares how architecture can reflect a region’s legacy while adapting to its future. And yes — he even takes us inside his most unexpected creation: a hidden rooftop speakeasy built atop what was once Millionaires’ Row. Whether you're a history buff, a Saratoga local, or just love a great behind-the-scenes story, this episode reveals how thoughtful design keeps Saratoga’s spirit alive. This episode is sponsored by ⁠Phinney Design Group⁠ This episode is brought to you by Discover Saratoga ⁠https://www.discoversaratoga.org/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sponsored By: Phinney Design Group Get ready for a jam-packed episode as Mackenzie and Jessie dive into the buzz surrounding the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival and the hottest summer concerts hitting Saratoga Springs. From the thrill of Beyoncé’s new tour to the latest movie premieres, award show moments, and Broadway must-sees, they’re covering it all. Plus, discover the can’t-miss local events, music festivals, and community celebrations that make Saratoga a cultural hotspot this season! CHAPTERS: 00:00 – Welcome and Summer Excitement 03:00 – Belmont Stakes and Upcoming Events 05:57 – Beyoncé's Tour and Movie Buzz 09:07 – Tony Awards and Broadway Highlights 12:00 – Local Music Festivals and Events 14:45 – Saratoga Arts and Culture Scene 18:00 – Community Events and Horse Racing 20:55 – Saratoga Candles and Closing Remarks FEATURED MEMBERS: - Discover Saratoga https://www.discoversaratoga.org/ - Saratoga Living https://saratogaliving.com/ - Bright Sighted Media https://brightsighted.com/ - Phinney Design Group https://phinneydesign.com/ - The Coat Room https://www.thecoatroom.com/ - AMC on Railroad https://www.amctheatres.com/movie-theatres/saratoga-springs/amc-saratoga-springs-11 - Embrace the Belmont 2 at UPH, held by Therapeutic Horses of Saratoga https://thsaratoga.org/embrace-the-belmont/ https://atuph.org/ https://thsaratoga.org/ - SPAC - Saratoga Performing Arts Center https://spac.org/ - Shaken & Stirred at UPH https://atuph.org/shaken-stirred-2025/ https://atuph.org/ - Mostly Modern Music Festival https://mostlymodernfestival.org/ - Annual Saratoga Jazz Festival https://spac.org/saratoga-performing-arts-center/saratoga-jazz-festival/ - Caffé Lena https://www.caffelena.org/ - Putnam Place https://putnamplace.com/ - Pantry Hill & Saratoga Tea & Honey https://www.pantryhill.com/ https://www.saratogateaandhoney.com/ - Forno Bistro - Thoroughbred First Patio Pour https://fornobistro.com/ https://www.iloveny.com/event/thoroughbredz-first-pour-patio-party/72870/ - Wolf Hollow Brewing Company https://www.wolfhollowbrewing.com/ - NYRA Bets - New York Racing Association https://www.nyrabets.com/race?raceId=101930868 - National Racing Museum & Hall of Fame https://www.racingmuseum.org/ - Lifestyles of Saratoga https://lifestylesofsaratoga.com/ - Impressions of Saratoga https://www.impressionssaratoga.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Plan your June escape with a vibrant festival of living composers and modern classics in scenic Saratoga Springs. In this episode, Victoria Patterson, co-founder and general director of the Mostly Modern Festival, and host MacKenzie Zarzycki discuss the festival's mission to celebrate modern classical music, the unique concert experiences it offers, and the importance of community engagement and outreach. The conversation highlights the festival's diverse lineup, the healing power of music, and the vibrant cultural scene in Saratoga Springs. Sponsored By: Phinney Design Group CHAPTERS: 00:00 — Introduction to the Mostly Modern Festival 02:55 — The Mission and Vision of the Festival 05:50 — Concert Highlights and Featured Artists 09:01 — The International Nature of the Festival 12:00 — The Experience of Attending a Concert 15:00 — The Importance of Live Music 18:01 — Community Engagement and Outreach 20:59 — The Healing Power of Music 23:56 — Saratoga Springs: A Cultural Hub 27:03 — Conclusion and Call to Action FEATURED MEMBERS: Phinney Design Group https://phinneydesign.com/ Mostly Modern Music Festival ⁠https://mostlymodernfestival.org/ ⁠ 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