Five Places to Celebrate After the Travers Stakes in Saratoga

August 19th, 2018 by Dan Tordjman

Fans enjoy a day at the races at Saratoga Race Course. Dan Tordjman lists a few nightlife spots to check out after a great day at the track. (Penelope P. Miller/America's Best Racing)

Over the past few years, I’ve been fortunate enough to spend a significant portion of my summer in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. Known for its world-class racing, Saratoga features more than just the most historic track in the country — it also features some epic nightlife, entertainment, and dining options.

For anyone traveling up to “The Spa” for the $1.25 million Travers Stakes or the four Breeders' Cup “Win and You’re In” races on Saturday, the itinerary should also include a list of hotspots to visit once the race day is over. I’ve got a few suggestions …

The Post Bar

Before you even hit the clubhouse exit, you’ll pass by The Post Bar. You should stop, go in, order a drink and bet a few more races at Del Mar (assuming you’ve still got some cash left after a long day of betting on Saratoga races).

Siros or Horseshoe

These are the two bars that you’ll have instant access to once exiting the track. You’ll find music, good eats and beverages flowing. If you’re looking for “a scene,” you’ll certainly find one at both Siros and the Horseshoe after the Travers.

The Brook Tavern

Call ahead! Situated directly across the street from the racetrack on Union Avenue, there’s seating on the patio and indoors at The Brook Tavern — but it fills up quickly after big-race days. The food and drink are both on point here. The Wishing Well is another extremely strong option.

The Parting Glass

You can stumble into any of a dozen sportsbars downtown on Saturday night and you’ll have a blast. There’s no doubt The Parting Glass will be hopping, and you’ll be able to score some delicious food and a range of beer options — all while playing darts and mingling with a crowd that will be collectively buzzing from an incredible day of racing.

Chianti

If you want to “class up” your post-Travers festivities, this is an extremely solid choice for a good meal after the races. Like The Brook Tavern, you’ll want to call ahead and make a reservation (you can also do it online), because tables fill up quickly.