Historical Society of Saratoga Springs and Canfield Casino
1 / 10

Saratoga Springs History Museum Canfield Casino

4.7
·120 reviews·Saratoga Springs, United States

Explore Saratoga's rich past in the stunning, historic Canfield Casino, featuring local history exhibits and rumored hauntings.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Historical Society of Saratoga Springs and Canfield Casino

Saratoga Springs History Museum Canfield Casino

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Saratoga's rich past in the stunning, historic Canfield Casino, featuring local history exhibits and rumored hauntings.

4.7
(120 reviews)

"A nice little museum that shows the rich history of Saratoga Springs. The old Canfield Casino building is beautiful and full of character."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Photography Permission

Ask for permission before taking photos inside the museum to respect exhibits and other visitors.

👻 Ghostly Encounters

Consider joining a Ghost Tour for a spooky and historical experience, especially on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Canfield Casino Architecture

Historic Canfield Casino Architecture

Congress Park

Step back in time in this grand 1870s casino, featuring original interiors and opulent ballrooms.

Local History Exhibits

Local History Exhibits

Museum floors

Discover Saratoga's rich past through fascinating artifacts, photographs, and informative displays.

Congress Park's Mineral Springs

Congress Park's Mineral Springs

Congress Park

Experience the famous healing waters that put Saratoga Springs on the map. Taste the unique mineral flavors.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to the Canfield Casino

The Saratoga Springs History Museum, housed in the historic Canfield Casino, offers a glimpse into the city's past. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and the stunning architecture without the crowds. Weekday mornings are often less busy than weekends.

Exploring Congress Park's Charm

The Canfield Casino is nestled within the beautiful Congress Park. Plan to spend extra time exploring the park's manicured gardens, sculptures, and mineral springs. It's a perfect complement to your museum visit, offering a serene escape and photo opportunities.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Wednesday & Friday afternoons
Why
Ghost tours add a thrill
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Today Ron Turcotte’s saddle used during Secretariat’s 1973 Triple Crown Victory was featured here on display, at the Saratoga Race Course location of the National Museum of Racing Hall of Fame! How cool is this!?🏇 #secretariat #horseracing #triplecrown #saratoga
@thenyra
34.7K likes • 330.7K views

📸 Photography Permission

Ask for permission before taking photos inside the museum to respect exhibits and other visitors. Reddit

👻 Ghostly Encounters

Consider joining a Ghost Tour for a spooky and historical experience, especially on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays. Instagram

This was our 1st time at this resort and loved seeing these portraits! Plus learned the name Edwards horse from Enchanted! #disney #distok #disneytiktok #disneyhorses #disneysaratogaspringsresort #worldshowcaseadventures
@worldshowcaseadventures
7.5K likes • 48.6K views
Take a walk through the @saratogahistory Museum with us! Now open Wednesday-Sunday from 10am-4pm, the Saratoga History Museum is a hidden Spa City gem located in the historic Canfield Casino in Congress Park. Stop by to view more than 375,000 historic Saratoga photographs and rare artifacts, and learn the stories of Saratoga’s most notable families. #ad #localhistory #SaratogaSprings #CanfieldCasi...
saratogaliving
77 likes • 2.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Congress Park

Allow extra time to wander through the beautiful park surrounding the casino. Instagram

💧 Taste the Springs

Don't miss the chance to sample the mineral waters from the park's fountains. TikTok

🎭 Step into a night of glamour, mystery, and thrilling twists! This Thursday, December 12, the historic elegance of Canfield Casino awaits you. 🕵️‍♀️✨ 🌟 What’s in store? 🍽️ A gourmet three-course dinner 🕵️ A live-action murder mystery where YOU solve the crime 👗 Stylish attire and an unforgettable atmosphere in a venue steeped in charm 💡 Tickets are almost gone! Secure yours now—link in bio! . ...
saratogahistory
41 likes • 937 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photography Permission

Ask for permission before taking photos inside the museum to respect exhibits and other visitors. Reddit

👻 Ghostly Encounters

Consider joining a Ghost Tour for a spooky and historical experience, especially on Mondays, Wednesdays, or Fridays. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Congress Park

Allow extra time to wander through the beautiful park surrounding the casino. Instagram

💧 Taste the Springs

Don't miss the chance to sample the mineral waters from the park's fountains. TikTok

🎟️ Check Hours

The museum is typically open Wednesday-Sunday, but confirm hours before your visit. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(120 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Saratoga Springs History Museum for its engaging exhibits and the stunning beauty of the historic Canfield Casino building. The friendly staff and well-organized displays make it a worthwhile stop for history lovers and casual visitors alike. While the exhibits are compact, they offer a rich glimpse into the city's past, complemented by the charm of Congress Park.

"Nice little museum that shows the rich history of Saratoga Springs. The old Canfield Casino building is beautiful and full of character. Exhibits are small but very interesting, especially the photos and interiors. Worth a quick visit."

Gülden Güngör

"Had an amazing experience at the historical museum. Lady at front desk was very nice and everything is well organized and clean."

jordan fernandez

"Whether you are a history buff or not stop here. It's an old casino turned museum. It's three stories of history. We both found stuff that was interesting to both of us individually. Considering my daughter is not a history fan that is saying a lot. The grounds are beautiful. Pictures inside are by permission only."

Joe Laskowski

What People Like

Beautiful historic building
Interesting local history
Friendly staff

What People Dislike

Exhibits can be compact

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located in Congress Park, easily accessible by car or public transport. Parking is available nearby. Many visitors enjoy walking through the park to reach the Canfield Casino. Instagram

Yes, there are parking areas around Congress Park. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up. Reddit

Absolutely! The museum is centrally located in Congress Park, which is a short and pleasant walk from many downtown hotels and shops. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees can vary, but the museum is generally affordable. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most current pricing. Instagram

The museum is typically open Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 AM to 4 PM. However, hours can change seasonally, so always verify before your visit. Instagram

For general museum admission, advance booking is usually not required. However, for special events like the Ghost Tours, it's highly recommended to book tickets in advance. Instagram+1

Yes, the museum hosts special events, including popular Ghost Tours on select days, and sometimes murder mystery dinners. Instagram+2

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

You'll find exhibits on Saratoga's history, including its famous horse racing, mineral springs, and the era of the grand casinos. The building itself, the Canfield Casino, is a historical artifact. InstagramReddit

Yes, the Canfield Casino is a landmark circa-1870s building, and the museum preserves its original interiors, offering a unique historical atmosphere. Instagram+1

The museum offers a good introduction to local history that can be engaging for older children. The beautiful park setting also provides space for them to explore. Reddit

While self-guided exploration is common, the museum sometimes offers talks or presentations. The popular Ghost Tours are guided experiences. Instagram+1

Photography inside the museum may be restricted. It's best to check with staff upon arrival or look for signage regarding photo policies. Reddit

🎫 👻 Haunted History

The Canfield Casino is widely believed to be haunted and has even been featured on the television series 'Ghost Hunters.' Many visitors report strange occurrences. Instagram+2

You can join the museum's 'Ghostly Canfield Casino Tours,' typically held on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, to learn about the paranormal lore. Instagram+1

Reports include unexplained noises, apparitions, and other strange occurrences, contributing to its reputation as a haunted location. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Saratoga Springs History Museum can enjoy a blend of history and outdoor exploration. The museum itself offers engaging exhibits that can spark curiosity in children about local heritage. Reddit The surrounding Congress Park is a fantastic bonus, providing open spaces for kids to run around, beautiful landscaping to admire, and the unique experience of tasting the mineral springs. Instagram Consider timing your visit to avoid peak crowds, making the experience more enjoyable for younger visitors. The park also features sculptures and walking paths that can add to the adventure.

👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by the supernatural, the Canfield Casino is a must-visit. Its reputation as a haunted location, amplified by appearances on shows like 'Ghost Hunters,' makes it a prime spot for ghost tours. Instagram+1 The museum offers dedicated 'Ghostly Canfield Casino Tours' on select evenings, providing an immersive experience into the building's chilling lore and alleged paranormal activity. Instagram Be prepared for a spooky evening filled with tales of unexplained occurrences and spectral encounters.

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find the Saratoga Springs History Museum a treasure trove of local heritage. The museum's location within the historic Canfield Casino itself is a significant draw, allowing visitors to explore a beautifully preserved Gilded Age building. Instagram+1 The exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from the city's famous horse racing and mineral springs to its broader historical context. InstagramReddit The extensive collection of photographs and artifacts offers a deep dive into the lives and stories of Saratoga's past residents.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Grandeur of the Canfield Casino

The Canfield Casino, built in the 1870s, is more than just a building; it's a testament to Saratoga Springs' Gilded Age heyday. Once a premier gambling and social hub for the elite, its opulent interiors, including the grand ballroom and dining rooms, have been remarkably preserved. Walking through these spaces, you can almost hear the echoes of jazz music and the clinking of champagne glasses from a bygone era. The casino's architecture itself tells a story of wealth, leisure, and the vibrant social scene that defined Saratoga Springs. Instagram+1

Today, this historic structure serves as the home for the Saratoga Springs History Museum. The museum meticulously curates exhibits that delve into the city's multifaceted past, from its world-renowned horse racing and therapeutic mineral springs to its significant role in American history. The collection includes a vast archive of photographs and artifacts, offering visitors a deep dive into the lives of the people who shaped this unique city. InstagramReddit

Beyond its historical significance, the Canfield Casino is also known for its alleged haunted history. Featured on paranormal investigation shows, the building is said to be a hotspot for unexplained phenomena. The museum offers special 'Ghostly Canfield Casino Tours' for those brave enough to explore its spectral side after dark, adding an intriguing layer to the visitor experience. Instagram+2

Saratoga Springs: A Hub of History and Healing

Saratoga Springs has long been celebrated for its natural mineral springs, believed to possess healing properties. This natural allure drew visitors and the wealthy to the area, establishing it as a premier resort destination. The city's history is deeply intertwined with these springs, which continue to be a draw for those seeking wellness and a connection to nature. TikTokInstagram

The city's identity is also strongly linked to thoroughbred horse racing. The Saratoga Race Course, the oldest of its kind in the United States, hosts prestigious events like the Travers Stakes, attracting racing enthusiasts from around the globe. This legacy of racing is a significant part of Saratoga's cultural fabric and is often highlighted in local historical narratives. TikTok+1

Beyond racing and springs, Saratoga Springs boasts a rich tapestry of American history, including its role during the Revolutionary War. The area's historical significance extends to its cultural contributions and the stories of its notable families, all of which are explored within the Saratoga Springs History Museum. TikTokInstagram

You may also like