Skidmore College
A liberal arts college in Saratoga Springs, NY, known for its strong arts programs and beautiful campus, offering a unique student experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Community events and performances
Skidmore College
Best Time
Community events and performances
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A liberal arts college in Saratoga Springs, NY, known for its strong arts programs and beautiful campus, offering a unique student experience.
"Beautiful campus and great arts scene, but some students report a controlling environment."
Pro Tip: Use the Ramp! :walking:
Skip the stairs and use the ramp next to them for easier navigation on campus.
Explore Saratoga Springs :cityscape:
Walk to Saratoga Springs for dining, shopping, and nightlife. Great for students on a budget.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tang Museum
Fannie and John Hertzberger Tang Museum
A must-visit for modern art enthusiasts, featuring diverse and engaging exhibitions.
Arthur Zankel Music Center
Arthur Zankel Music Center
Experience world-class performances in a venue that rivals NYC's best concert halls.
Saratoga Springs Proximity
Adjacent to Saratoga Springs
Enjoy easy access to the charming shops, restaurants, and nightlife of Saratoga Springs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Skidmore's Culture
Campus Life & Community
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pro Tip: Use the Ramp! :walking:
Skip the stairs and use the ramp next to them for easier navigation on campus.
Explore Saratoga Springs :cityscape:
Walk to Saratoga Springs for dining, shopping, and nightlife. Great for students on a budget.
Check Out Campus Events :calendar:
Skidmore hosts plays, concerts, and art exhibits open to the community.
Unified Basketball Visit :trophy:
College students offer unforgettable visits for unified sports teams.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pro Tip: Use the Ramp! :walking:
Skip the stairs and use the ramp next to them for easier navigation on campus.
Explore Saratoga Springs :cityscape:
Walk to Saratoga Springs for dining, shopping, and nightlife. Great for students on a budget.
Check Out Campus Events :calendar:
Skidmore hosts plays, concerts, and art exhibits open to the community.
Unified Basketball Visit :trophy:
College students offer unforgettable visits for unified sports teams.
Student Life Insights :speech_balloon:
Be aware of differing student experiences regarding control and professor support.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Skidmore College receives mixed reviews, with praise for its beautiful campus, strong arts programs like the Tang Museum and Zankel Music Center, and its welcoming community. However, some students report a controlling environment, concerns about professor support, and financial aid challenges.
"Beautiful campus but far too controlling according to our niece who attended Skidmore. Didn't stop us from getting her a graduation brick."
Jim & Liz
"We went to Skidmore College for an inclusion for my daughter who is in the unified basketball team and those college kids gave the unified kids a visit they will never forget!!! Thank you Skidmore"
Emily Martin
"We drove around campus to take a look for our daughter. As we were there on a weekend, we were not able to take a tour. The campus looks lovely."
Kathryn Kula
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Skidmore College is located in Saratoga Springs, NY. You can reach it by car via major highways like I-87. The nearest major airport is Albany International Airport (ALB), about a 30-40 minute drive away. Public transportation options include Amtrak to the Saratoga Springs station, which is a short taxi or rideshare from campus.
Yes, Skidmore College is within walking distance of downtown Saratoga Springs, making it convenient for students and visitors to access shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
The campus is quite walkable, and many students opt to walk. There are also ramps available alongside stairs for easier navigation.
Visitor parking is generally available on campus, though availability may vary, especially during peak times or events. It's advisable to check the Skidmore College website for the most current parking regulations and visitor information.
Yes, you can take Amtrak to Saratoga Springs station. From there, a taxi or rideshare service can take you to Skidmore College.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General visits to the campus grounds do not require tickets. However, for specific events like performances at the Zankel Music Center or exhibitions at the Tang Museum, tickets may be required. Check the respective venue's website for details.
The campus itself is generally accessible. However, specific buildings like the Tang Museum or Zankel Music Center have their own operating hours. It's best to check their individual schedules online.
Campus tours are typically offered for prospective students. If you are not a prospective student, you can still explore the campus grounds. Weekend tours might not be available.
There are no admission fees to simply walk around the Skidmore College campus. Fees apply only to specific ticketed events or exhibitions.
Skidmore College regularly hosts a variety of events, including plays, concerts, and art exhibitions. You can find information on their official website or through community announcements.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Tang Museum for modern art and the Arthur Zankel Music Center for performances. The campus itself is also beautiful to explore.
The 'Skidmore Complex' appears to be a colloquial term used in some social media content, possibly referring to the college's overall environment or culture, with some users suggesting potential challenges or unique aspects to be aware of.
The Tang Museum is known for its focus on modern and contemporary art, often featuring thought-provoking exhibitions and a diverse collection.
Yes, Skidmore College has active theater and music departments that often host student performances, which are usually open to the public.
The atmosphere can be perceived differently. Some find it welcoming and community-oriented, while others describe it as controlling with strict attendance policies.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Skidmore College offers various dining halls and cafes for students. Some reviews mention that laundry services were previously charged, indicating a focus on cost-saving measures that might extend to other student services.
Yes, being close to downtown Saratoga Springs means there are numerous restaurants and cafes available for students and visitors to explore.
While specific student favorites aren't detailed, the proximity to Saratoga Springs suggests a range of casual to upscale dining options are accessible.
mentions 'pizza7'.Some reviews suggest that Skidmore can be expensive, with past charges for laundry and a general perception of high costs for students, particularly those on limited financial aid.
Dining facilities are primarily for students, but visitor access might be possible at certain cafes or during special events. It's best to inquire directly with the college's dining services.
📸 📸 Photography
The architecture of the buildings, the well-maintained grounds, and the Tang Museum's unique design offer great photo opportunities. The natural beauty surrounding the campus is also picturesque.
While you can photograph the campus, be mindful of student privacy. Official college social media often showcases student life.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, commercial photography or filming may require special permission. Always be respectful of individuals and their privacy.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset often provide beautiful lighting for campus photography. Weekends might offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
Check out Skidmore College's official social media accounts on Instagram and TikTok, as well as student-created content using hashtags like #skidmorecollege.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For prospective student families, it's advisable to research the college's financial aid policies thoroughly, as some reviews indicate concerns about affordability and loan burdens for low-income and first-generation students. Exploring the campus and its surroundings in Saratoga Springs can also be a pleasant outing for families visiting the area.
💰 Budget Travelers
Students looking to save money on campus might find that while tuition is high, exploring local eateries in Saratoga Springs can be more economical than relying solely on campus dining. Be mindful that some past student experiences mention charges for services like laundry, which could add to overall costs.
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
Throughout the academic year, the college's theater and music departments present student productions, offering a glimpse into emerging talent. The vibrant arts scene extends beyond campus, with Saratoga Springs itself offering a rich cultural landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Skidmore Experience: A Student's Perspective
Key aspects to consider include the college's reputation for attracting wealthy students, though financial aid is available. The academic environment is described by some as having burnt-out professors and a subjective grading system that can feel unfair. The campus itself, while visually appealing, has dorms described as 'ancient, dark and depressing' by some.
Despite these criticisms, the college is also praised for its welcoming community and the opportunities it provides for students to pursue their passions. The Tang Museum and the Zankel Music Center are frequently mentioned as highlights, drawing praise from both students and the wider Saratoga Springs community.
Arts and Culture at Skidmore
Complementing the visual arts is the Arthur Zankel Music Center, which hosts a variety of performances, from student recitals to professional concerts. This venue is often lauded for its acoustics and quality, rivaling those found in major cities. Beyond these institutions, the college's theater and music departments actively produce plays and concerts throughout the academic year, providing ample opportunities for students and the public to engage with the performing arts.
These artistic offerings contribute to a rich campus life and extend the college's cultural impact to the surrounding community, making Skidmore a destination for art and music lovers.
Navigating Skidmore's Campus and Surroundings
For those looking for activities specifically around Skidmore, the Reddit community suggests exploring local spots and nightlife suitable for students, even on a budget. While the college itself offers cultural events, the proximity to Saratoga Springs provides a broader range of experiences.
When considering Skidmore, it's important to be aware of the differing student perspectives on the campus environment. While some find it welcoming, others have noted a controlling atmosphere and strict policies, such as mandatory attendance, which can feel restrictive.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit