Skidmore College - Image 1
1 / 10

Skidmore College

4.6
·99 reviews·Saratoga Springs, United States

A liberal arts college in Saratoga Springs, NY, known for its strong arts programs and beautiful campus, offering a unique student experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Community events and performances

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Skidmore College - Image 1

Skidmore College

Best Time

Weekends

Community events and performances

CrowdMedium
Highlights

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.

4.6
(99 reviews)

"Beautiful campus and great arts scene, but some students report a controlling environment."

Vertical photo
TIP

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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Tang Museum

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

Arthur Zankel Music Center

Experience world-class performances in a venue that rivals NYC's best concert halls.

Saratoga Springs Proximity

Saratoga Springs Proximity

Adjacent to Saratoga Springs

Enjoy easy access to the charming shops, restaurants, and nightlife of Saratoga Springs.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Navigating Skidmore's Culture

Skidmore is often described as a place for wealthy students, though full-ride scholarships exist. Be prepared for a potentially controlling environment where attendance is strictly monitored, and professors may be perceived as unsupportive by some. TikTokInstagramReddit

Campus Life & Community

While some reviews highlight a controlling atmosphere and issues with financial aid and professors, others praise the welcoming community and vibrant arts scene. The Tang Museum and music hall are community highlights. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Community events and performances
Crowd
Medium
When
Academic Year
Why
Vibrant student life and activities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

skidmore college and umass amherst. i’m genuinely so torn #collegedecision #college #skidmore #umassamherst
@shenannaginss
52.3K likes • 792.1K views

Pro Tip: Use the Ramp! :walking:

Skip the stairs and use the ramp next to them for easier navigation on campus. TikTok

Explore Saratoga Springs :cityscape:

Walk to Saratoga Springs for dining, shopping, and nightlife. Great for students on a budget. Reddit

Im so hungry i could eat a #skidmore #skidmorecollege #theatre #theatrekid #college #collegetheatre
@skidmoretheater
14.3K likes • 56.7K views
Decision Day 2025! Congratulations to Lark on heading to Skidmore College this fall! Good luck on your journey! #oakwoodfriends #decisionday #skidmorecollege #congratsclassof2025 #BrightFuture #oakwoodproud #findyourvoicehere
oakwoodfriends
52 likes • 3.9K views

Check Out Campus Events :calendar:

Skidmore hosts plays, concerts, and art exhibits open to the community. Reddit

Unified Basketball Visit :trophy:

College students offer unforgettable visits for unified sports teams. Reddit

Better read up on the Skidmore Complex before saying yes to the Skidmore dress!! What next? #fyp #skidmore #skidmorecollege #saratogasprings #albanyNY #vassar #rpi
thekingof5thave
185 likes • 25.4K views

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. TikTok

Explore Saratoga Springs :cityscape:

Walk to Saratoga Springs for dining, shopping, and nightlife. Great for students on a budget. Reddit

Check Out Campus Events :calendar:

Skidmore hosts plays, concerts, and art exhibits open to the community. Reddit

Unified Basketball Visit :trophy:

College students offer unforgettable visits for unified sports teams. Reddit

Student Life Insights :speech_balloon:

Be aware of differing student experiences regarding control and professor support. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(99 reviews)

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. Reddit

"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

Beautiful campus setting
Vibrant arts and music scene
Welcoming community feel

What People Dislike

Controlling campus environment
Concerns about professors
Financial aid issues

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. Reddit

Yes, Skidmore College is within walking distance of downtown Saratoga Springs, making it convenient for students and visitors to access shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Reddit

The campus is quite walkable, and many students opt to walk. There are also ramps available alongside stairs for easier navigation. TikTok

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

There are no admission fees to simply walk around the Skidmore College campus. Fees apply only to specific ticketed events or exhibitions. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

🎫 🏛️ 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. Reddit

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. TikTokInstagram

The Tang Museum is known for its focus on modern and contemporary art, often featuring thought-provoking exhibitions and a diverse collection. Reddit

Yes, Skidmore College has active theater and music departments that often host student performances, which are usually open to the public. TikTokInstagram+1

The atmosphere can be perceived differently. Some find it welcoming and community-oriented, while others describe it as controlling with strict attendance policies. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

Yes, being close to downtown Saratoga Springs means there are numerous restaurants and cafes available for students and visitors to explore. Reddit

While specific student favorites aren't detailed, the proximity to Saratoga Springs suggests a range of casual to upscale dining options are accessible. TikTok 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. Reddit

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. TikTok

📸 📸 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. Instagram

While you can photograph the campus, be mindful of student privacy. Official college social media often showcases student life. Instagram+2

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. Instagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset often provide beautiful lighting for campus photography. Weekends might offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Instagram

Check out Skidmore College's official social media accounts on Instagram and TikTok, as well as student-created content using hashtags like #skidmorecollege. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Skidmore College is primarily a higher education institution, it offers community engagement that can be family-friendly. The Tang Museum often has exhibits that can appeal to a younger audience interested in art, and the Zankel Music Center hosts performances that might be suitable for families. Reddit Additionally, the college has been noted for its positive interactions with unified sports teams, showcasing a welcoming spirit. Reddit

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. Reddit Exploring the campus and its surroundings in Saratoga Springs can also be a pleasant outing for families visiting the area. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, Skidmore College's location is a major advantage. Being within walking distance of downtown Saratoga Springs provides access to a variety of affordable dining and entertainment options. Reddit Exploring the campus grounds themselves is free, and checking for community events at the Tang Museum or Zankel Music Center might reveal free or low-cost admission opportunities. Reddit

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. Reddit Be mindful that some past student experiences mention charges for services like laundry, which could add to overall costs. Reddit

🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts

Skidmore College is a gem for art and culture lovers. The Tang Museum is a must-visit, showcasing a dynamic collection of modern and contemporary art that is sure to impress. Reddit Beyond the museum, the Arthur Zankel Music Center offers a schedule of high-caliber musical performances, providing a sophisticated cultural experience. Reddit

Throughout the academic year, the college's theater and music departments present student productions, offering a glimpse into emerging talent. TikTokInstagram+1 The vibrant arts scene extends beyond campus, with Saratoga Springs itself offering a rich cultural landscape. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Skidmore Experience: A Student's Perspective

Student experiences at Skidmore College are varied, with some highlighting a strong sense of community and passion for the arts. Instagram However, other accounts suggest a more challenging environment, citing concerns about administrative control, financial aid, and professor support. Reddit Some students feel the college prioritizes tuition collection over student well-being and that negative reviews are actively suppressed. Reddit

Key aspects to consider include the college's reputation for attracting wealthy students, though financial aid is available. TikTokInstagram The academic environment is described by some as having burnt-out professors and a subjective grading system that can feel unfair. Reddit The campus itself, while visually appealing, has dorms described as 'ancient, dark and depressing' by some. Reddit

Despite these criticisms, the college is also praised for its welcoming community and the opportunities it provides for students to pursue their passions. Instagram The Tang Museum and the Zankel Music Center are frequently mentioned as highlights, drawing praise from both students and the wider Saratoga Springs community. Reddit

Arts and Culture at Skidmore

Skidmore College is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, making it a cultural hub within Saratoga Springs. The Fannie and John Hertzberger Tang Museum is a significant draw, celebrated for its modern and contemporary art collections and engaging exhibitions. Reddit It's a space that sparks conversation and offers a unique artistic perspective. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. TikTokInstagram+1

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. Reddit

Navigating Skidmore's Campus and Surroundings

Skidmore College boasts a beautiful campus, but navigating it can have its quirks. A practical tip shared by students is to use the ramp next to the stairs for easier movement, suggesting that accessibility might be a consideration for some campus routes. TikTok The campus is also conveniently located within walking distance of downtown Saratoga Springs, offering students and visitors a wealth of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Reddit

For those looking for activities specifically around Skidmore, the Reddit community suggests exploring local spots and nightlife suitable for students, even on a budget. Reddit While the college itself offers cultural events, the proximity to Saratoga Springs provides a broader range of experiences. Reddit

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. Reddit

You may also like