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Yaddo Gardens Saratoga Springs

4.4
·45 reviews·Saratoga Springs, United States

A historic artist residency's stunning gardens, featuring a renowned rose garden and serene landscapes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late June - July

Peak rose bloom season

CrowdMedium
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steps & arbor

Yaddo Gardens Saratoga Springs

Best Time

Late June - July

Peak rose bloom season

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic artist residency's stunning gardens, featuring a renowned rose garden and serene landscapes.

4.4
(45 reviews)

"Beautiful gardens, especially in June when the roses bloom, nice ground, free entrance."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Visit during peak bloom

Catch the roses in their full glory from late June through July for the most spectacular views.

🚗 Arrive early for parking

The parking lot is small; aim for early morning visits to secure a spot.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Rose Garden

The Rose Garden

Central area

A breathtaking display of roses in various colors, especially vibrant from late June through July.

Instagram
Marble Statues and Fountains

Marble Statues and Fountains

Throughout the gardens

Graceful marble statues and charming fountains add an artistic and serene touch to the landscape.

Instagram
Wooded Areas and Wildflowers

Wooded Areas and Wildflowers

Perimeter and scattered spots

Explore tranquil wooded paths and discover a variety of wildflowers adding natural beauty.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Peak Blooms

Yaddo Gardens are most stunning when the roses are in full bloom, typically from mid-June through July. Visiting during this period offers the most vibrant colors and fragrant scents. Be aware that the mansion itself is rarely open to the public, so focus your visit on the beautiful outdoor spaces. Instagram

Parking and Access Considerations

The parking area at Yaddo Gardens is quite small, so arriving early, especially during peak season, is recommended. While generally free to enter, be mindful of the narrow access road. Some visitors note that certain fountains may not always be operational, but the overall beauty of the gardens remains a draw. Reddit

Best Times

When
Late June - July
Why
Peak rose bloom season
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful stroll
Crowd
Low
When
Saturday & Sunday mornings
Why
Enjoy the gardens before crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

My September vibes is to reach these three September garden goals: 1. Water my garden properly 💦💦💦 My garden has been on the dry side all summer and really, that’s no way to treat a garden! I’m going to re-saturate the soil and make sure it stops being hydrophobic. 2: Cut these pink flower the right way! I’ve cut them the wrong way before and have killed the future blooms. If you cut them right ...
@only_emily30
21.9K likes • 1.4M views

🎯 Visit during peak bloom

Catch the roses in their full glory from late June through July for the most spectacular views. InstagramReddit

🚗 Arrive early for parking

The parking lot is small; aim for early morning visits to secure a spot. Reddit

Spring is slowly arriving at Hakone Garden 🌸 Cherry blossoms are beginning to bloom, and this peaceful Japanese garden in Saratoga is about to look even more magical in the next 1–2 weeks. If you’ve been waiting to plan your hanami day trip—this is your sign to save the date! 📍 Hakone Garden | Saratoga, CA Just an hour from San Francisco, this historic garden feels like a serene getaway to Japan. ...
@journeywithlina_
21.2K likes • 299.6K views
Welcome to the Yaddo Rose & Rock Gardens I’m the heart of Saratoga Springs! Just feet from the famed Saratoga, Race Course, and just a few minutes drive from the Siri sisters, beautifully enchanted and historic grounds. Just waiting to be explored this summer. #yaddo #yaddogardens #yaddoartist #yaddosaratoga #surreyinn #surreywilliamsoninn #skidmore #skidmorecollege #saratoga #saratogasprings #sa...
thesurreyinn
50 likes • 916 views

🐾 Leash your pets

Dogs are welcome on leash, but be cautious of rose thorns. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Stroll at your own pace

Allow about 30 minutes to explore the gardens, or longer if you wish to linger. Reddit

This is the bittersweet past of Yaddo, a storied place here in Saratoga Springs, NY. Yaddo is a National Historic Landmark and now one of the oldest artist residencies in the country. Coincidentally, it has many connections to our house, Chestwood (we’ll share more soon!). The Yaddo mansion is only open to the public once or twice a decade, with the next public tour falling on September 26th and...
chestwoodsaratoga
7.5K likes • 124.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Visit during peak bloom

Catch the roses in their full glory from late June through July for the most spectacular views. InstagramReddit

🚗 Arrive early for parking

The parking lot is small; aim for early morning visits to secure a spot. Reddit

🐾 Leash your pets

Dogs are welcome on leash, but be cautious of rose thorns. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Stroll at your own pace

Allow about 30 minutes to explore the gardens, or longer if you wish to linger. Reddit

📸 Perfect for photoshoots

Ideal spot for engagement and portrait photography with beautiful backdrops. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.4
(45 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Yaddo Gardens for their beauty, especially the stunning rose blooms in summer, and the serene atmosphere. While the small parking lot and occasional non-operational fountains are noted drawbacks, the free admission and well-kept grounds make it a highly recommended spot for a peaceful stroll and photography. InstagramReddit

"Grounds were beautiful with roses in full bloom. Very small parking area. Nice variety of wildflowers, statues and wooded areas...would have loved to see different flowers in the wide open grassy spots. And taking a tour of the residence would have been icing on the cake but it's not open to visitors."

Helayne Wright

"My husband and I finally got to see the Yaddo gardens yesterday for the first time, and it was the first week of being opened this season! Small parking area. Saw many beautiful flowers and landscapes. Some of the fountains were not turned on yet. Very well kept! I brought my small dog & kept her on a leash. I would caution others since many of the roses have thorns and I worried about my dog stepping on them, but she was fine! Took about 30mins to walk around the whole garden, and we loved it! We definitely look forward to coming back!"

Samirah Lynne Wisotzkey

"Very nice and kept gardens with a large grassy field. There were some people doing some yoga next to the large fountain, and overall just a nice place for a stroll. Not exactly stroller friendly if thats something of interest. Parking lot is relatively small, but I cant imagine it being so packed at once where it would present an issue."

David Abe

What People Like

Beautiful rose blooms
Serene atmosphere
Free admission

What People Dislike

Small parking area
Mansion not open
Some fountains dry

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Yaddo Gardens are located in Saratoga Springs, NY. The gardens have a small, designated parking area. Be mindful of the narrow, two-way access road leading to the parking. Reddit

Information on direct public transportation to Yaddo Gardens is limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services to reach the location. TikTok

While specific directions can vary, Yaddo Gardens are situated near the Saratoga Race Course. Using a GPS navigation system with 'Yaddo Gardens, Saratoga Springs, NY' should guide you effectively. Instagram

The gardens offer beautiful walking paths, but some areas might not be ideal for strollers due to uneven terrain. Reddit Consider this if you're planning to visit with very young children or require accessibility assistance. Reddit

Yaddo Gardens are close to the Saratoga Race Course and downtown Saratoga Springs, offering plenty of dining and other attractions. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Yaddo Gardens offer free entrance, making it an accessible and enjoyable destination for all visitors. InstagramReddit

The gardens are typically open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. They are closed on Fridays. Instagram

While the gardens are beautiful in many seasons, they are most renowned for their blooms in late spring and summer. Check their official schedule for specific seasonal access. Instagram

The Yaddo mansion, a historic artist residency, is rarely open to the public, typically only for special events or tours that occur infrequently. Instagram

Yaddo Gardens occasionally hosts events like 'Wine & Roses' with live music, wine, and mocktails. It's advisable to check their official channels for upcoming events. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Absolutely! Yaddo Gardens are a popular spot for photographers, especially for engagement sessions, portraits, and capturing the beauty of the roses and landscapes. Instagram+1

The rose garden during bloom season, the areas with marble statues, and the tranquil wooded paths offer picturesque backdrops for photos. Instagram

Yes, many professional photographers utilize Yaddo Gardens for client sessions. It's always a good idea to check if any specific permits are required for commercial photography, though casual visitor photography is generally welcomed. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more appealing look. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for professional shoots or commercial use, it's wise to inquire with Yaddo administration about any specific guidelines or potential fees. Instagram

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Visitors can enjoy strolling through the beautiful rose garden, admiring marble statues and fountains, and exploring peaceful wooded areas. It's a serene escape for nature lovers. InstagramReddit

A leisurely walk through the gardens typically takes about 30 minutes, but you can easily spend more time relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Reddit

While specific seating might be limited, the grassy fields and benches (if available) offer spots to rest and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Reddit

Yes, bringing a picnic is a great way to enjoy the gardens. Some events, like 'Wine & Roses,' encourage guests to bring their own chairs or blankets. Instagram

Information on specific amenities like restrooms is not widely detailed. It's advisable to plan accordingly and perhaps use facilities before arriving. Some fountains may not always be operational. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yaddo Gardens can be a lovely outing for families, offering a peaceful environment for children to explore. The open grassy areas provide space for kids to run around, and the beautiful flowers and statues can spark their imagination. Reddit However, it's important to note that the gardens are not always stroller-friendly due to some uneven paths, and the rose bushes have thorns, so keeping a close eye on little ones is advised. Reddit Consider bringing a picnic to make the visit more enjoyable for everyone. Instagram

📸 Photographers and Couples

Yaddo Gardens are a dream destination for photographers, especially for engagement sessions and portrait photography. The combination of the vibrant rose garden, elegant marble statues, and serene wooded areas provides a stunning backdrop for capturing special moments. Instagram+1 Couples often find the romantic ambiance perfect for pre-wedding shoots or simply a picturesque date. TikTok Arriving during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon can enhance the photographic quality of the light. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers and Peace Seekers

For solo travelers or those seeking a tranquil escape, Yaddo Gardens offer a serene and contemplative environment. The well-maintained grounds and artistic elements provide a calming atmosphere for a peaceful stroll or quiet reflection. Reddit It's an ideal spot to unwind, enjoy nature's beauty, and perhaps find a moment of inspiration, much like the artists who frequent the Yaddo residency. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Legacy of Yaddo

Yaddo Gardens are part of the historic Yaddo estate, a renowned artist residency in Saratoga Springs, NY. Founded in the late 19th century by Spencer Trask as a gift to his wife, Katrina, the gardens were designed to be a sanctuary for creativity and beauty. Instagram The estate itself is a National Historic Landmark, embodying a rich artistic and cultural heritage. While the mansion is rarely open to the public, its presence adds to the mystique of the grounds. Instagram

Today, Yaddo continues its mission as one of the oldest artist residencies in the country, providing a haven for writers, composers, visual artists, and choreographers. This legacy of artistic inspiration permeates the very atmosphere of the gardens, making them a unique blend of natural splendor and creative energy. Visitors often feel a sense of tranquility and inspiration while wandering through the meticulously maintained landscapes. Instagram

Best Times for Floral Displays

The star attraction of Yaddo Gardens is undoubtedly its magnificent rose garden. The peak blooming season for the roses typically runs from mid-June through July, offering a breathtaking spectacle of colors and fragrances. Instagram Visitors who time their visit during this period are rewarded with the most vibrant and visually stunning experience. Reddit

Beyond the roses, the gardens also feature a variety of wildflowers and other plantings that contribute to their charm throughout the warmer months. While the roses are the main draw, the diverse flora ensures that the gardens offer beauty from late spring into early fall. Keep an eye out for seasonal blooms that add to the ever-changing tapestry of the landscape. Reddit

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