There’s so much to explore in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., if you’re planning to visit for the summer meet that runs from July 11 to Sept. 2. Well before you get to the track, you have to check out what Saratoga has to offer when it comes to food and drink. This article is for my fellow beer drinkers.

Until a few years ago, I had no idea just how awesome Saratoga’s beer scene had become. Whether you’re looking to grab a cold one on a hot afternoon or you’re settled in for a long night of sampling ’til you find your favorite, these are some of my top spots to hit when you’re in Saratoga.

Druthers Brewing Company

Druthers Brewing Company/Facebook

In addition to having one of the most dynamic (and tastiest!) menus in the area, Druthers brews its own beer in-house. I’ve had just about everything they offer on tap, including IPAs, ales, and even sours. They truly do a little bit of everything at Druthers and I’ve never been disappointed with a single sip of their beer. Pro tip: Try to get a spot at the bar or an outdoor table earlier in the day. Druthers can get really busy toward dinner and it might take away from your experience – but only a little bit.

Henry Street Taproom

Henry Street Taproom/Facebook

This place is heaven for a hipster. I remember walking in for the first time and seeing a stack of vinyl, a spinning record player and a chalkboard full of local brews with ABVs climbing into the mid-teens! I instantly fell in love. Henry Street Taproom is constantly rotating local brews, showcasing some of the very best beer made from New York to New England. This is one of my favorite spots for a nightcap. I love closing out a long day with a heavy-hitting stout (I know, there’s something wrong with me) and Henry Street always has at least a handful of rich and tasty stouts from which to choose.

Whitman Brewing Co.

Whitman Brewing Co. /Facebook

This spot is high on my list on Belmont Stakes week primarily because I’ve never actually been here. The brew hall opened in 2022 after a four-year renovation project inside what used to house The Saratogian newspaper. Whitman currently has an impressive list of IPAs on tap to go along with a German pilsner, an Irish red ale, and even a passion fruit, agave, lime sour-fruited gose. In addition to the beer, the food gets rave reviews – especially the pizza. If you’re trying to save your calories for the beer, you know they serve up a mean salad at Whitmans called the “Leaves of Grass.” There’s also a café in the building where you can load up on caffeine before going to the races or grab some cans of beer to go.

Pint Sized

Pint Sized/Facebook

Don’t be intimidated. When you first approach Pint Sized, it might feel like you’re walking into an underground biker bar without knowing anyone who can vouch for you. But the bartenders and locals who crowd the miniature bar are always super-inviting. You’ll have a dozen rotating taps to browse but if you’re just looking for something else, there are coolers stocked with a variety of cans and bottles. You can either take them to go or stick around for a bit and make some new friends. I’d recommend popping in right after lunch or just before dinner.

Artisanal Brew Works

Artisanal Brew Works/Facebook

Even if you don’t know Artisanal by name, most people in the beer scene have likely come across one of the breweries’ most eye-catching creations – “Warheads” extreme sour candy flavored hard seltzers and sour ales. I know the purists will shy away, but I’m a sucker for a gimmicky beer and these drink well too. They’re a must-try, even if you only try one. You’ve also got plenty of alternatives at Artisanal including your lagers, stouts and IPAs. I’d recommend taking full advantage of their Tuesday and Thursday specials. You can get a personal pizza and a beer for $12 on Tuesdays or a burger and a beer for $17 on Thursdays. If you plan on being in Saratoga more than just on Belmont week, look into Artisanal’s “Mug Club” which offers up to 20% off on growler fills and cans to go.

Horseshoe Inn & Bar

Horseshoe Inn & Bar/Facebook

This is your spot if you’re just looking for a no-frills walk-up bar where you can just plop down, pull out a couple of crinkled bills and get served up an ice cold beer. The atmosphere is spectacular at Horseshoe, especially during horse racing season. On most days (and nights), you can catch live music while enjoying your drinks. The food is pretty solid, as well. And the best part is, the Horseshoe is within walking distance of the track (literally steps away) so it makes for the perfect pregame or post-race drinking spot.