The Gideon Putnam
Historic park lodging offering refined rooms, a spa, and dining, nestled in Saratoga Spa State Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for park exploration
The Gideon Putnam
Best Time
Pleasant weather for park exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic park lodging offering refined rooms, a spa, and dining, nestled in Saratoga Spa State Park.
"A stately and lovely building with large campus grounds, wooded, easy walking paths and a shuttle to take you into Saratoga Springs."
🚗 Shuttle to Downtown
Utilize the hotel shuttle for easy access to downtown Saratoga Springs, running late.
🚶♀️ Explore the Park
Walk to mineral springs, trails, and SPAC. Bike rentals are also available.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Saratoga Spa State Park
Adjacent to the hotel
Explore historic mineral springs, walking trails, and the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC).
Historic Elegance
Hotel interior
Experience the timeless charm of the restored rooms and grand common areas.
On-site Dining
Hotel restaurant
Enjoy meals with indoor or outdoor seating, featuring a patio for pleasant evenings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Historic Charm
Location is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Shuttle to Downtown
Utilize the hotel shuttle for easy access to downtown Saratoga Springs, running late.
🚶♀️ Explore the Park
Walk to mineral springs, trails, and SPAC. Bike rentals are also available.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Stays
Furry friends are welcome, making it a great option for travelers with pets.
🥂 Event Venue
The hotel is a popular spot for weddings and events, offering beautiful spaces.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Shuttle to Downtown
Utilize the hotel shuttle for easy access to downtown Saratoga Springs, running late.
🚶♀️ Explore the Park
Walk to mineral springs, trails, and SPAC. Bike rentals are also available.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Stays
Furry friends are welcome, making it a great option for travelers with pets.
🥂 Event Venue
The hotel is a popular spot for weddings and events, offering beautiful spaces.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests often praise The Gideon Putnam for its historic charm, beautiful park location, and pet-friendly policy. The staff is frequently commended for being friendly and accommodating. However, some visitors find the rooms dated and small, and the amenity fee and dining experience did not meet expectations for the price point in some instances.
"Stayed here while attending a group function. This was the host hotel. It is a stately and lovely building with large campus grounds, wooded, easy walking paths and a shuttle to take you into Saratoga Springs that runs until quite late. There is a restaurant/bar on site with indoor/outdoor seating. A golf course, state park, bicycle rental, mineral baths and an outdoor performing arts venue all within walking distance. Our room was ample size, bed very comfortable and bathroom was small but in keeping with the era the hotel was built. The elevator went out briefly at some point but there is a freight elevator to use. The staff and communications were first rate. Overall our experience was wonderful."
Diane K
"What a pleasure it was to work with the team at the Gideon Putnam to put together and host my daughters Bridal Shower this past weekend! The Garden Room was a perfect venue with its beautiful, historical vibe. The brunch was outstanding and our server Anne, was incredibly kind and helpful! The Mimosa bar had all kinds of juice options, including N/A and fruit garnishes so everyone had fun creating their personal and pretty drinks! The brunch was so well done and they didn't rush us through it, even leaving all the yummy desserts out for us to graze on as we went through our games and gifts.
From the day that I called, to the day we met to view the room and determine the menus and setup, to our event yesterday - I've never had a smoother, more professional experience! Everyone who came raved about how pretty the room was and how great the food was and I've gotten several texts from people expressing what a lovely shower and venue it was! These folks made me the hero of the day and I can't recommend them to much! They'll definitely be my "go to" from here on out!"
Jen Steinberg
"I am writing to provide feedback on our recent stay at the Gideon Putnam Hotel. This was meant to be a special anniversary celebration, and we chose your property because of the wonderful experience we had there some 20 years ago. Unfortunately, the quality of this visit did not align with our expectations, nor did it justify the rate of more than $873.96 per night. The Amenity Fee of $30 is really over the top.
Several specific concerns contributed to our disappointment:
• No staff was available to assist with our luggage upon arrival, and the front desk personnel were less than welcoming.
• The guest room was not of acceptable quality: the overall appearance was dark and dingy, the carpet was worn and in need of cleaning, the beds were poorly made, in addition, the bathtub and towels were old and in need of replacement.
• No complimentary bottled water was provided. We were required to purchase three bottles of water at the front desk for $15.
• The dining facilities did not reflect a five-star rating. The dining room appeared dated and in need of a thorough cleaning and updating. Even the windows were in need of cleaning. While the wait staff were attentive and professional, the overall atmosphere was not inviting. In addition, no lunch service was available, and the dinner menu was very limited. The $22 morning buffet was the only option for breakfast.
Given the cost of the stay, the level of service and condition of the property were not consistent with what should be expected. Our visit, regrettably, fell well short of the standards we associate with a property of this reputation and price point.
I hope you will take this feedback under serious consideration, as the Gideon Putnam has the potential to once again provide the welcoming, high-quality experience that guests anticipate."
Ausma Mursch
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gideon Putnam is located in Saratoga Springs, NY. From Albany, you can drive approximately 30-40 minutes north via I-87 N. Alternatively, you can take an Amtrak train from Albany-Rensselaer station to Saratoga Springs station, which is a short taxi or rideshare away from the hotel.
Yes, The Gideon Putnam offers parking for guests. Specifics on availability and any associated fees should be confirmed directly with the hotel.
While The Gideon Putnam is located in Saratoga Spa State Park, downtown Saratoga Springs is a short drive away. The hotel provides a shuttle service to downtown, which runs until quite late, making it convenient to explore the city without driving.
The closest major airport is Albany International Airport (ALB), which is about a 30-40 minute drive from The Gideon Putnam.
Saratoga Springs has a train station served by Amtrak. From the station, you would need a taxi or rideshare to reach the hotel. Local bus services may also be available within Saratoga Springs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, entry into Saratoga Spa State Park itself is free. However, specific attractions within the park, such as the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) for concerts or the Roosevelt Baths & Spa, may require separate tickets or reservations.
The Gideon Putnam is a hotel and is open year-round. Specific hours for its restaurant, spa, or other amenities should be checked directly with the hotel.
Yes, you can typically book rooms at The Gideon Putnam through their official website or various online travel agencies.
The hotel may offer seasonal packages or deals, especially during events like the Saratoga Race Course season or for group functions. It's advisable to check their website or contact them directly for current offers.
Yes, some guests have noted an amenity fee, which was described as $30 per night in one review. It's recommended to confirm all fees when booking.
🎫 🏨 Onsite Experience
The Gideon Putnam offers refined rooms and suites, a spa, a gym, and an on-site restaurant with a patio. It's also located within Saratoga Spa State Park, providing access to trails and mineral springs.
Yes, The Gideon Putnam has a spa. It is often associated with the Roosevelt Baths & Spa, which is located nearby within the park.
Yes, The Gideon Putnam is pet-friendly, making it a welcoming option for travelers with their animal companions.
The hotel features an on-site restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, including a patio. Reviews suggest the food can be good, though some found the dining room dated.
The rooms at The Gideon Putnam are described as having historic charm, with some guests noting they can be small and in keeping with the era the hotel was built. Renovations have been made to some rooms.
📸 📸 Photography
The hotel's location within Saratoga Spa State Park offers many picturesque spots, including the historic architecture of the hotel itself, the surrounding natural landscapes, and the mineral springs.
Yes, you can take photos at the various mineral springs throughout Saratoga Spa State Park. It's a unique aspect of the area that many visitors capture.
Absolutely. The hotel's elegant architecture, beautiful park setting, and historic ambiance make it a sought-after location for wedding photography.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) often provides the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm glow on the hotel and park surroundings.
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is permitted. However, for professional shoots or commercial purposes, it's advisable to contact the hotel management for any specific guidelines or permissions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a suite for more space to accommodate children. The shuttle service to downtown can be useful for family outings, and the proximity to SPAC might be appealing if attending a family-friendly performance.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
For a truly relaxing experience, consider booking a spa treatment at the nearby Roosevelt Baths & Spa. The serene environment of the park and the hotel's classic ambiance create a perfect escape for couples seeking a tranquil and sophisticated getaway.
🚶♀️ Active Travelers & Nature Enthusiasts
Guests can easily access the park's mineral springs for a unique tasting experience and enjoy the outdoor ambiance. The proximity to the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) also offers opportunities for evening entertainment amidst the park's natural setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Today, the hotel stands as a testament to that vision, offering a blend of historical architecture and modern amenities. Its location within the sprawling Saratoga Spa State Park, a National Historic Landmark, further immerses guests in the area's past. The park itself is dotted with historic structures and the very mineral springs that drew visitors centuries ago.
Many guests appreciate the hotel's connection to history, finding it a unique aspect of their stay. While some rooms may reflect the building's age, this is often seen as part of its charm, offering a step back in time. The staff's knowledge of the hotel's past can also add to the immersive experience.
Experiencing Saratoga Spa State Park
Beyond the springs, the park boasts miles of scenic walking and biking trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike. The park is also home to the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), a renowned outdoor amphitheater that hosts a variety of concerts and performances throughout the summer.
Visitors can rent bicycles to traverse the park's grounds, visit the Saratoga Automobile Museum, or indulge in treatments at the Roosevelt Baths & Spa, which is conveniently located nearby. The park provides a serene escape and a chance to connect with nature, all within easy reach of the hotel.
Weddings and Events at The Gideon Putnam
Couples often praise the professionalism and attentiveness of the event staff, noting how smoothly their events were planned and executed. The combination of the hotel's classic architecture, the natural beauty of Saratoga Spa State Park, and the quality of the catering contributes to memorable occasions.
From bridal showers to full wedding receptions, The Gideon Putnam aims to provide a seamless and elegant experience. The ability to host events within such a historic and scenic location makes it a top choice for those looking for a sophisticated celebration in Saratoga Springs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit