Saratoga Seating - Whitney S. Day

[LuvRedHeads]

Hi All:
Does anyone have any recommendations for seating at Saratoga on Whitney Stakes Day - Saturday, Aug. 5.

Do my husband and I need to buy grandstand tickets in advance? We’re driving 3+ hours to get there, so a super early arrival will not be possible.

I saw pictures of benches in front of the grandstand seats – are those ticketed seats or general admission?

Thanks in advance for any and all suggestions!

[Palm_Beach]

You should buy tickets - the apron is general admission and “first come first served” for benches. The grandstand reserved seating and clubhouse reserved seating is inexpensive and under cover if it rains. Weekends are usually crowded. And also make dinner reservations NOW if you expect to eat at a local restaurant after the races. Have fun!!

[LuvRedHeads]

Thanks PB! Do people get there early and ‘reserve’ the benches on the apron, the way they do the picnic tables?

Ultimately, that’s really where I’d like to sit, weather permitting.

[CVPeg]

Yes, they get there early to reserve those spots, but right when the gate opens for racing. Track is open early for breakfast, then closes. Looks like it reopens at 1030 on Whitney Day.

But I also agree w/ what PB says - buy reserved seat tickets ahead of time - there is always a good chance of rain - being in the clubhouse/grandstand keeps you dry - although the very first row might get a little wet. And, the grandstands are graded so it is easier to see the horses/race/screens in the grandstand than on the apron.

[Palm_Beach]

You can buy seats and just wander down to the apron to watch if it’s a nice day. Actually, if you spend the money on seats, it’s almost a guarantee that the weather will be perfect for the benches and you won’t need the cover! But the food on the clubhouse side is a little nicer - there is a good salad booth.

[SaratogaTB]

Folks will be lined up from early in the morning, some hanging out for hours, to get in and claim seating. Best to buy seats if there are still available.