Summer in Saratoga Springs.

Best known for its thoroughbred racetrack, Saratoga Springs is an utterly delightful spot for a long summer weekend. Its stately gardens and Victorian architecture recall another era. And if you settle into the historic Adelphi Hotel, you can ditch the car and stroll to dozens of top-notch restaurants.

The naturally carbonated mineral water first put Saratoga on the map in the mid 19th century. The "New Spa," which dates from 1935, was modeled after the great spas of Europe. Today, the complex is a National Historic Landmark. And there are still plenty of places where you can go for a soak.

Horse racing season goes from July 23 until September 1. Even if you're not much of a gambler, consider dressing up and having lunch at the Turf Terrace Dining Room. Saratoga is the oldest continuously operating track in the country and it was named one of the Top 10 Sporting Venues in the World by Sports Illustrated. The 139th running of the Travers Stakes takes place this year on August 23.

The Saratoga Performing Arts Center is the summer home of the New York City Ballet and the Philadelphia Orchestra. Located outdoors in the Saratoga Spa State Park, the venue also hosts a Jazz Festival and concerts with headliners like Dave Matthews, The Police, and Counting Crows. This year's Jazz Festival, which takes place on June 28 and 29, features the Return to Forever Reunion with Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke, Al DiMeola, and Lenny White. For a complete calendar, visit http://www.spac.org.

Saratoga has more great restaurants than many towns ten times its size. One of our favorites is Hattie's. Opened in 1938, Hattie's serves southern soul food like Louisiana Crab Cakes, Mac and Cheese with Andouille Sausage, and Pan-Fried Catfish. We can't seem to get past the fried chicken, which is still made from Hattie's original recipe. Try it with smashed potatoes and collard greens, and wash it down with a mojito.