The building that houses the museum was originally a casino, opened in 1870 by John Morrissey and bought by Richard Canfield after Morrissey died in 1878. Both men stayed in good graces in the town by giving large donations to charities, allowing women in the dining room only, and not allowing locals in the building at all. Even so, Canfield was forced to close the casino in 1907 due to anti-gambling sentiment. Other casinos in town continued operating illegally until the 1950s.
The first floor of the museum covers the history of Saratoga Springs from the Native Americans who came to bathe in the springs through the city's growth as a popular resort with mineral springs, horse racing, gambling, and luxury hotels. The high stakes gambling room has been restored and includes much of the original furniture. The dining hall, with its ceiling of octagon stained glass windows, has been restored too. More exhibits are on the 2nd and 3rd floors.
The casino (now museum) is surrounded by Congress Park so when visitors weren't enjoying the resort's other attractions they could stroll through the park which features ponds, fountains, and statues.
The first floor of the museum is accessible by a ramp located in the rear on the west side of the museum. The rear section of the building is owned by the city. Ignore the closed sign and unhook the chain. A guard will open the door and show you the way to the front desk. The 2nd and 3rd floors are not accessible and we were not charged to view the 1st floor.
The garden paths are brick, concrete and hard packed gravel. Most are accessible. The water in the fountains is drinkable but it tastes awful. If you want a taste, bring a cup.
Parking is available on either side of East Congress Street. The street dead ends in a small turnaround. The turnaround may not be large enough for turning long RVs or even short one if cars are parked at the end. There is also parking along Broadway.
Museum 43.07803, -73.78432
The first floor of the museum covers the history of Saratoga Springs from the Native Americans who came to bathe in the springs through the city's growth as a popular resort with mineral springs, horse racing, gambling, and luxury hotels. The high stakes gambling room has been restored and includes much of the original furniture. The dining hall, with its ceiling of octagon stained glass windows, has been restored too. More exhibits are on the 2nd and 3rd floors.
The first floor of the museum is accessible by a ramp located in the rear on the west side of the museum. The rear section of the building is owned by the city. Ignore the closed sign and unhook the chain. A guard will open the door and show you the way to the front desk. The 2nd and 3rd floors are not accessible and we were not charged to view the 1st floor. 
Museum has some beautiful rooms, and the grounds are lovely. I'll pass on the "drinking water!"
ReplyDeleteYes, it's recommended to have a camera ready to get the reaction when somebody takes a sip. :D
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