Glass history, art and local architecture offer different perspectives on Ballston Spa. There is also a farmers’ market, activities at Kelly Park and a paved multi-use trail. When planning, it helps to distinguish between collections and architectural history on the one hand, and outdoor offerings and a longer trail connection on the other.
Glass history and changing art
The National Bottle Museum preserves the history of American bottle making. Visitors can see bottles and glassmaking tools there; exhibits may change. Glassblowing classes are held at Glassworks Studio on Washington Street. As availability may vary, it is best to check whether classes are available before your visit.
The second floor of the National Bottle Museum is also home to the Jan Rutland Memorial Artists' Space, a regional art gallery featuring changing exhibitions of significant works in a range of styles. The gallery has a different focus from the history of bottles and tools: here, works of art in various styles take center stage.
Architectural history in Ballston Spa
The Saratoga County History Center is housed in a building originally built as a spa hotel in 1792. Today, the center offers exhibition spaces about the Capital Region as well as a hands-on history learning space. Exhibits may change. In this way, the building’s former use is connected with exhibitions and hands-on history education.
Completed in 1862, Christ Episcopal Church is in the English Gothic style; it was designed by Richard Upjohn & Co. of New York City. The West Mill Complex, in turn, is a notable example of late 19th-century architecture on a four-acre site along Kayaderosseras Creek. The three places highlight different periods and architectural features: the former spa hotel, the church and a site with historic architecture.
Market, park and trail connection
The Ballston Spa Farmers’ Market brings producers and consumers together at Wiswall Park and promotes locally made products. Its history dates back to 2003. This adds a connection to locally produced goods to a visit that also includes cultural and architectural attractions.
Kelly Park has a kayak and canoe launch; the park is also designated as a place for fishing and picnicking. This sets it apart from the market at Wiswall Park: Kelly Park focuses on a kayak and canoe launch, fishing and picnicking, while the market brings producers and consumers together.
The Zim Smith Trail offers a different way to explore the area: this paved multi-use trail is 11.5 miles long and connects Ballston Spa with Mechanicville. It passes through the towns of Ballston, Malta and Clifton Park, as well as the Village of Round Lake. Unlike activities at a single location, the trail connects several places. This makes it easy to distinguish between a park offering in Ballston Spa and a multi-use trail covering a longer distance when planning your trip.
Discover more destinations: Waterford, Malta, Mechanicville, Clifton Park, Saratoga Springs, Northumberland
Return to the main travel overview: Saratoga.
