On Sunday, September 20, 2026, the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation will begin a series of guided walking tours at 10:30 a.m. The tours will move through Congress Park and the Historic West Side of Saratoga Springs, focusing on the neighborhood’s Irish and Black heritage.
The walks are part of a seasonal series that the foundation has organized each autumn. Participants will be led by knowledgeable volunteers who will point out historic landmarks, share stories of early settlers, and discuss the contributions of African‑American residents throughout the city’s development.
Congress Park, a long‑standing public space in the heart of the city, will serve as the starting point for the tours. From there, the route will continue into the Historic West Side, an area known for its 19th‑century architecture and a concentration of homes once inhabited by immigrant families. The park’s pathways and the West Side’s streets provide a tangible backdrop for the narratives presented.
The emphasis on Irish and Black heritage reflects the foundation’s goal of bringing lesser‑known aspects of local history to a wider audience. By highlighting the experiences of Irish immigrants who helped shape the city’s early economy and the Black community members whose cultural and civic contributions have endured, the tours aim to celebrate the diverse roots that define Saratoga Springs today.
The event is open to anyone interested in learning more about the city’s past. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure a place, as the tours are expected to draw a sizable crowd during the pleasant autumn weather. The Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation hopes the walks will foster a deeper appreciation for the area’s multicultural history and inspire ongoing community engagement.