Destination Saratoga: All Access

Join host MacKenzie Zarzycki for the season two finale of the Destination Saratoga All-Access Podcast with Jessie House of Discover Saratoga! From the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival and SPAC concerts to farmers markets, cocktails, movies, fitness goals, and favorite local spots, this episode covers everything happening in Saratoga County this summer. Plus, MacKenzie and Jessie recap favorite momen...

Host MacKenzie Zarzycki chats with Danielle DeSantis, owner of Bear’s Cup Bakehouse, about her journey from professional singer to bakery owner. Danielle shares the story behind Bear’s Cup, building a business alongside her husband, balancing family and work life, and what inspired the opening of their second location in Saratoga Springs. From motherhood and entrepreneurship to big decisions and b...

In this episode of Destination Saratoga All-Access: After Hours with Saratoga Living, MacKenzie and Natalie talk patio season, Belmont excitement, farmers markets, and spring happenings around Saratoga County. They also share the latest buzz surrounding The Pearl Oyster Bar and welcome a quick appearance from Ryan McFadden, who shares details about his newest venture, Saratoga Dough Co. This episo...

Host MacKenzie Zarzycki sits down with Saratoga Hospital President and CEO Jill VanKuren to discuss healthcare and the evolving needs of Saratoga County. The two explore Saratoga Hospital’s impact through annual fundraisers like the Cantina Kids Fun Run and the hospital gala, along with unique initiatives like the Community Health Center and the Center for Successful Aging & Wellness. Jill als...

Host MacKenzie Zarzycki sits down with Kelly Jeanmaire, founder of The Main Event by Kelly, to talk about how Saratoga County is a dream wedding destination. From France to Saratoga, Kelly brings over 13 years of experience, including time at the iconic Hall of Springs. She shares insights on planning weddings across the Capital Region, highlights trusted local vendors, and offers expert tips for...

In this episode of Destination Saratoga All-Access: After Hours with Saratoga Living, MacKenzie and Natalie break down everything happening in Saratoga Springs this spring. From Derby Day celebrations and new restaurant openings to Gaffney’s return, upcoming events, and Saratoga’s best nightlife, they share insider insights and local favorites. It’s your inside scoop on what’s happening in Saratog...

Host MacKenzie Zarzycki sits down with The Children’s Museum at Saratoga Executive Director Sarah Smith to explore the museum’s growth, impact, and future vision. From its expanded home at the Lincoln Baths to hands-on exhibits like the green screen studio and fire truck, the museum brings learning to life through creative play. Sarah also shares how partnerships with local organizations, librarie...

Host MacKenzie Zarzycki sits down with Samantha Bosshart, Executive Director of the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation, to discuss the important role historic preservation plays in shaping Saratoga Springs’ identity. The Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that promotes the preservation and enhancement of the architectural, cultural, and landscaped heritage of Saratoga Springs. From...

Host MacKenzie Zarzycki chats with Chef Noah Frese of Noah’s Restaurant to discuss his journey from culinary school to opening a new Italian-American restaurant in Saratoga. Noah shares insights on building a loyal kitchen team, creating standout dishes like his popular fried spaghetti, and delivering a unique dining experience through concepts like the chef’s table. The conversation also touches...

In this episode of After Hours with Saratoga Living, host MacKenzie Zarzycki sits down with Natalie Moore, editor of Saratoga Living, at Henry Street Taproom. The two discuss the latest issue of Saratoga Living, including a feature on Old Tavern Farm and its expanding winery and distillery offerings. MacKenzie and Natalie also explore Saratoga’s evolving dining scene—from trending concepts like “g...

Host MacKenzie Zarzycki chats with John Nemjo, founder of Saratoga Outdoors. John shares how he transformed a small Adirondack startup into a trusted outdoor destination in Saratoga Springs, built on community, sustainability, and exceptional customer service. The conversation highlights local outdoor activities and explores spring trends in clothing and footwear for today’s outdoor enthusiasts.

In this episode of the Destination Saratoga All-Access, host MacKenzie Zarzycki sits down with Paul O’Donnell, owner of Celtic Treasures in downtown Saratoga Springs. Paul shares the story behind his Irish heritage, the history of the iconic Claddagh ring, and how a conversation with a Canadian farmer inspired him to open his shop more than 30 years ago. The conversation explores the evolution of...

In this episode of Destination Saratoga All-Access, host MacKenzie Zarzycki sits down with Teddy Foster, Executive Director of Universal Preservation Hall, to share the inspiring story behind one of Saratoga’s most beloved performance venues. Teddy reflects on the 20-year journey to save and restore the historic building, the challenges of opening just before the pandemic, and the incredible comeb...

In this episode of After Hours with Saratoga Living , host MacKenzie Zarzycki sits down with Natalie Moore editor of Saratoga Living at Kindred in downtown Saratoga Springs to sip creative cocktails and catch up on what’s new around town. From the release of the 2026 Saratoga County Visitor Guide to exciting developments at Saratoga Lake—including a floating sauna and houseboat stays—they cover th...

In this episode of the Destination Saratoga All Access Podcast, host MacKenzie Zarzycki sits down with Alison D’Antonio, CEO of the Saratoga Regional YMCA, to explore how the Y is so much more than “gym and swim.” Alison shares her 15-year journey from personal trainer to the organization’s first female CEO, leading six locations across three counties and overseeing childcare, summer camp, UPK, an...

In this episode of Destination Saratoga: All Access, host MacKenzie Zarzycki chats with Tracy Passaro, founder of Ladylily’s Place, a designer cookie studio in Saratoga Springs where art and community collide. Tracy shares how the pandemic led her back to her artistic roots, using custom sugar cookies as a creative outlet and a way to bring joy to others. From heartfelt hospital-themed cookies to...

In this episode of Destination Saratoga: All Access , host MacKenzie Zarzycki sits down with Ryan McMahon, Executive Director of the Saratoga Springs City Center, to explore how this downtown venue has become a hub for year-round meetings, events, and tourism. From large-scale conferences to beloved community events like Flurry Festival and Comic Con, Ryan shares behind-the-scenes stories, key loc...

This is After Hours with Saratoga Living, a monthly segment with Natalie Moore, editor of Saratoga Living. Host MacKenzie Zarzycki and Natalie meet at Henry Street Taproom to talk all things Saratoga—from winter events and new restaurant openings to local trends shaping the community. The conversation touches on Dry January, mindfulness, screen fatigue, and the resurgence of Mahjong, while spotlig...

Join host MacKenzie Zarzycki for an inspiring conversation with Amy Bloom, Executive Director of Saratoga Arts, as they celebrate the organization’s exciting reopening following a $2 million renovation. From upgraded galleries and a modernized theater to enhanced classrooms and new access to Congress Park, Amy shares what’s new—and what’s next—for this beloved community arts hub. The two reflect o...

Join host MacKenzie Zarzycki for a cozy winter chat with Jessie House of Discover Saratoga! From Chowderfest and other must-attend local winter events—including the second annual Saratoga Film Showcase—to cocktails and favorite hangout spots, this episode covers everything you need to know about the season in Saratoga County. Plus, we dive into pop culture moments like Stranger Things and the Gold...

As our holiday gift to you, we’ve compiled our favorite episodes of 2025 as a memento to all the hidden gems that we had the privileged to explore and inspiring people we’ve met in Saratoga this year. Thank you all for all of the support shown throughout 2025. Happy Holidays from us at Destination Saratoga, and we will see you soon in 2026!CHAPTERS:00:00 Welcome to Destination Saratoga01:02 Explor...

Where are you going to be when the ball drops on New Year’s? This holiday-themed episode explores the excitement building around Saratoga, from upcoming seasonal events to reflections on the past year and cherished Christmas traditions. From Santa Con to New Year’s celebrations, the conversation spotlights the gatherings that bring the community together, capturing the joy, nostalgia, and festive...

Discover the inspiring story behind Toys for Toga, a community-driven holiday initiative founded by Max Oswald. In this conversation, we explore how the program grew from a humble toy collection program to a city wide initiative, providing new toys and gifts for children of all ages. Hear powerful personal stories, learn how local businesses and volunteers fuel the mission, and see how creative fu...

Jump right into the holiday season and make the most of winter in Saratoga. Take a refreshing plunge at the brand‑new Coase Sauna on the lake, then escape into the inviting stacks of Botanica Books, the cozy new third‑floor bookstore on Broadway. On December 4 (6–9 PM), stroll through the 39th Annual Victorian Street Walk, where Broadway sparkles with twinkling lights, carolers, and festive charm....

Unique listings, equine properties, and historic homes. From the emotional journey of buying a home to insider tips on navigating Saratoga’s housing market, this episode delivers real-world stories, standout listings, and professional insights from Saratoga’s top realtors. The Julie & Co. agents share career-defining moments, current market trends, and their predictions for the region’s real e...