Saratoga's Gilded Age Adelphi Hotel Completes Expansion And Renovation

Forbes

11 hours ago

The Adelphi Hotel is a Saratoga famed 19th-century grand hotel. Michelle Lange Photography
The Adelphi Hotel, a MICHELIN Key property located in historic downtown Saratoga Springs, is putting the final touches on its $75 million-plus expansion and renovation. The Adelphi Hotel is the last surviving example of Saratoga's famed 19th-century grand hotels, remaining a rare bridge from the Gilded Age to the present day.
Horse racing enthusiasts flock to Saratoga each year. getty
On July 2, the Adelphi is having its official Grand Reopening replete with special speakers, dignitaries, celebrations and tours. It coincides with the Saratoga Race Course hosting for the first time the July 4th Racing Festival. From July 3-6, the track will hold several major stakes races, including the Belmont Derby on July 4 and the Belmont Oaks Invitational on July 5. As with the Belmont Stakes Racing Festival this week, Saratoga Springs should be hopping during the Festival.
The hotel's transformation includes additional guest rooms. Elizabeth Haynes Photo
The classic Victorian hotel's transformation includes additional guest rooms (from 32 to 65) with luxe touches like ultra-modern bathrooms and radiant-heated floors, luxury condominiums, an upgraded lobby, a ballroom and a spa. The hotel and residences also provide residents and guests with concierge services, housekeeping, on-site restaurants, including Salt & Char and Morrissey's, and business and fitness amenities.
Outside, the Adelphi Hotel Gardens, which once offered a sanctuary for guests just steps from the bustle of Broadway, have been reimagined for the modern-day traveler, blending beauty, privacy and historic storytelling.
Since its opening in 1877, The Adelphi Hotel has welcomed socialites, politicians and stars of state and sport. The guestbook includes signatures from a rich cast of characters over nearly 150 years, from famed jockeys to racing elites. As the hotel underwent restoration, echoes of the past were uncovered from architectural relics, to rumors of underground tunnels possibly leading toward the Saratoga National Bank and Congress Park Casino. While unconfirmed, these stories are part of the lore that makes The Adelphi Hotel more than a hotel; it's a time capsule. Today, The Adelphi Hotel continues to host tastemakers and travelers alike, proving its legacy is not just history.
Guests are treated to luxurious amenities throughout the hotel. Meri Light
Already a MICHELIN Key hotel, renovations and enhancements include: Beautiful new guest rooms in the historic Rip Van Dam building, now connected to the Adelphi.
A state-of-the-art kitchen, now serving both their farm-to-table steakhouse, Salt & Char, and Morrissey's Lounge & Bistro, improving culinary innovation and service.
Upgraded guest amenities, preserving the hotel's historic character while introducing contemporary luxuries.
A newly designed lobby that enhances the arrival experience with warmth and sophistication.
A reimagined gardens with a new three-season pergola, harking back to the hotel's garden of the 19th century when guests would spend their time mingling, enjoying the 'water cure' of the nearby springs, and socializing well into the early hours of the morning.
Colorful flowers captivate discerning guests upon arrival. Michelle Lange photo Michael Dubb, co-owner of The Adelphi Hotel, explained the significance of the renovation and expansion. What prompted the decision to renovate and expand The Adelphi Hotel?
The Adelphi sits on the most coveted real estate in downtown Saratoga Springs, a city rich in culture and history. The demand was there for something far more ambitious. When the Rip Van Dam property next door became available in 2019, my business partner Larry Roth and I immediately saw the opportunity to do something extraordinary.
We reimagined the hotel and the corner of Broadway and Washington Street. We connected the two buildings. We introduced 79 luxury condominium residences and expanded from 32 to 65 hotel guest rooms. Residents and guests now share in the elevated five-star lifestyle we've created. This expansion gave us the space to enhance the Adelphi experience. Our world-class amenities incorporate an expanded lobby and larger indoor/outdoor event space, full-service spa and salon, high-end fitness center, game room and business lounge. We wanted The Adelphi to offer a level of hospitality and luxury that has never before been seen in this region. I truly believe we've achieved that.
The outdoor gardens that connect to the ballroom were completely transformed. There is new stone flooring, a retractable roof and design features for an intimate indoor-outdoor experience with fire pits and lounge seating. The ballroom now accommodates up to 225 guests and is a destination for weddings, private events and live music. Describe the project's scope.
This was never just about expansion. It was about elevating the Adelphi brand and creating an unmatched guest experience. This was a $90 million investment that revitalized not only The Adelphi Hotel, but the entire downtown and Saratoga Springs community. We installed heated sidewalks, redesigned the landscaping and brought new life to the heart of the city. It took hundreds of thousands of labor hours and a commitment to excellence in every detail. Preserving the hotel's historic character was essential. I've had a personal connection to Saratoga for over 50 years. To restore and elevate a 175-year-old landmark that means so much to this city was deeply important to me. It wasn't just about development. It was about honoring a legacy while creating something exceptional for the future.
Dining at the Adelphi is a very special experience. Elizabeth Haynes Photo What can guests expect in terms of Ambiance?
The Adelphi delivers a true five-star experience with a warm, approachable atmosphere. From the moment guests arrive, they are welcomed by professional staff who take pride in every detail. The interiors are elegant and timeless. The ambience is relaxed yet refined.
The guest rooms are a standout. They are spacious, filled with natural light and designed with comfort and sophistication in mind. Features like heated hardwood floors, oversized bathrooms and high-end finishes create a level of luxury that exceeds what many well-known luxury hotels offer.
Dining at The Adelphi is just as impressive. Salt & Char serves some of the finest steaks I've ever had, and Morrissey's offers an elevated American bistro experience. We also added a private dining room at Salt & Char that seats 25 guests, perfect for intimate gatherings. Every part of the hotel reflects a commitment to excellence and an experience that feels both exclusive and welcoming. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes The Uber-Rich Are Flocking To This Small Mountain Town By Roger Sands Forbes 'Skill-Cations' Provide Options For Personal Growth And Enrichment By Roger Sands