5 More Safety Tips For Cyclists

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While cycling is a very fun activity, it can also be a very dangerous one if you are careless when out on your bike. We recently gave 5 tips for staying safe out there on the roads in Saratoga Springs and other locations, but there are actually five more tips that we want to share with you. So, check out the original tips if you haven’t already done so. Then, take a look at the additional suggestions below. There’s a good chance that you’re already familiar with these safety tips, but it never hurts to be reminded of all the extra little things that you can do to stay safe while riding your bike. And now, here are the next 5 safety tips for you to check out…

6) Cycle Safely

Ensure that you cycle consistently and do not do anything in an unpredictable or erratic manner, weaving in and out of parked cars means that drivers may not see you until you appear on the hood of a vehicle.

7) Be Aware

Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Always know what is happening on the road, keep your eyes and ears open, for vehicles behind, ahead and coming from the side. Watch out for sand, road chippings, gravel, glass, railway tracks, parked vehicles, snow, ice and slush, which can damage you and your bicycle. Your wheel can catch in sewer inspection plates, drains and potholes in the street, causing a jolt which can throw you off into the street. Remember that parked cars can mean people throwing car doors open suddenly and incautiously. Give yourself plenty of time before changing lane or turning the corner, and give other road users chance to appreciate what you are going to do.

8) Be Seen

Bright clothing may not sound too cool but it can save a cyclist’s life. Plus, there are actually some pretty cool cycling jersey options available for both men and women, so check some out before you form a judgement on it. Bright reflective clothing is extremely important at night, in bad weather conditions and in bad visibility. Ensure that the reflectors on the front, side and rear of your bicycle are clean and in good condition.

9) Be Hands On

Never cycle without at least one hand on the handlebars. Always signal your intention, rather than your action, using the correct hand signals when you are about to change lanes or turn left or right.

10) Maintain your Bicycle’s Brakes

Check your bicycle’s brakes frequently and maintain them in first class order. You should also understand how different weather and road conditions affect your braking ability.

5 Safety Tips for Cyclists

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Cycling is an inexpensive, healthy and fun way to get around. Cycling responsibly will not only save you from injury or worse, it can also help vehicle drivers to understand that cyclists are not dangerous nuisances and have as much right to the road as they have. Here are five safety tips for cyclists:

1) Obey the Law and Consider other Road Users

Cyclists should always be aware of all traffic regulations and laws in their area or state. Disobeying the law and traffic regulations by cycling through red traffic signals or on the wrong side of the road is dangerous and it gives all cyclists a bad name with motorists. Always cycle in single file, except in places where state laws allow it, and the road is sufficiently broad and straight to allow other road users to both see past you and to overtake safely.

2) Keep to the Right

Cycling on the sidewalk or against the traffic flow is usually illegal and always dangerous. Cycle in the same direction as the traffic is flowing keeping as far to the right as road conditions and safety allow, however not so close to the curb that your wheel could clip it thus throwing you off into the path of vehicles. When you want to overtake another cyclist, to turn left or avoid a hazard, wait until it is safe to so, signal your intention with the correct hand signal. Do not vaguely wave a hand and dart straight into the traffic it does not give other road users enough time.

3) Cycle with the Traffic when it is Safer to do so

Sometimes it is safer to ride in the traffic especially where it makes you more visible to other road users, for example, where the road is not wide enough for both a bicycle and a car to pass together. Join the traffic well before the intersection so that other road users, especially those turning right, can see you properly. Wait directly behind a vehicle so that you can see its indication lights.

4) Protect your Head

No matter the length of your cycle ride, whether it is to the corner store or miles away wear a properly fitting, fastened cycle safety helmet.

5) Give an Eye

Make eye contact with motorists whenever possible. This act helps other motorists see you and realize that you are there and human.

Where To Go Hiking and Biking in Saratoga Springs, NY Area

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Sarasota Springs, New York offers beautiful natural spaces for hiking, biking and other recreational activities. Here are some of the best nature trails in the area for you and your family to enjoy.

Ballston Veterans Bike Path

This walking trail, which is flat, straight and paved with asphalt, is perfect for hikes, skating and bike riding. This trail was created back during the early 1900’s when the Schenectady Railway Company ran a trolley line off to the west of Ballston Lake.

The trail stretches three and a half miles between Outlet Road and 146A. At the head of the trail on Main Street there’s a monument dedicated to the veterans of the town. Trees border most of the path on one side and a high bank on the opposite side make a good barrier for the railroad tracks.

Signs are posted with information that reminds you of the settlers from the 1700’s. Markers are placed along the trail every quarter mile to allow you to measure the distance you’ve walked.

Bog Meadow Nature Trail

This two mile trail offers a diverse habitat with forested wetlands, wet meadows and open marshes. The trail includes a boardwalk system which can be accessed on foot. Interpretive signs have been installed along the trail that highlight the historical and as well as wildlife information about the area.

The accessible location makes it a great alternative for day’s visit. Accessing the trail from the Meadow brook Road entrance gives visitors only a short distance to walk to the seating area which overlooks the pond. Three distinct wetland communities live in this area and you’re likely to see a variety of wildlife throughout the year.

Sarasota Spa State Park

This wonderful park has a variety of options for family relaxation, entertainment as well as cultural amenities. Sarasota State Park with its distinguished classical architecture is a great destination to spend the day.

For hiking there are several stream side trails available as well as certified running tracks also used by local high school and college athletes. The Ferndell and Wetland trails are perfect for the casual as well as more experienced hiker.

In addition the park offers two beautiful golf courses, the Sarasota Performing Arts Center, Saratoga Automobile Museum, National Museum of Dance as well as the Gideon Putnam Resort and Roosevelt Baths and Spa. The Peerless Pool Complex is another one of the park’s areas designed for fun and recreation. It consists of a main pool, a separate slide pool as well as a children’s wading pool. Also the Geyser picnic area now has expanded play areas for children.

Vischer Ferry Nature Preserve

This preserve is located on the southern part of Clifton Park along the Mohawk River. It offers over 450 acres for hiking, biking and nature walks as well as fishing and birding. The trails are well maintained and they integrate sections of the Old Erie Canal and Towpath.

As you walk along the Mowhawk River you’ll see historical markers that provide information that date as far back as the 1900’s. This unique area is also the only spot in New York State where you can see all three iterations of the Erie Canal within a short walking distance. The wetland provides a great habitat for many bird and plant species, and Great Blue Herons can be spotted in the area.

Zim Smith Trail

This trail is a great destination for hiking and biking as well as jogging or walking your dog. It goes from the town of Malta on through to the City of Mechanicville.

One of the best paces to start on this trail is Shenantaha Creek Park. This park is beautiful and offers many amenities including a playground area, picnic table, restroom facilities and tennis court.

You can enter the trail from the parking lot and continue on toward the villages of Round Lake and Halfmoon. This area is more wooded and the trail gently slopes downhill to offer a pleasing view of a ravine. Going past horse pastures and yards you’ll then start seeing the ornate gingerbread style homes that make up Round Lake Village. The trail then ends near a pond over by Coons Crossing Road.

All About Saratoga Springs SaratogaArts Fest 2014

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SaratogaArtsFest is a festival with just one mission statement. What is this mission statement? The answer is that it is in existence to advance the overall visibility of the arts for the Saratoga area. In addition to increasing the overall visibility of the arts, it also does aim to heighten both appreciation and enjoyment of the arts, and to bring together communities and art organizations too. It is an organization that promotes the arts year round, as well as, produces the festival of the arts for all to take part in at the end of the day.

SaratogaArtsFest strives to bring the arts together in all the ways that matter most. It is a five-day yearly celebration that takes place in June, and this year, the Saratoga Springs, New York SaratogaArtsFest 2014 will run from June 11th to June 15th. This very special festival does deliver all of the special energy, as well as, great brilliance of art in many forms. These many forms can take on dance, music, visual art, theatre, film, and literary art. The very first ever SaratogaArtsFest was held in 2007.. This unique festival is something that has definitely grown by leaps and bounds over the last few years.

When you get the admissions package for the SaratogaArtsFest, it will include the ARTSPASS, and what makes this ARTSPASS is obvious. Not only will an individual get all sorts of important discounted admission when it comes to signature events. They will also get either free or discounted admissions to lots of other festival events that are held during this June weekend.

The admission package for the SaratogaArtsFest does also include a bunch of yearly arts-related discounts that are featured in arts365! The arts365 is a directory that does contain a lot of all of the arts happenings that are going on in Saratoga Springs during the year. If you get the ARTSPASS, the cost is $40, but only $35 through January 31st, 2014, and only $20 for military through 05/31/2014. Young people ages 12 and under can buy discounted passes for free admission to a lot of the festival events.

An admission pass for the SaratogaArtsFest is the one thing that can get a person access to multiple events over a period of five days. In addition, to the ARTSPASS, there is also Duncan Sheik tickets that are available, and also tickets for single events. SatatogaArtsFest does indeed bring all of the arts together under just one whole group event, which is awesome in description, and that does deliver all of the many facts that makes art a very interesting thing in a number of major ways.

Find more info on their official site: http://www.saratogaartsfest.org/

Best Saratoga Springs, NY Bike Shops

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Saratoga Springs, New York has plenty to offer for the outdoor enthusiast, including many bike shops to help you get ready for that bike trail in Saratoga Spa State Park! Since there are so many different bicycle shops in Saratoga Springs, here is a quick rundown on the best shops.

Blue Sky Bicycles is located at 71 Church Street, Saratoga Springs, NY. Their hours are as follows: Monday through Friday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and closed on Sundays. Blue Sky Bicycles offers weekly bicycle rides starting from the shop for beginners to professionals. This shop offers expert repair and fittings for bicycles, along with the best brands in bicycles, clothing and accessories. At Blue Sky Bicycles, there is something for every cyclist. The personnel are professional and knowledgeable, with training completed so they can provide you with guidance and expertise as you try to find the perfect bicycle for you. To contact Blue Sky Bicycles, please call (518) 583-0600.

Spa City Bicycleworks was founded in 2011 and their philosophy is that cycling should be fun, not a chore. Their spring hours are: Closed on Monday and Tuesday, but open from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Wednesdays, 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursdays and Fridays, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturdays, and 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Sundays. This shop is equipped to provide you with professional repairs, yearly maintenance, and fittings for bicycles. The employees are friendly and ready to help you find your next bicycle. Located at 79 Beekman Street, Saratoga Springs, NY, Spa City Bicycleworks has plenty to offer both the casual and professional cyclist. The shop also offers ski and board tuning, along with a private indoor training studio that includes total body conditioning, yoga, and a combination of boxing and pilates. To contact Spa City Bicycleworks, please call (518) 587-0071.

While Saratoga Frameworks still shows when you do a search for bicycle shops in the Saratoga Springs area, Saratoga Frameworks factory and bicycle shop have shut their doors and are now closed.

Both Blue Sky Bicycles and Spa City Bicycleworks are sure to help you find the bicycle you have always dreamed about, whether you are a beginner or a professional. Drop in today to get started!

Best Saratoga Springs, NY Attractions

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Owing to its proximity to the Adirondacks, many people have appreciated the experiences waiting for them at Saratoga Springs. This community has diversified over the years, which has helped many people enjoy what they could find when they arrive here soon. Saratoga Spa State Park may be by far the biggest attraction that people could find waiting for them. Many people will be interested in the unique service options that they may have when they arrive this destination. The staff at this spa are ready to help people unwind and enjoy the experiences that they have at their disposal here.

Saratoga Springs History Museum

This venue is a great choice for families that are looking for a way to round out their experiences in this community. The Saratoga Springs History Museum has cobbled together an expansive array of different cultural items. It is located at the Canfield Casino Building. Many people will appreciate the chance to learn more about the community and how it has developed over time. This institution has remained dedicated to its vision of preserving local culture, so that future generations could enjoy it for themselves. This could be an important way for visitors to show their support for the city and what it stands for over time.

Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC)

The SPAC has been built up over the years and now showcases a wide array of different events. There are some expansive performances that tend to be performed within the building itself, which could be an important option for families heading in to the area. There are even new performances held here, which will showcase the talent emerging from the community over time. This could be a great way for local residents to develop their talents and even get discovered by different recruiting agencies from all over the country.

Saratoga Race Course

Horse racing has actually become quite prominent within this community. This has helped many people discover some of the unique aspects of the events that get held here. This race course is well kept and will be open to some of the most expansive racing events in the area. It is especially active during thoroughbred season, which is typically showcased during the course of late summer. The race track was originally built back in 1864, but it has received several additions since then. This has helped the track to draw in a considerable amount of talent over the years as well.

Best Saratoga Springs, NY Hotels

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Saratoga Springs, New York may have many hotels to offer you, but the best hotels can be found below. The highest rated hotel to stay in while visiting Saratoga Springs is Saratoga Arms. Rated at 3-stars, with very high customer reviews, Saratoga Arms is a bed and breakfast, with a boutique feel to it. Built in 1870, the historic Saratoga Arms is minutes away from Saratoga’s race course, performing arts center, and a short drive away from the serene Lake George. Whether you are looking for a stay somewhere historic, or just somewhere relaxing, Saratoga Arms will provide for you with luxurious amenities including a full breakfast every morning and onsite spa services. Located at 497 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, Saratoga Arms is one of the top hotels in the area. To book a hotel, call 518-584-1775 or visit their site.

The Inn at Saratoga, located at 231 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY, is another highly rated hotel. Also rated at 3-stars, the Inn at Saratoga was voted “Best Inn” in May 2008 by the Capital Region Living Magazine. Very close to the downtown area, you can go shopping to your heart’s content. If there is an outdoorsman in you, The Inn at Saratoga offers hiking, various outdoor activities, and golf. Based in a Victorian Inn, the hotel has the historic furnishings but modern amenities. To book a reservation, call 518-583-1890 or go online.

Longfellows Hotel is another local favorite, located at 500 Union Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY. Perfect for a romantic getaway, Longfellows Hotel has the best dining in Saratoga Springs. An upscale boutique hotel, this hotel prides itself on privacy, location, elegance and comfort. Also close to the race course, Longfellows is wonderful for sporting and romantic occasions. Longfellows Hotel offers several packages to the traveler, including packages for romance and indulgence. To book a reservation, call 518-587-0108 or use their website.

For the more business-minded traveler, the Hampton Inn & Suites Saratoga Springs Downtown is perfect for the busy. 30 minutes from the Albany airport, the Hampton Inn & Suites is still only minutes away from attractions. The Saratoga Spa State Park, which features the Roosevelt Baths and Spa, is close at hand. The Hampton Inn & Suites Saratoga Springs Downtown offers free internet access, with an indoor pool and whirlpool. Plus, the Hampton is within walking distance of dining and entertainment options. A free hot breakfast, clean bed, high-speed internet access, and fitness center usage, the Hampton Inn & Suites is an excellent option for a hotel in Saratoga Springs. To book a reservation, call 518-584-2100 or use their website.

Best Saratoga Springs, NY Restaurants

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If you’re planning to go upstate New York, Saratoga Springs is a great town to stop in and get some quality food. The restaurants are overall excellent and the scenery while you eat is breathtaking. If you’re in the area and want to eat away, then check out these restaurants in Saratoga Springs. The food and the service won’t disappoint.

For those who loves fine dining and want to enjoy a night on the town, The Springs is great restaurant to eat out. This restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and located in the Saratoga Hilton at City Center. The Springs serves and features American food for their guests and the chefs are top rated. What’s makes The Springs special is the entertainment and the horse track during the summer. This restaurant has variety of food to choose from and the service is out of this world when you come this downtown spot.

If you love Italian food, candlelight dinners, and a nice view on the lake, Panza’s Restaurant is the perfect spot. This restaurant is right on Saratoga Lake. This restaurant is the oldest restaurant in the city and served celebrities and politicians. The service is family based and when you eat here you feel like you’re apart of their family. If you have a taste of Italia, Panza’s Restaurant is the best choice.

Cantina is the best Mexican restaurant in Saratoga Springs. Located on Broadway and Caroline street, this restaurant features the best Mexican food in the city. The food brings a fiesta to your taste buds and both the drinks and desserts are out of this world. Not only the food and service are superb, this restaurant is community oriented. Their goal is to serve great food and to give back to the community. Cantina is a great restaurant.

Saratoga Springs is a great town to have a great meal when you want to get away from the city. Depending on which restaurant that you dine in, the service are friendly and excellent. Whether you may want to enjoy fine live music, enjoy great Italian food while viewing the lake, or support a restaurant that gives back to the community, the food and service are top-notched and makes you want to come back for another meal. Saratoga Springs is the town with the best food and best service in New York.