Saratoga Springs Nominated for Best Small College Town by USA Today

This is the second nomination for the upstate New York town in the category.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Saratoga Springs, New York has been nominated as one of the Best Small College Towns in USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. The town, home to Skidmore College and Empire State University, is being recognized for its vibrant, youthful atmosphere and beautiful college campuses.

Why it matters

Saratoga Springs' nomination highlights the town's reputation as a hub for higher education and the arts, drawing students and creatives to its community. This recognition can boost tourism and economic development for the area.

The details

Saratoga Springs was previously nominated for the Best Small College Town award in 2025, where it placed 7th and was the only New York town to make the list. This year, the town is being recognized again for its lively college-town vibe and picturesque campuses. Discover Saratoga, the local tourism agency, says the nomination showcases the town's dedication to fostering an environment where students and artists can thrive.

  • Saratoga Springs was nominated for the Best Small College Town award in 2025.
  • Voting for the 2026 award runs through the end of March 2026.
  • Winners will be announced on April 8, 2026.

The players

Darryl Leggieri

The president of Discover Saratoga, the local tourism agency.

Skidmore College

A private liberal arts college located in Saratoga Springs.

Empire State University

A public university with a campus in Saratoga Springs.

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What they’re saying

“We are honored to receive our second nomination in a row for Best Small College Town. Saratoga's continued recognition by USA Today speaks to what makes our community so special. With the influence of institutions like Skidmore College and Empire State University, Saratoga offers an environment where learning, creativity, and community come together.”

— Darryl Leggieri, President of Discover Saratoga (news10.com)

What’s next

Voting for the Best Small College Town award is open through the end of March 2026, with the winners to be announced on April 8, 2026.

The takeaway

Saratoga Springs' nomination as a top small college town showcases the town's vibrant academic and artistic community, drawing students and creatives to its picturesque setting. This recognition can help boost the town's reputation and economic development as a hub for higher education and the arts.