Where to go in Ballston Spa, New York

Ballston Spa, a half-hour north of Albany, is upstate New York’s other “spa town” and these days it’s booming. The village has its mineral springs, but also young artisans, entrepreneurs and ex-“Skiddies” (Skidmore graduates) who have decamped here after being priced out of nearby Saratoga Springs. Its Victorian-era downtown is enjoying a revival with some of the best antiquing around. Quirky boutiques, upscale bars, cafes and even a tastefully restored inn and spa, the Medbery, have also cropped up. For visitors eager to soak up a spa experience, find antiques or play the ponies, Ballston Spa is increasingly seen as a less pricey alternative to Saratoga Springs.

Ye Olde Wishin’ Shoppe Don’t be fooled by the old-timey name: This boutique, formerly based in Saratoga, caters more to the fedora-wearing crowd, boasting a small yet vintage collection of quirky wares including oversized sunglasses, a 1940s sailor uniform and Etsy-ready knickknacks. There’s also a vinyl store in back with old Decca record players.

76 Front St.; 518-772-3178; yeoldewishinshoppe.com


Next Door In an area where good farm-to-table cuisine is surprisingly hard to find in restaurants, the menu of Matthew Hall and Christian Fignar’s Next Door blends a bit of local with international influences. Try the flavorful grilled pork chop ($26), and follow it with a dollop of chevre cheesecake ($6). Opened last summer, the restaurant evokes an “urban barn” atmosphere with its reclaimed barnwood beams and copper fixtures. It’s also just expanded, nearly doubling in size.

51 Front St.; 518-309-3249; eatdinnernextdoor.com


Zest
Opened two summers ago, this small catering business that doubles as a popular lunch spot makes great use of the organic produce that can be found in abundance in the region. And the long farm tables encourage communal dining. Try the chicken salad sandwich ($7).

3 Science St.; 518-763-3500; zestcooks.com

Doubleday House Antiques
Looking for a place with a more rustic, old country feel? Drop by Doubleday House Antiques, which opened in April. The boutique is in a yellow house that was the birthplace of Abner Doubleday, the Civil War hero and Ballston Spa’s most famous native son. The shop’s historic setting is a big draw so the owners have preserved its intimacy.

28 Washington St.; 518-309-3745; facebook.com/DoubledayHouseAntiques


Iron Roost
This always-crowded cafe, an early catalyst for the village’s revival, offers pastries larded with sweets, as well as fluffy waffles ($3.50).
36 Front St.; 518-309-3535; ironroost.com