SPAC Amphitheater Improvements Begin at Saratoga Spa State Park
The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) today announced construction is beginning on a $2 million project to upgrade utility systems and make safety improvements at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) Amphitheater. The project will replace three gas-fired water heaters with high-efficiency electric water heaters, upgrade components of the backstage electrical system, and install a new elevator. Additionally, the area covered by the backstage fire protection system will be expanded. Together, these upgrades will improve safety and utility system reliability at the Capital Region’s largest outdoor entertainment venue.
New York State Parks Commissioner Kathy Moser said, “SPAC concerts and performances are hallmarks of Capital Region summers, drawing hundreds of thousands each year to enjoy art and community in the beautiful natural setting of Saratoga Spa State Park. OPRHP is proud to continue supporting SPAC with these utility and safety upgrades, setting the stage for continued artistic expression and lifelong memories. Thanks to Governor Hochul for her continued support and our longstanding and valued partnership with SPAC.”
In addition to world-class performances on the Amphitheater stage, SPAC’s year-round programming at the Spa Little Theater and SPAC School of the Arts make Saratoga Spa State Park an international eco-cultural destination all year long, welcoming four million visitors each year. Located within the roughly 2,500-acre park, the Amphitheater has an overall capacity of 25,000, including 5,200 sheltered seats and a sloping grass lawn that accommodates an additional 20,000 people. Opened in 1966, SPAC hosts annual residencies by New York City Ballet and the Philadelphia Orchestra, as well as Saratoga Jazz Festival, alongside a lineup of popular music artists and entertainment presented by Live Nation. SPAC welcomes approximately 500,000 visitors annually and contributes an estimated $105 million in annual economic impact to the region, according to a 2023 study.
“As SPAC’s 60th anniversary year continues, it is particularly meaningful to be investing in the future of this extraordinary campus with the support of Governor Hochul and our Parks partners,” said Elizabeth Sobol, Chief Executive Officer of Saratoga Performing Arts Center. “From essential infrastructure and safety improvements at the Amphitheater to the transformative renovation of the Spa Little Theater, these projects will help ensure that SPAC can continue to welcome audiences and artists, year-round, for generations to come. We are deeply grateful for Parks’ partnership in preserving and strengthening these beloved spaces as SPAC continues to evolve as a cultural destination.”
The Amphitheater upgrades are funded through OPRHP’s capital budget. The project is expected to be completed by spring 2027.
OPRHP, Empire State Development and SPAC are also partnering on a $12 million renovation of the historic Spa Little Theater at Saratoga Spa State Park. The 500-seat theater is expected to reopen in December 2026 to celebrate the conclusion of SPAC’s 60th anniversary season. The Spa Little Theater has hosted more than 100 year-round events and welcomed more than 35,000 guests since SPAC took over operations in 2022. To learn more about the renovation and campaign, visit spac.org/60years.
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, and welcomes over 86 million visitors annually. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call 518.474.0456. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, the OPRHP Blog or via the OPRHP Newsroom.
Saratoga Performing Arts Center
Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), located in the historic resort town of Saratoga Springs in upstate New York, is one of America’s most prestigious outdoor amphitheaters. Its exquisite setting in a 2,500-acre park preserve surrounded by hiking trails, geysers, and natural mineral springs draws lovers of arts, culture and nature for performances by resident companies New York City Ballet, The Philadelphia Orchestra, The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, the Saratoga Jazz Festival, and concerts by Live Nation. SPAC also hosts imaginative programming such as Caffè Lena @ SPAC and initiatives in culinary, literary, healing and visual arts.
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