Charlie Spring, Saratoga, New York

## Overview Charlie Spring is one of the celebrated mineral springs located along the Avenue of the Pines in Saratoga Springs, New York. Saratoga Springs has been renowned for its naturally carbonated mineral springs since the 18th century, when the Mohawk and other Indigenous peoples of the Iroquois Confederacy valued the area's effervescent waters for their perceived healing properties. By the 19th century, Saratoga Springs had become one of America's premier resort destinations, drawing visitors from across the country to "take the waters." The city's springs each have their own distinct mineral profile, and Charlie Spring is part of this storied collection of public drinking springs that dot the parks and streetscapes of Saratoga Springs. The springs in this area are fed by ancient geological formations — water percolates deep underground through layers of limestone and dolostone, picking up dissolved minerals and natural carbon dioxide before rising to the surface under pressure. This process gives Saratoga's spring water its characteristic effervescence and mineral-rich taste. Charlie Spring is publicly accessible and has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals and visitors alike. As with all of Saratoga's mineral springs, the water has its own unique flavor and mineral character that distinguishes it from neighboring springs. Visitors have long enjoyed sampling and comparing the different springs throughout the city. ## Directions 1. From downtown Saratoga Springs, head east on Congress Street toward Congress Park. 2. Make your way to the Avenue of the Pines, a tree-lined boulevard in the Saratoga Spa State Park area. 3. Charlie Spring is located near **108 Avenue of the Pines, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866**. 4. Look for the spring fixture along the avenue — Saratoga's public springs are typically marked with a spout or fountain structure and a sign identifying the spring by name. 5. Parking is available in the Saratoga Spa State Park lots nearby. During peak season, a parking fee may apply for the state park. **GPS Coordinates:** 43.054181, -73.807864 ## What to Expect Charlie Spring is situated along the scenic Avenue of the Pines, a grand, tree-canopied road that runs through the Saratoga Spa State Park area. The setting is picturesque and well-maintained, making it an easy and pleasant stop whether you're on a dedicated spring-tasting tour or simply passing through. The spring is one of many public mineral springs in Saratoga Springs that visitors can sample freely. Each spring in the area is known for producing water with a slightly different mineral composition and taste — some are more sulfurous, some more iron-rich, and some mildly effervescent. Visitors often bring cups or small bottles to taste and compare the waters from multiple springs in a single outing. The Avenue of the Pines and surrounding Saratoga Spa State Park offer additional attractions, including walking trails, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), historic bathhouses, and several other named mineral springs within easy walking or driving distance. A visit to Charlie Spring pairs well with a broader exploration of the park's many springs, such as the nearby Hathorn Spring, Orenda Spring, and others. The spring is accessible year-round, though some of Saratoga's springs may have reduced flow or be temporarily capped during winter months. Spring through fall is the most popular time to visit, with the surrounding park in full bloom and all facilities open.