A Plan for a Weekend Getaway in Saratoga, California

This weekend Richard and I are heading to the place I grew up: Saratoga, California. I am looking forward to driving past our old house, driving along the route I walked to school more than 30 years ago so I can see how the houses look and the landscape has grown. Saratoga has a quaint downtown that has antique shops, high end restaurants and European bakeries.



I also want to settle into the downtown for some shopping and dining. My top priority is to have lunch at the The Plumed Horse of Saratoga, famous for its elegant dining, is one of the oldest and most revered restaurants in the Santa Clara Valley. Established in 1952, The Plumed Horse has maintained an impeccable reputation by combining old world charm with modern excellence. As a young person this was "THE" place to dine, and I have never been there so I am really excited to try it.



Next I might check out: Montalvo Center for the Arts/The Gallery of Montalvo. The stately, Mediterranean-style mansion houses exhibits of local arts or artist residents. These wonderful exhibits are said to change every six weeks. I also might step into the Gallery Saratoga Co-op, Inc. and the Aegis Gallery of Fine Art Co-op.



Some Other Places We Will Check Out:
* Saratoga Historical Museum - Housed in a turn -of - the - century former drug store building, the museum contains displays of artifacts and photographs from early Saratoga.
* The city's first library, now a Friends of the Library book store.
* The McWilliams House, circa 1965, presently the home of the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce, are adjacent historic buildings. Docents offer historic sites guided tours by appointments only.
* Saratoga Village - a California Historical Site that features historic buildings throughout the community's business area and adjoining residential neighborhoods which were original to early Saratoga. The Historical Foundation conducts walking tours to 22 Historical buildings.
* The Book-Go-Round a high quality used book store operated by the friends of the library.
* Azule of Saratoga is a great flower shop and La Mesa a textiles wholesale company.

Of course there is even more; Hahone Gardens, Farmers Market, beautiful hikes and parks, and wineries. I will have to return, and maybe sooner than 30 years!