Central New York Concerts & Live Music

From Syracuse’s lakeside amphitheater to Turning Stone’s year-round stage

The Sound of Central New York

Central New York’s concert scene centers on two powerhouses: the Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview in Syracuse and Turning Stone Resort Casino in Verona. Together, they bring major national touring acts to the heart of the state year-round.

The Empower FCU Amphitheater’s lakeside setting on Onondaga Lake makes it one of the most scenic outdoor venues in the Northeast. Turning Stone’s Event Center offers a more intimate, climate-controlled experience with top-tier production for everything from legacy rock to country and comedy.

Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards rounds out the region with a unique twist — live music among the apple trees at one of New York’s most beloved farm destinations. Central NY is where big tours meet a genuinely welcoming community.

Venues

Empower FCU Amphitheater

Syracuse’s premier lakeside outdoor amphitheater

Turning Stone Resort Casino

Year-round casino entertainment with top production

Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards

Live music among the apple trees in Lafayette

Lakeside sunsets and sold-out summer nights

Upcoming Shows in the Central NY

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Exploring the Central NY

Before & After the Show

Syracuse’s Armory Square is the go-to for pre-show dining and drinks — a walkable district with breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and cocktail bars. For Turning Stone, the resort itself has multiple restaurants, a spa, and a golf course if you’re making a weekend of it.

Getting Around

I-90 (Thruway) and I-81 cross in Syracuse, making it one of the most accessible cities in the state. Empower FCU Amphitheater is on the Inner Harbor, minutes from downtown. Turning Stone is 30 miles east on Route 365 near Verona. Beak & Skiff is 20 minutes south of Syracuse in Lafayette.

Best Time to Visit

The amphitheater season runs June through September. Turning Stone books shows year-round. Beak & Skiff peaks in fall when the apple harvest and live music collide — but their concert series starts in summer. Syracuse itself is a college town, so the vibe picks up when SU is in session.

Plan Your Visit

Getting Here

By car: I-90 (Thruway) east-west and I-81 north-south converge in Syracuse. All three venues are within 30 minutes of downtown.

By air: Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) is 10 minutes from the amphitheater.

Parking: Free at Empower FCU Amphitheater. Turning Stone has massive free lots. Beak & Skiff has on-site parking (arrive early for fall events).

Insider Tips

Empower FCU: Lawn seats have great sightlines — bring a blanket
Turning Stone: Stay at the resort and avoid the drive back
Beak & Skiff: Try the 1911 hard cider while you’re there

Dining & Nightlife

Syracuse — Armory Square: The city’s best dining district, walking distance from downtown venues. Breweries, wine bars, and global cuisine.

Turning Stone: On-site options from steakhouses to casual dining — no need to leave the resort.

Lafayette / Tully: Farm country restaurants near Beak & Skiff for a true Central NY experience.

Explore Other Regions

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