11 Great Bars, Restaurants & Venues for Live Music in the Capital Region
Bars with an inviting, intimate space. Large venues that can accommodate major headliners. Country music, classic music, get-up-and-dance music. Albany has it all - see below for prime performance venues for live music!
The Palace Theatre: A Prime Entertainment Venue
With its stunning Austrian Baroque architecture and storied past, the Palace Theatre remains one of Albany's most iconic destinations for concerts and community events. Its nostalgic design is matched by a diverse lineup of performances. The venue continues to host a wide lineup each year, including national touring acts, classical orchestras, tribute bands, comedy shows, film series, and seasonal holiday performances.
Savoy Taproom: Enjoy Craft Cocktails and Music
Savoy Taproom blends modern elegance with a touch of historic charm. Once home to the famed Savoy Room at Justin's, this jazz-focused venue offers an intimate setting for live performances. Guests can enjoy craft cocktails, an outdoor patio, and a solid menu featuring upscale pub fare. Head to the back for up-close views of local and touring artists.
Emack & Bolio's: Ice Cream & Live Tunes
This funky, family-friendly ice cream shop isn’t just for dessert lovers, it’s also a low-key live music spot. Emack & Bolio’s in Albany hosts live music every Friday and Saturday year-round. Acoustic musicians, small bands, and local favorites take the stage in a relaxed, community-oriented space. Grab a cone, settle in with friends, and enjoy the performances in a cozy, laid-back space.
Rivers Casino: Entertainment for All
Rivers Casino in Schenectady offers more than just slots and table games. Guests can find DJs, dance nights, tribute acts, themed parties, and occasional ticketed concerts in both the Event Center and the smaller lounge areas. The casino’s restaurants and bars, including Dukes Chophouse and the venues at The Landing Hotel, often feature their own music programming, making it easy to plan a full night out.
Cohoes Music Hall: A Vintage Atmosphere & Great Events
Operating since 1874, Cohoes Music Hall is one of the oldest still-operating music venues in the country. The historic theater offers an old-world atmosphere enhanced by modern sound and lighting. Recent renovations and ongoing preservation efforts help maintain the building’s historic charm while supporting a comfortable, modern performance environment.
A range of musical genres takes the stage here, from rock bands to folk artists. After the show, nearby dining options in downtown Cohoes make it easy to plan a full night out.
The Egg: A Popular Performing Arts Center
Located at the Empire State Plaza, The Egg is a visually striking landmark and a top destination for performing arts in Albany. Inside are two theaters: the Kitty Carlisle Hart Theatre, which seats just under 1,000 guests, and the Lewis A. Swyer Theatre, which seats just under 500. Together, these spaces host a wide variety of performances, including orchestras, jazz trios, solo singer-songwriters, and contemporary acts.
The Egg continues to be a go-to spot for those looking for polished acoustics and a refined, artistic atmosphere in the heart of downtown Albany.
MVP Arena: Come See the Biggest Performances
Formerly the Times Union Center, MVP Arena is the largest indoor venue in the Capital Region. With a capacity of up to 17,500, this arena has hosted legendary acts like Elton John, The Rolling Stones, and Ariana Grande. Today, it continues to bring in major headliners, family-friendly touring productions, championships, festivals, and live shows that attract thousands.
Empire Live Albany: Discover Two Stages of Awesome Music
Empire Live remains a top choice for fans of metal, punk, indie, hip-hop, and alternative music. The venue features two levels: the upstairs main stage (Empire Live) with a capacity of 1,000 and Empire Underground below, which offers a more intimate concert feel with a 350-person capacity. Its booking calendar features a steady rotation of national acts, touring groups, and beloved local bands.
The Fuze Box: Dance All Night to Indie & Punk Rock
The Fuze Box is a staple in Albany's underground music scene. Specializing in punk, indie, goth, and electronic nights, this retro-style bar is also known for being a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community. The crowd is energetic, the dance floor is alive, and the vibe is unlike any other in the city.
Massry Center for the Arts: Listen to the Sweet Sounds of Orchestral & Chamber Music
Located at The College of Saint Rose, the Massry Center for the Arts is a refined performance venue known for excellent acoustics. It regularly features orchestras, chamber ensembles, and solo performers from around the world. This is a perfect spot for fans of classical, jazz, and contemporary instrumental music.
Discover the Sounds of the Capital Region
No matter your musical taste or preferred atmosphere, the Capital Region has a live music venue to match. From grand historic theaters to cozy neighborhood bars and innovative performance spaces, this area offers something for every music lover. Use this guide to plan your next night out, explore a new genre, or revisit a favorite local spot—Albany's vibrant live music scene is ready to welcome you.