Lakeview Amphitheater Information

The Empower FCU Amphitheater (formerly St Joseph’s Amphitheater), originally known as the Lakeview Amphitheater, was constructed in order to replace the previous venue, the Mohegan Sun Grandstand, as it fell into disrepair. At a cost of roughly $40 million, construction of the new 17,500 venue, situated on the shores of the Onondaga Lake, was begun in November 2014 and reached completion in August 24, 2015, where it opened with a concert by the world-famous country star Miranda Lambert!

Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview is an incredible outdoor venue located in Syracuse, New York. And it provides world class entertainment with the support of ASM Global, one of the world’s leading producers of entertainment experiences. The venue, formerly known as the Lakeview Amp, provides an exceptional location for music on the shores of the Onondaga Lake in the town of Geddes and is an extension of the Empire Expo Center, home to the Great New York State Fair.

If you’re a fan of live performances and outdoor settings, the Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview should be on your radar. Whether you’re local or just passing through Central New York, attending a show here is an experience worth planning for.

One of the highlights is its versatility. With a seating capacity of 17,500, the Empower FCU Amphitheater offers 5,000 covered pavilion seats and a sprawling lawn area that accommodates up to 12,500 fans. Whether you prefer the pavilion’s covered setting or the lawn’s laid-back atmosphere, every spot offers fantastic stage views and great sound quality. Plus, the location right by Onondaga Lake provides stunning sunsets as the backdrop to world-class rock tours and your favorite artists.

The concert season typically runs from June through September, though performances can start as early as May and extend into October. Since its first full season in 2016, the Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater has averaged 17 shows per year and hosted over 200 different artists by the end of the 2023 season. 

Upcoming events and performances continue to elevate the status of the outdoor music venue at Lakeview. From the left side of the lawn to the covered pavilion, every seat feels like the best in the house. For those who haven’t been yet, it’s easy to recommend this site as a standout in New York State’s entertainment scene. You can even visit the venue’s page for contact information, photos, and updates on upcoming shows.

In summary, the Empower Federal Credit Union Amphitheater at Lakeview is a testament to community revitalization and the unifying power of music. Its blend of modern amenities, rich history, and commitment to providing top-notch entertainment make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy live performances in a beautiful outdoor scene.

History of Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview 

It all began with a larger vision for revitalizing the Onondaga Lake area. Once plagued by industrial pollution, Onondaga Lake underwent a massive cleanup effort in the early 2000s. As the lake’s environmental restoration progressed, local leaders saw an opportunity to transform the surrounding area into a recreation, tourism, and entertainment hub.

The idea of a state-of-the-art outdoor theater became central to this vision. Not only would it serve as a destination for world-class entertainment, but it would also attract visitors and boost the local economy. After years of planning, the project officially became part of the Onondaga Lake Revitalization Initiative.

Construction began in 2014, and it was no small undertaking. The site, located at 490 Restoration Way, was chosen for its proximity to Syracuse and its stunning lakeside views. The design prioritized an open-air layout that could accommodate up to 17,500 attendees, with a mix of covered seating under the pavilion and a sprawling lawn for casual, relaxed viewing.

It officially opened its gates on September 3, 2015, with country superstar Miranda Lambert performing as the inaugural act during her “Roadside Bars and Pink Guitars” tour. From that moment, it was clear that it would become the foundation of New York State’s live entertainment scene.

Concert Season

The venue’s busiest seasons come during its summer concert season running from June through September. But this season can begin as early as May and end as late as October. Since that first season in 2016, it has averaged 17 shows per season, except the 2020 season where the venue was closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this setback, the venue has hosted over 200 different artists as of the 2022 season.

What Is The Vibe Like

But what is it like visiting the venue? What kind of experience can you expect as a guest?

According to user reviews, the venue is massive with plenty of space for guests to sit and enjoy the music especially if you’re seated on the lawn. It has some of the best acoustics in New York so everyone can expect crisp and clear sounds, while surrounded by some of the loveliest outdoor scenery in that part of the country. The summer series is especially nice with refreshing breezes that can make even the most intense shows comfy and cozy.

But what is a concert without an audience? Especially in New York which is home to some of the biggest variety of high-quality entertainment venues in the world?

Well as it turns out, there’s a reason why the venue is an award-winner. It has a history of hosting rockstar acts from hot performers.

Did you know?

One of the most interesting facts about the Empower FCU Amphitheater at Lakeview is its role in revitalizing Onondaga Lake, which was once considered one of the most polluted lakes in the United States. Before it was constructed, the surrounding area underwent a massive environmental cleanup effort, turning the lakefront into a vibrant space for recreation and tourism.

Please see the links below for further information on St. Josephs Health Amphitheater at Lakeview:

Do you require parking? View the Lakeview Amphitheater parking information page.
Want information on our recommended ticket provider and ticket policies? View the Lakeview Amphitheater tickets page.
Find out about accessible seating and view the Lakeview Amphitheater seating chart page here.