New York State Outdoor Music Festivals

Memorial Day has just marked the official start of summer. That means now is the time for summer vacations and getaways! New York State is known for great outdoor music festivals in unique settings and here are a few we recommend that are accessible by a relaxing ride on Amtrak:

38th Annual Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival (2.5 miles from Saratoga Springs Amtrak Station): Located in the cultural core of upstate New York, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC) will host this year's festival on June 27 – 28. SPAC is renowned for its acoustic quality and unique atmosphere. Seven performances will occur in the SPAC Amphitheatre, whilst performances proceed simultaneously on the Gazebo Stage. Admission ranges from $60 - $85. Guests are recommended to reserve a hotel room beforehand.

Lake George Elvis Festival (19.5 miles from Fort Edward-Glens Falls Amtrak Station): For the twelfth consecutive year, the Village of Lake George will host one of North America’s largest Elvis Festivals. Five days of entertainment will ensue on May 28 with a free concert on the shore of the lake and will feature the world’s foremost tributes to the King of Rock-n-Roll, a Classic Car parade, Elvis-themed cruises on the lake, and an “Elvis meets the Beatles” segment. Celebrate the influential life and music of Elvis Presley upon the picturesque backdrop of Lake George.  

Photo Credit: New York State Festivals

Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival (1.0 mile from Rochester Amtrak Station): Last year’s festival witnessed attendance of nearly 200,000 guests. The 2015 XRIJF, occurring from June 19 – 27, is one of the nation’s most anticipated music festivals of the year. XRIJF will present over 150 artists at more than 20 different venues, totaling 324 concerts. 95 of the included shows are free of cost.

The Governors Ball (7.5 miles from New York Penn Station): For a festival that has thought of everything, take a trip to Randall’s Island for the 2015 Governors Ball, June 5-7. Headliners this year include Drake, the Black Keys, Deadmau5, Florence and the Machine, Lana Del Rey, Bjork, My Morning Jacket, and Ryan Adams. Other non-music entertainment is also available. Single-day tickets are $120 and a 3-Day General Admission is $275.

Photo Credit: Nature Calendar

Clearwater Festival (2.2 miles from Croton-Harmon Station): Contribute to the health of the Hudson River and have a great time doing so by attending Pete Seeger’s festival at Croton Park on June 20 – 21. Since the 1960s, this festival has entertained guests with storytelling, dance, educational workshops, boat rides, food, community, and music. This year will mark the one-year anniversary of the loss of the festival’s inspirational founder, so help his dream live on and enjoy live entertainment whilst contributing to the betterment of the Hudson River and supporting Clearwater’s environmental research. Prices vary depending upon days of attendance.

Music festivals are an exciting way to experience New York’s culture and scenery, and Amtrak can take you to them. Start your summer getaway by sitting back and enjoying the train ride to your destination. For more information on other summer getaways reachable by Amtrak and a 15% discount for Amtrak travel within New York State, visit New York By Rail.