Enjoying live music in the open air on a sun-soaked day is a Long Island summer staple. From rocking out to a legendary band under the stars at Jones Beach to dancing the day away to a cover band on a waterfront deck, the area's al fresco music scene cannot be matched. And with the increase in Long Island Rail Road service throughout the summer season and LIRR service out of Grand Central Madison, it’s that much easier for visitors to experience these seasonal hotspots with outdoor live music!   

Below, find a guide to the region's outdoor venues, music festivals, as well as some top picks for this summer.

Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater (Wantagh, NY) 

Some legendary acts are set to perform at Long Island’s iconic beachfront theater this summer, including TLC, Shaggy, En Vogue, Sean Kingston at the “Hot Summer Nights Tour" (June 13th), Luke Bryan (July 6th at 7 pm), Counting Crows (July 8th), Smashing Pumpkins (August 30th) and so many more. You'll find typical stadium fare and beverages here, and a nice waterfront view.

Check out our MTA Away Jones Beach package and save on your trip! 

How to Get There: Take the train to Freeport station. Transfer from the train station to NICE’s n88 bus running nonstop to Jones Beach. The theater is a short walk from the bus stop at the East Bathhouse. 

Catholic Health Amphitheater at Bald Hill (Farmingville, NY) 

If you aren’t familiar with Bald Hill, this is a super-chill and casual outdoor venue where you’ll be sure to have fun. Some of the acts this year include legend and Long Island native Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo (July 23rd) and Darius Rucker from Hootie and the Blowfish (August 5th). Grab your blankets and head to the lawn for some spectacular shows! 

How to Get There: Take the train to the Medford station. It’s just an 8 minute rideshare from the LIRR at Medford Station (service to this station is limited so please check mta.info or the TrainTime app beforehand).

Palm Tree Music Festival (Westhampton, NY)

Happening June 24th

Enjoy the ultimate summer vibes at the hottest dance party happening in Westhampton this summer. The Palm Tree Music Festival takes place June 24th and features Calvin Harris, Kygo, and other acts. Founded by Kygo and Myles Shear in 2016, the festival also features a local food truck lineup, exclusive VIP seating areas, and even RV rentals so you can watch the show in comfort.

How to Get There: Take the train to the Westhampton station. The Palm Tree Music Festival is taking place at the Francis S. Gabreski Airport, a 5-minute rideshare from the station. You can also transfer from the train station to the Hampton Jitney Westhampton bus line (check schedules first).

Great South Bay Music Festival (Patchogue, NY) 

Happening July 20th - 23rd

Enjoy over 55 performers across 4 stages at Long Island’s longest running music and arts festival: Patchogue’s Great South Bay Music Festival. This 4-day event attracts both legendary performers as well as local emerging artists. This year, see performances by Electric Hot Tuna, Phil Lesh and Friends, Dirty Heads, and Gov’t Mule!

Don't forget to stop by the Great South Bay’s Artisan Market on festival grounds where you’ll find diverse collections of beautifully handmade and imported creations. The festival runs from July 20th-23rd. 

How to Get There: Take the train to the Patchogue station. Shorefront Park, where the Great South Bay Music Festival is taking place, is a one-mile walk from the train station. 

Pindar Vineyards 

A North Fork staple and one of the region’s oldest vineyards, Pindar Vineyards is hosting live music at the Pavilion all summer long. Get ready for performances at Summer Fest and Wine Fest, where you can bring your own blankets and beach chairs as you relax with a glass of their award-winning wine.

Other vineyards in the region known to offer a slate of live entertainment include Bridge Lane Wine in Mattituck, Clovis Point Wines and Jason’s Vineyard in Jamesport, and Osprey’s Dominion in Peconic! See the official website calendar for exact dates and times. 

How to Get There: Take the Hampton Jitney North Fork, S92 bus. The closest stations are a 16 minute walk away from Pindar Vineyards. Or, take the train to Southold station, which is a 6 minute rideshare from Pindar Vineyards.

Claudio’s Waterfront 

Serving amazing seafood for over 150 years, this North Fork marina restaurant is not only known for its delicious lobster rolls — dancing the night away to live local bands on the wharf is part of the Claudio’s experience. Catch electrifying DJs and other musical performances at Claudio’s Waterfront or Crabby Jerry’s, a casual, quick-serve waterfront dining experience with dog-friendly outdoor seating that is great for families. Check out their website for more events throughout the summer. 

How to Get There: Take the train to the Greenport station. The restaurant is a half-mile walk away from the train station. 

Flynn’s Fire Island

This venue combines a restaurant, bar, and marina to offer both a relaxing dining experience overlooking the Great South Bay and a perennial favorite party spot with live music, DJs, and private catered events. Starting July 6th, soak up the sea air, sway to the music, and enjoy the party atmosphere on this 45-minute dinner cruise that features a cash bar and sails directly to Flynn’s Fire Island. For a lineup of summer happenings, see Flynn’s official website and event calendar.  

Check out our Fire Island package and save on your trip!

How to Get There: Take the train to the Bay Shore station. Take a car service from the train station to the ferry to Ocean Bay Park, Fire Island. 

The Surf Lodge’s Summer Concert Series 

The Surf Lodge Summer Concert series is back with an impressive lineup of acts all summer long! This July, headliners Lauv and Anna of the North will take the outdoor stage and on Labor Day, certified-platinum artist Quinn XCII is set to close out the season. As always, Surf Lodge provides some of the hottest parties of the summer! 

How to Get There: Take the train to the Montauk station. The Surf Lodge is a half-mile walk away from the train station. 

Salt Shack

Visit the Salt Shack for delicious food, local libations, and live music this summer. Located right on the sand at Cedar Beach with a weathered deck under the stars serving as its dance floor, guests can expect live music seven nights a week all summer long. From '80s revival bands to rock and roll groups, to laid-back acoustic tunes, there is something for every music taste at this seaside spot. 

How to Get There: Take the S47 bus from Babylon station to Gilgo-Oak Beach-Captree. Salt Shack is 4.5 miles away, which is a 15-minute rideshare trip.

Bodhi’s Beach Shack 

Located on the beachfront in Blue Point, Bodhi's is a colorful no-frills hidden gem offering a fleet of Adirondack chairs lined up from bar to ocean, along with deck-bound stools, adult swing sets, tropical cocktails, local brews and more. Don’t visit without sampling Aunt Fran's Fried Clams while you hear hits from local bands including Project Vibe to Dizzy After Midnight. Get your tickets now for upcoming performances here! 

How to Get There: Take the train to the Patchogue station. Bodhi’s Beach Shack is a mile-and-a-half walk or a 5-minute rideshare away from the train station. 

Montauk Distilling Company 

Located in Riverhead, visit Montauk Distilling Co. for live music nearly every day of the week! See acts such as Sonic Gumbo, Julia Jewel, and DJ Henry’s hit summer parties as you sip on some of the best spirits in the region. While you’re there, enjoy a tour of the distillery offered on Fridays and Saturdays at select times where you’ll see how their original products are made. See their official website calendar for more details. 

How to Get There: Take the train to the Riverhead station. Montauk Distilling Company is a half-mile walk away from the train station. 

Where are you checking out live music this summer? Tag @MTAaway in your photos on Instagram.