Utica

Utica's live-music options are compact but cover distinct moods. Both main venues sit on Auburn Road, just blocks apart. Vino & Vibes is a wine bar in the historical downtown of Utica, pairing small plates with an international selection of wine, beers, and cocktails. The venue brings in live music on select evenings, with past bookings including jazz vocalist Olivia Van Goor alongside pianist Mike Harrison. The room is intimate and relaxed, suited to acoustic and jazz performances. Locker Room Saloon runs a higher-energy bar format, with a lively dance floor and a DJ who plays requested music across genres; the decor mixes painted ceiling tiles with a Coyote Ugly style. Karaoke takes over on Wednesday nights, and live music and themed nights round out the weekly calendar. Outside the bars, Memorial Park hosts the Weekend Unwind summer music series, pulling in local and regional bands for outdoor performances.