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About Empire Live
Welcome to Empire Live, Albany’s central hub for live music and events. Located at 93 North Pearl Street in the heart of downtown Albany, Empire Live and its downstairs counterpart, Empire Underground, offer two distinct spaces under one roof. Empire Live upstairs hosts general admission, standing-room-only shows with a high-energy crowd, while Empire Underground downstairs provides an intimate setting for a different vibe. Since opening as Empire Live in fall 2021 (renamed from Upstate Concert Hall during renovations), the venue has hosted a range of acts from alternative rock to dance parties, including notable performances by Cold War Kids and the recent dance-focused showcases inspired by Taylor Swift fans. We’ve got you covered with practical details to help you plan your visit, from parking and transit to nearby places to stay and eat.
Empire Live sits in downtown Albany near I-787 and offers convenient access for rail travelers via Amtrak’s Albany-Rensselaer station. Parking isn’t assigned on-site, but there are multiple nearby parking lots and street parking options within a short walk. Whether you’re catching a high-energy general admission show at Empire Live or a smaller set at Empire Underground, secure your seats with a trusted source and enjoy Albany’s vibrant music scene. For lodging, dining, and transit tips, read on for insider recommendations and practical planning details.
Good to know
Seating, Parking & Venue Information
- Location: 93 North Pearl Street, Albany, NY 12207.
- Venue layout: Two spaces under one roof – Empire Live (upstairs, max 1,000) and Empire Underground (downstairs, max 350).
- Seating: All Empire Live shows are General Admission (standing room); no fixed seating chart for events at Empire Live.
- Parking: No designated parking lot; nearby parking lots and street parking available around the venue.
- Transit/Access: Downtown Albany location near I-787 with nearby Amtrak (Albany-Rensselaer) access; central to local hotels and lodging.
- Nearby hotels: Hampton Inn & Suites Albany-Downtown; Hilton Albany nearby.
- Notable history: Opened as Empire Live in fall 2021, renamed from Upstate Concert Hall; Cold War Kids opened Empire Live on Aug 26, 2021; has hosted acts like The HU and Taylor Swift dance parties.
- Renaming/demolition: Rebranded from Upstate Concert Hall when the space was renovated into Empire Live and Empire Underground (2021–2022).