Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Yes
Westcott Theater in Syracuse
Categories
Location on the map
Syracuse, Onondaga County, New York, US
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Yes
Amenities
Toilets
Yes
Comments (199)
This is an old movie theater in the WESTSCOTT NATION in the University area of Syracuse, that has been turned into a concert venue.It offers a nice selection of local craft beers, as well as cans and a full bar. The acoustics are great for a show. It does not have any seating. General admission standing room only.
Came here for the Borgore show last night, was very disappointing. Sound was just straight up bad for the first two acts, several moments of screechy feedback and volume was so low you could easily talk over the music, bass was almost non-existent. Thank God someone woke up and turned up the volume when Borgore came on, but the bass was still underwhelming. While not the most important, it was disappointing there was very little effort put into visuals. Just some flood lights, no projector, no screen set up, no lasers, nothing. The stage looked like someone set it up 10 minutes before doors opened. How do you book an act like Borgore and just give him some floodlights to work with? And can we talk about ticket prices? $26 per, okay, but then they charge you an extra $20 in hidden fees for each ticket. Two barebones tickets ended up being $76+tax. Kind of regretting my decision to purchase tickets to the Sullivan King show in December, this venue needs a serious upgrade for EDM artist.
Super tiny venue, but its really intimate. I love the location right in the small, chic neighborhood of Wescott. Went to see Hippo Campus and it was perfect. Not too packed but you can see nicely since the floor is a little angled. Plenty of room to hang out outside the crowd in the back. Very organized overall.
Very small venue. It worked out great though because it really bring this the concert down into your face no matter where youre at in the theater! The only reason I didnt give it a fit the star was because there is no seating and the sloped floor can cause you to get tired pretty fast.
I dont understand why their concerts have been ending so early. I missed most of the concert because i figured the headlines wouldnt be on till midnight at least
Always a great time at the Westcott!! Ive been going there for years!I drove 3 hours from the southern tier of Western New York to go see Ryan Montbleau Band (& opening group, Mike Dillon Band). I got to see a friend I met a number of years ago at the Westcott. She & I both are Ryan Montbleau fans. Back to the Westcott...its one of my favorite music venues & Ill definitely keep going back!I love that they have a coat check now. Security folks are serious but friendly. The only 2 draw backs to the place are parking (or lack thereof - I walked 4 blocks to get to venue from closest space) and only 2-stall bathroom (=lonnnnng wait to use restroom during show). If anyone has mobility issues it could be a problem, as the bathrooms are upstairs.
Great place for a live performance. Went and seen Steve-O and it was hilarious. Standing room everybody had plenty of distance. Definitely nice to have space in this new COVID-19 times
Awesome local place to see concerts! Lots of great acts come through. They are still letting people come to concerts if you’re vaccinated. Tickets are never too expensive, and there’s almost always a good view of the stage.
Needs seating that doesnt cost extra. Great band though.
All my friends and family have a good time when we come here for shows. Its the diamond in the rough.
The place used to be much better all around. Have been to countless shows here, the most recent being a few weeks ago...first and foremost, they need people who know how to do sound. It was terrible, its a concert, in a small club..shouldnt be straining to hear the music. It was terrible. Terrible job by the sound crew...and for some reason they no longer do bar tabs, instead, choosing to close the tab after each individual purchase. Asnine.
Great smaller venue, acoustics were ok but not outstanding. Visualizer also was not working while attending. Overall... happy experience(:
Very personal and fun venue, Id love to come back!
Good beers on tap. Smaller venue so you get a very personal feel. One of the best places to check out new and seasoned artists!
No ventilation, overheated venue when we went, but the sloped floor was helpful for view (it was an old movie theater).
Great show with Motionless in White!! Love them!!!
Rad venue! Great Mediterranean food across the street 👌 what a combo!
Love it. Dont love that the beer prices are so high now. They are normal prices for venues but they use to be really cheap and you use to get a .50 coin back when you got one.
Fantastic venue. The staff are excellent and it is clean and well managed!
Cool experience, great concert and great theater. All my family come with me.
Ive been going to the Westcott for over ten years now and I can say its one of the best places to see a show. Very intement setting one main bar an two smaller ones. Coat check and bathrooms are up stairs.
Prof was amazing the whole set was great couldnt ask for a better experience
Absolutely love this place. Great place to see your favortire artists up close. Not a bad seat in the house
Great performance. Spaced out fairly well. Wasnt worried about being too close to people. Cant wait to go back.
Went to see lettuce. Great show decent venue
Awesome concert experience. Definitely recommend as a small venue
Great view, sound was goodPoor parking
One of the smallest venues Ive ever been to. During the show they were doing construction which was rather annoying to hear.
Had a great time been there more then once I love it definitely worth it. 💯
Went to see a show and was not made aware that you need a negative covid test or vaccine card even band playing did not know door staff was very unpleasant to talk to or deal with if they want tests and Vax cards thats cool but make it known so we can be prepared
Cool venue, not huge so theres a good view of the stage from anywhere. the floor is slightly sloped which makes the stage even easier to see. there was pizza and it was fine. the drinks were more expensive than Id like, but cheaper than lots of other venues Ive been to.
Cool venue, would go again for sure.
Saw Pop Evil there last night ..awesome show....great place to see your favorite bands up close and personal.
I actually really like this venue! It is a great place to see a show! They have a good setup with great acoustics! My biggest complaint is that the slanted floors kill my back. I have a back injury and I cant move after a few hours here, though, with this place being one of the few good places to see live music in syracuse it doesnt stop me from going a few times a year. Lastly, their beer selection is inconsistent. Sometimes they have some incredible offerings and sometimes its anything you could find at a local dive bar
Usually good music and a wide variety of concerts take place in this unique theater. Worth a visit to check out the scene. Sometimes it can be quite the wait for the bathroom and to get a drink during particularly busy concerts. There is a small smoking area outside in the lobby, but most concerts you cant leave once youre in - so take that into consideration!
Great time!!! Was surprised there was absolutely nowhere to sit down at all, and the stairs to the bathroom were not fun; but over all it sounded great, everyone was awesome, drinks were good, we will definitely be back again and this time bring our own chairs, never thought to do so tonight.
I love the shows that the Westcott gets often. I wish it was more often and that the floor didn’t have that dumb slant .. but it’s a good place to catch a show and possibly meet your favorite artist if you’re lucky enough. I’ve seen some of the best shows in my life here.The staff is respectful and do a good job w security which as a young woman , sadly is important and essential to me. I appreciate that about them without doubt.
A nice venue with a variety of music acts. The venue runs smoothly getting individuals in and out. There are plenty of bars inside. The biggest downfall is the parking, as the venue does not have any. The parking lot in the backside is shared but multiple businesses and does not allow for individuals to park there without risk of being towed. The side streets have parking but in being at the venue on two different occasions I have witnessed cars being side swiped both times.
We always have a fun time at this local venue. It’s a small venue but tickets are usually on the inexpensive side. Drink prices are higher than normal but that’s to be expected at a concert venue. You have to go upstairs to use the bathroom and don’t even attempt it during intermission. There is only 1 women’s room with 2 stalls. My stall neighbor had to provide me with toilet tissue. They don’t allow re-entry but they have a small outdoor area for smokers.
One of the best music venues in Syracuse
Ive been coming here for 7+ years and its my favorite venue. A lot has changed in 7 years but they still keep a chill vibe and the staff is so helpful and friendly. If you are in Syracuse you need to come out here for a show, you wont be disappointed!
The metal scene is getting better & better! I love wandering into this smaller theater to check out whoever might be in town. The atmosphere is great. Nice little bar area, too.
Need more of a beer selection! Typical dive type venue. Great stage. Nice incline on floor so you can see from all angles. Upstairs for restroom kinda sucks.
Saw Suicide Girls Blackheart Burlesque there and had a great time. Love this venue. Its a great small venue for seeing fairly popular acts. Will def see this show again next year!
I really enjoy seeing a show here. It can get pretty packed, but there is never a long wait at the bar or bathroom. Since the venue is small, everywhere has a great view. Drinks are a little pricey, but there is a large draft selection.
The Wescott has a great selection of music and the bar service is always fast. The space itself is small and the womens room is way too small. You can expect to wait in line for at least 15 minutes. However I realize that there isnt much the venue can do about that, and the music selection is awesome so its worth sucking it up to enjoy a great show.
Great venue with great events. Intimate setting the only thing that keeps me from giving them 5 stars is the bouncers. The bouncers are super on the prowl, they yell and constantly dictate this place. They thought my ID was fake for a second because I came with friends from out of state so I waited in line for 20 minutes while two bouncers carefully examined it before decided I was good. For big events the bathrooms are awful! Lines around the corner.
The venue is fine, the security there is out of control. There is one security guard that put someone in a head lock for just running into him. Then I saw him grab someone by the throat and yell at him. He also busted someone in the nose and made him bleed. Totally not cool. Maybe he needs a little more training on how to handle a mosh pit. Seriously you can not grab people by their throat just because someone runs into you.The rest of the security were tripping people in the mosh pit and making jokes about it and see how many people they could make fall. In my opinion, the security needs training on how to act.I drove 2.5 hours to get to the venue and I will never go back because of this. There are plenty of other venues where I dont have to see people being abused by the security staff. With that being said too, the other staff (front door, bartenders, and coat check) were great!
Ive been to some of the most memorable shows/concerts in my life there. The staff is friendly, professional and caring. They provide a safe environment and I always see many people I know there and have a great time!
Good acoustics. Floor was slightly inclined which is great for viewing angles. Good selection of affordable beer and liquor. Great spot for smaller shows.
My favorite local venue! Good size and great space makes it perfect for concerts. The floor slopes down and there is a raised stage so theres not a bad spot in the house. 🤘
Westcott theatre was nice! Good band playing and friendly atmosphere
Well it really depends on the band you are seeing. I saw Dark Hollow, a Dead cover band. I ran into people I knew from back in the day and people I know now. Also made a number of cool friends. This artist was painting while Dark Hollow played and he gave me this small Stealie painting. Now the band. The played Dead, Dylan, real good, and a Jerry Garcia Band tune. They were exceptionally good and I danced away. Made a lot of female friends too. The Westcott is a really good place to see a band or music that you like. The people were very happy as the band finished.
It was a theater so the floor slopes which makes standing weird. Good use of space. The staff were cool, professional but had a sense of humor too. They have a coat which in Syracuse during the winter is as good as free drinks lol. Maybe crank the AC once the place fills up, because it gets warm fast in there(might just be me). Definitely would go back again.
I love coming here. The venue is small ish, but gives the show such a better vibe! Beer is normally priced. 5 bucks a beer. Only bad thing is that the smoking area is so tiny!!
This is a great, small theater. Its close to a lot of restaurants so we were able to get some food before the concert. My only complaint is that there is one bathroom in the whole building. With two stalls. The lines were insane! If Westcott is looking to make any updates, add more bathrooms!!
Love this place, seen many shows here. One thing I love is they book local groups to open for the main liners and I have discovered some really great local bands from the surrounding area. The staff is always friendly and helpful.
Great show but that incline you have to stand on all night is tough on us old folks...
Your classic bare bones Rock and Roll concert venue. No bad seats in the house, if they have them, makes for intimate shows. Nothing fancy here but they do have great selections on tap. Was only at the Wescott once but we enjoyed the show, had a great experience and would make the trip to Syracuse again to visit the Wescott when the right artist plays there.
Not too bad for a music venue. It had nicely sloped floors with quick drink turnarounds. The door staff could have been more organized but it was overall a pleasant experience.
If I had written this review 7 years ago, it may have been 5 stars. They have gone through some changes and Im not convinced that its for the better.Bathrooms are much cleaner than they used to be. Thats a plus. Still only 2 stalls for women though. Ive heard that the mens room isnt that great either. On crowded nights this could be more of an issue...But from what I understand, they dont seem to draw a huge crowd for very much these days. I used to see really interesting acts come into town to play here. Now, they are far and few between. The ticket prices seem noticeably higher than they used to be, though that may just be dependent on the show.I guess this barrel chair thing is new. I dont know, they suck. Its an uneven floor so they could have figured out something better.They added more bars, which Im sure are great on busy nights. Most shows probably dont even utilize them though. The drink prices are about what you would expect.You used to be able to go outside during most shows. This was good if you wanted to grab some food (which they dont serve) during a break or something. No in and out privileges anymore. If you smoke, you can do it in this tiny little space towards the back of the building, but its so small. I think they were trying to eliminate people going to their car to get intoxicated, but they really just slashed away at their appeal, and Im not convinced that its any better now.Though I havent had a problem with security, Ive heard from numerous people that it needs work. Cant say much else there.All in all, check it out if something good comes around. Make your own determination.
Venue is okay. 💩 part of town. Parking can be tough, along the street. Inside the venue is old but the sound is good. You have to take the stairs every time you want to use the restroom.
The security here were really uptight and threw us out of the venue after spending upwards of $80 at the bar with mysterious extra charges appearing on our statement after security brought the card back outside to us. The venue was good but the staff are not very nice at all.
I love this venue. Small and standing room only. Perfect to experience live music. They have booked some really great bands.
Killer show! Loved seeing Kung Fu!
The only place in central New York who brings amazing artist on a daily basis, creative concerts is the best production company in upstate new York coupled with the best venue for great sound and great acts, if you havent seen a show at the Westcott before your in for a treat and a new favorite venue... enjoy!!!
Good venue for live music - sound system could maybe be upgraded a bit, but the staff is friendly and its easy to see from anywhere because the floor is pitched up away from the stage.
Used to be much better. There is no re-entry. They corral smokers (or anyone looking for fresh air) into a pen in the back now.The quality of shows has depreciated, often attracting seedy crowds of drug sellers and users, underage partiers, and people inclined to violence.Multiple shootings happened in front of the theater over the last year directly tied to the shows and attendees.
Great place to see all sorts of live music!
As a concert venue there isnt a bad seat in the house. The floor is slanted which allows for this but wear proper foot attire so your backs not aching.
Great show! Great experience
I absolutely dig The Westcott Theater. I have seen countless shows at this venue since moving to the area across all genres. The Westcott is an older converted cinema that still has the slopped floors. No matter where you are you have great views of the stage. The comments about security in other reviews could not be more inaccurate. If security messes with you at The Westcott its absolutely deserved. My squad rages when we go to shows here, we stand out like sore thumbs, and we have NEVER had an issue with security we did not cause ourselves. If they ask you to stop breaking the rails, and you continue to break the rails, you will be escorted out as you should be. These guys will always give you a warning before taking action, its the same crew that does security for every venue in Syracuse! I have rarely seen them be hard asses for no reason, at Westcott or elsewhere. Parking can be an issue, especially for popular shows. Parking sucks in Westcott period so plan accordingly. Full bar with about half a dozen craft beers on tap and a decent selection of bottles/cans. I happen to like the grungy aesthetic of the theater but appreciate why some think the bathrooms need attention. Venue also has a coat check open for most popular shows.
Great location in the heart of Westcott street, and gets some good bookings. However, this is the second concert I have gone to where the sound is horribly bad, so much so that the music is distorted and unintelligible. For starters it was too loud, not in the sense that most concerts are loud but in the sense that everything was really unbalanced, it was overampd and distorted leaving no dynamic range. Combine this with a very live theatre (not much sound deadening, concrete floor) and everything sounded muddy from bass to vocals, mostly due to the overpowered drum set. Unfortunately, I didnt get to watch the main act (lake street dive) at the last concert there, a group that doesnt need to be overly loud because the opener was so horribly bad and over amplified that the sound was painful even with ears stuffed with cotton.
Seeing shows here is really fun. But as someone who has played this stage multiple times over the course of 10 years, I have to say. The staff is great and its a great place to have a show.
The Westcott is my favorite venue! Music is loud, drinks are good, and the staff is full of hard-working wonderful people! Been to TONS of shows here and I have never had a complaint!! ♡
Great venue. The slanted ex-movie theater floor takes a bit to get used to, but its a great spot. Always good tap choices and ticket prices.
Saw Light the Torch! Awesome venue, had plenty of room! Place was jammin!!!!! Staff served pizza during the show which was very convenient.
Great place for concerts. I love playing this venue! Its set up perfect for metal/hardcore shows. Need more spots like this in upstate NY.
Saw Hatebreed there, great show, great venue. The security team was absolutely out of control. Pushing people down, throwing them around. Literally grabbed a guy by his throat right next to me. Never seen anything like it.
Had fun and met some artist while enjoying the evening.
Great place to see small acts! The inside is tiny and the stage is in plain site. The crowd is strange but the venue is nice.
Decent place for show. The parking situation sucks. Was nice to have 2 bar locations a place to smoke. Definitely go there again!!
Always a great show
Other people seem to like this place, but I think it stinks.needs remodeling. has no food but brought in pizza. they need seats and tables. dont know why people think the band 2hd is great they seem to repeat the samewords over and over. 2hd needs new music or use some one elses like Springsteen or Blake shelton
Such an awesome and personal venue. Great specials and awesome staff. Security was very professional. Would come back.
Great venue. Sound is great, standing room only. Craft beer on draft and hard working staff. A syracuse must!!!
Went to see The Struts great show and venue ..... Brought me back to the late 70s early 80s living in Fort Lauderdale and going to the big clubs hot,sweaty, in your face rock and roll ....lost my voice and worth every minute....cant wait to go back .......
Great place for live music. The beer is cold and the sounds are rich. Your are likely to see a band or show you like there.
I got bullied here by the guy at the front gate accepting tickets and the band we went to see never showed up, they just played basketball. I suppose that couldnt have been helped though, maybe the band ditched the place? Anyways, I dont want to go there again, I got treated badly.
Its a good venue to see a show. Sound and sight wise.Crowds tend to be way to loud and talkative though. Like music is the last thing they came to the show for
I love the Wescott. Smaller venue, quaint and most of all the staff is awesome. Seen many a good shows there too.
Great place to see a rock show! Good sound, good beer and liquor selection and some great places to eat around it
Smalls independent theater with a capacity of 700. Consistently bringing a variety of local, regional, and national touring talent crossing a range of genres to the stage, with something to appeal to everyone. From Mike Dillon to Aaron Carter, from the Infamous Stringdusters to Anders Osborne to Rittz or Yelaclaw, youll find something to move your body to. Recent renovations have given the place a much needed facelift from the old curtains, sloppy bathrooms, and ragged carpeted lobby that theater veterans will remember. Great food selections within a block in either direction too. Try Beer Belly Deli, Alto Cinco, Dorians, or Las Delicias
My favorite hometown venue. Tentative yet personable staff, well priced drinks, and some of the best music in the area.
Nice intimate venue, first time there, seemed to be a smaller crowd, but liked the atmosphere!!
Pretty small. The sound system is not great. And theres only one bathroom with 2 stalls for the whole place.
Good Venue for bands.
Love this place. BUT,. they should have $2.50 cheap beer. PBR or something! So they attract a larger crowd.
Very hot inside, no ventilation. No re-entry isnt favorable. Ok parking. Great sound and easy to see stage
They could mop the floor once a decade, but its a good live music venue.
Venue looks good and sounds good, and their pizza is delicious and greasy. That said I would much rather go to The Lost Horizon.
A syracuse staple. Roomy venue with great sound. Bar is small, prices are average. Hope this place never closes its doors
Great venue and variety of impressive musicians. Show up early as parking on the street is more than likely.
Great place for a concert! Good beer selection. No seating.
Went to see cats under the stars.Was charged 17 dollars to get in,6 dollarsfor a 4 dollar drink and treated like a vagrant pissing on the front steps 5 minutes after the band left the stage.They played one set.NEVER going back to that ghetto looking dump again!!!!
Great venue to see a show. Fantastic performance by the Melvins and Red Cross!!!
,went to a few shows here. They have had some big names come and play here. They also have had some local names do shows here. I appreciate that they support smaller local names.
Great venue, good drink prices and very relaxed atmosphere.
I had a fantastic time.
Really nice venue, but $5 for coat check seems a bit high
Great Show w/Locash,sound system was awesome and great place to see a show.Also nice college vibe around the neighborhood.
Great music venue
Some nice and loud EDM and the sound quality stayed solid:) drinks are kinda pricey for their size..
Good venue for small shows, full service bar with reasonable prices for a concert
The space is great-- nice, small venue. In serious need of cleaning. Bathrooms are pretty nasty.
Small, unique theatre; standing only. Enjoyed the atmosphere and lots of parking on side streets and behind.
Great place. Good staff. Awesome concert venue!
Dysfunctional place for concerts, best shows are during the week so those who work and have money cant stay out that late to see the band you paid for.
Love seeing shows here. Its not fancy, but its always a great sound
Unique venue to see amazing artists in a small, intimate setting - great beer selection!
Awesome place to watch a show. I love how they took an old movie theater and transformed it. Would go again
Music is at the heart of this place, drinks arw totally overpriced, but its a pretty good place to see some live music
Quaint place to catch a concert. Area is small, but perfect for certain genres.
Security staff is always nice, good selection at the bar, very good sound and a great atmosphere!
Depends on the music but it is a little run down and needs updating. Use to be a movie theater and the seats have been removed so its on a slant.
Great open floor concert hall, good beer selection!
Love the Westcott! Drive from Cuba, NY to Syracuse at least once a year for a show...most often to see Ryan Montbleau 😇
Not quite what youd expect butpretty decemt place. Always have great bands
Was there for Halloween night. DJ sucked bigtime.
One of my favourite venues. Always a great time.
Great place for concerts. But the beers are $7 for small beer
Good small venue. Great shows and staff.
I love the westcott theater it’s a smaller but warm and welcoming venue with great prices
Its like a third home behind lost lands and my actual home.
Awesome venue for concerts. Drink prices are reasonable.
Love the environment. But dont like once in you go anywhere. If you go outside you cant come back in.
Nice little venue but it could use air conditioning.
So hot! Some ac would help a lot. Otherwise a great venue
Total reviews rating 4.4
199 Reviews for Westcott Theater 2023:
Review №1
2022-05-23A great venue for all varieties of shows. The sound and volume are great, and it is easy to see the stage from all angles and distances from the stage. Bartenders are friendly, and they have a good selection of beer and spirits.
Review №2
2021-12-26Good venue. The venue itself doesnt require vaccination. The indoor mask mandate was not in effect at the time of my visit. The bartender was friendly and good with conversation. It was a nice place overall, bathrooms were on the second floor and clean.
Review №3
2022-02-16Very cool venue. Small enough to be up close. Good sound. Great bar.
Review №4
2021-11-22Great little concert theater. Makes for a very personal concert and had a nice bar in the back. The floor is at a slight decline so even if you stand back far enough, you wont have too many heads in between you and the band .
Review №5
2022-05-15Worse place to have shows at. They have no a.c what so ever in there. I was there this past weekend and fainted because it was so hot. Even the artists wrote in their social media about the place. And lets not forget how awful the security is. Was a huge fight and it took them about 15 minutes and again the artist even yelled it on the mic where the hell is the security. Place is awful
Review №6
2022-05-10Great venue with great staff! Only downside is standing room only so if you have bad knees it might be a little uncomfortable BUT they have a VIP section you can purchase that has tables and chairs!
Review №7
2022-04-23This is a great venue to see a showDrive by Truckers
Review №8
2022-03-06Great of course, Im from Bingo and we have no music scene what so ever, so been coming here for years, have seen probably 10 shows here probably more. Sad that folks are still shy in going out. Reverend Peyton packs venues all of the place so Im a tad sad to see a low turn out, but talking with the Wescott people, folks are still gun shy about indoor venues, I guess it is what it is. On another note sad that they also got shut out at the outdoor venue in Lafayette, they did a fantastic job with that, hope they can continue with a outdoor concert venue. Keep on Rocking Wescott, your a gem for upstate Music!!
Review №9
2022-04-15Great venue, friendly staff, fantastic music
Review №10
2019-07-17This is a medium sized venue that is perfect for live bands. the stage is large and elevated. the audio is excellent and their are multiple small bars stationed throughout the back and side of the venue. They host a wide variety of genres and I have always had a great time.