Southwest Point Amphitheater
LakesideA 1,000-seat outdoor amphitheater on the bluff at Fort Southwest Point, with lake views behind the stage and free summer concerts.
The Southwest Point Amphitheater sits on the bluff at Fort Southwest Point, sharing the historic park's grounds and views. Kingston Parks and Recreation puts the venue at about 1,000 seats and uses it for free summer concert series, with two-band shows being a typical format. The view behind the stage is the lake; the visual setting is the venue's calling card.
The accessibility picture is uneven. The stage area has handicap parking but the spaces can be occupied by performer vehicles and trailers during events. The shuttle from the lower parking lot helps, but the line for it can be long after a show. The food trucks tend to set up at the top of a steep hill. The terrace seating has fewer steps than the main lawn, but the terrain between lots and stage involves real grade changes; anyone with mobility concerns should plan to drive to the upper lot rather than rely on the shuttle.
Permanent restroom trailers serve the events, and the city fire department often runs a hot dog stand. The grounds are landscaped and well-lit. For free outdoor music in a striking setting, this is the lake's main answer.
Tips
- For event accessibility, drive directly to the upper stage-area parking; the lower lot is a long walk uphill.
- Bring a chair or blanket for the lawn sections; permanent seating is limited.
- The food trucks are uphill from the stage; plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.
- Concerts can run cold after sunset; bring a layer.
What people love
- The lake-view backdrop behind the stage.
- The free city-sponsored summer concert series.
- The amphitheater's setting on the historic Fort Southwest Point bluff.
What to know
- Operated by Kingston Parks and Recreation; phone (865) 376-9476.
- Capacity is around 1,000.
- The shuttle from the lower lot can have long waits at the end of a show.
- Permanent restroom trailers are on site during events.
- No formal hours; venue is event-based.
Best time
Summer evenings during the city's concert series. The venue is event-driven; outside of those, the grounds are walkable but the amphitheater itself is just a structure.
First visit
The amphitheater is at Fort Southwest Point in Kingston, accessed off Tonachio Trail. For events, drive to the upper lot near the stage if accessibility is a consideration; otherwise plan on the lower lot and the shuttle.
Location
Frequently asked
When is Southwest Point Amphitheater open?
Concert series runs primarily in summer; the amphitheater itself sees little use outside the event calendar.
How do I get to Southwest Point Amphitheater?
The amphitheater is at Fort Southwest Point in Kingston, accessed off Tonachio Trail. For events, drive to the upper lot near the stage if accessibility is a consideration; otherwise plan on the lower lot and the shuttle.
What should I know before visiting Southwest Point Amphitheater?
Operated by Kingston Parks and Recreation; phone (865) 376-9476.
Last updated: April 30, 2026