
CMAC Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center
Iconic indoor/outdoor venue hosting major concerts, theater, and dance with both seated and lawn options.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Warm nights, lake breeze

CMAC Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center
Best Time
Warm nights, lake breeze

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic indoor/outdoor venue hosting major concerts, theater, and dance with both seated and lawn options.
"One of my favorite places to see concerts with great sound quality no matter where you are."

🚗 Smart Parking Options
Consider parking at nearby Applebee's or Lowe's for an alternative to CMAC lots. :car:
🎒 Bag Policy Awareness
Only clear plastic bags are permitted. Leave larger bags at home to avoid entry issues. :handbag:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lawn Seating Experience
General Admission Lawn
Enjoy concerts under the stars with a relaxed atmosphere and great sound. Bring a blanket!

Covered Amphitheater
Seated Sections
Catch big-name acts with excellent acoustics and a clear view from the covered seats.

Lake Breeze Ambiance
Throughout the venue
Experience a pleasant breeze off the lake, especially on warm summer evenings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating CMAC: Parking & Entry
Comfort is Key: Seating & Sound
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
CMAC & parking
🚗 Smart Parking Options
Consider parking at nearby Applebee's or Lowe's for an alternative to CMAC lots. :car:
🎒 Bag Policy Awareness
Only clear plastic bags are permitted. Leave larger bags at home to avoid entry issues. :handbag:
CMAC questions
CMAC driving and parking
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for the lawn or if you plan to stand in seated sections. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Hydration Strategy
Water bottles are not allowed in. Plan to purchase drinks inside, though prices are high. :droplet:
CMAC show parking
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Smart Parking Options
Consider parking at nearby Applebee's or Lowe's for an alternative to CMAC lots. :car:
🎒 Bag Policy Awareness
Only clear plastic bags are permitted. Leave larger bags at home to avoid entry issues. :handbag:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for the lawn or if you plan to stand in seated sections. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Hydration Strategy
Water bottles are not allowed in. Plan to purchase drinks inside, though prices are high. :droplet:
🎶 Sound Quality
Enjoy great acoustics from the covered dome to the back of the lawn. :musical_score:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
CMAC is widely loved for its excellent sound quality and the vibrant atmosphere of its lawn seating, making it a top choice for live music. While many praise the friendly staff and enjoyable summer evenings, some visitors find drink prices steep and express concerns about crowd control and venue rules like the strict bag policy.
"Great live music venue! Parking was $10. Staff was friendly and helpful! Drink prices are insanely high. $35 for one drink and a water. Lots of praying mantis and gnats flying around. Still a great night with a nice breeze off the lake! Sublime/Interrupters ❤️"
Courtney Hubler
"This is one of my favorite places to see concerts. The hill on the south side is sloped a lot and we had to help my mom. Not incredibly clear what chair I was allowed to bring (I have a spinal disability and cannot sit in camp chairs). Switching between the grass and standing is usually just fine though. All in all, I'm always very happy with the sound quality no matter where you are (dome or all the way back by the Corona cabana."
Amy Olson
"I just came back from the killers concert and i gotta say, the venue itself was nice, However crowd control was so bad and unorganized.
I really thought i got a good spot on the lawn but security was just letting people stand on the walkway by the time the show was starting.
It felt like they sold out more tickets than they should have because there was a point when people didn't seem to find a spot.
It would be nice if they had staff directing foot traffic."
Stephany
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
CMAC is located in Canandaigua, NY. Many visitors drive, with Route 20 being a common approach. Be aware that Route 20 can get busy before shows. Some attendees suggest parking at nearby businesses like Applebee's or Lowe's as an alternative to the official CMAC lots.
CMAC offers on-site parking, typically for a fee (around $10). Some visitors find parking at adjacent commercial areas like Applebee's or Lowe's to be a viable option, potentially avoiding some of the traffic congestion directly at the venue.
Public transportation options directly to CMAC are limited. Most attendees arrive by car. If you are staying in a nearby town like Geneva, driving is the most common method.
Route 20 is the most direct route from Geneva to CMAC, though it can experience heavy traffic before concerts. Taking alternative routes might add about 15 minutes to your travel time.
While not explicitly stated, drop-off points are usually available near venue entrances. It's advisable to check the official CMAC website or contact them directly for specific drop-off procedures. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets are typically available through the official CMAC website, Ticketmaster, and other authorized ticket vendors. It's always best to purchase from official sources to avoid counterfeit tickets. :ticket:
CMAC has a strict bag policy. Only single, clear plastic bags are allowed. Larger bags, backpacks, and non-clear bags are prohibited.
Yes, CMAC utilizes metal detectors and security personnel for entry to ensure the safety of all attendees.
No, CMAC generally does not allow outside water bottles. You will need to purchase beverages inside the venue, though prices can be high.
Gate opening times vary depending on the event. It's recommended to check your ticket information or the CMAC website for specific event details, but generally, gates open 1-2 hours before the show starts. :clock:
🎫 🎶 Onsite Experience
CMAC offers both covered seating in the amphitheater and general admission lawn seating. The lawn provides a more casual experience, while the seats offer a direct view of the stage.
The lawn seating is on a slope, which can be comfortable for some but may require assistance for those with mobility issues. Bringing a blanket is recommended for the lawn.
The sound quality at CMAC is consistently praised, with good acoustics reported from both the covered sections and the back of the lawn.
Yes, CMAC has concessions selling food and beverages. However, be aware that drink prices can be quite high.
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to sit on the lawn or stand during the performance. Consider the weather, as summer evenings can be warm.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal cameras are allowed, but professional cameras with detachable lenses are usually prohibited. Always check the specific event's policy, as some artists may have stricter rules. :camerawithflash:
The venue offers scenic views, especially during sunset with the lake nearby. Capturing the stage lights and the crowd's energy can also make for great shots. :camerawithflash:
The lawn offers a wide perspective of the stage and the audience. For close-ups, seated areas provide a better view of performers, but be mindful of security restrictions on professional equipment. :camerawithflash:
Yes, using your smartphone for photos and short videos is generally permitted. Ensure your flash is off to avoid disturbing performers and other audience members. :iphone:
Tripods and selfie sticks are typically not allowed at CMAC to ensure clear pathways and unobstructed views for all attendees. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to note the venue's strict bag policy (clear bags only) and the presence of security checks, which are standard for large venues. For younger children, consider ear protection as concerts can be loud, particularly under the covered amphitheater. Checking the specific event's lineup and start times is also recommended to plan around nap schedules or early bedtimes.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider carpooling if you're traveling with friends to split parking costs. Also, keep an eye out for package deals or early bird discounts when tickets are first released. While CMAC itself doesn't offer budget accommodation, looking for hotels or rentals in nearby towns like Canandaigua or Geneva can sometimes provide more economical options compared to staying directly adjacent to the venue.
💑 Couples
Consider arriving a bit early to enjoy the surroundings or grab a drink from the concessions before the show starts. The lake breeze adds a pleasant touch to the experience. For a truly memorable evening, check the lineup for artists that you both enjoy, making the concert a shared experience to remember.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding CMAC's Layout and Seating
When choosing between seating options, consider the type of performance and your personal preference. For intimate theater productions or acts where detailed visual performance is key, the covered seats might be ideal. For a laid-back summer evening enjoying music with a breeze, the lawn is unparalleled. Regardless of where you sit, the venue is known for its impressive sound quality, ensuring a great auditory experience from the front rows to the very back of the lawn.
Key considerations for seating:
* Amphitheater: Reserved seating, good for clear views and acoustics.
* Lawn: General admission, relaxed atmosphere, bring blankets/low chairs.
* Slope: Be mindful of the lawn's incline, especially if you have mobility concerns.
* Sound: Consistently praised across all seating areas.
Navigating CMAC: Parking, Traffic, and Entry
Once you're near the venue, be prepared for a thorough entry process. CMAC employs metal detectors and security personnel to ensure attendee safety. This also means a strict bag policy is in effect: only single, clear plastic bags are permitted. This rule is enforced to streamline security checks, so it's crucial to adhere to it to avoid any last-minute issues at the entrance. Bringing outside water bottles is also generally prohibited, so plan to purchase refreshments inside, keeping in mind that prices can be on the higher side.
Tips for a smooth arrival:
* Explore alternative parking: Consider nearby lots for potential convenience.
* Factor in traffic: Route 20 can be congested before shows.
* Pack light and clear: Adhere strictly to the clear bag policy.
* Stay hydrated: Be prepared to buy drinks inside the venue.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit