Rod Stewart
Jones Beach

Getting to Jones Beach Theater from New York City

Jones Beach Theater's location in Wantagh makes it easily accessible from throughout the New York metropolitan area. From Manhattan, the venue is approximately 41 miles southeast, typically a 60-90 minute drive depending on traffic. Take the Long Island Expressway (I-495) east, then south on either the Wantagh State Parkway or Meadowbrook State Parkway to Ocean Parkway.

For those using public transportation, take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Wantagh Station, then use taxi or ride-share services for the short trip to the venue. During the summer concert season, special LIRR packages sometimes offer combined train and concert tickets. Uber is the official ride-share partner of Northwell at Jones Beach Theater.

Free general parking is available in Fields 4 and 5 at no additional cost. For easier entry and exit, VIP parking is available in Field 5A (accessible off Bay Parkway traveling east) with a valid VIP, Premier, or Easy Out parking pass. Plan to arrive early, as traffic can be heavy on concert nights, and the venue is located within Jones Beach State Park where beach traffic also converges.

The Jones Beach Concert Experience

Attending a show at Northwell at Jones Beach Theater is more than just a concert—it's a complete summer experience. Many fans arrive early to enjoy Jones Beach State Park, one of Long Island's premier coastal destinations. The park features miles of pristine beaches, including Zach's Bay just steps from the amphitheater, making it easy to spend the afternoon swimming before the evening show.

The venue offers a variety of food and beverage options, from casual concession stands to the Ocean Catering Restaurant for a more upscale dining experience. Multiple bars throughout the venue serve beer, wine, and cocktails. The theater has implemented a clear bag policy for security—only clear plastic/vinyl tote bags (12" x 6" x 12" or smaller) and small clutch bags (6" or smaller) are permitted.

Jones Beach Theater features reserved seating closest to the stage and general admission areas further back. The amphitheater's design ensures good sightlines throughout, with the stage set against the dramatic backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. As the sun sets during evening performances, the combination of music, ocean views, and summer atmosphere creates truly magical moments that have made this venue a favorite for generations of concert-goers.

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Summer Concerts on Long Island

July and August represent peak concert season at Jones Beach Theater, with the venue hosting major touring acts throughout the summer months. The warm weather, ocean breezes, and extended daylight hours of midsummer create ideal conditions for outdoor concerts. Evening temperatures in late July are typically comfortable, ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit.

The venue's waterfront location means you'll benefit from natural cooling as breezes blow in from the Atlantic. While the amphitheater is open-air, there are covered sections that provide shade and protection. Many concert-goers bring light jackets or sweaters for after sunset, when temperatures can cool, especially near the water.

Rod Stewart's July 31st performance falls on a Friday evening, making it perfect for a weekend getaway. Combine your concert experience with a Long Island beach day, explore the charming villages of Nassau County, or make it a full New York experience with time in Manhattan before or after the show.

Jones Beach State Park: More Than Just a Concert Venue

Jones Beach State Park, opened in 1929, is one of America's most popular coastal recreation areas, attracting over 8 million visitors annually. Designed by Robert Moses as part of his vision for Long Island's development, the park features 6.5 miles of ocean beaches, two swimming pools, a boardwalk, miniature golf, and numerous recreational facilities.

The park's art deco architecture and marine-themed design elements create a distinctive aesthetic that has been preserved for nearly a century. The iconic Jones Beach Water Tower, visible from the theater, has become a symbol of Long Island. The park is also home to the Jones Beach Nature Center and Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center, offering educational programs about coastal ecosystems.

For concert-goers, the park provides an ideal setting to arrive early and make a full day of your visit. Enjoy swimming at Zach's Bay, walk the boardwalk, grab lunch at one of the park's restaurants, then head to the amphitheater for the evening show. The combination of beach, nature, and world-class entertainment makes Jones Beach a uniquely New York experience.

Rod Stewart's Long Island Connection

While Rod Stewart is British by birth, he's performed at Jones Beach Theater multiple times throughout his career, developing a strong connection with Long Island audiences. New York metro area fans have supported Stewart since his early days with Faces through his entire solo career, making the tri-state area one of his strongest markets in the United States.

The Jones Beach Theater's acoustics and ocean-side atmosphere are particularly well-suited to Stewart's performances. The venue's size—intimate enough to feel connected to the artist yet large enough to create electric energy—provides an ideal setting for his high-energy rock shows. The natural beauty of the setting complements songs like Sailing and Tonight's the Night, creating memorable moments as the sun sets over the Atlantic.

At 80 years old, Stewart continues to deliver performances that rival artists half his age. His distinctive raspy voice remains powerful, his stage presence magnetic, and his connection with audiences genuine. The One Last Time Tour represents a final opportunity to see Stewart perform in a major amphitheater setting before he transitions to smaller, more intimate venues.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Rod Stewart performing at Jones Beach Theater?

Rod Stewart will perform at Northwell at Jones Beach Theater on Friday, July 31, 2026, with showtime at 7:30 PM. Grammy-winning artist Richard Marx will open the show. Gates typically open about 90 minutes to two hours before showtime, allowing time for parking, security screening, and finding your seats.

Where is Jones Beach Theater located?

Northwell at Jones Beach Theater is located at 895 Bay Parkway, Wantagh, NY 11793, within Jones Beach State Park on Long Island. The venue is approximately 41 miles southeast of Manhattan, accessible via the Long Island Expressway and Wantagh State Parkway or Meadowbrook State Parkway.

Who is opening for Rod Stewart at Jones Beach?

Richard Marx will be the opening act at Jones Beach Theater. Marx is a Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter known for hits like Right Here Waiting, Hold On to the Nights, Endless Summer Nights, and Hazard. He has sold over 30 million albums worldwide and co-wrote Luther Vandross's Dance with My Father.

Is parking free at Jones Beach Theater?

Yes, general parking is free in Fields 4 and 5 at Jones Beach Theater. VIP parking options are available for purchase in Field 5A for easier entry and exit. The parking fields are accessible via Bay Parkway and Ocean Parkway. Arrive early as traffic can be heavy on concert nights.

How many people does Jones Beach Theater hold?

Northwell at Jones Beach Theater has a capacity of 15,000 people. Originally built in 1952 with 8,200 seats, the venue was expanded in the 1990s and again in 1998 to reach its current capacity. It's one of the premier outdoor concert venues in the New York metropolitan area.

Can I take public transportation to Jones Beach Theater?

Yes, you can take the Long Island Rail Road to Wantagh Station, then use taxi or ride-share services for the short trip to the venue. During summer concert season, the LIRR sometimes offers special packages combining train and concert tickets. Uber is the official ride-share partner of the theater.

What is the weather like at Jones Beach in July?

Late July weather on Long Island is typically warm and pleasant, with evening temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit. The venue's waterfront location provides cooling ocean breezes during performances. Bringing a light jacket or sweater for after sunset is recommended, especially near the water.

What can I bring into Jones Beach Theater?

Jones Beach Theater has a clear bag policy. Only clear plastic or vinyl tote bags no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches and small clutch bags 6 inches or smaller are permitted. The small clutch bags do not need to be clear. Any bags that don't meet these guidelines must be returned to your vehicle.

Are there food and drinks available at the venue?

Yes, Northwell at Jones Beach Theater offers multiple food and beverage options including concession stands throughout the venue, the Ocean Catering Restaurant for upscale dining, and numerous bars serving beer, wine, and cocktails. Note that all points of sale accept only credit or debit cards, though cash-to-card kiosks are available.

Is this Rod Stewart's last tour?

The One Last Time Tour is Rod Stewart's final large-scale world tour. However, Stewart has confirmed he will continue recording music and performing at smaller, more intimate venues after this tour concludes. This makes the Jones Beach show a special opportunity to see him perform at a major amphitheater.

What songs will Rod Stewart perform?

While setlists vary by show, Rod Stewart typically performs his greatest hits including Maggie May, Tonight's the Night, Da Ya Think I'm Sexy, Forever Young, You Wear It Well, Every Picture Tells a Story, Sailing, and The First Cut is the Deepest. His shows span his entire five-decade career and run over two hours.

Can I visit Jones Beach before the concert?

Yes, Jones Beach State Park is open during the day and features 6.5 miles of beaches including Zach's Bay near the theater. Many concert-goers arrive early to swim, walk the boardwalk, or enjoy the park's amenities before the evening show. The park attracts over 8 million visitors annually.

Why are resale ticket prices different from face value?

Resale ticket prices are set by individual third-party sellers based on market demand, seat location, availability, and other factors. Prices may be above or below original face value depending on these market conditions. Our marketplace aggregates listings from multiple sellers to provide options at different price points.

How early should I arrive at Jones Beach Theater?

Plan to arrive at least 90 minutes to two hours before showtime to allow for parking (which can involve waiting in traffic), walking to the venue entrance, passing through security screening with the clear bag policy, and finding your seats. Earlier arrival is recommended if you want to explore food and beverage options or secure prime parking spots.

What makes Jones Beach Theater special?

Jones Beach Theater is unique for its stunning waterfront location surrounded by water on three sides, with the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop. Built in 1952 and designed by Robert Moses, the venue offers 70+ years of musical history, cooling ocean breezes, spectacular sunset views, and free parking. It's consistently ranked among the best outdoor concert venues in the Northeast.