You'll never mistake Utica for New York City, but there's an area called the Brewery District where you can find some decent bars and the occasional live-music show. The Electric Company, 700 Varick St., Utica (tel. 315/792-9271), displays the work of local artists and hosts local bands while serving up locally (and nationally) brewed suds. To imbibe hipper, more upscale drinks (like martinis) at a hipper, more upscale spot, try Space 26, 26 Bank Place, Utica (tel. 315/735-4407). And for a homey bar that's been around forever, head to Griffin's Pub, 226 Genesee St., Utica (tel. 315/724-5792). Gamblers and those in search of name performers should check out Turning Stone Casino, just off I-90's exit 33 (tel. 800/771-7711). Run by the Oneida Nation, you'll find a wealth of slots and table games, as well as some of the biggest stars that come to this part of New York State. And if you're in the mood for more live entertainment, check out Beck's Grove Dinner Theater, 4286 Oswego Rd., Blossvale (tel. 315/336-7038), which dates from Prohibition.
