Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado
Red Rocks Amphitheatre hosts barbecues, brewery patio days and concerts throughout spring and summer at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Alongside musical events, workout classes are also hosted there as part of “Film on the Rocks.”
The exquisite sandstone formations that surround an amphitheater are not only visually breathtaking, but acoustically perfect and provide inspiration to both artists and fans.
The History
Red Rocks is an iconic music venue known for its stunning natural surroundings and breathtaking acoustics, creating an unforgettable concert experience.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre has long been revered as an exceptional musical venue, drawing musicians from every genre to perform there and delight audiences with its impressive acoustics. Performers ranging from The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix to Mumford & Sons have raved about its incredible acoustics and have spoken of its being unique among venues nationwide. No other venue compares.
Red Rocks was host to one of its most unforgettable concerts ever when British rock band Jethro Tull performed for an enthusiastic sold-out crowd in 1971. Unfortunately, countless nonticket holders managed to gain entrance and caused chaos; police then deployed tear gas canisters; the band continued performing regardless; even tuba player Ian Anderson nearly choked to death!
The Venue
Mother Nature sculpted rock formations provide a spectacular backdrop for incredible acoustics that make this venue one of the world’s premier music venues. Come for concerts, Easter Sunrise Service, movies under the stars or hikes – it will truly be an experience like no other.
As parking spaces can quickly fill up and can be difficult to exit, visitors often recommend arriving early and entering through Lower South/Shakedown entrance, which is closer to the main stage and will facilitate your departure faster. On this map, Lower South is indicated with a dashed line next to Upper South on this map above.
Food and drinks may be brought into the venue provided they are contained within factory sealed containers of 32 ounces or less and packaged according to regulations set by the venue. Bottled water is highly recommended.
The Seating
As the sun sets and stage lights illuminate, rock formations become an eye-catching visual spectacle that complements performances. Furthermore, its natural acoustics make this amphitheater one of the best venues to enjoy music.
Concert goers of all ages come together to share their love of music and build lasting memories together. The combination of stunning natural beauty and captivating performances creates an incredible sense of community among concert goers.
Relive your Red Rocks experience through photos or videos! As long as they do not record live shows or use drones, point-shoot cameras and cell phones are allowed into the venue; just remember to be respectful of artist’s intellectual property rights by following their camera policy.
The Views
Sandstone amphitheater with iconic red rocks is an aesthetic wonder, but what truly distinguishes this place are its legendary acoustics. Global musicians including U2 and new-age piano tinkler John Tesh have recorded live albums here — testament to its exceptional natural acoustics.
Visit Red Rocks Visitor Center and experience displays about past acts, memorabilia collections and hiking Trading Post Trail to witness geological marvels, trees, wildlife habitats and dinosaur fossils!
Hike along Dinosaur Ridge trail for even more hiking fun; its 300 Cretaceous dinosaur footprints and other points of interest provide plenty of exploration opportunities. Don’t forget to pick up something at the gift shop’s cozy sweatshirts or memorabilia. Red Rocks Amphitheatre shows can be riveting experiences; just remember where you parked so that when the show has ended you aren’t stuck in an exodus rush of patrons leaving after you!
Other Activities
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater offer more than just concerts to keep visitors busy during their visit; from yoga sessions, hikes, movie nights and Easter sunrise services.
On steps in between concerts you will often see fitness enthusiasts running, jumping, burpee-ing and stretching to get their exercise. Also present will be musicians strumming guitars and calling out experimentally in an attempt to see how their voices carry over rocks.
Film on the Rocks takes place every summer at this unique outdoor cinematic experience, where attendees bring blankets and stadium chairs for an outdoor movie viewing under the stars. However, be wary of skunks lingering near parking lots; be careful not to spray them!