Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Denver, Colorado
Red Rocks Amphitheatre blends breathtaking natural scenery with exquisite acoustics to become one of the world’s premier concert venues. Once home to horse racing track, this iconic rock formation became famous due to Jethro Tull fan attacks leading Denver authorities to ban all “rock” shows at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
The History
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an incredible place, from concerts and movies to relaxing and taking fitness classes (depending on season). Enjoy walking through its amphitheater while taking in its captivating red rocks and expansive vistas. Be sure to visit Performers Hall of Fame as well! Plus don’t miss a visit from its popular performers Hall of Fame or taking advantage of group fitness classes (if available).
John Brisben Walker held several concerts on a temporary platform between Ship Rock and Creation Rock during the early 1900s, earning the site its reputation as an outdoor music venue. Following this success, CCC workers started construction of an outdoor theater that opened for performances in 1936.
The natural amphitheater boasts incredible acoustics, and has hosted legendary acts from The Beatles to Jimi Hendrix and Grateful Dead. Colorado residents will remember it fondly! This theater is truly a Colorado icon.
The Venue
Rock formations and its unique location above Denver add to its allure; many visitors find the experience goes far beyond music alone.
Red Rocks was formed 280 million years ago. Renaissance man John Brisben Walker began hosting concerts there during the early 1900s, discovering and taking advantage of its unique acoustics for music performances.
Concertgoers who choose the unique, natural setting can enjoy tailgating before shows at this unique and natural venue, where food and drinks may be brought from home (although blankets are not permitted within ticketed seating areas). This experience creates memories that outlive even musical performances themselves.
The Seating
The venue is a natural marvel, encircled by two enormous red sandstone monoliths whose geological qualities are truly incredible. Additionally, its legendary acoustics allow even whispers to carry across the stage!
As soon as the concert starts, you’ll want to ensure you have an optimal viewing spot of your favorite musicians performing. Achieve this goal by arriving early and participating in pre-show activities.
Tailgating, beer drinking and socializing among fellow concertgoers are key components to an enjoyable concert experience. Make sure to come prepared by bringing non-alcoholic beverages in factory sealed plastic containers (32oz or smaller). Bring snacks along as well and don’t forget the water – especially at an altitude of 6,500 feet!
The View
Red Rocks Amphitheatre boasts seamless acoustics for unforgettable concert experiences that can only be found here in Colorado. Music legends from every genre have performed here – from The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix, The Grateful Dead, U2, etc.
Attracting visitors with its spectacular natural beauty, Ship Rock Grille provides visitors with the perfect view of Rocky Mountains while providing delicious cuisine at their tables.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre may be known for its stellar acoustics, yet sometimes acts find it challenging to sound their best there. Big Head Todd & the Monsters’ front-of-house engineer Andy Torri states that weather, temperature and altitude all play key roles when it comes to shaping sound quality at Red Rocks.
Parking
Red Rocks provides plenty of parking options that open two hours prior to concerts at Red Rocks, and fans often favor the Upper North Lot for its proximity to venue entrance and ease of entry into amphitheater – it also helps reduce how much climbing concertgoers must do during an evening!
Lower South Lots provide guests with another great parking option that is conveniently close to both their show and venue entrance, without an uphill walk before hand and post-show exiting hassles. They also give them the option of parking facing downhill for ease of post-show exiting. Unfortunately, South lots are slightly further from venue entrance than North lots.
Preparation
Red Rocks is known for its breathtaking natural beauty; however, concertgoers also find plenty of amenities at this venue. Tiered seating carved into natural rock formations offers different vantage points while restrooms and concession stands are strategically placed throughout for convenience.
Stay Hydrated: Altitude and outdoor concerts can lead to dehydration, so ensure that you bring a water bottle and plenty of snacks with you to sustain yourself throughout the evening. Refill stations should be available at each venue, while reusable bottles are welcome too.
Share Your Experiences: By posting stunning photographs or recounting moving stories about music-inspired experiences online, sharing experiences creates a stronger community of music enthusiasts. Just be mindful that respect should always be kept at the forefront.