Red Rocks Amphitheatre concerts offer something truly exceptional. The acoustics, views and atmosphere cannot be rivaled – making for an experience unlike any other!
History makes this amphitheater truly magical: millions of years of geologic forces, Civilian Conservation Corps laborers and Burnham Hoyt and Stanley Morse architects’ vision were all necessary elements in making its creation possible.
The Story of Red Rocks
Red Rocks is a natural wonder and the ideal venue to experience live concerts. The unique acoustics created by its rock formations create an indescribably immersive concert experience, making this venue an unforgettable venue. Many artists have left their mark here.
John Brisben Walker started inviting musicians to perform at Red Rocks in the early 1900s, and locals enjoyed both its musical offerings and breathtaking view. Denver decided to purchase the land and work on building a permanent amphitheater starting in 1936, using Burnham Hoyt as its architect; five years of construction work under both Civilian Conservation Corps and Work Projects Administration saw its completion.
On non-concert days, the park is open to the public. Locals enjoy hiking and exercising along its rocks, while you may even join up to 2,000 yogis for Sunrise Yoga on select Saturday mornings for an experience sure to invigorate and refresh.
The Geology of Red Rocks
Red Rocks is an unparalleled venue, known for hosting everything from classical symphonies and orchestral performances, to concerts by artists like the Beatles, Hall & Oates or U2. Distinguished by its geologic formations, natural beauty and near-ideal acoustics – Red Rocks remains one of the world’s favorite music venues.
Ship and Creation rocks form a bowl-like amphitheater at the park. Their geological formation from 40-70 million years ago caused pieces of rock to absorb sound instead of reflect it, according to Burke, contributing to its signature red hue and soundscape.
Steep pitch and stunning views ensure there’s not a bad seat in the house at this iconic venue, though windy nights may diminish sound quality up top. Concerts here attract millions of visitors each year from all corners of the globe; concertgoers spend about $20 million annually supporting jobs in tourism, hotels and transportation industries alone! It is no wonder so many are willing to brave long commutes from Denver for shows at this iconic location!
The Geography of Red Rocks
Red Rocks — which features iconic landmarks such as Ship Rock on its southern end and Creation Rock on the north — forms one of the world’s only naturally-occurring amphitheaters with ideal acoustics. Formed over millions of years during Laramide Orogeny geologic period that also gave way to Garden of the Gods and Flatirons landmarks –
The amphitheater boasts 9000 seats and plays host to world-famous musicians for summer concerts. But this venue offers much more than music alone: yoga enthusiasts take their practice atop rocks here, as well as people out for runs, hikes or just admiring its stunning scenery.
Red Rocks Park attracts out-of-state visitors as well, who spend over $20 million each year in local economies through restaurants, hotels, transportation and event tickets alone.
The History of Red Rocks
Red Rocks’ transformation from an undeveloped landscape into one of the world’s premier music venues is a testimony to human perseverance and creativity. Here are a few historical photos from Denver Public Library digital archives showing what Red Rocks looked like prior to becoming a National Historic Landmark and an attraction for musicians worldwide.
Ute Tribe members used this area for thousands of years before it was settled by European-American settlers; however, when John Brisben Walker began holding concerts there on a temporary stage it quickly gained attention as a musical venue. By 1936 Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) constructed an amphitheater to continue Walker’s legacy.
Red Rocks’ natural acoustics create an unforgettable concert experience, and many artists record albums or perform at this venue when other venues would sell out faster.