Red Rocks’ legendary acoustics make Red Rocks an attractive venue for musicians, including John Denver, The Beetles and U2–performing artists that have made this venue their signature stage. Additionally to concerts hosted here at Red Rocks Park there are family friendly events like Film on the Rocks as well as fitness classes available here.
Even when no event is taking place, you might still see people running up and down the steps jogging – covering all 69 rows of bleacher seats is equal to running 3 miles!
Geology
Red Rocks Amphitheatre provides more than natural acoustics; the rocks there also act as an historical time capsule. Red Rocks Park and Dinosaur Ridge/Morrison Fossil Area National Natural Landmark combine into an area that spans 1.7 billion years ago from Precambrian basement rock to Fountain Formation sedimentary rocks of more recent origin.
John Brisben Walker, owner of American magazine Cosmopolitan, had the idea to hold concerts utilizing Ship and Creation Rock’s natural acoustics as an acoustic bowl surrounded by an acoustical bowl in 1906 and 1910 with temporary stages for these performances.
In 1927, George Cranmer, manager of Denver parks, convinced the city to purchase the area and put together five years’ worth of work via CCC and WPA programs – two Depression-era work relief schemes administered by President Franklin Roosevelt as part of his “New Deal”. Finally, by 1933 the venue was ready for its inaugural concert.
Seating
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is internationally-recognized for its unparalleled acoustics, drawing concert goers from all corners of the globe to witness performances here at this National Historic Landmark. Red Rocks hosts some of the biggest music tours and some acts even hold their first-ever shows at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
The venue features a standard amphitheater format with bleachers rising up 70 rows to the stage. Some events provide reserved seating while others are general admission – check each event listing to learn more about specific seating arrangements for that show.
Concerts at Red Rocks can be loud and crowded, which may cause anxiety in pets. Therefore, Red Rocks does not permit animals into its parks or amphitheater. Trained service animals that assist individuals with disabilities are welcome inside; they must however always remain on a leash, including when parking their vehicle in its lot.
Getting There
When attending concerts at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, arriving early can give you ample time to enjoy delicious tailgating snacks, meet fellow music lovers and take in breathtaking scenery before the performance starts.
This legendary open-air summer concert venue, surrounded by towering sandstone monoliths with Denver views and unbeatable acoustics, makes an incredible setting for concerts or exploring its surrounding trails – make this a stop on your Denver itinerary today.
If you’re in the mood to grab something before or after the show, stop by Ship Rock Grille for Colorado-themed dishes like buffalo tamales topped with green chile and elk sliders served with fries. Additionally, be sure to visit Red Rocks Visitor Center to gain further insights into this geological wonder; its walls tower above Niagara Falls while also boasting fossil fragments from sea serpents, flying reptiles, and dinosaur footprints!
Getting Around
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre is an invaluable natural treasure, worthy of a visit even without attending an event there. Public transit or private shuttle services offer easy ways to arrive there.
Parking at the venue is limited, so plan to arrive with plenty of time in order to avoid traffic and long lines at the entrance. If traveling by bus, check RTD for up-to-date schedules and route locations.
Rather than driving yourself, consider carpooling with friends or renting a community party bus to reduce expenses and emissions. There are also private transportation services that offer luxury vehicles with dedicated drivers for extra special nights at the rocks; they make great options for groups of any size as they will pick you up at your designated location or hotel and wait during shows until everyone is home again!