Red Rocks provides musicians with an unforgettable musical experience. Its incredible acoustics enhance the sound of visiting bands, adding an impressive extra dimension.
On days without concerts, locals exercise on the steps while tourists admire the view. Additionally, Summertime Film on the Rocks series and a hiking trail that leads to Dinosaur Ridge can also be found within this park.
The History of Red Rocks
Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Denver guarantees an unforgettable concert experience, which is why musicians repeatedly book it as their venue of choice even when other larger stadiums could accommodate more attendees. It truly stands the test of time!
John Brisben Walker, a local rancher, began inviting musicians to perform in an acoustically ideal bowl surrounded by Creation and Ship Rock in the early 1900s, helping establish what would later become Red Rocks as a park and amphitheater. From these initial performances came Red Rocks.
During the Great Depression, Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Progress Administration collaborated to transform this park into an incredible natural amphitheater that seamlessly combined natural beauty with structured design. Today, thousands of fans visit each year to witness live music performances while admiring this breathtaking geologic spectacle.
The Venue’s Acoustics
Red Rocks is legendary as a music venue due to its powerful, unique acoustics. Sound waves bouncing off of its sandstone rocks create an immersive and powerful experience for both audience and performers – such as The Beatles, U2, and John Denver who have all graced its stage over time.
Red Rocks provides much more than simply great acoustics for concertgoers at Red Rocks amphitheatre; with natural surroundings and hiking opportunities that create an incredible experience unlike what one finds at conventional arena or stadium shows.
Red Rocks stands as one of the greatest musical experiences for musicians, offering them the chance to perform in this iconic sonic sanctuary and watch as the sun sets between its towering sandstone formations is truly rewarding. Pagan groups sharing camaraderie with metal heads in this magnificent cradle of stone underlines music’s ability to bring people together; visiting Red Rocks also allows visitors to learn more about Colorado’s musical legacy at its free entry Colorado Music Hall of Fame.
The Venue’s Seating
The venue seats over 9,000 fans in an open-air setting beneath towering red rock formations. Boasting a steep pitch and incredible views from all sections, there’s virtually no bad seat in the house; although sitting up top may get windy. Large TV screens add to the experience from any location while blankets (40″x 60″) are allowed provided they do not extend beyond ticketed seating areas or block anyone’s sightlines.
Red Rocks draws visitors of all backgrounds due to its excellent acoustics and scenery, from dinosaurs and ancient tribes, settlers, industrial businessmen, Civilian Conservation Corps members and members of the Military Reserve all making memories here. For many Denver locals, a night of music under the stars at Red Rocks marks an essential summer rite-of-passage experience.
Getting There
Experience Red Rocks concerts is truly unique; however, traffic jams may impede your ability to access and leave the venue easily on show days.
Plan to arrive at Red Rocks two hours early so you have time to park in the Upper North Lot and walk into the amphitheater via its easiest (and often acclaimed most beautiful) entrance point, plus drive through a fun tunnel!
Carpool or use ridesharing to reduce traffic and wait times after the show, and consider taking an eco-friendly option such as public buses or shuttles from Denver, Ft. Collins or Boulder; just make sure your shuttle service provides up-to-date schedules and availability info; additionally be aware that not all buses and shuttles provide refreshments on board.