Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Denver is an architectural feat and concert venue. Constructed of massive, curved rocks that act like natural walls to direct sound waves and offer an unforgettable concert experience, Red Rocks has seen legends like the Beatles perform alongside modern day artists who love playing here.
Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) enrollees began work on converting the Garden of the Titans into a formal theater in 1936. George Cranmer designed it so as to incorporate natural acoustics with continental seating arrangements for optimal sound.
History
Red Rocks Amphitheatre took millions of years for geologic forces and over 10 years of labor under the Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Progress Administration to become what it is today, but its history goes much deeper. Dinosaurs, ancient tribesmen, settlers, industrial businessmen, government officials, nonprofit organizations and musicians have all left lasting memories here and praised its out-of-this-world acoustics.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre, 10 miles west of Denver, has long been the center of cultural events such as concerts, sunrise yoga and other cultural gatherings that captivate hundreds each year. As the only naturally-occurring outdoor concert space with perfect acoustics – its beauty and mysterious energy have charmed generations and drawn musicians from around the globe to its stunning stage! See why so many concerts, performances and cultural gatherings take place here annually.
Seating
Red Rocks provides one of the world’s most striking concert experiences with its natural surroundings and acoustics, providing visitors with one-of-a-kind concert memories. Situated west of Denver near Morrison, Red Rocks was opened as an amphitheater park in 1941 and has since hosted music fans from all around the world – featuring such famous performers as Nat King Cole, Harry Belafonte, Louis Armstrong as well as more contemporary groups such as Eagles Journey & Grateful Dead to name just a few!
The natural amphitheater at 6,500 feet provides seating for over 9,000 people in its 70 rows of head-on seating that rise away from the stage. There’s also a concession stand and two large stone slabs called Ship Rock and Creation Rock that come alive during performances. Concertgoers should bring sunblock and something comfy to sit on during shows – plus don’t forget your water!
Parking
Red Rocks offers several parking lot options, each offering different advantages and disadvantages. When arriving, staff will direct you to an available lot; those seeking convenience should try parking in either Upper North or Lower South Lots as these provide the shortest walk from Red Rocks and tend to fill up quickly.
Parking in the lower lots requires an uphill trek that may prove challenging under crowded conditions. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow extra time if parking in these lots.
Tailgating is allowed before concerts at Red Rocks in certain lots; please check with the venue to determine specific rules and regulations. Open-flame grills and oil frying equipment are usually forbidden unless temporary fire bans are in effect; remember, however, that your concert experience should remain the main event!
Food
No one can dance all night at Red Rocks Amphitheatre without first fueling up on carbs! Luckily, the nearby town of Morrison offers numerous great eateries that should be visited before attending a performance at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
Alternative dining options at Red Rocks include eating in-venue at one of its concession stands; however, lines may be long and prices high; to save time and money when dining there, pre-order beverages through the Red Rocks app to avoid long lines for drinks!
Red Rocks is one of the premier open-air concert venues worldwide and should be on any music lover’s bucket list.
Atmosphere
From concerts to geological formations, Red Rocks Amphitheatre Trail can help to spark inspiration. Simply walking up its stone steps can get the adrenaline going; or for the full dramatic experience take the Trading Post Trail or Red Rocks Amphitheatre Trail hikes for stunning panoramic views.
Atmosphere of Minnesota continues to unify crowds with their lyrics covering topics ranging from service industry work and blue-collar life, to personal issues like relationships, children, and family. Though sometimes more loose on stage than their recordings show it, Slug and Ant still bring genuine spirits when performing live.
Last Sunday, Atmosphere brought the heat along with Lupe Fiasco and supporting acts The Far Side, DJ Abilities and SA-ROC for an incredible night of hip-hop breaks, beats and chill bars.