Red Rocks Amphitheatre stands 6,000+ feet above sea level and is revered for both its geological history and musical performance. Sound echoes off its skyscraper rocks like no other venue on earth; from classical symphonies to U2, its roster of performers here includes classical orchestras to rock icons like U2.
History
Red Rocks Amphitheatre offers visitors an unforgettable journey through natural and cultural history, featuring dinosaurs, ancient tribesmen, settlers, industrial businessmen, government officials, non-profit organizations, architects, artists and music lovers all contributing to its creation as a National Historic Landmark and Musical Instrument Museum.
John Brisben Walker began inviting musicians to concerts held between Ship and Creation Rocks during the early 1900s, which featured stunning acoustics. These concerts also helped keep local residents away from flooding into nearby streets during flood events.
George Cranmer, manager of Denver Parks, persuaded city leaders to purchase and transform it into an outdoor theater. President Franklin D. Roosevelt initiated various programs designed to lift America out of its Great Depression; among these was Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), with 200 men sent out by FDR’s Civilian Conservation Corps to work on roadways and bank side sloping at the amphitheater. Burnham Hoyt (who would later design Empire State Building), an architect hired for seating design as well as other theater elements; construction began in 1936 with completion five years later in 1941.
Seating
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is one of the country’s premier outdoor concert venues, accommodating up to 9,000 raucous music fans at once. Surrounded by massive red sandstone formations that contribute to its impressive acoustics and on a clear night up to millions of stars can be seen shining brightly through its seats.
Construction on the amphitheatre began in 1936 under the leadership of architect Burnham Hoyt and assistant Stanley Morse. Hoyt worked together with Morse to minimize manmade components to preserve views and natural acoustics of the amphitheatre.
Red Rocks Concert Venue provides concert goers with an unforgettable experience that often turns into lifelong memories. At its core lies Colorado’s energetic lifestyle, musical appreciation and breathtaking beauty all under one roof; bring sunblock, beers and chairs along for this fun yet unforgettable journey! Whether your tickets are General Admission (GA) or Reserved seating tickets you should arrive early at Red Rocks Parking lot to ensure a good seat.
Food
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is one of the premier music venues worldwide and draws visitors from every corner of the globe to its concerts. However, attending one at this legendary location often raises a number of questions both before, during, and after performances take place there.
Start exploring this incredible venue at the Visitor Center where you can watch a short documentary and visit the Colorado Music Hall of Fame.
As well as enjoying delicious cuisine in beautiful settings, guests can dine at Ship Rock Grille which boasts an exquisite menu matched by breathtaking scenery. Concession stands offer tasty bites such as chicken fingers, hot dogs, nachos and pizza; beverages of both kinds (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are always on sale; pre-show dinners can also be found at Golden, an idyllic town a mere 15-minute drive from the world-famous amphitheater – guests love its fantastic cuisine and friendly staff here!
Hiking
Red Rocks is more than a concert venue; it also boasts miles of hiking trails that showcase its remarkable natural formations and unparalleled acoustics, which make this special place so beloved by so many. While concerts might be best spent away from these trails, they remain open all year round.
Trading Post Trail, located near its namesake restaurant and Colorado Music Hall of Fame, is one of the easiest trails to hike. This short loop offers moderate difficulty with dogs welcome on leashes.
Funicular Trail is another highly-popular trail, following an old funicular railway from Upper North Parking Lot to Trading Post Road parking area. Furthermore, Mt Vernon Creek Trail provides stunning views of amphitheatre before connecting into Trading Post Trail near Lower South Parking Lot – visitors should remember their elevation at Red Rocks when taking this walk and stay hydrated during their visit!