Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Denver is an iconic landmark and world-famous music venue, constructed during the Depression era Civilian Conservation Corps’ work project of 1936.

Acoustics add vibrancy to touring bands’ performances at this venue; however, its high elevation may reduce sound quality slightly. Concerts at this location often sell out; performances by U2, Fleetwood Mac and Mumford & Sons have all graced its stage.

The History

Red Rocks is known for its incredible acoustics, hosting many of the greatest acts in music history. Live albums by U2 such as ‘Live at Red Rocks” and Mumford & Sons such as “Road to Red Rocks” were recorded here; in Pollstar Magazine it even made their list of Best Outdoor Venues!

Red Rocks began as a concert venue in the early 1900s when Renaissance man John Brisben Walker constructed a temporary platform between Ship Rock and Creation Rock and started inviting musicians to use its natural acoustics as a venue.

In 1931, during the Great Depression, Denver purchased an area for an amphitheatre to be constructed by architect Burnham Hoyt’s design and the Civilian Conservation Corps’ construction efforts.

The Venue

Concert venue The Amphitheatre at Ship Rock seats up to 9,000, offering guests unique acoustics thanks to Ship Rock and Creation Rock on either side of the amphitheater. These unique acoustics have produced some of the most iconic live recordings in music history from artists such as U2 and Neil Young to Mumford & Sons.

As the sun set between craggy rocks, an enthusiastic crowd danced along to Indie singer Samia as it set into their vibrant jackets and circled the stage. Fans’ faces lit up with joyous smiles from this chilled evening air.

Outside of concerts, the amphitheater features a 30,000-square-foot visitors center and Colorado Music Hall of Fame – as well as surrounding hiking trails leading up to Dinosaur Ridge. Runners often frequent this venue during the summer months.

The Seating

Red Rocks Amphitheatre is one of Colorado’s premier attractions and a national treasure. The natural setting and astounding acoustics make this destination worth experiencing by both locals and tourists alike.

If you’re planning on attending a concert at Red Rocks, it is essential that you are aware of its rules and policies before planning your visit. We have collected some essential details below in order to help plan your experience at this Colorado landmark.

Red Rocks Park features various parking lots, with those closer to the amphitheatre being more aesthetically pleasing; however, we recommend entering and exiting via the Lower South Lot (depicted by dotted lines on this map) for ease of access into and exit from Red Rocks.

The Sound

Red Rocks offers incredible natural acoustics set against an unforgettable landscape of towering red sandstone monoliths, making every performance at Red Rocks an unparalleled experience for artists and fans alike. No wonder so many have included it on their bucket lists as concert venues!

Burke acknowledges his lack of expertise as an audio engineer but offers this basic explanation: “Ship Rock and Creation Rock are two large rocks either side of the stage that create ideal transference of sound between site and audience. Furthermore, this amphitheater was built directly in front of them.”

Rock formations provide some protection from wind-driven noise problems; however, those in nosebleed seats can still experience muffled or distorted audio quality on windy evenings.

The View

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre in Morrison, CO provides an awe-inspiring setting for live music performances at this open-air concert venue, which has hosted some legendary acts since opening its doors back in 1941.

From its steep pitch and breathtaking views, Ship Rock Grille provides no bad seat in the house – although windy nights may reduce sound quality. After enjoying an exciting performance at Ship Rock Grille, indulge in Colorado cuisine such as buffalo tamales topped with green chile or even elk sliders – perfect to wrap up an unforgettable visit!

Vivid Seats has you covered for an unforgettable Red Rocks experience! Just click on any event below to explore available tickets.