Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre, the only naturally occurring and acoustically-perfect amphitheatre in the entire world is a geological marvel. Denver Parks Director George Cranmer didn’t convince the Civilian Conservation Corps of Denver to build an outdoor theatre until 1936.
Ship Rock (also called Creation Rock) and Ship Rock (also known as Ship Rock), are giant sandstone walls that are higher than Niagara Falls. These walls also contain dinosaur fossils.
Red Rocks’ natural stage is the perfect place for musicians to showcase their talents. This geologically-formed amphitheater has a unique shape. Ship and Creation Rocks frame the stage with acoustic perfection. Viewers can marvel at dramatic swirling sandstone monliths which tell the history of animals and plants in the region over 250 millions years ago.
Walker transformed the Garden of the Angels, which was originally owned by John Brisben Walker of Cosmopolitan magazine, into a tourist site in 1906. Walker hoped to attract visitors by constructing a wooden stage at the base of the naturally acoustic bowl framed by Ship and Creation rocks.
George Cranmer was the person who brought the amphitheater into the limelight. Burnham Hoyt designed the theater under Cranmer’s commission. Hoyt is a CCC grad who has experience building informal theaters. Incorporating the rock formations in his design, he devised continental seats that do not have a center aisle.
Red Rocks’ stage has been graced by many famous performers over the years. There are many names on the list, including Nat King Cole (of course), Harry Belafonte (of Harry Belafonte fame) and Ray Charles. The Beatles, Sting U2, Bon Jovi, and Bon Jovi are also among the greats that have played here. Red Rocks is also home to movie nights at the theater, yoga sessions, and a sunrise Easter service.
Amphitheaters are known for their awe inspiring atmosphere. Evening concerts in early evenings are magical because the Colorado sunset colors the famous rock formations. Musicians have also described performing at Red Rocks as a dream come true. Natural acoustics and the setting attract performers and help them to bring out their best.
Amphitheaters are known as a place for entertainment and concerts, but there is also a wide range of trails to hike and bike that offers incredible mountain views. This National Historic Landmark is located just 15 miles from downtown Denver and has been named a Colorado Certified Scenic Byway and a State Natural Area.
Film on the Rocks, which takes place every summer in the Amphitheater, offers the chance to watch movies while you relax. Denver Film and Denver Arts & Venues are collaborating to host the wildly popular summer festival. Only a small number of seats will be reserved for the main amphitheater. Visitors are also encouraged to bring their picnic blankets or lawn chairs. No alcoholic drinks are permitted in.
The venue had been a favorite for outdoor activities and watching a film with friends before the pandemic. In 1983, U2 recorded its iconic album “U2Live at Red Rocks”. This sparked a surge in popularity.
Elvis Presley, Paul McCartney, Bon Jovi and the Backstreet Boys are just a few of the many performers who have graced the stage of the park. It is a beautiful place for yoga classes and other forms of exercise.
There is also a visitor centre with 30,000 square feet of souvenirs and history. While the gift shop has a variety of drinks and snacks, many visitors choose to take their own to enjoy before they head to the amphitheater or cinema to see a film. The parking is often limited, especially when events are held in the height of season.
Visitors can choose from a range of hiking paths, some of which are ideal for families. The Trading Post Loop is a popular choice for hikers, as it provides an easy 1.4-mile walk with views of valleys and the rock formations that Red Rocks is famous for. Although the trail can get crowded, it’s well-maintained. You also have easy access for Ship Rock or Frog Rock.
Ship Rock has a popular hike that is often used by joggers. Professional athletes are also seen training in the early mornings. During the summer, the park holds “Yoga on the Rocks” sessions that offer a unique experience for yoga lovers, and fall brings the annual pre-season weekend conditioning classes for skiers and snowboarders.
Red Rocks wouldn’t be the same without a trip that includes observing the breathtaking sunrise at the amphitheatre. Arrive early to secure a parking spot. Parking is available in both the Upper North and Top Circle parking lots.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre allows hiking, but it is recommended that visitors wear comfortable footwear and have plenty of drinking water. Since the park has a high elevation where sun exposure can be strong, you should use sunscreen. This is particularly important when you’re sitting down or walking without shade. Bring insect repellant as the mosquitoes are common.
The park allows dogs on trails, provided they are leashed. There are many native animals in the park, such as rabbits and coyotes.
Red Rocks Park offers so much more than just a spectacular concert. The 868-acre site is home to countless other attractions. The 868-acre park is home to a natural acoustic theatre where you can hear the echos of past history. It also has steep staircases and breathtaking views. You can also hike the geologic Overlook Trail and Dinosaur Ridge. And for an awe-inspiring workout, join the ambitious locals who come to run the stairs or take a downward dog class with the best view in town.
The iconic open-air amphitheater is the only naturally-occurring acoustic venue of its kind and was formed by the giant sandstone outcroppings. This amphitheater, which was cut out of the land in 1941 to serve as a music venue, is unique. About 280 million year ago, the huge sandstone wall, taller than Niagara Falls as part of Fountain Formation was deposited. This breathtaking park is situated in Morrison approximately 10 miles West of Denver. The scenery provides a stunning backdrop for concerts.
In addition to the spectacular amphitheater, there’s a Visitor Center with souvenirs and a fascinating history exhibit as well as the Colorado Music Hall of Fame. Park is national historical landmark. Popular for weddings.
As there are only a few options for food at the Amphitheatre you should bring your own snacks. Also, a small cooler is recommended to keep drinks cool. Remember to stay hydrated as the altitude may affect your ability to do so. You’ll also want to wear comfortable shoes because many of the walking trails have uneven terrain. It’s best to get there early, as the concessions can be busy at times of peak concerts. If you have VIP seats, make sure to visit the all-inclusive hospitality areas.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre might be Colorado’s best known concert venue, but it has much more to offer. Enjoy the scenery from hiking trails, or test your fitness on the amphitheater’s steps. Trace dinosaur footprints among the park’s geological wonders.
Red Rocks were formed by the Fountain Formation which was laid down 280 million year ago. Over time, erosion caused by the Ancestral Rock Mountains eroded the sandstone. It was then pushed upward by the Laramide Orogeny. The park’s rounded, natural amphitheater is acoustically perfect for live music and the two main stone slabs, dubbed Ship Rock and Creation Rock, are taller than Niagara Falls.
Red Rocks Amphitheater is the primary attraction, but it’s also a National Historic Landmark and a popular destination for history lovers, hikers, cyclists, and picnickers. It’s a place that inspires and uplifts visitors, whether they come to see a show framed by ever-changing Rocky Mountain skies or simply explore the natural beauty of the area.
Red Rocks can be a challenging place to visit, particularly when parking is concerned. There are several lots at Red Rocks, and each has their own benefits. Talk to your friends in advance to decide where you will park.
Red Rocks, the world’s first outdoor amphitheater to be built in a natural rock formation, is acoustically ideal. These sandstone monasteries, located about ten mile west of Denver in Morrison have been a magnet for musicians across all genres from Jimi Hendrix, U2, and the Grateful Dead. Free admission is available during the day to this museum that features a large collection of music memorabilia, as well as a Performers Hall of Fame.