Red Rocks Amphitheatre took millions of years to form, drawing visitors from far and wide due to its geologic beauty and history. Two monoliths – Ship Rock in the north and Creation Rock in the south – define its physical boundaries while shaping its legendary acoustics.
Musicians love this place for its unparalleled acoustics, which you can hear at concerts beneath the ever-shifting Rocky Mountain sky. But the 868 acres have so much more to offer!
The History
Red Rocks was an important meeting ground for Ute Indians until 1927 when Denver experienced its stock market crash and many visitors abandoned its charms. Before then it had become known as Garden of the Titans; later still as tourist attraction due to a loss in business confidence from investors and tourism officials alike.
Denver did not purchase the land and begin construction of their amphitheatre designed by Burnham Hoyt until 1936, then used programs created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the Depression to aid construction: Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Progress Administration – designed as public work relief measures designed to pull people out of financial doldrums – to build it over five years.
Bonnie Raitt’s first show at this venue in 1978 sold out two nights and is widely considered to have kicked off the jam band movement. U2’s 1983 show at this same venue has also become immortalized through documentary film Sunday Bloody Sunday.
The Music
Red Rocks Amphitheatre stands out among other rock venues with its extraordinary acoustics, providing unforgettable musical experiences. While other rock venues tend to muffle vocalists so as to blend into the crowd more seamlessly, at Red Rocks every note and lyric is celebrated onstage.
Indie singer Samia kicked off the night with her vibrant performance, captivating an attentive audience. Next came Tampa OGs Obituary and Cannibal Corpse who displayed their signature gore-soaked bludgeoning.
Widespread Panic has long been a beloved attraction at Denver’s amphitheater, playing sold-out shows year after year and filling audiences with their energetic performance fusing Icelandic culture and rock fervor.
The View
Red Rocks in Morrison, Colorado is an exceptional outdoor concert venue and must-visit for music fans. With stunning natural sandstone formations that create incredible acoustics and legendary rock artists like Jimi Hendrix performing alongside modern day icons U2 and Mumford & Sons; Red Rocks has hosted some of music’s most celebrated performers like U2 and Mumford & Sons.
This venue can host up to 9,000 guests across 70 rows of head-on seating that rise up toward the stage, providing guests with an excellent close view of performers. Seats in the first few rows tend to provide the best experience.
Take in the scenery during a leisurely walk around the park or grab a bite and beer from Ship Rock Grille before most shows; just remember to pack a blanket, nonalcoholic beverages in factory sealed containers, and don’t forget your binoculars!
The Park
Millions of years of geological forces sculpted the park into its current form. However, two visionaries and the Civilian Conservation Corps (part of President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal to help Americans out of Depression) transformed it into an outdoor amphitheater.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre features numerous trails, parking lots and picnic areas. If camping is on your itinerary, make reservations early as these spots can quickly fill up!
One of the best ways to experience Red Rocks is to stroll along its famous tunnel from Upper North Parking Lot. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes or boots, as there are often people walking across rocks and in grass areas.
The Amphitheater
Ship Rock and Creation Rock are two geologically formed sandstone monoliths known for providing smooth acoustics for unique concerts in this amphitheater, having attracted musicians of various genres like Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, and Grateful Dead to perform there.
On non-concert days, the park is bustling with locals exercising and tourists taking in the sights. On hot summer mornings you may even witness groups of fitness gurus working out at the amphitheater steps.
Taste something delicious at Ship Rock Grille, located on the top plaza with magnificent views and delicious cuisine. Concert nights offer lively tailgating experiences; when visiting, don’t forget to visit Colorado Music Hall of Fame as well!