Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a stunning natural open-air amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado, just a 15-minute drive from Evergreen. This famous open-air amphitheatre is known for its breathtaking natural surroundings and acoustically perfected design. Owned and operated by the City and County of Denver, the venue has hosted a wide range of events, from concerts and music festivals to tours and group activities.
With its iconic monoliths and unique rock formations, Red Rocks has become a beloved destination for both visitors and performers alike.
What really makes this park and amphitheatre worth the visit?
History of Red Rocks Amphitheatre
The Red Rocks Amphitheatre’s rich history dates back to its construction in the 1930s. Designed by renowned architect Burnham Hoyt, the venue was built on the natural sandstone formations of Red Rocks Park, creating a unique and acoustically superior concert setting.
The City of Denver purchased the land in 1928 and the Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps played a pivotal role in the construction process, ensuring that the natural beauty of the area was preserved.
Officially opening in 1941, Red Rocks Amphitheatre became popular with musicians like John Denver, Jimi Hendrix, and the Grateful Dead, solidifying its reputation as a must-visit iconic venue.
Its unique design featuring 9,525 capacity seating and amazing views of the stage remains popular among performers and concertgoers. Red Rocks also boasts geological significance with towering sandstone monoliths as a stunning backdrop.
Designated as a national historic landmark, it attracts visitors worldwide to experience live music in a natural setting. Today, it remains a beloved destination for music lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, showcasing Colorado’s cultural heritage.
Ship Rock and Creation Rock
Standing tall on both sides of the amphitheatre seating area are two sandstone monoliths known as Ship Rock and Creation Rock. These 300-foot sandstone monoliths provide not only a stunning backdrop for performances but also help to enhance the acoustic experience for concertgoers.
Ship Rock, on the stage left side, and Creation Rock, on the stage right side, are not just rocks but iconic symbols of the natural beauty and history of Red Rocks. Their towering presence is a testament to the 16-million-year history of the region, with layers of sediment and erosion shaping them into their current form.
Visitors to Red Rocks can marvel at the sheer size and grandeur of these monoliths, which are taller than Niagara Falls!
The unique geological features of Ship Rock and Creation Rock add to the allure of the amphitheatre, making it a truly unforgettable venue for music performances and events.
Events and Performances
The concert season at Red Rocks begins in May and lasts through the summer and fall, wrapping up in November, drawing in music lovers from around the world!
With a lineup of big names such as Chelsea Handler, Illenium, Michael Franti, James Taylor, Bleachers, and more, attendees can expect an unforgettable experience filled with live performances against the breathtaking backdrop of towering red rocks.
Legendary Performances
Red Rocks Amphitheatre has a rich history of hosting legendary performances by some of the biggest names in the music industry. From iconic rock bands to world-renowned opera singers, the venue has witnessed some unforgettable moments that have left a lasting impact on both the performers and the audience.
One of the most memorable performances at Red Rocks was by The Beatles in 1964, during their US tour. Despite the thin air and high altitude, the band delivered an exhilarating concert night that has become a part of music folklore. Ringo Starr, the Beatles drummer, fondly recalled the unique experience of performing at Red Rocks and the challenges they faced due to the altitude.
Other notable artists who have graced the stage at Red Rocks include Jimi Hendrix, Bruce Springsteen, U2, Johnny Cash, and country singer Kenny Chesney, just to name a few. Each of these performers brought their unique style and energy to the amphitheater, creating magical moments that have become part of Red Rocks’ musical legacy.
The venue’s acoustics have been praised by performers like Mary Garden, who described it as having perfect acoustic properties that made singing a delight. This, coupled with the stunning natural backdrop of towering red rocks, creates a one-of-a-kind concert experience that is unparalleled.
Movies on the Rocks
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is not only known for its incredible live music performances but also its popular Movies on the Rocks series. This star-studded event takes place nine times during the summer and has been a favorite of locals for nearly 20 years. Each Film on the Rocks event features a crowd-pleasing film preceded by a live concert and a comedian, creating a unique and entertaining experience for all attendees.
Movie nights at Red Rocks start at dusk, allowing guests to take advantage of the prime natural lighting and stunning surroundings of the amphitheater. From classic and cult-favorite films like “The Big Lebowski” and “Grease” to newer hits like “Deadpool” and “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” there is a wide variety of movies showcased during the series to suit all tastes.
Yoga On The Rocks
One of the most popular fitness events at Red Rocks is Yoga on the Rocks, where up to 2,000 yogis gather on select Saturdays during the summer for a unique yoga workout inside the spiritual walls of the amphitheatre. This early morning practice allows participants to find serenity and good health while surrounded by the natural beauty of Red Rocks Park.
Visitors can also take advantage of the Winter Fitness Series starting in September 2024, a pre-season conditioning series designed for skiers, snowboarders, and other winter sports enthusiasts to ready up for and welcome the fun of the winter season!
Outdoor Recreation At Red Rocks Park
Hiking and Biking Trails at Red Rocks Park offer visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area while getting some exercise in. There are a variety of trails to choose from!
The Trading Post Trail is a 1.4-mile loop that takes hikers around the park’s iconic rock formations, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This trail is perfect for those looking for a shorter, more leisurely hike with opportunities to spot wildlife like prairie dogs, rabbits, and deer.
For a more challenging adventure, the Red Rocks Trail is a multi-use trail that connects with Matthew Winters Park to the north for a 6-mile loop. This trail also offers connections to the Dakota Ridge Trail to the east, providing even more opportunities for exploration! You’re welcome to enjoy horseback riding and mountain biking on this adventurous trail.
There are convenient bike racks provided just outside of the Trading Post and at the bottom of the stairs going from the Upper North Lot to the Top Circle Lot.
Visiting Red Rocks Amphitheatre
If you’re traveling from Evergreen, head east on US-40 E/W Colfax Ave. Continue on this road for about 14 miles until you reach Morrison Road. Turn left onto Morrison Road and continue for about 2 miles until you reach the Red Rocks Park entrance on the left. Follow the signs to the amphitheater parking area.
From Denver, take I-70 West to exit 259 and follow the signs to Red Rocks Park. Parking is available on-site for a fee, and there are ample spaces for concert-goers and park visitors alike. Keep in mind that traffic can get congested during peak times, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to secure a parking spot!
The Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre website is filled with valuable resources to assist you every step of the way. With detailed directions on how to reach the park and information on what items are permitted inside the venue, their website offers the best guidance to ensure you are fully prepared for your visit.
Purchasing tickets can also be done directly from their website, along with the ability to view a detailed calendar of all the events that will take place during the open season!
Amenities and Facilities
One of the main features of Red Rocks is the 30,000-square-foot Visitor Center, which houses the Ship Rock Grille, the official restaurant of Red Rocks. The Visitor Center also features interactive educational displays, a short film on the geologic and musical history of the park, and a Performer’s Hall of Fame. Guests can enjoy delicious food at the Ship Rock Grille, either on the outdoor patio with stunning views or in the cozy dining room near a roaring fire.
For those looking to explore the park further, Red Rocks offers daily tours at 10:00 am from June 1 to October 1, or by appointment. The tours provide an in-depth overview of the geological and musical history of Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. Tickets and tour information are available at the Visitor Center merchandise counter. Groups of 10 or more can also schedule tours year-round by calling 303-697-6047 or 303-693-0550.
Red Rocks has onsite parking for up to 9000 vehicles and a total capacity of 2000. The amphitheatre is easily accessible and offers motor coach parking for larger groups. Additionally, the park is just 35 miles from the airport and 17 miles from the Colorado Convention Center, making it a convenient location for visitors.
Conclusion
Red Rocks Amphitheatre stands as Colorado’s iconic outdoor music venue, renowned for its breathtaking scenery and exceptional acoustics. With a rich history and a lineup of diverse events, it offers a unique and memorable experience for music lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re attending a concert or taking a tour, Red Rocks Amphitheatre promises a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of its natural beauty and remarkable performances.
