From Grateful Dead and U2 to Mumford & Sons, this legendary venue can deliver amazing concerts that span the spectrum. Its scenic beauty only surpasses that of its incredible rosters of musicians.
Although infamous for the attempted bum-rush during a Jethro Tull concert in 1971 (leading to a rock ban), this venue remains an iconic music destination.
The History of Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Amphitheatre attracts music enthusiasts, hikers, outdoor exercise enthusiasts and history fans from all around the globe. Its unique geological formation of two 300-foot sandstone monoliths called Ship and Creation creates jaw-dropping acoustics at this venue near Morrison in Colorado.
Red Rocks Park took many millions of years of geologic forces, vision from Burnham Hoyt and Stanley Morse, Civilian Conservation Corps labor, and push from Denver Parks Manager George Cranmer to transform into a formal outdoor theatre. Hoyt designed continental seating without an aisle that gives spectators an unobstructed view of the stage from any seat in the stadium.
Red Rocks is well-known for hosting many memorable concerts, from The Beatles’ initial performance at Red Rocks in 1964 to its 1971 show that ignited a riot and eventually led to rock shows being banned until 1976. Now however, crowd control at this venue has been perfected, offering multiple night runs and alcohol cut-off points to keep everything safe and enjoyable for everyone attending performances at this iconic venue.
Seating Options
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an impressive venue, and concerts held here can provide unforgettable experiences. However, it is essential that concertgoers become acquainted with all of its rules and regulations in order to have an optimal concert experience at this iconic venue.
As an example, blankets must not exceed 40″x 60″, nor extend beyond the ticketed seating area. Drinks must also be nonalcoholic and in factory sealed plastic containers no more than 32 ounces in capacity. It is also important to familiarize yourself with any specific prohibited items that may apply at a specific show, including large bags, outside alcohol or professional cameras.
Are you eager to experience live shows at this iconic music venue? Vivid Seats provides tickets for Red Rocks Amphitheatre events at Vivid Seats. When purchasing tickets, sellers are required to disclose any potential issues such as obstructed view seating so you’ll be completely prepared for what awaits.
Parking
Parking at Red Rocks is included with your ticket price, but parking lots fill quickly upon opening two hours prior to doors. To beat the crowds and secure an excellent seat quickly, consider arriving early to park in Upper North Lot – it offers the easiest entry into the amphitheater as well as passing through an amazing tunnel!
This lot also houses our Top Circle and Limo Drop Off area as well as port-a-potties. If this lot is full, if space remains you will be directed to Lower North lot which offers similar convenience, yet with shorter walking distance to theater entrance.
Tailgating is allowed in all parking lots at Red Rocks, though plastic utensils must be used as they don’t shatter upon impact like glass bottles do. Also note that alcohol beverages are prohibited within the venue.
Getting There
Whenever attending concerts at Red Rocks, it’s recommended that attendees arrive two hours early to secure parking, participate in pre-show activities, and avoid crowds at the entrance.
Red Rocks provides parking in both upper and lower lots as part of your ticket price, with the former closer to the venue, but they fill quickly. If that fails to satisfy, try the lower south lot; our personal favorite offers easy exit without walking up a super steep tunnel (where every artist signs after performing at Red Rocks).
Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Denver and make for convenient means of getting to and from Red Rocks during popular concerts. Check the event page on Red Rocks’s website for information regarding shuttle pickup locations and times.