If you have never been to Red Rocks Amphitheatre, then you are in for a treat. This unique amphitheatre is known for its blend of the natural environment with modern technology to create a venue for amazing concerts and other fun events. Discover more about this Colorado treasure’s history and find helpful resources to better plan for your visit to Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
History of Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is one of the world’s most unique entertainment venues as an open-air amphitheatre built into the natural rock formations at Red Rocks Park in Morrison, Colo. The Red Rocks area is nearly 300 million years old, with dinosaur fossils and tracks marking the passage of time with the changes in the landscape. Learn more about how this geological masterpiece was created with our Red Rocks guide.
Construction
Construction on Red Rocks Amphitheatre began in 1936, headed by architect Burnham Hoyt and assistant, Stanley Morse. Hoyt and Moore’s goal was to limit the man-made components of the amphitheatre’s construction and preserve the views and the natural acoustics produced by the rock formations. This mission also helped to calm concerns from those against the construction as it might disrupt the natural landscape and wildlife of the area.
A large disc-shaped rock, Stage Rock, acted as a marker for the future stage placement. Rising up on either side of Stage Rock are two red sandstone monoliths, Ship Rock and Creation Rock. The amphitheatre’s planned seating area was excavated and leveled in the center of these formations. More than 90,000 square feet of sandstone and 30,000 pounds of steel were used to complete the five-year project.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre’s Debut
Red Rocks Amphitheatre officially opened on June 15, 1941. The occasion was marked by speeches from government officials as well as a Native American ceremony to acknowledge the native territory. The amphitheatre and park would be designated as a National Historic Landmark in 2015. Since it opened, the amphitheater has played host to memorable acts like Jethro Tull, The Beatles, U2, Diana Ross and more.
In July 1959, the amphitheatre’s stage was replaced and the orchestra pit was converted into storage space. Other renovations in the late ‘80s and ‘90s would result in the construction of a roof for the stage, a visitor’s center and other upgrades to the park and amphitheatre. More recently, acts like Thundercat, Black Tiger Sex Machine, Hozier and Puscifer have put on exciting shows at Red Rocks.
Where Is Red Rocks Amphitheatre?
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is situated at 18300 W Alameda Pkwy in the city of Morrison, Colo. The formations of Red Rocks Park rest where the Rocky Mountains meet the Great Plains. All the land where the amphitheatre resides is the traditional territory of the Cheyenne, Ute and Arapahoe Peoples. Red Rocks Park contains more than 738 acres of land filled with fossils, geological structures, local wildlife and fauna which make for breathtaking views.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre Seating Chart
Seating Capacity
The amphitheatre has 2.5 miles of seating with the capacity to host 9,525 people. Red Rocks Amphitheatre has 70 rows of seats that face the stage, providing great views from anywhere in the venue. The seats located the closest to the stage are in Row 1.
Be Prepared for Cold or Warm Weather
As an outdoor venue, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is subject to the area’s weather and climate, so wearing layers is a smart option. This way you can avoid overheating, but also stay warm if temperatures drop and the wind picks up. Umbrellas aren’t allowed, so grab a poncho or waterproof jacket instead, just in case the weather takes a turn. The key item is comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk or hike in the park. Many of the Red Rocks Park areas have slopes, lengthy distances to travel, and plenty of dirt.
Activities at Red Rocks
If you’re not interested in checking out a concert or show at the amphitheatre, there are still plenty of local Morrison attractions to enjoy.
Hiking Trails
Before embarking on a hike or bike ride, know that the trails are 6,280 feet above sea level, so park guests with health conditions are reminded to be careful and stay hydrated. The park has five trails, four are pedestrian-only: Geologic Overlook, Funicular Trial, St. Vernon Creek and Trading Post.
On non-event days Red Rock Park and its trails open an hour before sunrise and close an hour after sunset. On event days, the park and trails are open until 2 p.m. The trails are about less than three feet wide and the terrain can become rugged. Trail areas might have road crossings, steep sections and sudden drop-offs, so hikers with children must maintain careful supervision.
Yoga
The Yoga on the Rocks experience features yoga classes led by an instructor each Saturday. Attendees should bring water and their yoga mats.
Exercising on The Amphitheatre’s Steps
Guests to the park can exercise solo or in small groups of less than 20 people throughout the week. On the weekends, groups are limited to 10 people max. If you wish to bring your pet, it must remain on a leash and be cleaned up after.
Health Tips:
- Stay hydrated!
- Eat foods with lots of potassium and carbohydrates (whole grains, veggies, fruits, etc.)
- Avoid alcohol for the first 48 hours of a visit if coming from a lower altitude
- Pace yourself – the grounds’ high altitude means dryer air and lower oxygen levels
Fossils at Red Rocks
Dinosaur remains have been discovered and excavated in Red Rocks Park since 1887. Some of the jaw-dropping fossils that can be seen include Jurassic-era dinosaur tracks as well as the remains of a 40-foot sea serpent and evidence of flying reptiles.
Film on the Rocks
This event series has been running for more than 20 years and typically hosts five events throughout the summer. In June and July 2021, the park introduced drive-in shows to its event roster. Film on the Rocks will kick off with a live concert or comedy show before the film plays. Some of the classic and contemporary films that have been shown include Grease, Deadpool and The Big Lebowski.
Visitor Center
The Visitor Center opened in 2003 and hosts both art and park-related exhibits. Several of the special event spaces are located here as well like the Ship Rock Grille, Red Rocks Hall of Fame and the Southwest Heart of the Rock Theatre.
Getting to Red Rocks Amphitheatre
- Buses
- Parking in Lower South Lot 2
- Pick-up and drop-off for guests in oversized vehicles
- Cab
- Drop-off area at Trading Post
- Drive
- Ride Sharing (Lyft, Uber, etc)
- Drop-off areas can be found at the Trading Post, Upper North and Upper South lots.
- Shuttle
- Upper South Lot: Pick-up and drop-off areas
- Serves guests in rows 1 to 36
- Top Circle Lot: accessible pick-up and drop-off area; also guests in rows 37 and up
- Upper South Lot: Pick-up and drop-off areas
Parking At Red Rocks Amphitheatre
The Red Rocks parking areas are free and open two hours before the start of an event. There are four parking lots that fill up on a first-come, first-served basis. The Upper North Lot is the closest to the seats from the parking lot, while the Lower North Lot is closest to the entrance and leads visitors to the base of the park stairs.
The Upper South Lot is designated for guests in rows 1 to 36 who use the Accessible Shuttle. This lot also leads up to a ramp making easy access for wheelchairs or persons with limited mobility. The Lower South Lots are the furthest from the amphitheatre and it’s recommended that comfortable shoes, regular or hiking, be worn as this is a rougher area.
Food & Beverage Services
Take time to enjoy the atmosphere and a few drinks before your event or just take in the majestic views around this venue. Red Rocks Amphitheatre food and drink options can be found throughout the Visitor Center and the park. Along with typical fare of pizza, chips and hot dogs, guests can get treats from vendors like Maui Wowi, Rolling Smoke BBQ and Gringo’s Tacos. Plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options are available for those with dietary restrictions. Other Red Rocks food options include the Ship Rock Grille and Row 71 Bar. The grille is inside the Visitor Center, while the bar is behind the Top Plaza.
Accessibility Accommodations
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is prepared to assist visitors who may have accessibility needs. Wheelchair-accessible seating can be found in Rows 1 and 70. While wheelchairs can’t be rented, guests may bring their own or request a folding chair.
Row 2, seats 6 to 21 is reserved for patrons with vision or hearing impairments. ASL interpreters or assistive listening devices are available. The amphitheatre recommends that any requests or reservations be sent in at least a week before an event.
The amphitheatre also has two I-MAG screens on either side of the stage that will display important messages and a live video feed. These screens can be viewed from anywhere in the amphitheatre.
Certified service animals are allowed, but they must be restrained and stay with their owner at all times. Therapy/emotional/comfort animals are NOT allowed.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre Rules
The rules at the amphitheatre and park are easy to follow. Guests are expected to respect other patrons and staff, avoiding any fighting or offensive language or gestures. Seat saving will not fly here, so make sure to only sit and place items under your ticketed seat. Climbing the rock formations is not allowed and violators are subject to arrest or prosecution.
Permitted Items:
- Single pocket and/or clear bags under 13” x 15” x 8”
- Small purses, fanny packs; must be 6″ x 9″ or smaller
- Non-alcoholic beverages in factory-sealed plastic containers under 32 oz.
- Empty, reusable water bottles; under 32 oz.
- Hydration packs (camelbacks)
- Two liters max
- Must be empty
- Must have single-pocket
- Soft-sided coolers under 10″ x 7″ x 7″
- Personal food and snacks
- Must be in a clear plastic bag (gallon is the max capacity)
- Plastic utensils
- Blankets (under 40” x 60”)
- Binoculars
- Stadium seats and seat cushions
- Under 18”
- Cannot have legs
- Personal point-and-shoot cameras without removable lenses
- Some events will prohibit these devices
- Prescription medication
Prohibited Items:
- Aerosols
- Alcohol or illegal drugs (marijuana)
- Audio/visual recording devices
- Animals; service animals are fine
- Bullhorns or noisemakers
- Cans
- Cigarettes, e-cigarettes and vapes are restricted to smoking areas
- Confetti, glitter, streamers, etc.
- Glass bottles
- Gum
- Hard coolers
- Hula hoop, rope, sticks or balls
- Laser pointers
- Masks
- Remote control flying devices (e.g. drones)
- Selfie sticks
- Skates or skateboards
- Strollers
- Tarps or umbrellas
- Totems
- Weapons
Red Rocks Amphitheatre FAQ:
Can I bring a bag to Red Rocks Amphitheatre?
- Yes, but the bag cannot have multiple pockets and has to fit under your seat
How many people does Red Rocks Amphitheatre hold?
- The official seating capacity at Red Rocks is 9,525.
Does Red Rocks Amphitheatre have lockers?
- No, there are no lockers on the amphitheatre grounds.
Are laptops allowed at Red Rocks Amphitheatre?
- Laptops are not allowed.
Can I bring in my camera?
- Personal point-and-shoot cameras are okay, but it also depends on the specific event.
Does Red Rocks Amphitheatre have any disability services?
- Yes, it does! Please refer to the Accessible Accommodations section above.
Upcoming Events at Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Whether you want to attend an incredible concert from your favorite music act, explore the park trails or come for one of the amphitheater’s event series, you can find Red Rocks Amphitheatre tickets with TicketSmarter. And don’t forget to browse exclusive Colorado travel deals available with HotelPlanner.
