Red Rocks Amphitheater

Red Rocks Amphitheater showing theatre scenes and snow
Red Rocks Amphitheater showing landscape views, snow and mountains
Red Rocks Amphitheater
Red Rocks Amphitheater
Red Rocks Amphitheater showing mountains and landscape views


Towering monoliths create perfect acoustic conditions and a unique concert venue, all thanks to the magic of Mother Nature.

It is doubtful that you could find a more dramatic setting for a concert than Red Rocks Amphitheatre. This live music venue sits at almost 2,000 metres above sea level, amongst huge rocky outcrops that, just by chance, form an acoustically perfect space. Many famous artists perform here, drawing on the magical atmosphere of this natural wonder.

Previously known as the “Garden of Angels”, it was entrepreneur John Brisben Walker who first spotted the true potential of this site. Redesignating it as the “Garden of the Titans”, he produced the first performance in the amphitheatre in 1906, the “Grand Opening of the Garden of the Titans”, complete with a 25-piece brass band.

The current design is the work of Denver architect Burnham Hoyt, who sought to work in harmony with the unique character of the site. The stage is positioned amongst giant sandstone monoliths almost 100 metres in height, which naturally direct the soundwaves.

Concerts are held throughout the summer season, so do check the programme online to see what’s coming up. Past performers have included everyone from Jimi Hendrix and The Beatles to U2 and Coldplay.

Thanks to its stunning scenery, Red Rocks is hugely popular even when there are no performances scheduled. You can explore the surrounding area along the two hiking trails. The 2.25-kilometre Trading Post Trail takes you through the vast sandstone formations and down valleys, so make sure that you’re wearing suitable footwear. The longer Red Rocks Trail is more accessible, and the 9.6-kilometre circuit is often used for horse riding and mountain biking as well.

It’s well worth making a stop at the visitor centre when you first arrive. You can book a place on a guided tour around the amphitheatre and backstage, departing daily at 10 am. The on-site restaurant, The Ship Rock Grille, serves lunch and dinner on a patio overlooking the stunning scenery, and you can even book a pre-show dinner if you’re lucky enough to have a concert ticket.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a 30-minute drive from downtown Denver. Alternatively, shuttle buses run from the main hotels.

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Cliff House Lodge B&B

Cliff House Lodge B&B

3.5 out of 5
121 Stone Street, Morrison, CO
Cliff House Lodge B&B
Origin Red Rocks, a Wyndham Hotel

Origin Red Rocks, a Wyndham Hotel

3.5 out of 5
18485 W Colfax Ave, Golden, CO
Origin Red Rocks, a Wyndham Hotel
Hampton Inn-Denver West/Golden

Hampton Inn-Denver West/Golden

2.5 out of 5
17150 W Colfax Ave, Golden, CO
Hampton Inn-Denver West/Golden
Best Western Plus Denver West/Golden

Best Western Plus Denver West/Golden

3 out of 5
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Holiday Inn Express & Suites Golden - Denver Area by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Golden - Denver Area by IHG

2.5 out of 5
17140 W Colfax Ave, Golden, CO
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Golden - Denver Area by IHG
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Littleton/Red Rocks

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Littleton/Red Rocks

3 out of 5
5669 S Alkire Street, Littleton, CO
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Littleton/Red Rocks
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Denver Southwest/Littleton

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Denver Southwest/Littleton

2.5 out of 5
5679 South Alkire Street, Littleton, CO
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Denver Southwest/Littleton
Hampton Inn Denver West Federal Center

Hampton Inn Denver West Federal Center

2.5 out of 5
137 Union Blvd, Lakewood, CO
Hampton Inn Denver West Federal Center
Courtyard by Marriott Denver Golden/Red Rocks

Courtyard by Marriott Denver Golden/Red Rocks

3 out of 5
14700 West 6th Avenue Frontage Road, Golden, CO
Courtyard by Marriott Denver Golden/Red Rocks
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Red Rocks Amphitheater

At Red Rocks Amphitheater, visitors can indulge in a variety of activities, including enjoying live music performances in one of the best music venues in the United States. The surrounding area also offers stunning hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, nearby amusement parks provide fun for families, ensuring a well-rounded experience for all who venture to this iconic location in Golden, Colorado.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Red Rocks Amphitheater, visit Colorado Mills Mall, only 8.0km away, offering a vibrant atmosphere with entertainment and diverse shops. If you're up for a drive, Bella A Boutique is 16.1km away, while Larimer Square, 19.3km away, boasts a charming shopping scene.

Recreation

Explore Bear Creek Lake Park for tranquil walks and relaxation amidst nature, only 4.8km from Red Rocks Amphitheater. For sports enthusiasts, Fossil Trace Golf Club offers a scenic golfing experience 8.0km away, while Coors Field, located 14.8km away, buzzes with vibrant sports energy.

Adventure

Experience adrenaline at Bandimere Speedway for thrilling motor racing, located 1.6km from Red Rocks Amphitheater. Enjoy family fun at Water World, a vibrant waterpark 27.4km away. For scenic adventure, hike the Triceratops Trail, 9.7km away, and immerse yourself in the great outdoors.

Nightlife

The Gothic Theatre, a mere 19.3km from Red Rocks, offers a romantic and cultural experience with live performances. For cinema lovers, the Cinemark Century Bel Mar 16, just 12.9km away, provides a fun night out. Alternatively, Lucky Strike Lanes, also 12.9km distant, promises exciting arcade adventures.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Red Rocks Amphitheater

Whether you're a culture enthusiast or an outdoor adventurer, Red Rocks Amphitheater and its surroundings offer a variety of attractions to explore. From picturesque urban parks to the modern college atmosphere and vibrant entertainment venues, there's something for everyone. Families will find plenty of engaging experiences, ensuring a memorable visit filled with nature, music, and local culture.

  • Red Rocks Park: Located a mere 322m from Red Rocks Amphitheater, this stunning national park boasts breathtaking scenery and vibrant outdoor adventures. Explore its picturesque trails, majestic rock formations, and serene picnic spots, all while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Colorado.
  • Ball Arena: Situated 19.3km away, Ball Arena is a hub of entertainment, hosting thrilling sports events and concerts. This family-friendly venue offers an electric atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for enjoying lively performances and creating unforgettable memories.
  • Colorado School of Mines: Just 8.0km from Red Rocks, this modern university embodies urban charm. Renowned for its engineering and applied science programs, visitors can stroll through its beautiful campus and appreciate the architectural blend of tradition and innovation.

Best time to go to Red Rocks Amphitheater

The best time to visit Red Rocks Amphitheater is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January28.4°F (-2.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
February28.6°F (-1.9°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March38.5°F (3.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
May54.0°F (12.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June66.9°F (19.4°C)Light RainSunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainSunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August71.2°F (21.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September65.1°F (18.4°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October50.2°F (10.1°C)No RainSunnyModerately LowAverage
November38.5°F (3.6°C)No RainSunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
December28.9°F (-1.7°C)No RainSunnyModerately LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Red Rocks Amphitheater

To save money on your trip to Red Rocks Amphitheater, consider visiting between November and January when accommodation prices are lower, particularly on Sundays. Avoid Saturdays for the best rates. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter for budget-friendly, eco-certified hotels and sort results by price. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities to maximise savings. Keep an eye out for best available rates and price guarantees to ensure you get the best deal possible while exploring free activities in the area.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Red Rocks Amphitheater are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Red Rocks Amphitheater is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Red Rocks Amphitheater is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you favour. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will reveal sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You might find it beneficial to save money by combining your hotel accommodation at Red Rocks Amphitheatre with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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