Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

The basics

Red Rocks Park is an easy day trip from Denver, and there’s plenty to do even when a concert isn’t scheduled. Visitors can tour the museum and visitor center, shop for souvenirs, and check out the Colorado Music Hall of Fame, while hikers can hit the 6-mile (9.6-kilometer) Red Rocks Loop Trail, which showcases sweeping views of the concert venue in all its glory. To see more of the surrounding Rocky Mountains foothills, visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre on a small-group or private tour from Denver and explore nearby highlights such as Lookout Mountain, Bear Creek Canyon, and the charming mountain town of Evergreen. Or, get a taste of both city and nature by combining your Red Rocks visit with a Denver city tour. Whether you choose to explore on your own or with a guide, you don’t want to miss the epic scenery of Colorado’s Rocky Mountain wilderness.

Things to know before you go

• The weather at the park can change suddenly, so pack a jacket or extra layer of clothing.

• Red Rocks Park is 6,450 feet (1,966 meters) above sea level; be sure to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, which is common at high altitudes.

• If planning to attend a concert, arrive early and allow ample time to park and pass through security.

• Wheelchair-accessible seating is available; accessible tickets must be purchased in advance.

How to get there

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre lies in the foothills of the Rockies, roughly 15 miles (24 kilometers) west of downtown Denver. The Red Rocks visitor and help center, located on Alameda Parkway in Morrison, is open daily and provides additional information for getting around.

When to get there

Summer is the warmest and most popular time to visit. Spring and fall visitors find slightly cooler temperatures and bargain rates, with autumn visitors getting the opportunity to see the mountains speckled with colorful foliage. Some hotels and attractions may close in winter when temperatures drop and the area gets snowy. To avoid crowds, visit Red Rocks Park in the early morning—hiking trails are open from one hour before sunrise until one hour before sunset. The Red Rocks Loop Trail is open year-round.

Artists who have rocked Red Rocks

For more than 100 years, this sandstone outdoor venue has been world-renowned for its natural beauty and stunning acoustics. Some of the world’s largest musical acts have performed here, including legends such as The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, and Fleetwood Mac, plus opera singer Mary Garden, U2, and Rush. From the way the sunlight reflects off the sandstone just before sunset to the way the twin, 300-foot (91-meter) rocks behind the stage perfectly capture sound, there’s a level of magic here that borders on the surreal.

Ways to explore

Red Rocks Park is an easy trip from Denver, and there’s plenty to do even when concerts aren’t scheduled. You can tour the museum and visitor center, shop for souvenirs, and check out the Red Rocks Hall of Fame. Hikers can also hit the Red Rocks Trail, which showcases sweeping views of the venue in all its glory.

To see more of the surrounding Rocky Mountains foothills, visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre on a small-group or private tour from Denver, and explore nearby highlights such as Lookout Mountain, Bear Creek Canyon, and the charming mountain town of Evergreen.

Accessibility

Red Rocks has select wheelchair-accessible seating areas and restrooms; however, some routes to the venue are via steep slopes, which may make access challenging.

Age limits

None, although some concerts may not be suitable for very young visitors.

What to pack

Sun or rain protection, single-pocket bag, sealed water bottle and snacks, blanket

What to wear

Wear good walking shoes to get to the venue, plus weather-appropriate layers.

Not allowed

Large or multipocket bags, drugs and alcohol, umbrellas, strollers

Amenities

Visitor center, food and drink concessions, restrooms, gift shop

Address

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is near Morrison, Colorado, in the Rocky Mountain foothills. It is roughly 30 minutes from downtown Denver by car. Public transit options are limited, but tours and shuttle services can also help get you there.

Driving

To get to Red Rocks by car, take US-6 W to I-70 W; on-site parking is available. If you prefer to leave the driving to someone else, Red Rocks has dedicated passenger pickup and drop-off areas for taxis and rideshares.

Public transportation

There are limited public transit options for traveling between Denver and Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. The best option is to book a round-trip bus shuttle service; plan to reserve in advance to secure your seat.

Best times to visit

Red Rocks is typically open from sunrise to one hour after sunset; note that it closes after lunch on concert days.

Best days to visit

If you plan to visit Red Rocks as a tourist or hiker, aim to avoid days when concerts are held so you have full access to the space.

Best months to visit

Summer is a great time to visit Red Rocks—many events are held, and temperatures are usually comfortable at night. Avoid winter, when the weather means few events take place.

Special events

Red Rocks hosts concerts and events all throughout the year. Its Christmas in Color drive-through lights show is a fun holiday event.