About Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a unique 9,525-seat open-air concert venue nestled in Red Rocks Park near Morrison, Colorado (en.wikipedia-on-ipfs.org ). Carved into 250-million-year-old red sandstone formations, it is the only naturally occurring outdoor music venue in the world. The steeply sloped seating bowl faces out over the plains and Denver skyline, creating spectacular sightlines from every angle. The stage is flanked by giant monoliths called Ship Rock and Creation Rock, which help funnel sound upward and provide a dramatic, awe-inspiring backdrop. The City of Denver built the stone amphitheater during the 1936–41 New Deal era (it opened to the public in 1941 (en.wikipedia-on-ipfs.org ) (en.wikipedia-on-ipfs.org )) after Denver Mountain Parks acquired the land. The design by architect Burnham Hoyt blends into the park, allowing concerts to blend with nature. Today Red Rocks is a designated National Historic Landmark (both for its natural geology and its Civilian Conservation Corps-era construction (www.cpr.org )). Over the decades it has hosted legendary performances (from folk and jazz icons to rock superstars), making it an iconic part of Colorado’s music history.
Events and Programming
Red Rocks is primarily known for its summer concert season (typically April through October) featuring all genres of music – rock, pop, country, hip-hop, EDM and more. In recent years the venue has hosted over 200 shows in a season, drawing more than a million visitors (www.axios.com ) (www.axios.com ). Artists range from big-name headliners and tribute acts to local bands and tribute festivals. For example, recent lineups have included Ice Cube with Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Sublime with Rome, The Avett Brothers, 1964: The Tribute (on the 60th anniversary of the Beatles’ U.S. debut), and even orchestral collaborations like The Strings & Bluegrass Concert with the Colorado Symphony (www.axios.com ). Many recurring events fill the calendar: Friday-Saturday yoga classes at dawn (“Yoga on the Rocks,” which consistently sells out (www.axios.com ) ), Denver Film’s “Film on the Rocks” summer movie series (family-friendly films with pre-show bands, starting at $25 general admission (www.redrocksonline.com ) (www.axios.com )), and the “Christmas in Color” holiday light drive-thru from late November to early January (www.redrocksonline.com ). Typical concert tickets range widely based on the artist – roughly $30 up to $100–150 for standard seats, with VIP packages higher. As one example, a recent Chainsmokers festival at Red Rocks offered tickets starting around $124 (www.axios.com ). Since many shows sell out quickly, fans often sign up for artist presales or the venue’s email alerts to get tickets when they go on sale. On show days, the official box office at the Trading Post opens about 4 hours before the performance (www.redrocksonline.com ), but most tickets are sold in advance online.
Tickets and Booking
You can purchase Red Rocks tickets through the venue’s official channels well in advance of each event–usually via the Red Rocks website or authorized ticket outlets. Major concerts often have presale periods (for example, through artist fan clubs or sponsor promotions), so joining mailing lists can help alert you to on-sale dates. Ticket prices vary with demand and seating level, from around $30–$150 for general seats to more for VIP or premium packages. Fees and taxes may apply to online sales.
The Trading Post at Red Rocks doubles as the Will Call/box office. It opens on event days roughly 4 hours before the start of the show (www.redrocksonline.com ). If you have a will-call reservation or need to buy last-minute tickets (if any remain), that’s the place to go on show night. However, popular concerts do sell out – there is no guarantee of getting tickets at the door. For highly anticipated shows, plan to buy online as soon as tickets go on sale. Check the Red Rocks schedule frequently: new shows are often announced, and tickets for big names can sell out rapidly. In short, book early, use presales when possible, and arrive at opening time to avoid missing your event.
Seating and Layout
The amphitheatre seating is a single-tiered, terraced bowl of stone benches – no lawn or balcony levels. The entire audience area is set on a 309-foot-long, 22-degree incline (www.prosoundweb.com ). All 70 rows of bleacher-style seating are gradually elevated so that every seat has an unobstructed view of the stage (www.coloradoamphitheater.com ). About 9,525 guests can be seated. Seating is divided into general admission (the open, unassigned seating area closest to the stage) and reserved sections (numbered benches, typically along the outer edges). General admission tickets allow you to sit anywhere in the central benches; with reserved tickets you have a specific row/seat assignment.
Every seat offers a great view, but some sections have distinct advantages. The first few rows (1–5) put you right at the stage. Rows around 12–20 are often cited as the “sweet spot” because they balance stage proximity with an overall view of both the performers and the surrounding red-rock scenery. The rear seats (rows 60–70) are farthest from the stage but give a dramatic panoramic outlook back over Denver’s skyline at sunset. A professional sound system (custom often from L-Acoustics) hangs above the stage and towers, carefully covering the steep slope (www.prosoundweb.com ) (www.prosoundweb.com ), so even the last row hears full-range audio clearly. In short, there are virtually no bad seats.
If available, VIP or artist-package seating is offered for some shows. These might include premium benches near the center or special lounge areas. Red Rocks also has designated accessible seating: wheelchairs can sit in Row 1 (front, reached by shuttle) or Row 70 (top row, accessed by ramp) (www.coloradoamphitheater.com ). Lastly, note that all seating is bench-style – bring a small cushion or padding if you want extra comfort (cushions under 18″ wide, no folding chairs or stools, are permitted (www.redrocksonline.com )). Smoking, when allowed, is only in the rear plaza areas, not in the seating bowl.
Getting There and Parking
Address: Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, 18300 W Alameda Parkway, Morrison, CO 80465 (about 15 miles west of downtown Denver (en.wikipedia-on-ipfs.org )). Driving is the primary way to reach the venue. From Denver, take I-70 west to Exit 259 (for Colorado Highway 470 S/C-470) and follow signs toward Morrison/Red Rocks. Continue on Highway 93 south past Golden, then turn west on Alameda Parkway into Red Rocks Park. Ample directional signs guide you to the amphitheater. There is no direct light rail or late-night bus service to the amphitheatre (the RTD W Line ends in Golden). Some RTD buses reach Morrison, but you’d still have to hike about a mile uphill. Shuttle services or rideshare from nearby cities (Golden, Lakewood) can be arranged for major events (www.cbsnews.com ), but plan carefully as regular transit is limited.
Parking Lots: Red Rocks offers about five parking areas within walking distance of the venue. The Upper North and Upper South lots are nearest to the top of the seating bowl (shortest walk), so they fill first. Lower North and two Lower South lots sit deeper in the park and require an uphill walk. All show-day parking is free and included in your event ticket (www.coloradoamphitheater.com ). Lots open roughly 2 hours before the show’s door time (www.coloradoamphitheater.com ). Attendants will direct you to the nearest available lot. Vehicles may be left overnight on event nights (note: cars must be moved out by 10:00 AM the next day or they may be ticketed (www.coloradoamphitheater.com )).Drop-off and Rideshare: For drop-offs or rideshares (Uber/Lyft), use the designated drop zones. Passengers are typically let out at the Trading Post loop (Entrance 2) or at the Upper North/South lots (Entrance 3). If dropping off someone with mobility needs, use the Upper South lot (Entrance 3) – it is closest to the ADA shuttle stop (www.redrocksonline.com ). At the end of the show, Uber/Lyft and taxis pick up from the “Jurassic Lot” just inside the park (Entrance 2) (www.redrocksonline.com ). A recorded message (720-865-2494) announces the event end time each night, which helps drivers time your pick-up. Given potential traffic, it’s wise to arrange rides early or have a backup plan (e.g. return to Golden or Denver if necessary).General Transit Options: There are no scheduled buses that stop directly at the amphitheatre. If using public transit, the closest option is taking RTD to nearby stops (for example, bus routes in Morrison) and then walking. The area around Red Rocks entrance has bike trails as well, but few people bike in on concert nights. Most visitors drive or carpool – consider riding with friends or using park-and-ride lodging to reduce traffic.
Inside the Venue
Entry and security: On event nights, all guests pass through security. Clear-bag rules apply (www.redrocksonline.com ). You may carry small single-pocket or clear bags up to about 13″×15″×8″, or a small purse/fanny pack (up to about 6″×9″) (www.redrocksonline.com ). Multi-pocket bags, backpacks, and large coolers are not allowed (www.redrocksonline.com ). You can bring factory-sealed bottled water (32 oz or less) and empty reusable water bottles to refill later (www.redrocksonline.com ). Light snacks in clear plastic bags are permitted (e.g. fruit slices or sandwiches) (www.redrocksonline.com ). Do not bring outside alcohol, glass containers, or loose ice. Phones and point-and-shoot cameras (no detachable lenses) are allowed (www.redrocksonline.com ); professional photography gear, drones or recording devices are prohibited (www.redrocksonline.com ).Seating and comfort: The seating benches have no backs. Many patrons bring small padded stadium seats or seat cushions (height under 18″ is fine) (www.redrocksonline.com ). Wear layered clothing – evenings can turn cool, and afternoon sun can be strong. Comfortable shoes are a must if you have a spot in a lower lot (you’ll walk uphill from the car). The amphitheatre floor itself is stone; there are no railings along the stepped aisles, so allow extra time getting to high rows. Out of courtesy, remain in your ticketed section. Group gatherings or standing in walkways can be unsafe.Food & drink: Several concession stands around the venue sell food, snacks, local craft beers, wine and soda. You’ll find festival staples (burgers, hot dogs, nachos, etc.) and often healthier options (salads, fruit, vegetarian fare) (redrocksdenvercolorado.com ). There are also covered bars (cash or card). A full-service cafe at the Trading Post (outside the seating bowl) offers coffee, sandwiches and desserts. Merchandise booths near the stage sell artist T-shirts and souvenirs. Cash or credit cards are accepted at most stands, but lines can be long during intermission.Restrooms and amenities: Restrooms are located at the top (near Trading Post/Trading Post Road) and roughly midway down the seating risers. More portable toilets may be added for big events. Expect lines, especially around show start and intermission. The Trading Post building itself houses permanent restrooms, a gift shop, a small museum/history display and the box office. If you need medical aid, look for first-aid stations usually set up near the concessions or at the stage side.Connectivity: Red Rocks provides free public Wi-Fi (look for “RedRocksPark” network and accept terms). Data/cellular signals can be spotty under the rocks, especially for voice/text – plan any communications ahead of time. Most people use Uber’s offline mode and then reconnect in the lots. The amphitheatre does not offer charging stations for cellphones beyond standard electrical outlets behind the stage (for staff).Atmosphere: Concert nights at Red Rocks have a festive, community vibe. Many fans tailgate in the parking areas or dance to music played at the Trading Post plaza before showtime. The setting – surrounded by massive red walls and nearby pines – feels like a natural temple of music. Walk slowly up and down the steps after the show; take your time enjoying the star-filled sky. Remember, Red Rocks is a park as well as a music venue, so please keep the area clean and stay on designated paths during non-show activities.
Nearby Amenities
Red Rocks is somewhat remote on Highway 93, but a few local spots lie within easy reach. The tiny town of Morrison (just south of the amphitheatre) has limited dining: options include a classic roadside tavern, a steakhouse, and a few cafes or food trucks (depending on the season). For a wider selection, drive ~10–15 minutes east to Golden or north to Lakewood. Downtown Golden (historic Washington Avenue) is popular – it has local brewpubs, pizza or sandwich shops, diners and family restaurants. Lakewood and Golden also host hotels and chain eatery strips. Since Red Rocks shows often end around 10pm, note that most mountain-area restaurants and trails close by then; Denver’s larger restaurant/bar scene is 30–40 minutes away if you want late-night options. Rideshare pickups can be congested after a show, so it’s wise to pre-book a ride or arrange a meet-up point.
On-site, the Red Rocks Visitor Center/Trading Post (at the top parking lot) has snacks, coffee and a gift shop selling Red Rocks souvenirs. There is no coat check or luggage storage, so leave valuables in your car. During concerts, a few street food vendors may set up outside the gates. In short, plan to eat either before driving in (Golden is a good pre-concert stop) or rely on the well-stocked concession stands at the venue. For lodging, the closest hotels are in Golden or Lakewood (brands like Residence Inn, Holiday Inn Express, local boutique inns). Many visitors choose to stay in Denver and commute, since downtown Denver’s nightlife (bars, restaurants, after-parties) is easier to access late at night.
What Makes This Venue Special
Red Rocks Amphitheatre’s blend of natural beauty, history and world-class audio makes it legendary. Its very design is unique: a steep-walled bowl formed by wind and water eons ago, chosen for music venues because the rock naturally forms a “sound shell.” Concertgoers often compare the acoustics to a perfect recording studio – the sound carries clearly from stage to the top without echoes or dead spots. The amphitheatre is also a cultural icon. It has been a favorite of musicians since the 1960s – the Beatles toured here in 1964 and famously encountered bad weather, while Jimi Hendrix played here in 1968 (his last U.S. show) and John Denver recorded live albums on this stage in the 1980s (www.coloradomusicfest.org ). U2’s live album “Under a Blood Red Sky” (1983) was recorded during a rainy Red Rocks show, cementing the venue’s place in rock history.
Beyond rock, Red Rocks is one of Colorado’s premier public attractions. It’s been awarded “Best Outdoor Venue” by industry polls so many times that a special “Red Rocks Award” was created in its honor. In 2015 the park and amphitheatre were declared a National Historic Landmark for their distinctive New Deal architecture and natural surroundings (www.cpr.org ). The community treasures Red Rocks not only for headline concerts but also for hiking, morning yoga classes, local festivals and educational tours. Artists love playing here for its enthusiastic crowds and unique setting, and fans travel from around the globe to check this venue off their bucket list. In sum, the marriage of Colorado’s red sandstone beauty with rich musical heritage – all set under the open sky – is what makes Red Rocks an irreplaceable, world-famous venue.
Visitor Tips and Information
The best advice for attending Red Rocks is to plan ahead. Since this is a high-altitude outdoor site, check the weather forecast and dress accordingly (daytime sun can be intense, nights can be chilly). Bring sunglasses, sunblock, a hat and a light jacket even in summer. Stay hydrated – you may buy or refill water on-site, as Colorado’s dry air can dehydrate you. Because the amphitheatre is steep, wear comfortable shoes rather than flip-flops or unwieldy heels. The venue fills up, so arrive early: parking lots open ~2 hours before showtime (www.coloradoamphitheater.com ), which gives you time to find a good parking spot, stretch your legs, explore the Trading Post, and get to your seat before the show starts. Late arrivals can miss the opening act or find only high-up seating.
Accessibility: Red Rocks is ADA-accessible. Wheelchair seating is located in the front row (Row 1) and the top row (Row 70), with ramps and shuttle service from the upper parking lot (www.redrocksonline.com ). Accessible parking is in the Upper South lot (Entrance 3) close to the shuttle drop-off. Service animals (certified guide dogs) are permitted, but other pets or emotional support animals are not allowed (www.redrocksonline.com ). If you have mobility issues, let staff know – volunteers and attendants are available to assist you to your seat if needed.
What to Bring (and Not): Follow the venue’s bag policies (www.redrocksonline.com ) by using a clear or single-pocket bag. Pack only what you need: water in sealed bottles or a small hydration pack, a few snacks (like fruit or granola bars in a clear bag), and necessary medications (in original containers). Avoid large backpacks or multiple bags. Don’t bring outside booze or glass. Cameras/phones are fine, but professional photography equipment is not. Because Red Rocks is at high elevation, it’s wise to take breaks: bring earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music, and keep lip balm or sunglasses handy if windy. Check the venue’s “no-smoking” rule: smoking is only allowed in designated plazas, not in the seating areas.
Local Tips: The Trading Post plaza often has music or activities before concerts – it’s a fun spot to arrive early and soak up the atmosphere. If you have extra time, hike one of the nearby trails (Dinosaur Ridge trailhead is close by) or visit the Colorado Music Hall of Fame in the Trading Post during the daytime. After the show, traffic out of Red Rocks can be slow. Public transit is unavailable late at night, so plan for a pickup or drive carefully. Ask staff when to head to the designated pickup area (the Jurassic Lot) following the announcement of the encore, to save walking time. Lastly, show pride in this natural landmark: stay on paths, do not climb on the rocks, and use provided bins for trash. A little preparation (comfortable shoes, layered clothes, sun protection and patience with crowds) will ensure your Red Rocks experience is memorable for all the right reasons.
How do I purchase tickets for Red Rocks Amphitheatre events?
Tickets must be bought in advance through official channels – either the Red Rocks website or authorized sellers (fan clubs or radio presales also happen for big shows). The on-site box office (at the Trading Post) opens about 4 hours before showtime and handles will-call, but day-of walk-up sales are not guaranteed if shows are sold out. For popular concerts, it’s safest to buy online as soon as tickets go on sale.
Are tickets for Red Rocks concerts sold at the venue box office on the day of the show?
Generally no – most tickets sell out in advance. The Trading Post box office does open on show days to service will-call tickets and any unsold seats, but there is no guarantee of availability. It’s best to purchase ahead online. If you do try the box office on the event day, arrive early (it opens ~4 hours before the show (www.redrocksonline.com )) and be prepared that only a limited number of tickets may be available.
What are typical ticket prices at Red Rocks?
Ticket prices vary widely by artist and seating tier. Small shows, local acts or general admission tickets might start around $30–$50. Major acts or reserved seats can range $75–$150 or more. Some VIP or special packages run twice that or higher. For example, a recent outdoor movie screening was $25 GA or $50 for premium seating (www.axios.com ). Always check the event page for exact pricing. In general, Red Rocks tickets are in line with other similarly sized For more precise pricing, look up the show on the Red Rocks site.
Is parking included with a Red Rocks concert ticket?
Yes. All parking for concerts at Red Rocks is free and included with your ticket (www.coloradoamphitheater.com ). You will not pay extra for parking on show nights. Attendants will direct you into one of the available lots. The lots open roughly two hours before doors (www.coloradoamphitheater.com ), so arriving early secures a closer spot.
What is the seating capacity and layout of Red Rocks Amphitheatre?
Red Rocks seats about 9,525 people on a single, steeply inclined stone bench. There are 70 rows of bleacher-style seats (www.coloradoamphitheater.com ). The bowl is carved into natural rock, so everyone is essentially on the same level surface rising up the hill. It’s not an arena or stadium with tiers; it’s just one big sloped section. Every seat is stepped up above the one in front, giving nearly all seats an unobstructed view of the stage.
Which seats or sections are the best for viewing and sound at Red Rocks?
This is subjective, but a common recommendation is: front rows deliver intimate closeness; mid-bowl seats (around rows 12–20) balance proximity with a full perspective; and top rows offer broad scenic views. Because the sound system is carefully tuned for the slope (www.prosoundweb.com ), even back rows hear well. If you like panoramic scenery along with the show, the higher rows are great. If you want to feel the energy up close, aim for a seat in the first 5–10 rows (though note the stage is higher than you). In summary, there really aren’t “bad” seats due to the steep, unobstructed design — it depends on whether you prefer being right by the stage or soaking in the whole amphitheater.
Does Red Rocks have general admission and reserved seating?
Yes. Many concerts at Red Rocks offer both general admission (GA) and reserved seating tickets. GA means “open seating” within the main floor section: you can pick your spot among the unassigned benches when doors open. Reserved tickets assign you a fixed bench by row and number (usually around the outer sections). Whether an event is GA or reserved depends on the show. Always check the ticket description: if it’s GA, get there early to secure a good spot; if reserved, you get the exact seat number printed on your ticket.
What is the address of Red Rocks Amphitheatre?
The entrance address is 18300 West Alameda Parkway, Morrison, CO 80465 . (This places you at Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre.) If using GPS or maps, searching “Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison CO” should direct you there. Be aware that the road is called Alameda Parkway, and the amphitheater is up inside Red Rocks Park. The address on your ticket or email should match this location.
What parking options are available at Red Rocks and are they free?
There are five on-site parking areas for concerts: Upper North, Upper South (closest to the venue), and Lower North, Lower South 1, and Lower South 2 (further down the hill). All parking is free with your concert ticket (www.coloradoamphitheater.com ). The upper lots fill first, so arriving early is recommended. Lots open about two hours before doors (www.coloradoamphitheater.com ). After parking, expect a short walk up a paved pathway or hillside to reach the amphitheater. If you have limited mobility, tell staff when you arrive: the Upper South lot has an ADA drop-off point that shuttles to the front row (www.redrocksonline.com ).
Can I take public transportation to Red Rocks Amphitheatre?
Unfortunately, there is no direct public bus or train to the venue. The RTD train (W Line) only goes as far as Golden (several miles east), and standard buses don’t go up to the Amphitheatre’s remote location. A special event shuttle has been discussed, but as of now you would need to take a bus to a nearby stop (for example, Morrison’s downtown) and then walk or arrange alternate transport. In practice, most visitors drive or use rideshare. For carpool options, Denver’s “Way to Go” program can help you find ride partners. Remember, returning after a concert by transit is not reliable – plan for a designated driver or rideshare pickup instead.
Where are Uber/Lyft drop-off and pick-up points at Red Rocks?
For passenger drop-off, rideshare drivers should use one of the designated lodging points inside the park. The main drop-off lots are the top circle loop (Entrance 1) and the Trading Post/Visitor Center loop (Entrance 2) near the upper lots (www.redrocksonline.com ). After the show, the pickup zone for Uber/Lyft is the “Jurassic Lot” (just inside Entrance 2 off Highway 93) (www.redrocksonline.com ). The venue usually updates a phone recording (720-865-2494) with the concert end time so drivers know when to arrive. Always follow staff directions on site – after the show, it’s safest to walk down to the Jurassic Lot to meet your ride.
Is Red Rocks Amphitheatre wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Red Rocks provides accessible seating for guests using wheelchairs or with mobility concerns. Designated wheelchair spots are located in Row 1 (front) and Row 70 (top of the amphitheater) (www.coloradoamphitheater.com ). Entrance ramps and a shuttle from the upper parking lot serve Row 1, while Row 70 can be accessed by paved paths or by a short ramp from the top circle road. Accessible parking is in the Upper South lot (Entrance 3) for drop-offs. Staff and ushers are available to assist in finding ADA seating. The venue also offers assisted-listening devices at shows if requested in advance. Service animals (certified guide dogs) are welcome; other pets are not allowed (www.redrocksonline.com ).
What items am I allowed or not allowed to bring into Red Rocks?
Red Rocks enforces a clear-bag security policy. You may carry small single-pocket or clear bags up to about 13″×15″×8″ (www.redrocksonline.com ), or a small purse/fanny pack (6″×9″ or smaller). Hydration packs (≤2 L) are allowed if empty. Sealed bottled water, empty reusable bottles, and soft-sided six-pack coolers are okay (www.redrocksonline.com ). Small snacks (sandwiches, sliced fruit) in a clear one-gallon bag are permitted (www.redrocksonline.com ). Binoculars and non-flash cameras (no removable lenses) are fine (www.redrocksonline.com ). Prohibited items include alcohol, illegal drugs, glass, cans, large coolers, umbrellas, weapons (knives, etc.) and drones (www.redrocksonline.com ). All bags will be inspected at the gate. If unsure, keep your belongings minimal and convenient – smaller is better to speed entry.
Can I bring outside food or drinks into the amphitheater?
You may bring certain items for personal use: small snacks and sealed water. Unopened bottled water (32 oz or less) and empty refillable bottles are allowed (www.redrocksonline.com ). If you bring food (sandwich, fruit, etc.), it must be in a clear plastic bag (gallon-size or smaller) (www.redrocksonline.com ). Note that any liquids must be factory-sealed – partially empty bottles will have caps opened for inspection. Bringing alcohol or glass containers is not permitted (www.redrocksonline.com ). In practice, many visitors purchase food and drink inside – Red Rocks has hillside concession stands with food, soft drinks, and local craft beers. Bringing only what you need (water and simple snacks) is recommended, and leaving all other food or open containers outside.
Are pets or service animals allowed at Red Rocks Amphitheatre?
Regular pets are not allowed inside Red Rocks. Only ADA-defined service animals (certified guide dogs and the like) are permitted under federal law (www.redrocksonline.com ). Emotional support or therapy animals do not qualify. If you need a service animal, show documentation if asked, and your seating will be in the accessible section (row 1 or 70) to accommodate. For the comfort and safety of all guests, please leave all non-service animals at home or in your vehicle.
What food and drink options are available on-site?
Red Rocks offers several concession stands along the bottom and middle of the seating area. You can purchase typical concert fare (burgers, hot dogs, nachos) as well as healthier options like salads and fruit cups (redrocksdenvercolorado.com ). Local Colorado specialties often appear in summer – for example, barbecue dishes or craft vinegars may be on the menu. Bars serve beer (including local craft brews), soda, wine and mixed drinks. The Trading Post Visitor Center (at the top lot) has a cafe for coffee, ice cream or sandwiches during early-day events. Oregon. Plan to wait in line around show time; they usually accept both cash and cards. If you have dietary needs, note that some stands offer vegetarian or gluten-free items. Bringing small snacks and water (in clear containers) is allowed to supplement venue offerings.
Is there Wi-Fi or cell phone reception at Red Rocks?
Yes. Red Rocks provides free Wi-Fi under the network name “RedRocksPark”; just accept the terms on your device to connect. However, cellular reception (calls and texts) can be unreliable inside the amphitheater due to the thick rock walls. Cell phones often work better in the parking lots than in the seating area. Many guests download any needed rideshare or group-chat info before entering. If you plan to call rideshare, consider letting the underside of the Trading Post or Jurassic Lot as meeting points after the show, where phones may get a signal. In short, plan to rely mainly on Wi-Fi and pre-show communications rather than expecting solid cell coverage once inside the venue.
Is smoking allowed inside Red Rocks Amphitheatre?
Smoking and vaping are strictly restricted. Tobacco or cannabis smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas, typically on the upper plaza behind the soundboard and near concession zones. You must not smoke in any seating area or in the tunnels/stairwells. Please look for posted signs marking the smoking zones if you need a cigarette or cigar. This rule helps protect the unique natural environment and the comfort of other patrons.
What happens if it rains or storms during a show at Red Rocks?
Red Rocks concerts generally go on rain or shine in dry conditions – the stage is covered, but the audience is exposed. If rain starts lightly, the show usually continues (people often use ponchos or sit through a drizzle). However, severe weather (especially lightning or large hail) triggers evacuation for safety. In the rare event of a hailstorm or electrical storm (as happened at one 2023 concert), staff will pause the show, provide instructions over the PA, and direct guests to shelter (the Trading Post and restrooms are solid cover). Always follow any staff or security guidance; they know the fastest path to safety. There is no guarantee of a refund if weather stops the show, so it’s wise to bring a waterproof layer and plan to leave quickly if a storm develops.
Is Red Rocks Amphitheatre open to visitors year-round, even without a concert?
Yes. The park and amphitheater (for touring/viewing only) are open daily year-round from one hour before sunrise until one hour after sunset (www.redrocksonline.com ). You do not need a ticket to visit the park on non-event days – admission and parking are free (www.redrocksonline.com ). The Trading Post Visitor Center is also open daily (hours vary by season) and has historical exhibits, a gift shop, and restrooms. Many people visit Red Rocks outside of concerts to hike, take photos or simply enjoy the views. During concerts, of course, access to the seating bowl requires a valid ticket.
