The Red Rocks Amphitheater is more than the coolest concert venue in Colorado. It is one of the most unusual out there.
In fact, it is the only acoustically perfect amphitheater that occurs naturally in the world.
The sound here is impressive, and so is the atmosphere. Imagine a scenery carved into the side of towering red rock formations and sandstone walls, surrounded by breathtaking nature. It’s no wonder Red Rocks has attracted the most influential names in music, from the Beatles to opera stars and more. Red Rocks has been a popular music venue for over 75 years. It opened (in its current form) on June 15, 1941, although the formation itself is hundreds of millions of years old.
But live music is just the beginning of what Red Rocks has to offer. Here are six ways to celebrate the venue, beyond the obvious live music.
1. Walk the nearby trails.
Music may be in the limelight here, but this is Colorado after all, so outdoor recreation and fitness are another important aspect of Red Rocks. Around the stage area, you can find over 800 acres of views, grasslands, animals, birds, and even dinosaur bones. Red Rocks Park is where the plains meet the mountains, so the natural geological features here are unique and varied. This is a great place to walk with your family.
2. Dine with a view.
The Ship Rock Grill is the hotel’s restaurant, built around two huge rocks both inside and out. For breathtaking views, dine on the outdoor terrace. You can even book dinner here before your show, or just stop by for pictures.
3. Get active on the rocks.
The popular Yoga on the Rocks events bring together thousands of yogis on the steps of Red Rocks each summer, to experience the place from a different perspective. But take note: this event often sells out quickly, so if you want to join, plan ahead. There is also the Red Rocks Fitness Challenge. Turns out that mountainside can also match deadly training. The challenge is an eight-week exercise program.
Or check out Fitness on the Rocks, where thousands of people gather to exercise.
Last year, the numbers reached 7,000.
4. Look for vacation packages.
Some local hotels offer special Red Rocks packages, often tied to a popular concert or activity. For example, in the past, the Hotel Teatro in Denver offered a “Red Rocks Refill Package” focused on wellness. The deal included a private transfer to Red Rocks and admission to participate in Yoga on the Rocks or Fitness on the Rocks, or a self-guided hike through the Morrison Mountains.
The Hotel Teatro also offered a rock package that was more about the party side of the amphitheater. Guests received a free cocktail, a tour of the Colorado Music Hall of Fame (which you must add to your Red Rocks wish list no matter what), private transportation to Red Rocks for a concert, and a late checkout to the next day (not until 2pm).
Tip: Look for hotel packages (as well as events) that donate a portion of the money to Preserve the Rocks, a fund committed to restoration and preservation in the Red Rocks area.
5. Take an educational tour.
Do you want to learn more about the geology and history of music? Set up a private group tour, from the visitor center. You’ll see different educational exhibits, watch a documentary and the “best” concert footage, and learn all about the nature that surrounds this unique place in Colorado.
6. Watch a movie under the stars.
Film on the Rocks is another way to enjoy Red Rocks. The annual event features several films, often cult classics such as “The Breakfast Club” and “The Shining,” which are shown on a big, big, big screen on stage. Find a place on the stairs and relax under the stars; Every seat is good.
