How To Dress For Red Rocks Concert? Quick Answer

Red Rocks is unlike any other music venue in the world. It is topographically stunning and architecturally ingenious, an amphitheater literally built into the land. Of course, the concerts at the Red Rocks are just as unique. So the rules are different than your average show and we have the lowdown on what you want, need and definitely not for your next event on the famous Rocks.

want, need

A safe place for your ticket

What begins as a beautiful summer day can turn into its opposite. On a particularly sunny, then rainy, evening, my paper ticket and my only hope of entry into Red Rocks was ripped and torn to sopping wet shreds. If you don’t do anything else, make sure you have a safe, dry place for your ticket or you’ll be back down those stairs as fast as you went up them.

Cash $$$

Food and drinks at concerts can be expensive, so not only does cash help with the cash-only sellers, but it also lets you keep track of your spending. If you swipe away, you can forget about the unbearable amount of money you spent on that delicious vodka and lemonade that was really only delicious because it was pretty much just lemonade.

suncream

The Front Range can be a beast in the middle of summer, and we don’t know how much we take our umbrellas and covered balconies for granted when we’re roasting without hiding on the Red Rocks property. Unless you plan to be in your car, which isn’t fun, be sure to bring a bottle of the screen for you and your crew, or it’s going to be a long afternoon of driving under the blazing sun.

snacks

The majority of Red Rocks attendees will eat before going to the Rocks and go through the afternoon and evening without another meal. I can’t hang. So I bring snacks or sandwiches – something that will last a while and you can eat during the day or night events. Especially when alcohol is involved, you are happy about real nutrients.

Poncho or rain jacket

Colorado has incredibly unpredictable summer weather, so always bring a poncho or rain jacket! Nothing ruins a concert quite like being soaked to the bone walking up the stairs and coming face to face with a wall of water that floods up to your knees. I’ve learned this lesson the hard way too many times. The prognosis cannot be trusted. The moral: STAY DRY.

camelbak

We all know beer and liquor are expensive, but what you’ll get is when you’re spending close to $10 a bottle of water. Even worse, the vendors won’t give you the bottle cap, so you’ll have to chug it there and then or you’ll get a hold of it. If you can snag a Camelback, you’ll save yourself the money and hassle of having to hold a bottle all night.

The “right shoes”

If it’s hot that day, your feet in your sneakers will be sweaty and so will the rest of you. When it rains your cute new boots will be puddles of water that will clip your feet all night long. If you wear sandals, you’re likely to get kicked and pissed off at some point. Keep an eye on the weather forecast as best you can, try to protect your pretty little pedicure, and maybe bring a pair of extra shoes just in case.

ceiling

Tarps aren’t allowed at Red Rocks, but if you’re there for your all-time favorite band that night and are lining up early to grab a front and center seat, bring a blanket! Blankets are allowed, and most people at most concerts will respect that your blanket means it’s your seat. If you’re traveling with a crew, your blanket will serve as your base for the evening, which is a plus.

Reliable drive home

Leaving downtown venues, you can easily find a sober ride home or an Uber/Lyft cab for $5. At Red Rocks, most people have been partying all day, and if your buddy is trying to “chase just a few beers” – hold on because there are cops waiting for you to make that mistake and there are random checkpoints along the way Highway 93 all summer long. Do you have a designated driver or a plan with your friends to split the expensive cab ride home (where they queue up at the south parking lot). Have fun, but safe!

your party pants

Red Rocks has been cited by many official (and some more unofficial) media as the premier live music venue. Whether you’re a local and attend a concert at Rocks ten times a summer, or a newbie who’s flown out to see your favorite band at this epic venue, you’re undoubtedly lucky to have the time of your life. Come early, stay late and enjoy yourself.

Neither want nor need

hula hoops

I can’t say for sure if hula hoops are banned, but leave them at home because they’re a nuisance. You’re not at a festival where there’s a lot of space, and while Red Rocks is huge and sprawling, the booths get crowded. Don’t inhibit someone else’s good time because you have to show off your hooping skills. We bet you’re great, but show us to the parking lot before the concert and leave the tire in the car.

To plan

There is not much to say about this, except that tarpaulins are forbidden! So don’t worry because if they confiscate your only camping tarp, you’ll be banging around.

liquids

You may be asked to discard any bottles or cans, even sealed ones, upon entry. Yes, you really wanted that ice cold water bottle or that Coca-Cola you wanted to chase your whiskey-on-the-rocks with, but chances are they won’t get through security (a sealed water bottle is the only safe) . Bet). Bring that camelbak or have your cash ready for the vendors.

Animals

Many people bring their dogs (and, yes, even cats) to Red Rocks grounds to ride them. And some of these people are just there for the pre-party and don’t actually go to the concert. But for those of you who attend the show — leaving your creatures baking in your car in the sun all day and night while your favorite band romp is utterly gruesome and unusual. Please leave your dogs and cats at home where they are safe and healthy!

Your Favorite Smoking Devices

Sure, weed is legal in Colorado now. But that doesn’t mean you can take it to Red Rocks. Leave your favorite smoking paraphernalia at home and opt for a pre-show joint instead. If security takes your favorite bowl and an eighth of weed you just bought, don’t say we didn’t warn you.

Make this Red Rocks season your best yet!

What did you hear?

There are some areas that require a walk, but that’s true of many large venues. There are stairs which can be difficult for those of lower height. I have never found parking to be such a hassle. There for a show in two weeks.

FWIW I would be there at least an hour early but 1.5 hours is nice if you haven’t been to RR it’s amazing. There are hiking opportunities, a visitor center, the CO Music Hall of Fame and more.

If walking/height is a concern, come right after the park opens, 2 hours before a show, and take your time walking up the stairs. I would choose Upper Lot South under the circumstances.

Straight from their website:

Although we offer a wide variety of food and beverage options at Red Rocks, you are welcome to bring your own food as long as your soft cooler or cloth bag fits under your seat.

The following items are allowed:

Soft drinks in factory-sealed plastic containers, no more than 32 oz. (a quart) (some shows may require lids to be removed when entering the amphitheater.)

Empty plastic water bottles

Soft-sided cooler, six-pack size (10″ long x 7″ wide x 7″ high)

Cloth bags, soft packs 12″ x 17″ x 12″ (must fit under the intended seat)

Groceries for personal use only. The food must be in a clear plastic bag. Maximum bag size one gallon (11″ x 11″) Fruits, vegetables must be sliced.

New noise restrictions and end times for concerts at Red Rocks Amphitheater have been at the center of a controversy between EDM fans, residents of the nearby city of Morrison and the City of Denver, which operates the venue.

As we reported last month, over 16,000 EDM fans have signed a petition in response to recently created regulations announced for the 2015 concert season, including decibel volume caps, new concert end times and pyrotechnic use. But according to the City of Denver, the impact of this will be unnoticeable to most fans.

See Also: Do ​​Red Rocks Operators Support the EDM Community? “Oh hell yes!”

“There’s a misconception that EDM will be under attack and noise levels will be fifty percent of last year’s levels, and that just isn’t the case,” said Brian Kitts, who works for Denver’s Arts and Venues Division. “What you’re doing is shaving certain highlights of the show to the point where fans won’t notice,

Red Rocks Regulation Changes: 2015

– Shows must end no later than 11:45 am on weekdays, 12:30 pm on weekends and 12:30 pm on the night before public holidays (Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day). The fee for violations is $10,000 for each half hour and takes effect at the beginning of the third minute after the specified time limit.

– The use of pyrotechnics during shows at Red Rocks Amphitheater is permitted only with the approval of the Denver Fire Department Fire Protection Department.

-The sound pressure level shall not exceed 108.0 dBA for 1 minute averages. The Leq sound pressure levels (equivalent continuous sound pressure level) must not exceed 123.0 dB bands for 1-minute averages. A sound pressure level (SPL) monitoring system provided by the City and County of Denver will be deployed at the front-of-house mix location to provide audio engineers with real-time data to help them manage their sound levels. If the limit is exceeded three times, the City of Denver reserves the right to charge $10,000 (and an additional $10,000 if it is exceeded three times).

High in the Denver Mountains, framed by two giant crimson boulders, is a legendary open-air amphitheater unlike any other. Tucked away in the foothills of Morrison, Colorado, Red Rocks Amphitheater’s natural structure blends seamlessly with its surroundings. Due to the large ledges framing the seating and stage, a show at Red Rocks is an enhanced audiovisual experience, with sounds echoing off the rock formations and incredible views of geological wonders. This dramatic venue is over a century old and has a rich history of hosting some of music’s biggest names, from The Beatles to Bruce Springsteen.

We’ve created a handy guide that breaks down everything you need to know about this unique natural amphitheater, from insider tips to historical facts. If you’re a concert lover, we highly recommend heading to Red Rocks, voted America’s Best Amphitheater by Rolling Stone.

Red Rocks Amphitheater Fast Facts

Owner: City and County of Denver Operator: City and County of Denver Seating Capacity: 9,525 Size: 868 acres (Red Rocks Park) Opened: 1906 Address: 17598 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465 Hours: Red Rocks Park and trails open one hour before sunrise and close one hour after sunset on non-exhibition days.

Red Rocks Amphitheater reviews

Yelp: 4.5 Trip Advisor: 5.0 Google: 4.8

Red Rocks Amphitheater Features:

View of Denver Mountain Parks at 6,450 feet

Ship Rock Grille, a restaurant with a delicious menu to match the stunning scenery of the deck where guests can sit and eat.

Trading Post, a historic building selling unique Red Rocks souvenirs and stunning views of the valley and rock formations to the south.

Colorado Music Hall of Fame, where visitors can learn about Colorado’s diverse musical heritage before or after a concert.

Red Rocks Park, which offers two hiking/biking trails and challenging scenery for runners looking for a workout at 6,400 feet.

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Directions to Red Rocks Amphitheater

Red Rocks Amphitheater insider tips

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Parking at Red Rocks Amphitheater

Take I-70 West, take exit 259 and turn left at the end of the Morrison exit. Drive 1.5 miles downhill to the Red Rocks Park entrance. Take the C-470 to the Morrison exit, turn west and follow the signs to the park entrances. Here’s a tip to avoid some traffic: You can also take the C-470 exit off Highway 285. Head West to Hwy 8, then North to the Amphitheater!

Parking is free with the purchase of your ticket and car parks open two hours before the start of the event. Traffic tends to back up quickly on concert nights, so we recommend arriving early to snag a nearby seat.

There are four parking spaces at the venue, which are subject to availability. The Upper North Lot offers by far the shortest distance from parking lot to seating and tends to fill up the fastest. The Upper South and Lower North lots are equidistant from the entrance, with the former taking you up a ramp and the latter taking you to the base of the park steps. The Lower South 2 is the farthest route from the amphitheater with the most hike, so bring your running shoes just in case.

If you are being picked up after a show, plan for your ride to arrive 30 minutes before the end. There are designated areas for customer drop off and pick up which you can find by following the signs:

The Upper South Lot is for guests requiring accessible shuttle seating in rows 1-36. Users who require a wheelchair must present a row 1 ticket to access the shuttle.

The Top Circle Lot is intended for seats in rows 37-70. Note that the road leading to this lot becomes a one-way street at the end of the show.

If you use a ride-sharing service like Uber, Taxi, or Lyft, you’ll be dropped off at either the Upper South Lot, Top Circle Lot, or the Trading Post. At the conclusion of the show, all attendees should make their way to Trading Post Road South to be picked up by their chauffeur service.

Make sure you drive carefully, as guests tend to walk the streets on pathways (this is a park, after all!).

Security at Red Rocks Amphitheater

Security at Red Rocks values ​​the preservation of the venue’s natural formations and asks visitors to respect the unique environment and precious rocks. If you are found to be negatively affecting the venue in any way, you will be asked to leave the venue.

Guests have indicated that the security guards and staff are very friendly and helpful. They try to be quick and efficient, but the lines to get to a show can get long. Pats, pocket searches and wands are all part of the security process.

Prohibited Items at Red Rocks Amphitheater:

Alcohol, illegal drugs (and marijuana)

laser pointer

Glass bottles, cans, liquids in non-factory containers

weapons

Audio/visual recorders, selfie sticks

totems

Megaphones, noisemakers

stroller

tarps, umbrellas

Animals

masks

Hula hoops, sticks, rope, balls

skates, skateboards

Hard coolers

Cigarettes, e-cigarettes, e-cigarettes are restricted to smoking areas away from seating

You may bring your own food, blankets, binoculars, backpacks (10″ x 7″ x 7″), soft coolers, soft drinks (sealed, 32 ounces or less), empty reusable bottles (32 ounces or less), and seat cushions.

Re-entry into the amphitheater is generally not permitted unless there are weather or medical conditions.

Red Rocks Amphitheater Tailgating

If you want to party before the show, Red Rocks invites guests to park in the lots surrounded by its geological wonders and spectacular views.

A popular option to get there is a party bus like Bus To Show, which costs around $30-$45 and has pickup locations in Fort Collins, Boulder, and Denver. Party buses park in the Lower South Lot.

A fan favorite for tailgating, the Lower South Lot’s size and wilder parties means it’s the furthest from the venue’s entrance. Just grab a beer for the go!

We recommend eating before arriving at Red Rocks to counteract the amount of alcohol that will be consumed. Dining options are available within the venue but are limited.

Seating in the Red Rocks Amphitheater

The seats at Red Rocks are tiered in bleacher style with no backrests. We recommend bringing a seat cushion to protect your butt, although most people are on their feet all the time anyway. There is plenty of space for your belongings under the seats.

If you’re afraid of heights, get dizzy easily, or have trouble climbing stairs, avoid sitting at the top – which admittedly offers some of the best views of the entire venue. If you want a more intimate experience and a view of the stage, we recommend not going beyond row 15.

The Red Rocks Amphitheater Experience

The sound quality at Red Rocks is reportedly one of the best, thanks largely to the rocks that frame it and amplify the music.

The venue has many restrooms and the lines move very quickly. As previously mentioned, we recommend you eat before you arrive. The concession options inside have been reported to be of low quality and high price.

Be sure to dress appropriately. In Colorado, it’s always wise to plan for rain. Sunscreen and a hat are also recommended to protect yourself from the sun. For the evening, bring a light rain jacket or something to keep you warm when the sun goes down. Since Red Rocks is at 6,000 feet, higher elevation means cooler temperatures and lots of stairs – so wear comfortable shoes!

Visitors have found the venue itself to be stunningly beautiful and there is no better setting for listening to music than Red Rocks. Music lovers should come here for a show to tick off their bucket list.

10 Closest Hotels to Red Rocks

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Golden

17140 West Colfax Avenue, Golden, CO 80401

4 miles from Red Rocks Amphitheater

Hampton Inn Gold

17150 West Colfax Avenue, Golden, CO 80401

4 miles from Red Rocks Amphitheater

Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Golden

14700 West 6th Avenue, Golden, CO 80401

7.4 km from Red Rocks Amphitheater

Residence Inn by Marriott Golden

14600 West 6th Avenue, Golden, CO 80401

7.6 km from Red Rocks Amphitheater

Days Inn & Suites Golden

15059 West Colfax Avenue, I-70, Exit 262, Golden, CO 80401

5 miles from Red Rocks Amphitheater

Homewood Suites by Hilton Lakewood West

139 Union Boulevard, Lakewood, CO 80228

5 miles from Red Rocks Amphitheater

Hampton Inn Federal Center Lakewood

137 Union Boulevard, Lakewood, CO 80228

5 miles from Red Rocks Amphitheater

Home2 Suites West Denver

50 Van Gordon Street, Lakewood, CO 80228

5 miles from Red Rocks Amphitheater

Marriott Hotel Golden

1717 Denver West Blvd, I-70, Exit 263, Golden, CO 80401

6 miles from Red Rocks Amphitheater

Baymont Inn & Suites Golden

11909 West 6th Avenue, Golden, CO 80401

6 miles from Red Rocks Amphitheater

Check out available tickets for upcoming events at Red Rocks Amphitheater.

A man detonated a homemade bomb outside an Ariana Grande concert at the 21,000-seat Manchester Arena in England on Monday night, killing 22 and injuring dozens more.

The bombing served as a ringing reminder that concert halls can be a vulnerable target for terrorists.

After the 2015 shootings at Paris music club Bataclan, Colorado promoters reinforced their venues with front-and-center security measures. But there are a significant number of security checks that customers will never see. Some large local venues are secretly using bomb-sniffing dogs and coordinating with local law enforcement to keep attendees safe without raising the alarm — or tipping their hand.

“The real security work is happening behind the scenes,” said Chris Zacher, general manager of Denver’s Levitt Pavilion Denver outdoor amphitheater, which opens in Ruby Hill this July.

AEG Presents, the dominant Denver concert promoter, issued a statement following the Manchester attack, assuring fans that they are “in regular contact with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners and are working closely with them on all matters of security and public safety for.” our venue and our guests.”

Last year, AEG Presents installed walk-in metal detectors at their medium to large sized music venues in the Denver area, including the Bluebird Theatre, the Ogden Theatre, Fiddler’s Green Amphitheater and the FirstBank Center. Live Nation’s Fillmore Auditorium, on the other hand, uses handheld scanners and metal detectors. Bag checks are standard at the local venues of both organisers.

Aside from regulated security, venues also rely on the fans themselves to keep them safer. Red Rocks marketing director Brian Kitts at a concert encouraged fans to report “anything that feels out of place” to security.

Here’s an overview of the security measures for venues in the Denver area that can accommodate 7,000 people or more.

Metal Detectors: Yes, wands at all concerts

Bag Policy: Only six-pack soft cooler bags (10 x 7 x 7 inches or smaller), cloth or soft pack bags (12 x 17 x 12 or smaller), and gallon-sized clear plastic grocery bags are allowed. All bags are checked at all shows.

Notable Prohibited Items: Liquids in non-factory sealed containers, glass, weapons of any kind, aerosols, totems (“home-made, decorated sticks or poles”), animals (excluding service animals), remotely piloted aircraft or UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles).

View the venue’s full list of prohibited and permitted items here.

Metal Detectors: Yes, wands and walk-in metal detectors.

Bag Policy: Bag checks at certain shows.

Notable Prohibited Items: Chains or weapons of any kind, umbrellas, pets (except service animals), beverages in excess of a sealed water bottle, hula hoops.

View the venue’s full list of prohibited and permitted items here.

Metal detectors: Yes, definitely walk-in magnetometers.

Bag Policy: Large backpacks, suitcases, beach and gear bags are prohibited; all bags are subject to search.

Specifically Prohibited Items: Large backpacks, suitcases, beach bags, gear bags, chemicals, weapons (including “pucks, balls or other projectile-like objects”).

View the venue’s full list of prohibited and permitted items here.

Metal detectors: Yes, definitely hiking.

Bag Policy: NFL-approved bags – no larger than 12 x 6 x 12 inches – a 1 gallon clear freezer bag (Ziploc or similar) or a small purse or purse no larger than 6.5 x 4.5 are allowed. Other bags must be checked into an on-site locker, which is rented at the bag owner’s expense. All bags are searched. We’ve found 10 clear bags you’ll really want to carry around here.

Notable Prohibited Items: Bags that do not comply with NFL guidelines, dangerous items of any kind, golf-sized umbrellas, balls of any type (including large soccer balls).

View the venue’s full list of prohibited and permitted items here.

Metal detectors: Yes, definitely walk-in magnetometers.

Bag Policy: Soft-sided, personal-sized bags are allowed and must be searched.

Notable Prohibited Items: Sealed water bottles, large or obnoxious signs, police/radio scanners, guns, regulation-sized athletic equipment.

The full list of venue prohibited and permitted items can be found here (see page 30).

Metal detectors: Yes, definitely walk-in magnetometers.

Bag Policy: Large backpacks, suitcases, beach and gear bags are prohibited. All bags are searched.

Notable Prohibited Items: Guns, Hard Cases, Firecrackers, Skateboards, Ice Skates.

View the venue’s full list of prohibited and permitted items here.

There really is nothing quite like a show at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison on a summer evening.

There really is nothing quite like a show at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison on a summer evening.

As a “seasoned” Red Rocks goer, I love a show no matter the weather.

But for those whose first show at the venue happens to be a rainy show, you might not think so much.

Tuesday night’s Dirty Heads show wasn’t for Red Rocks newbies.

Not many people (myself included) were prepared for the almost three hour continuous rain that fell. Luckily there were many ponchos to buy.

Red Rocks is a “rain or shine” venue, but when there’s lightning nearby, they have to be delayed. The delay on Tuesday lasted almost an hour and a half.

Support act Katastro was the only band to escape the threatening rain. After they finished their set, it started raining.

The second band to play, The Expendables, played after the delay ended. The rain caused a problem with band member Ryan Demar’s bass, so vocalist Geoff Weers, drummer Adam Patterson and guitarist Raul Bianchi played a few songs a cappella. They eventually fixed the issue and moved on with their set.

The band said on Facebook that Tuesday’s show was one of the “wettest, weirdest and funniest shows” of their career, and poked fun at Katastro by accusing them of performing a “rain dance” during their set.

KONGOS started their set by saying they would play as long as their equipment lasted. Luckily it held up the whole time. They played a few songs from their new album “Egomaniac” and popular songs from their first one including “Come With Me Now” and “I Want to Know”.

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By the time Dirty Heads took the stage, the rain had turned to a light drizzle. Despite the weather it seemed like most people stayed to see all the bands play.

Red Rocks Guides: What can I bring to Red Rocks Amphitheater?

Red Rocks Amphitheater Permitted and Prohibited Items

Red Rocks Amphitheater is one of the most celebrated music and arts venues in the world. Nestled within the beauty of the natural rock formations that frame the arena, Red Rocks has been a part of Colorado history for nearly a hundred years. No wonder music lovers from all over the world flock to this unique venue.

With Red Rocks attracting fans from all parts of the world, it’s understandable that attendees come with many questions. Tourists have spent hundreds (or thousands) of dollars on tickets, transportation, and lodging, and nobody wants their good time ruined by not knowing all the rules and regulations of Red Rocks Amphitheater.

At Festy GoNuts, we want you to always have the best experience, wherever you go. Our motto is “Be Your Fest Self”. The best way to do this is to get all the mundane stuff in order and be properly prepared so you can forget your worries and dance like everyone is watching!

So here’s a guide to what you can and can’t bring into Red Rocks Amphitheater:

When I first went to Red Rocks in 2009, we had no idea what we were doing. We stayed in a cute hotel near Red Rocks and took turns staying sober to drive to Red Rocks every night. Stupid!

After five (+) NINE 10 years in Denver and too many trips to the Red Rocks to count, I’m now an expert on how to get to and from the show, what to bring, and how to dress like a pro moved at the venue. If you’re making the pilgrimage across the country for a show, or even live nearby, this guide is for you!

Arrival and departure to the fair:

2022 update

In 2021, getting an Uber/Lift out of Red Rocks was a hot mess. I think with everything there are just fewer drivers and prices are going up. By far the easiest way to and from RR if you want to have fun and not drive is by bus. Your ride is waiting when the show is over, no need to worry about finding a ride.

CID Shuttle to Red Rocks – When purchasing your tickets, you may see an option to purchase a shuttle pass from CID. These buses depart from Boulder, Downtown, and Capitol Hill. We did this a few times last summer and it worked great

J2G Bus – J2G buses only run for certain shows, so you’ll need to check their websites for information. The buses include beer from a local brewery and other special discounts at bars and pharmacies around town. Some shows may also include a before and after party.

Bus Party Co – This is a new (to me) group that has a shuttle from Zepplin Station in RiNo. You need to become a member to book a ride (it’s totally free) and once you’re a member you get discounts and invitations to events etc. Or you can just book a ride to and from the show. Once you become a member of the site you can get all the details.

Party @ Red Rocks Private Ride – Have a small group going to a show then check out this private ride! For $299 (excluding tip) and up to 7 people, you can basically have your own tailgate on the north lot. Your ride includes chairs, coolers, Bluetooth speakers, and a knowledgeable host. The car is yours for the night, so get picked up in town, grab some snacks and alcohol, then drive to the parking lot. All details can be found here

Book your own party bus

Turtle Bus – These fun, funky buses are great for renting

303 Party Bus – Want to rent your own? We always rent from 303 Party Bus!

Bus To Show – This company seems to have disappeared since COVID These converted school buses have been taking concert-goers to shows for years. The round trip is super cheap at $25 per person. Buses pick up in Denver, Ft. away. Collins and Boulder.

Uber/Lyft

It’s super easy to take Uber or Lyft to Red Rocks. Towards the end of the show, I would suggest starting by reviewing your app. Take advantage of the free WiFi at Red Rocks for better service! The designated ridesharing pickup area is in the bus parking lot, you can’t miss it.

taxi

You can take a taxi and there is a taxi line near the post office for those who want to take one… but this is probably your most expensive option.

journey

If driving to the show, park early on the Upper North Lot. This is my favorite place to park because you can enter the venue upstairs or downstairs. The top is easiest for your legs and lungs. Also, you can drive through a tunnel which is super awesome.

Many

Act like a local and know the names of the different car parks to help you find your way.

Upper North: This lot fills up quickly, so it’s for the early risers. Why is this crowd so great? First, you are allowed to drive through a tunnel. Second, you can enter the venue from above or below. It’s MUCH easier to get in from the top and then walk down to your seat. You will also find limousine parking here.

Upper South: I’ve been to this property once in my life. Entering the venue from here will knock you through the venue on a raised walkway, sluicing you in and out like cows. Definitely moo!

Lower North: When Upper North is full, you will be directed to this lot. You can easily walk to Upper North from the north side of the property or walk downhill and you will see a cut to Upper North. This used to be a super steep hill that people climbed up and down until a few years ago when they added stairs. Keep walking and you will see a staircase on the right leading into the venue. This is my preferred entry and exit.

Lower South: This lot is also one of the first to fill up and is home to Shakedown Street. Here you will find beer, water, grilled cheese, posters and intoxicating crystals. Also known as vendors have settled here.

Bus Park/Lower South Lot 2: South of Lower South you will find the buses.

Can’t find a place? Totally cool to park on the street! Best to turn around and park in the opposite direction for an easy exit.

Box Office/Will Call: Will Call is easily accessible via the first two entrances from I70 (1 & 2 on map), not so easy from Morrison (3 & 4 on map). Most buses depart from I70 and stop at Will Call for passengers to collect their tickets. Unfortunately, if you are coming from the Morrison entrance, you may have to walk to the box office.

In the venue

If you are coming from the Bus Lots, Lower South/Shakedown, I highly recommend boarding via the Lower South entrance (the dotted line next to the Upper South Lot on the map above). Walk up the street past the trading post on your left until you see a grand staircase. This is the easiest way in and out of the venue. Serious. Always go in and out this way. The exit is larger than the other, so it moves faster. So if you’re in the venue and facing the stage, exit at the bottom left!

From top to bottom, Red Rocks is a 100 foot drop and you are already at 6,450 feet above sea level so you will feel the climb and descent of the stairs. Take your time!

Find your seat

If the show is general admission, it’s completely free for everyone. You can go early and queue to claim your spot. If the show has reserved seating, bottom and top GA and middle are usually reserved.

A few words about standing room: If you are in the lower part of the hall, there will most likely be two of you in a row. One person on the wooden ledge, one person behind. This is perfectly normal. The higher you are, the more space you have. If you need space and want to be up close, get VIP. If it’s a reserved show, you’ll find people in your seats. Just ask them to move. You probably have no idea these are reserved seating.

Reserved seating is typically rows 10 through 60, so the middle sections with GA are up or down.

The higher you go, the windier it can potentially get, which really affects the sound at times. But damn it! Your vision will be good. If you only go one night I suggest seeing part of the show from below and going up at least once to enjoy the view from above.

The museum

At the top of the venue is an amazing museum about the history of the venue and a must see! The museum traces the history of the Red Rocks from their geological formation to the present day. Did you know the steps you sit on were first installed by a New Deal project? Pretty crazy. The museum also features a musical history of the venue with a plaque for each show played. The Southwest Heart of the Rock Theater room features memorabilia from some of the most famous Red Rocks artists. This space often has a rotating exhibition of artwork or perhaps a film. This is a great place to get away from the rain and cold. You will also find two concession stands and two bathrooms.

bathroom

There are bathrooms in all four corners of the venue. At the top of the venue are two handicap accessible single cabin bathrooms. Behind you in the museum are large bathrooms with hardly any queues. Go to the back and look for the stairs.

If you are facing the venue and are on the left side (Mike side) there are actually two sets of bathrooms. Go all the way down to the stage and then right to the concession stands. If you look to the left you will see a small set of stairs with a restroom sign pointing down. You have now found the secret bathroom. Congratulations! There is almost never a line here.

concessions

Red Rocks food is actually dynamite. Here you will find delicious pizza, Philly cheesesteaks, hot dogs and more. The top of the venue has the widest range of food to choose from.

New for 2021 the venue is completely cashless so it takes a little longer to carry a card, wait for it to bounce around in space before a receipt is printed for you to sign. So there is a Red Rocks app where you can ORDER in advance, then skip the line and collect your drink by scanning a QR code and showing your ID. This is seriously a game changer!

The limit for alcoholic beverages is two

There is a full bar at the top of the venue

You can bring a refillable water bottle – fill it in the WATER FOUNTAIN – do not drink water from the sink.

VIP Red Rocks

So you’ve spent the big bucks on VIP? Congratulations! You get some pretty cool perks. You can dance the night away in a cordoned off area, usually adjacent to Front of House. And you will enjoy the VIP room in the tower. As you face the stage, see the side stage door on your left, waltz up to the top of the tower here and enjoy! You really can’t enjoy the show from here, but it’s a great escape from the rain and has an ensuite bathroom.

Now for the extra special, with an all-access pass and likely a beast chaser or sound, you might get a chance to go through the tunnel. The entire crew and artists live under the stage. There is a very special tunnel for the crew to get from backstage to the front of the house. Every artist who has ever played Red Rocks signs the walls of the tunnel!

The weather at Red Rocks

In Red Rocks it will rain 90 percent of the time. BRING YOUR JACKET! I’ve been to Red Rocks in several downpours, sometimes they sometimes last 5 minutes and the entire set.

If you’re checking the weather for Red Rocks, you’re checking the weather for Morrison, not Denver. Denver is a good 25 minute drive away and since Red Rocks is in the foothills the weather is very different. The sun is going down, the wind is picking up and you will be freezing, so bring a jacket. Actually, bring a rain jacket.

Can’t stress this enough, bring a rain jacket! Ninety percent of the time it will rain and if it doesn’t rain it will likely be windy and you will wish you had a jacket. If you forget a rain jacket and there are monsoons, ponchos are sold at the concession stands. However when it’s very stormy they close the venue and there is basically no shelter so you can’t get a poncho until it clears up. So bring your jacket!

My first Red Rocks show in 2009 had a two hour rain delay. I’ve been twice on my way to a show and the venue has closed due to bad weather. Both times we were closer to the entrance than our bus so we got out of the rain in line. I’ve bought several long sleeve shirts at shows to stay warm if I’ve forgotten a jacket, so just bring it with you. You can stuff it under your seat during the show!

What to bring to Red Rocks

rain jacket

Refillable water bottle

rain jacket

pullover

camera

rain jacket

Comfortable shoes

Additional charger

rain jacket

I’m not sure what to wear – layers!

Where to sleep

Denver

You can really stay anywhere, but I recommend downtown Denver. You are just steps away from all the groceries, shopping and beverages you may need. I prefer Airbnb, but for boutique hotels check out The Source Hotel (pool), Maven @ The Dairy Block, Rally Hotel (pool), Ramble Hotel or Crawford at Union Station. Cherry Creek also has a bunch of hotels with lots of restaurants in a fun, walkable area — it’s next to the mall and tends to be high-end and not a lot of bars. But more convenient for friends who live in Wash Park, for example.

boulder

The St. Julien Boulder is amazing if you can swing the prize. Otherwise Airbnb is the best choice.

Now that we’ve nailed down the logistics, it’s time to start planning the rest of your trip!

Denver restaurant guide by neighborhood

The best patios and rooftops in Denver

Top 10 things to do in Denver

My favorite pizza in Denver

Where to Find White Queso in Denver

Best brunches in Denver

Red Rocks adventures – as you can see – always bring your rain jacket

If you found this blog post helpful in planning your trip to Red Rocks – so show your appreciation by purchasing a virtual sticker featuring Google’s new Thank You With Google pilot program

Look for that blue ground at the bottom of the page and at the top of the post

I’m excited to be one of Google’s paid early testers for the Thank You With Google pilot program.

What to bring to Red Rocks

Your Ticket: Make sure you have your concert tickets, then make sure your friends have their tickets. And then double check that you have your ticket. Store in a safe, DRY place. (Wet tickets are worthless if they can’t be scanned!)

Water: You can bring sealed soft drinks into Red Rocks, so bring water. If you’re traveling with a large group, consider bringing a few gallons of water to keep everyone hydrated. Empty camel backs and reusable water containers are also allowed. However, don’t bring anything with you that you don’t want to lose. You can put down your water bottle and never see them again once the lights go out.

Snacks: It’s advisable to pack a sandwich or something substantial to eat for the show – especially if you’re coming early to see the opening bands (which you should). Also, the food inside is quite expensive and you could waste a lot of time waiting in line. (Red Rocks DOES NOT allow whole fruit – so cut open the apple before going in!)

Raincoat: It seems like the Red Rocks Amphitheater has its own ecosystem and weather forecasts can never be trusted. Whether it’s said or not, always plan for the chance of rain. Also, don’t bring your favorite rain jacket. They are probably one of the most commonly lost items at Red Rocks. (Red Rocks DOES NOT allow umbrellas.)

Long-sleeved shirt or hoodie: As soon as the sun sets behind these rocks, the temperature can drop significantly. You’ll want a long-sleeved layer, even if it’s just for the walk.

Cash: It’s a lot easier to snag a beer from the vendors who walk right past your seat than it is to wait in line, so bring cash!

Blanket: If you’re traveling with a large group, it’s a good idea to leave early and mark off your space with a blanket or sheet. Technically, you can’t reserve seats for friends – so make sure you have a large enough group. (Red Rocks DOES NOT allow tarps.)

All soft drinks in a factory sealed plastic container with a maximum size of 32 oz. Will be allowed. When entering an amphitheater you may need to remove the lids (one liter). Clear plastic bags are required for all groceries.

Do they sell beer at Red Rocks Amphitheater? Red Rocks Amphitheater has gained much fame with the introduction of its own beer. Stage Rock Colorado Ale is a collaboration between Morrison’s legendary concert venue and Fort Collins’ New Belgium Brewing. Other notable figures who have performed there include the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, U2 and the Grateful Dead.

Are you allowed to bring beer into Red Rocks? Red Rocks Amphitheater does not allow alcohol, marijuana or illegal drugs. Glass bottles or aluminum cans may not be brought into the event area. Pointers using lasers.

Does Red Rocks serve alcohol? Because of the arid climate, it’s important to bring food and drink with you to Colorado. Food and soft drinks are allowed at Red Rocks, but coolers can only hold six-packs. Groceries must be packed in clear plastic bags no larger than four gallons. Fruits and vegetables should be sliced ​​and utensils should be plastic.

Can I bring food and drinks into Red Rocks? In addition to our wide range of food and beverages, you are more than welcome to bring your own food as long as it fits under your seat in a soft cooler or cloth bag. Clear plastic bags are required for all groceries. – Fruits and vegetables must be cut into slices. – Bags must not be larger than one gallon (11″ x 11″).

Is alcohol allowed in the Red Rocks Amphitheater? Many types of alcohol are available at Red Rocks Amphitheater, including vodka (Grey Goose), whiskey (Jameson), tequila (Patron), gin and rum, and a variety of champagnes.

Can you get drinks at Red Rocks? You have to pay a lot for drinks at the snack bar. Food and soft drinks are allowed at Red Rocks, but coolers can only hold six-packs. Groceries must be packed in clear plastic bags no larger than four gallons. Fruits and vegetables should be sliced ​​and utensils should be plastic.

Is it illegal to take stones from Red Rocks? Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area encourages visitors not to take rocks and fossils with them. The vast majority of Nevada is government land, and in a broader philosophical sense, it belongs to all citizens. However, when it comes to fossils, petroglyphs and ancient artifacts, taking them is illegal.

Are there food vendors at Red Rocks Amphitheater? BBQ, French fries, funnel cakes and gourmet sausages are on the menu. This year, Red Rocks Amphitheater is getting a delicious upgrade. Wylie’s Thin Air Fresh Fare will be specializing in french fries with its selection of Thin Air Fresh Fare and funnel cakes. Additionally, Luckmann says Red Rocks will host pop-up events at the Ship Rock Grille to accommodate popular events.

Are beverages allowed to be brought into Red Rocks Amphitheater? All soft drinks in a factory sealed plastic container with a maximum size of 32 oz. Will be allowed. When entering an amphitheater you may need to remove the lids (one liter). I only eat for my own use.

Can you bring wine into Red Rocks? You can be confiscated if you openly consume alcohol in a park.

Can you drink in the Red Rocks parking lot? Don’t bring a glass, only cans. There’s no way to overstate the importance of food. For some shows you might be able to get to the Red Rocks Tailgate as early as 4pm and stay in the arena eating all sorts of foods past midnight.

Has anyone died at Red Rocks? There has been one fatality after falling from 100 feet at Red Rocks Amphitheater near Morrison. The woman was pronounced dead by West Metro Fire Crews upon arrival, and witnesses said she appeared to be in her 20s. The woman fell about 100 feet, according to West Metro spokeswoman Cindy Matthews.

Why is Red Rocks so popular? There are few venues that offer better acoustics than this one. The seats of this auditorium are surrounded by two monoliths that ensure excellent acoustics. They are more than twice the height of Niagara Falls, constructed of sandstone and dubbed Ship Rock and Creation Rock respectively.

Can you bring blankets to Red Rocks? Ceiling. Red Rocks doesn’t allow tarpaulins, but if you’re planning on arriving early for your favorite band of all time and if you’re there that evening for your favorite band of all time, get in line early to claim a seat front and center , then bring a blanket! The use of blankets is permitted at most concerts and most people will respect your right to a blanket seat.

What to bring to Red Rocks

Your Ticket: Make sure you have your concert tickets, then make sure your friends have their tickets. And then double check that you have your ticket. Store in a safe, DRY place. (Wet tickets are worthless if they can’t be scanned!)

Water: You can bring sealed soft drinks into Red Rocks, so bring water. If you’re traveling with a large group, consider bringing a few gallons of water to keep everyone hydrated. Empty camel backs and reusable water containers are also allowed. However, don’t bring anything with you that you don’t want to lose. You can put down your water bottle and never see them again once the lights go out.

Snacks: It’s advisable to pack a sandwich or something substantial to eat for the show – especially if you’re coming early to see the opening bands (which you should). Also, the food inside is quite expensive and you could waste a lot of time waiting in line. (Red Rocks DOES NOT allow whole fruit – so cut open the apple before going in!)

Raincoat: It seems like the Red Rocks Amphitheater has its own ecosystem and weather forecasts can never be trusted. Whether it’s said or not, always plan for the chance of rain. Also, don’t bring your favorite rain jacket. They are probably one of the most commonly lost items at Red Rocks. (Red Rocks DOES NOT allow umbrellas.)

Long-sleeved shirt or hoodie: As soon as the sun sets behind these rocks, the temperature can drop significantly. You’ll want a long-sleeved layer, even if it’s just for the walk.

Cash: It’s a lot easier to snag a beer from the vendors who walk right past your seat than it is to wait in line, so bring cash!

Blanket: If you’re traveling with a large group, it’s a good idea to leave early and mark off your space with a blanket or sheet. Technically, you can’t reserve seats for friends – so make sure you have a large enough group. (Red Rocks DOES NOT allow tarps.)

Red Rocks Amphitheater is scheduled for its first-ever cold-weather concert, the sell-out Winter on the Rocks show, helmed by hip-hoppers Atmosphere and sponsored by a Denver ski manufacturer.

Snow plows in the parking lot. Space heaters in the upper tiers of the venue. Canned beer and plastic bottles instead of frozen taps.

“I think 40 degrees would be great, but part of me is hoping it’s freezing,” said MC Slug – real name Sean Daley – whose Minneapolis group is playing the amphitheater tonight. “I’d like to see people take off outside in extreme cold.”

He could grant his wish. There is a 20 percent chance of snow in the foothills and temperatures are not expected to rise above the 30 mark today.

“This is the first time I’ve become aware of where we might need to clear snow for a concert at the Red Rocks,” said Tad Bowman, Denver’s director of venue usage and services, whose office is at the Red Rocks in Morrison. “But we are prepared if and when it snows.”

Additional workers are scheduled inside the gates to sand the black side passages if necessary. Two more paramedics will be on hand than at Atmosphere’s sold-out Red Rocks show last summer – in case people suffer from exposure.

To keep the cold at bay, Snowfire—a 7-foot sphere of plasma-cut snowflakes equipped with three large propane burners—will be perched atop the amphitheater. Snowfire was designed and manufactured by the Santa Fe Arts District creative group The Public Works with the blessing of the Denver Fire Department.

“It’s this beautiful artistic upstairs space heater,” said Kristin Rust, spokeswoman for Denver Arts & Venues. “It really is a work of art – and it will add a beautiful component for the visitors.”

Promoter AEG Live ordered other heaters to warm the stage and performers.

Some of Red Rocks’ restrooms are closed during the winter, and portable restrooms will fill this need. Food and drink coordinator Aramark will sell beer in cans and plastic bottles instead of trying his luck with a vulnerable dispensing system.

“Things like that are fun,” Bowman said. “Everyone… is ready to go and cheered on – and at the same time scared and nervous.”

Winter on the Rocks is the brainchild of Denver-based ski and snowboard manufacturer Icelantic, who wanted to throw a big party at Red Rocks during the SnowSports Industries America Snow Show. (The fair runs through Sunday at the Colorado Convention Center.)

“I feel good about it, man,” said Sam Warren, Icelantic’s promotions manager.

That the first year of Winter on the Rocks — starring Atmosphere, rapper Common, hip-hoppers Grieves + Budo and dance act Get Cryphy — sold out in advance is a sign these guys are on to something. They are already thinking of bigger and better plans for next winter.

Icelantic’s idea is becoming a reality through a collaboration with Denver promoter AEG Live and the City of Denver – which led to some strange conversations, Warren said.

“Everyone has their own approach,” Warren said. “When it comes to snow, we say, ‘We’ll call our friends, bring 500 snow shovels, and we’ll shovel Red Rocks.’ AEG is bigger than us, and they say, ‘We.’ I’ll bring snowblowers and do it during the day.” Then there’s the city that brings plows. They are three very different perspectives, but they all have a common goal.”

Depending on the severity of the weather, organizers may need all three plans intact.

“It really could be winter on the rocks,” Bowman said.

Ricardo Baca: 303-954-1394 or [email protected]

There really is nothing quite like a show at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison on a summer evening.

There really is nothing quite like a show at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison on a summer evening.

As a “seasoned” Red Rocks goer, I love a show no matter the weather.

But for those whose first show at the venue happens to be a rainy show, you might not think so much.

Tuesday night’s Dirty Heads show wasn’t for Red Rocks newbies.

Not many people (myself included) were prepared for the almost three hour continuous rain that fell. Luckily there were many ponchos to buy.

Red Rocks is a “rain or shine” venue, but when there’s lightning nearby, they have to be delayed. The delay on Tuesday lasted almost an hour and a half.

Support act Katastro was the only band to escape the threatening rain. After they finished their set, it started raining.

The second band to play, The Expendables, played after the delay ended. The rain caused a problem with band member Ryan Demar’s bass, so vocalist Geoff Weers, drummer Adam Patterson and guitarist Raul Bianchi played a few songs a cappella. They eventually fixed the issue and moved on with their set.

The band said on Facebook that Tuesday’s show was one of the “wettest, weirdest and funniest shows” of their career, and poked fun at Katastro by accusing them of performing a “rain dance” during their set.

KONGOS started their set by saying they would play as long as their equipment lasted. Luckily it held up the whole time. They played a few songs from their new album “Egomaniac” and popular songs from their first one including “Come With Me Now” and “I Want to Know”.

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By the time Dirty Heads took the stage, the rain had turned to a light drizzle. Despite the weather it seemed like most people stayed to see all the bands play.

Red Rocks is a busy park in summer when concerts are held in the famous amphitheater. However, in winter the park becomes quieter and when it snows it gets even quieter. Grab your camera and head to the park during a winter storm to really appreciate the beautiful red sandstone formations covered in contrasting powder. Parking is available throughout the area, with the Trading Post being a great central place to explore.

There are numerous hiking trails in the park, some going through the red rocks and others taking you to high points overlooking Denver. If you want to exercise while exploring Red Rocks, there are plenty of options. There are 69 pew rows in the amphitheater. Walk or sprint the rows from side to side. Do all 69 rows and you’ve completed 5km. If you dare, start on the stage and run, jump, jump off a frog or crouch all the way to the top. Not enough for you? Add push-ups and dips. Or go to the parking lot below the stage and, if you can, walk or run up the 388 steps. There are 192 steps in the amphitheater alone. If you can make it to the top, consider yourself a fitness rock star. After you’ve walked the stairs, hike or bike one of the two trails in Red Rocks Park. The Trading Post Trail is 1.4 miles long and takes you through spectacular rock formations, valleys and a natural meadow. The other is the Red Rocks Trail. From the amphitheater, take the Red Rocks Trail east to the Dakota Ridge Trail and loop back to the Red Rocks Trail through Matthews-Winters Park for a dramatic 6-mile loop.