Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Concert Venue Review | Condé Nast Traveler

"Give us the big picture: What’s this place like? There’s a reason Red Rocks is considered one of the most beautiful music venues in the country. Bright red sandstone rocks jut out from either side of the stage to create a natural amphitheater, and concert goers are treated to views of downtown Denver and the surrounding foothills. Start with tailgating in the dusty parking lots, then head up the stairs—oh so many stairs—for pitch-perfect music under the stars. This is Colorado at its best: casual, authentic, and outdoorsy. Run us through the calendar of events. The Red Rocks concert calendar kicks off in early spring and runs through late fall, featuring everything from country music to the Colorado Symphony. The venue’s eclectic lineup is also accompanied by “Film on the Rocks,” weekly screenings of popular movies that begin at dusk. How are the seats? A steep pitch and impressive views mean that there’s hardly a bad seat at Red Rocks, although windy nights can diminish the sound quality up top. Large TV screens and clear sightlines make the stage visible to all, and it’s easy to stash bags and coats under the long rows of bench seats. Space gets tight in the general admission sections as people jockey for a spot, but none of that matters once everyone stands up to dance. Come dressed for the weather; shows are held rain or shine. Can we bring the whole family? Locals know that it’s a rite of passage to bring kids to Red Rocks, so you’ll often see babies in headphones and young kids dancing at age-appropriate shows. Traffic leaving the venue can take up to an hour to subside, though, so if the little ones join you, it’s best to leave before the last song. What really makes this place stand out? The acclaimed acoustics of Red Rocks—to say nothing of the scenery—makes it a bucket list venue for many artists and many music fans. Big-time musicians often choose Red Rocks to film their next video, record a live album, or debut a new song. Any final notes? Summer in Denver isn’t complete without at least a trip or two up to Red Rocks, and the event calendar offers something for everyone. Get tickets to celebrate a birthday or just because it’s Tuesday; an evening singing under the stars is a Colorado night done right." - Megan Barber