Your Guide to Red Rocks Amphitheatre // Morrison, CO

Red Rocks Amphitheatre, located in Morrison, Colorado, is one of the most iconic concert venues in the world. Nestled within Red Rocks Park, this natural amphitheater is renowned for its stunning geological formations and unparalleled acoustics. Owned and operated by the City and County of Denver, Red Rocks is a National Historic Landmark and a must-visit destination for music lovers.

Parking and Front Gates

Red Rocks Amphitheatre offers five main parking lots: Upper North, Upper South, Lower North, Lower South 1, and Lower South 2. The Upper North and Upper South lots are closest to the venue and fill up quickly, so arriving early is essential to secure a prime spot and minimize your walk to the gates. Carpooling is highly recommended to reduce traffic congestion and environmental impact. The lots open 2 hours prior to the event, perfect for tailgating.

Be prepared for a bit of a hike. The routes from the parking lots to the amphitheater can be uphill and partially dirt, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. If you have mobility issues, the Top Circle Lot offers accessible parking and a drop-off point, but spaces are limited.

Drop Off and Pick Up

There are four preferred drop-off locations for patrons being dropped off by parents or other non-commercial vehicle drivers:

Upper South Lot – Accessible drop-off point for patrons requiring the free Accessible Shuttle or those who are seated in rows 1 – 36. Patrons who wish to take the Accessible shuttle and require use of a wheelchair will be asked to present a Row 1 ticket to gain access to shuttle. All other patrons who require the use of a wheelchair must enter the venue from the Top Circle Lot.
Top Circle Lot – Accessible drop-off point (seating in rows 37 – 70).
Trading Post – Preferred rideshare and Taxi drop-off point.
East Stairs – Preferred drop-off point if patrons do not require the features of the free Accessible shuttle services and are seated in rows 1-36. This drop off point is located along Ship Rock Road at the Half Moon Lot prior to the East Stairs.

Parents and friends should arrive 30 minutes before the concert ends and agree on a meeting spot. If the south side pick-up area is full, speak with Traffic Control for directions or park and wait for your guest. Do not stop on the road or block traffic. For event end times, call 720-865-2494.

Weather Preparedness

Red Rocks' unique location in Colorado means the weather can be unpredictable. Bringing a rain jacket could be wise, as umbrellas are not allowed, and consider dressing in layers to adjust to temperature changes once the sun sets especially early and late in the concert season. Sunscreen is also crucial, as you'll be exposed to the elements during daytime shows and the intense Colorado sun. Most shows are “Rain or Shine” with postponement and cancellations possible depending on severity of weather events.

Hydration and Snacks

Staying hydrated is vital, especially given the altitude of 6,450 feet. You can bring sealed non-alcoholic beverages, such as water bottles or empty Camelbaks, to refill at the venue. Packing snacks is also a good idea, as food inside can be pricey and lines can be long. Remember, whole fruits are not allowed, so slice any fruit before you arrive. Additionally approved and non-approved items can change from show to show, be sure to check Red Rocks Website for your particular event to make sure you’re not caught by surprise!

Bathrooms and Concessions

Restrooms are located downstairs at the north and south ends of the Visitor Center, and even more on the South Ramp. Two accessible family restrooms are located on the plaza at the north and south ends plus one in the North Concession Stand. Additional restrooms are located to the left and right of the stage on the South Ramp and at the North Stairs. Consessions can be found at the top, middle and lower levels of the venue. Lines tend to be larger at the middle and lower levels. Additionally, roaming vendors will be throughout the seating area during most shows with beverages.

Seating

Red Rocks hosts both reserved seating and general admission (GA) shows. GA areas are typically the front and top rows, while the center sections are reserved. To secure good GA seats, arrive early and enter with your group to find a spot together. Be sure to check your tickets for your event.

Conclusion

Red Rocks' vibrant atmosphere and friendly crowd make it an unforgettable experience. Embrace the communal vibe, dress up if you feel like it, and be ready to make new friends. Respect others' space and enjoy the unique ambiance of this world-famous venue. Attending a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a bucket-list experience for any music enthusiast. By following these tips, you can ensure you have an enjoyable and memorable visit. From strategic parking and staying hydrated to embracing the weather and friendly atmosphere, you'll be well-prepared to make the most of your time at this legendary venue.

Red Rocks Website