Denver, Colorado, a city renowned for its vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes, offers an array of experiences for every traveler. Among its many attractions, Red Rocks Amphitheatre stands out as a must-visit destination. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about experiencing the best of Denver, with a special focus on making the most of your visit to the iconic Red Rocks.
Planning Your Trip to Red Rocks: Transportation and Logistics
Navigating your way to and from Red Rocks Amphitheatre is crucial for a stress-free concert experience. Over the years, I’ve learned the best ways to handle transportation, ensuring you spend more time enjoying the music and less time worrying about logistics.
Shuttle Services: The Easiest Way to Red Rocks
Forget the hassle of parking and ride-sharing surge pricing. Shuttle services are by far the most convenient and enjoyable way to get to Red Rocks, especially if you plan to indulge in the concert experience without driving.
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RRX Shuttle to Red Rocks: When purchasing your concert tickets, consider adding a shuttle pass from CID Presents. These shuttles offer pick-up locations in Boulder, Downtown Denver, and Capitol Hill. My experience with RRX Shuttles has been consistently positive, providing reliable and comfortable transportation.
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Bus Party Co: For a more festive journey, Bus Party Co offers party buses departing from Zepplin Station in RiNo. Becoming a member (free registration) unlocks access to discounted rides and exclusive event invites. I used Bus Party Co for a Billy Strings concert at Firstbank and found it to be a fun and seamless experience.
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Party @ Red Rocks Private Ride: If you’re traveling with a small group (up to 7 people), Party @ Red Rocks Private Ride provides a unique and personalized transportation option. For a flat fee, you get a private car for the night, complete with chairs, a cooler, Bluetooth speakers, and a host. This is perfect for pre-show tailgating in the north lot. My group used this service for a My Morning Jacket show, and it was incredibly convenient and enjoyable.
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Bus To Show: A long-standing and budget-friendly option, Bus To Show utilizes converted school buses to transport concertgoers. With pick-up points in Denver, Ft. Collins, and Boulder, and a round-trip fare, it’s an economical choice.
Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft to Red Rocks
While getting an Uber or Lyft to Red Rocks is relatively easy, securing a ride after the show can be challenging. Expect longer wait times and potential cancellations. To improve your chances, head to the designated ride-share pick-up area in the Bus Lot and utilize Red Rocks’ free Wi-Fi for better service.
Taxi Services
Taxis are available, with a taxi line located near the post office. However, this is likely the most expensive transportation option to and from Red Rocks.
Driving to Red Rocks: Parking Tips
If you choose to drive, arriving early is key to securing a good parking spot. The Upper North Lot is my preferred choice. It offers convenient access to the venue’s top and bottom entrances, with the top entrance being easier on your legs and lungs. Plus, you get to drive through an awesome tunnel!
Understanding Red Rocks Parking Lots
Familiarizing yourself with the parking lot names will help you navigate Red Rocks like a local.
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Upper North Lot: Ideal for early arrivals, this lot provides access to the venue via a tunnel and both top and bottom entrances. Limousine parking is also located here.
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Upper South Lot: Less convenient, the Upper South Lot entrance funnels you into the venue via a raised walkway.
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Lower North Lot: A secondary option if Upper North is full. You can walk to Upper North or take stairs to the venue entrance.
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Lower South Lot: Known for “Shakedown Street,” where vendors sell merchandise, food, and drinks.
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Bus Lot/Lower South Lot 2: Located south of Lower South, designated for buses.
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Roadside Parking: If all lots are full, parking along the road is permitted. For easier exit, park facing the opposite direction of traffic flow.
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Box Office/Will Call: Easily accessible from I-70 entrances. Less convenient from the Morrison entrance.
Inside Red Rocks Venue: Navigation and Tips
Once you’re inside Red Rocks, knowing how to navigate the venue will enhance your experience.
Venue Entrances and Exits
For those arriving from the Bus Lots or Lower South, the Lower South entrance (near the Upper South Lot on the map) is highly recommended. Walk past the Trading Post and up the road until you see a large staircase. This entrance and exit is typically less congested and faster moving. When inside the venue facing the stage, this exit is on the bottom left.
Finding Your Seats
Red Rocks’ seating arrangement varies depending on the event. General admission shows are first-come, first-served. Reserved seating events typically have GA sections at the bottom and top, with reserved seats in the middle. Standing room is common, especially in lower sections, with attendees often standing in two rows deep. For more space and closer views, VIP tickets are recommended. For general admission shows, arriving by 3 pm for a 5 pm gate opening is advisable for good seat selection, especially using the south entrance from the Upper North lot.
Exploring the Red Rocks Museum
Located at the top of the venue, the Red Rocks Museum is a must-visit. It chronicles the venue’s history from its geological formation to its present-day iconic status. Discover fascinating facts, like the original steps being built as a New Deal project. The museum also features musical history, performer memorabilia, and rotating exhibits. It’s also a great place to escape rain or cold.
Restroom Locations
Restrooms are located in all four corners of the venue. Less crowded restrooms can be found inside the museum at the top of the venue. A “secret” co-ed restroom with shorter lines is located on the bottom right side of the stage (Mike side). Walk down to the stage, then right to the concession stands, and look for a small staircase to the left with a restroom sign.
Concessions and Amenities
Red Rocks offers a surprisingly good selection of food, including pizza, cheesesteaks, and hot dogs. The largest variety of food options is at the top of the venue. Red Rocks is now cashless, and the Red Rocks App allows you to order concessions in advance and skip the lines. Alcohol is limited to two drinks per purchase. Refillable water bottles are permitted, with water fountains available (avoid using sink water).
VIP Experience
VIP ticket holders enjoy perks such as access to roped-off VIP viewing areas, typically near the sound mixing area, and entry to the VIP room in the tower. The VIP room offers a private restroom and shelter from the elements, though it’s not ideal for show viewing.
The Tunnel: A Hidden Gem
For a truly unique experience, those with all-access passes might get to explore the tunnel beneath the stage. This backstage area, signed by countless Red Rocks performers, is a special treat for crew and artists.
Weather Considerations at Red Rocks
Be prepared for rain at Red Rocks – it’s almost a given. Always bring a rain jacket! Check the weather forecast for Morrison, not Denver, as Red Rocks’ foothill location has distinct weather patterns. Temperatures can drop as the sun sets, and wind can pick up, so layers are essential. If you forget a rain jacket, ponchos are sold at concessions, but shelter is limited during severe storms.
Essential Items to Bring to Red Rocks
- Rain Jacket: Absolutely essential!
- Refillable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated.
- Sweater or Layers: For changing temperatures.
- Camera: Capture the memories.
- Comfortable Shoes: Lots of walking and stairs.
- Portable Charger: Keep your devices powered.
- Hat: For warmth and sun protection.
Red Rocks Bag Policy 2024
A new bag policy is in effect for 2024. Backpacks are prohibited. Allowed bags include:
- Single-pocket bags and clear bags up to 13” x 15” x 8”
- Small purses and fanny packs (6″ x 9″ or smaller)
- Hydration packs (2L or smaller)
Reusable cooler/grocery bags that zip are a good alternative for carrying jackets and essentials.
Where to Stay in Denver
For your Denver visit, Downtown Denver is highly recommended for its central location and proximity to restaurants, shopping, and nightlife.
Denver Hotel Recommendations:
- The Source Hotel: Offers a rooftop pool.
- Maven @ The Dairy Block: Boutique hotel in a vibrant area.
- Rally Hotel: Features a pool and lively atmosphere.
- Ramble Hotel: Stylish and centrally located.
- Crawford Hotel at Union Station: Historic and luxurious.
Cherry Creek is another excellent neighborhood with upscale hotels and dining, ideal for a more refined experience and convenient for accessing other Denver areas.
Denver offers a plethora of activities beyond Red Rocks. Explore diverse neighborhoods, indulge in Denver’s culinary scene, and discover why it’s a top destination. From rooftop patios to renowned pizza, Denver has something for everyone. Make sure to check out local guides for the best patios, brunch spots, and must-try restaurants to enhance your Denver experience.
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is more than just a concert venue; it’s an iconic Colorado experience that should be on every visitor’s list of what to do in Denver. By planning ahead and following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy an unforgettable adventure in Denver and at the magnificent Red Rocks.
