The famed Red Rocks Amphitheatre needs little introduction. The open-air venue built alongside some of the towering red sandstone formations found throughout the park has long been considered one of the most amazing experiences for concerts not only in the colorful state of Colorado but in the entire United States. However, not everyone knows that the park is much more than just a concert venue and is well worth a visit when passing through nearby Denver. Aside from touring the amphitheatre which serves as a landmark itself, there are regularly scheduled events, fantastic hiking trails, and more. Here is a list of things to enjoy at Red Rocks Amphitheatre when no bands are on stage.
10 Film On The Rocks
Film on the Rocks is a wildly popular event for all ages that takes place multiple times during the summer. Popular films start at dusk, with other entertainment like comedians or live music taking place beforehand. Featured films cover a range of genres, from modern-day blockbusters like the Thor series to classics like The Sandlot. A full schedule is available on the website, and admission is $16 per person.
9 Yoga On The Rocks
Yoga fanatics can partake in an elevated version of their routine here on Saturdays at 7 a.m. Leading instructors change monthly, and classes are often given in both English and Spanish. Minors are allowed to attend with a waiver signed by a parent or guardian. All that is asked of participants is to bring their own yoga mat and bottle of water.
- Admission = $17 per session, 5-pack for $80, or Season Pass for $150.
8 Colorado Music Hall Of Fame
A historic building in the park known as The Trading Post, built in 1931, deserves a visit on its own, but its most interesting feature is the Colorado Music Hall of Fame. This free museum features exhibits on some of Colorado's most famous musicians like John Denver, Judy Collins, and Philip Bailey.
7 The Ship Rock Grille
With all the walking around in Red Rocks Amphitheatre, a great spot to rest and have a bite to eat is more than necessary. Luckily, Ship Rock Grille awaits visitors with a wide array of dining options accompanied by fantastic views of the park.
6 The Trading Post Trail
It should be no surprise that Red Rocks Amphiteatre is also a great place for hiking. The Trading Post Trail is a quick and easy 1.4-mile hike that offers a quick showcase of the park's natural wonders of rock formations, meadows, and picturesque valleys. As the name implies, this trail will take visitors by The Trading Post landmark building, where they can take it easy for a moment and see what is inside.
5 Visitor's Center
Most destinations may not typically hold a visitor's center worth mentioning, but Red Rocks Amphitheatre has one more than worthy of a stop for travelers who want to see the park on a day with no events scheduled. Besides serving as a headquarters to direct visitors around the park grounds, there are interactive exhibits celebrating both the geological and cultural history of the park, including a small Hall of Fame display of musicians who have performed there.
4 Red Rocks Trail
The Red Rocks Trail is a hiking option for those looking to take a deep dive into what the park has to offer. This 6-mile loop comes with all the views one would expect and can also be used for biking and horseback riding.
3 Dinosaur Ridge
Dinosaur Ridge technically lies outside the park grounds but is a very quick drive away. This family-friendly option is where the Stegosaurus was first discovered and also features more than 15 geological sites, including dinosaur prints.
2 Exercise with A View
Yoga is not the only exercise routine happening at Red Rocks. The amphitheater's steep stairways have become a very popular option for those who want to get their workout in with views and an atmosphere that could never be enjoyed inside a gym. Of course, this is only an option outside of scheduled event times, so one should always check the event calendar.
1 Geologic Overlook Trail
The Geologic Overlook trail is a fast hiking option for visitors who want to take in the landscape views that Red Rocks Amphiteatre is famous for without having to break too much of a sweat. The trail is only 0.9 miles to its end and back and is a very popular area for visitors.