As the only acoustically sound natural amphitheater in the world, Red Rocks is known for its distinct features. Upon opening on June 15, 1941, the natural amphitheater has an elevation of 6,450 feet and can accommodate 9,450 seats. The Red Rocks Mountain Park is composed of 640 acres and is located in Morrison, Colorado. With its location only 15 miles west of Denver, the Red Rocks Amphitheatre can be a popular destination for music lovers.
As an amphitheater, Red Rocks could not exist without the presence of the two sandstone monoliths known as Ship Rock and Creation Rock. Each 300 feet and taller than Niagara Falls, these giant rock formations were formed as a result of the movement of the ocean floor during prehistoric times. Due to their age, both Ship Rock and Creation Rock are home to a multitude of fossils and evidence of life during the age of the dinosaurs.
The first concerts at Red Rocks took place between 1906 and 1910. As the initial vision of John Brisben Walker, the natural stage was given the necessary exposure to ensure it would quickly become a phenomenon and mainstay in outdoor concert venues. After its initial emergence into the entertainment scene, the city of Denver purchased the Red Rocks area from Walker in 1927. Although the amphitheater was dedicated in 1941, the theater's construction took 12 years to complete.
With such a prolific and majestic location, the Red Rocks Amphitheatre has been home to legendary concerts and performers. In 1964, the Beatles graced the naturally created amphitheater. Irish band U2 performed in a frigid rainstorm in June of 1983. On November 26, 1992, Led Zeppelin and the Moody Blues recorded a live album while they performed at Red Rocks. The year 1995 saw the Red Rocks Amphitheatre be used by the Dave Matthews Band as they recorded their concert for a live album.