Planning a trip to Red Rocks?

Make it “Golden” with Our Red Rocks 101!

Summer is here and that means a jam-packed schedule of fun planned at the world-famous Red Rocks amphitheater. There are plenty of big names on this year's setlist, where some of the greatest musical icons only dream to play and a lucky few get to visit! Check out the full lineup at RedRocks.com.

Red Rocks is also the home of Yoga on the Rocks every Saturday through August 9th. And for you film lovers, Film on the Rocks features 2001: A Space Odyssey (June 9th), Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (June 23rd), Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (June 30th), Legally Blonde (July 7th), and Shrek 2 (August 18th) where up-and-coming bands play before nostalgia sets in on the big screen.

Only 15 minutes from the Amphitheater, Golden is an ideal stop before or after your Red Rocks experience. Pair the two to get the best out of your trip to the foothills with options such as:

Pre-Concert Dinner: Get the party started and meet friends first at The Golden Mill, with its self-pour beer wall and variety of upscale food stalls. Or hit the Buffalo Rose to get your western on early. Golden is home to a variety of dining spots for quick pre-concert bites or even an early delicious dinner. For an upscale farm to table meal, try Abejas. Cast Iron Tavern is a local’s favorite that specializes in creative comfort food. You can also get a jump start on the beautiful views of the area with dinner at Footprints at Fossil Trace, which overlooks Fossil Trace Golf Course.

Tailgating Eats: Planning to tailgate in the Red Rocks parking lot? Pick up Bonfire Burritos, a pizza from Woody’s or Blue Plan Pizza, charcuterie from the Cheese Ranch and why not get a growler of craft beer from your favorite Golden brewery or delicious n/a Kona Kombucha from Kona Bowls for your driver!

Last Minute Concert Outfit: Downtown Golden is an excellent place to get those last-minute items to make your Red Rocks experience unforgettable! Going to see the Sheryl Crow concert but left your cowboy hat at home? Silver Horse has you covered from head to toe, so you can rock the night away. Or if that Colorado evening air is cool, pick up a vest, light jacket or beanie cap at YoColorado. 

Treats To Go: Stock up on your favorite movie treats before heading to Legally Blonde at Golden Goods Inc. or Golden Sweets—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. As Elle Woods would say, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy.” And so does candy!

Gateway Village, Your “On-Ramp” for Pre-Concert Fun: Golden’s Gateway Village is located at the Red Rocks Exit on I-70 (Exit 259). Only a quick drive from both downtown Golden and Red Rocks, you’ll find several great places to eat and drink, pre-concert, including: 

• Vice Kitchen Wine Whiskey - Rocky Mountain-inspired dishes, complemented by handcrafted cocktails and fine wines.

• Launch Espresso Food & Spirits - Fuel up with everything from avo toast to charcuterie, and coffee to cocktails too!

• Over Yonder Brewing Company - Meet friends and enjoy the beer garden feel.

• Morris and Mae Collective - One stop shop for pre-concert cocktails and coffee.

The Night is Still Young. Enjoyed your night at Red Rocks but want more?

Head over to Ace Hi Tavern for some classic, laid back fun, or if you want something more upscale, check out Alchemy, a stylish cocktail lounge. Miner’s Saloon offers rustic charm and 24 beers on tap or visit The Brick Room, tucked beneath Golden’s iconic welcome arch, for a lively sports bar feel.

Stay the Night: Loved Red Rocks and want to stick around town for a couple more days? Check out: 

• The Origin Hotel - Official hotel of Red Rocks Amphitheater with easy shuttles over to the amphitheater. 

• The Golden Hotel - Offers a mountain modern ambiance conveniently located in the heart of the historic downtown Golden. 

• Table Mountain Inn - Enjoy beautiful mountain views with southwestern charm. 

• Eddy Taproom & Hotel - Your ultimate basecamp—mountain views, craft cocktails, and BBQ feasts; also offers Red Rocks shuttles.

Getting to Red Rocks: RedRocks.com offers parking info, maps and alternatives to getting to Red Rocks. 

Golden can set the tone for your Red Rocks visit!