The 10 Best Concert Venues in Colorado

Colorado is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, but it's also home to some of the best concert venues in the country. From intimate theaters to massive arenas, there's something for everyone in the Centennial State. Whether you're a fan of rock, country, hip-hop, or anything in between, these venues offer unforgettable experiences that will leave you wanting more. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the 10 best concert venues in Colorado, including the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the state-of-the-art Mission Ballroom, and many more. So grab your tickets and get ready to experience some of the best live music that Colorado has to offer!

#1 Red Rocks Amphitheatre

Located just 10 miles west of Denver, Colorado, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a world-renowned concert venue. The iconic venue is situated in the midst of towering red rock formations and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

History

The amphitheatre was built in 1941 by the Civilian Conservation Corps and has since hosted countless memorable performances by some of the biggest names in music. The Beatles famously played at Red Rocks in 1964, and U2 recorded their concert film, "Under a Blood Red Sky," at the venue in 1983. Other notable performers include The Grateful Dead, Stevie Nicks, and Mumford & Sons.

Unique Features

One of the most unique aspects of Red Rocks Amphitheatre is its natural acoustics. The rock formations surrounding the venue create a natural amphitheatre that enhances the sound quality of performances. The venue also features two massive rock formations, known as Ship Rock and Creation Rock, that flank the stage and give the venue its distinctive look.

In addition to its natural beauty, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is also known for its state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems. The venue has been recognized as one of the best outdoor concert venues in the world and has won numerous awards for its design and acoustics.

Visitor Information

Red Rocks Amphitheatre is open year-round and offers guided tours of the venue. Visitors can explore the backstage area and learn about the history of the venue. The amphitheatre also hosts fitness events, movie screenings, and other special events throughout the year.

Overall, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is a must-see destination for music lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Its stunning beauty and world-class amenities make it one of the most unique concert venues in the world.

#2 The Buell Theatre

The Buell Theatre is a world-class venue located in the heart of Denver, Colorado. With a seating capacity of 2,884, it is the largest theatre in the Denver Performing Arts Complex and one of the most popular venues for live entertainment in the region.

History and Architecture

The Buell Theatre was named after Temple Hoyne Buell, a prominent Denver architect who designed many of the city's iconic buildings. The theatre was opened in 1991 and has since been a cultural hub, hosting a variety of events such as Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances, and more.

The theatre's design is a stunning blend of contemporary and classic architecture. The exterior is made of red brick and glass, while the interior features a grand lobby with marble floors and a sweeping staircase. The stage is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including a hydraulic system that allows for smooth set changes and stage rotations.

Events and Performances

The Buell Theatre is known for its diverse and high-quality programming. It hosts touring Broadway productions, such as "The Lion King," "Hamilton," and "Wicked," as well as local theatre productions and dance performances. The venue also hosts concerts by popular musicians and comedians, such as Lizzo, Trevor Noah, and John Mulaney.

One of the theatre's most notable events is the annual Colorado New Play Summit, which showcases new works by local playwrights and brings together theatre professionals from across the country.

Amenities and Accessibility

The Buell Theatre offers a range of amenities to enhance the audience experience, including concessions, merchandise, and coat check services. The venue is also fully accessible, with wheelchair seating and assistive listening devices available upon request.

Overall, the Buell Theatre is a stunning venue that offers a world-class experience for both performers and audiences. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and diverse programming make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for outstanding live entertainment in Colorado.

#3 Ball Arena

Ball Arena, formerly known as Pepsi Center, is a multi-purpose arena located in Denver, Colorado. It serves as the home of the Denver Nuggets of the National Basketball Association (NBA), the Colorado Avalanche of the National Hockey League (NHL), and the Colorado Mammoth of the National Lacrosse League (NLL).

The arena opened in 1999 and has since hosted a variety of events, including concerts, family shows, and sporting events. It has a seating capacity of 18,007 for basketball games, 17,809 for ice hockey games, and up to 20,000 for concerts.

Concerts

Ball Arena is one of the premier concert venues in Colorado. It has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Justin Timberlake, and Ed Sheeran. The arena provides a fantastic concert experience for fans, with state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems and excellent sightlines from every seat.

The arena's location in the heart of Denver also makes it a great destination for out-of-town visitors. It is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with plenty of parking available nearby. Additionally, the surrounding area has a variety of restaurants, bars, and hotels, making it easy to make a night out of a concert at Ball Arena.

Sporting Events

Aside from concerts, Ball Arena also hosts sporting events throughout the year. Fans can catch a Denver Nuggets or Colorado Avalanche game and experience the excitement of live sports. The arena provides an excellent game-day experience, with plenty of food and drink options, merchandise shops, and interactive exhibits.

Overall, Ball Arena is a fantastic venue for concerts and sporting events. Its central location, state-of-the-art facilities, and excellent sightlines make it a great destination for locals and tourists alike.

#4 Budweiser Events Center

Introduction

Located in Loveland, Colorado, the Budweiser Events Center is a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose venue that offers a wide range of entertainment options for people of all ages. The center is owned and operated by Larimer County and provides a unique experience to its patrons.

Concert Venue

The Budweiser Events Center is a popular destination for live music events. The venue has a seating capacity of up to 7,200 people and hosts concerts by some of the biggest names in the music industry. The center offers a great viewing experience with unobstructed views of the stage from all angles. The acoustics are also excellent, ensuring that every note of the music can be heard clearly.

Sports Events

Apart from concerts, the Budweiser Events Center also hosts a variety of sporting events. The venue is home to the Colorado Eagles, a minor league ice hockey team that plays in the ECHL. The center also hosts basketball, wrestling, and rodeo events.

Family-Friendly Events

The Budweiser Events Center is not just a venue for adults. The center also hosts family-friendly events such as Disney on Ice, Circus shows, and Monster Truck rallies. The venue has a clean and safe environment, making it an ideal place for families to spend quality time together.

Amenities

The Budweiser Events Center has all the amenities that one would expect from a modern entertainment venue. It has ample parking space, wheelchair accessibility, and restrooms on site. The center also has several food and beverage options, including a full-service bar, concessions, and VIP suites.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Budweiser Events Center is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for quality entertainment in Colorado. From live music to sports events and family-friendly shows, the center has something for everyone. Its state-of-the-art facilities and excellent customer service make it an ideal venue for any event.

#5 The Mission Ballroom

The Mission Ballroom is a premier concert venue located in Denver, Colorado. This state-of-the-art facility features a spacious general admission floor, tiered seating, and a balcony with excellent sightlines, making it the perfect place to enjoy live music and entertainment.

Design

The Mission Ballroom was designed with music lovers in mind. The venue's acoustics were carefully crafted to provide an immersive audio experience, with sound engineers working closely with architects to create a space that is perfectly suited for live music. In addition, the Mission Ballroom's innovative layout ensures that every guest has an unobstructed view of the stage, whether they're enjoying the show from the floor, seats, or balcony.

Location

The Mission Ballroom is conveniently located in the River North Art District, also known as RiNo, one of Denver's most vibrant neighborhoods. The area is home to a thriving art scene, with plenty of galleries and street art to explore. There are also several restaurants, bars, and breweries nearby, making it easy to grab a bite or a drink before or after the show.

Experience

Attending a concert at the Mission Ballroom is an unforgettable experience. The venue's state-of-the-art sound system and lighting rig create an immersive atmosphere that amplifies the energy of the performers. The venue also offers a variety of food and drink options, including local craft beers and cocktails, as well as a rotating selection of food trucks.

Overall, the Mission Ballroom is a must-visit venue for anyone who loves live music. With its innovative design, unbeatable location, and unparalleled audiovisual experience, it's no wonder that it has quickly become one of Colorado's most popular concert destinations.

#6 Pikes Peak Center

Located in the heart of Colorado Springs, the Pikes Peak Center is a premier concert venue that has been entertaining audiences for over three decades. The center boasts a state-of-the-art facility that can accommodate up to 2,000 guests with a range of seating options including orchestra and balcony seats. The Pikes Peak Center is an ideal destination for music lovers who are looking for a stellar concert experience.

Acoustics

The Pikes Peak Center was designed with acoustics in mind. The sound system is state-of-the-art, and the venue's engineers have taken measures to ensure that every seat in the house has perfect sound quality. The Pikes Peak Center's acoustics are renowned in the music industry, and for good reason. The venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music, and all of them have praised the venue's sound quality.

Location

The Pikes Peak Center is located in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs. The venue is within walking distance of several restaurants, bars, and shops, making it an ideal destination for a night out. The center is also easily accessible by car, and there is ample parking available in the surrounding area.

Events

The Pikes Peak Center has hosted a wide variety of events over the years, including concerts, Broadway shows, comedy acts, and more. The venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, and Sheryl Crow. In addition to music, the Pikes Peak Center has also hosted several Broadway shows such as "The Lion King" and "The Phantom of the Opera".

Ambiance

The Pikes Peak Center has a warm and inviting ambiance that is perfect for a night out. The venue's interior is elegant and sophisticated, with comfortable seating and excellent sightlines. The lighting and sound systems are state-of-the-art, and the venue's staff is friendly and helpful. All of these factors combine to create an unforgettable concert experience.

#7 Broadmoor World Arena

The Broadmoor World Arena is a premier concert venue in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The arena has a seating capacity of 8,000 people and hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, sporting events, and family shows.

Concerts

The Broadmoor World Arena is a popular venue for concerts. The arena has hosted many famous bands and artists over the years, including Elton John, Bon Jovi, and Fleetwood Mac. The arena also hosts smaller concerts for local bands and up-and-coming artists. The acoustics in the arena are superb, allowing for excellent sound quality during performances.

Sporting Events

The Broadmoor World Arena is also a popular venue for sporting events. The arena is home to the Colorado College Tigers ice hockey team and has hosted many other sporting events, including basketball games and figure skating competitions. The arena has a state-of-the-art ice rink, which is used for both sporting events and public skating sessions.

Family Shows

The Broadmoor World Arena is also a great place for family entertainment. The arena hosts many family shows throughout the year, including Disney on Ice and the Harlem Globetrotters. These shows are perfect for families with young children and are a great way to spend a fun-filled day together.

The Broadmoor World Arena is a great venue for all types of events. Whether you are looking for a night of great music, an exciting sporting event, or a fun family show, the arena has something for everyone. With its great location, excellent acoustics, and state-of-the-art facilities, the Broadmoor World Arena is a must-visit destination for anyone in Colorado Springs.

#8 Fiddlers Green Amphitheatre

Fiddlers Green Amphitheatre is an outdoor concert venue located in Greenwood Village, Colorado. The venue is known for hosting some of the best music events in the region, and it has become a favorite of both music lovers and performers alike.

Location and Setting

The venue is situated in the heart of Denver's Tech Center, which makes it easily accessible from all parts of the city. The amphitheater is surrounded by beautiful open spaces, and the stage is set against a stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, providing a breathtaking view for concertgoers.

Concert Experience

Fiddlers Green Amphitheatre is known for its excellent acoustics and state-of-the-art sound system, which ensures that every performance is heard clearly and crisply. The venue has a capacity of 18,000, which makes it perfect for both large and intimate concerts. The amphitheater is designed in a way that allows every seat to have a great view of the stage, so no matter where you sit, you will be able to enjoy the show.

Performer Lineup

Fiddlers Green Amphitheatre has a diverse lineup of performers, ranging from rock and roll to country, hip hop, and pop. Some of the biggest names in the music industry have graced the stage at Fiddlers Green Amphitheatre, including Journey, Tom Petty, and the Heartbreakers, Dave Matthews Band, and Luke Bryan, to name a few. The venue also hosts a variety of festivals, including the annual Country Megaticket and the Colorado Symphony's annual summer concert series.

Amenities

The venue offers a variety of amenities for concertgoers, including a wide selection of food and beverage options, including local craft beer, wine, and cocktails. There are also several merchandise stands where you can purchase souvenirs to commemorate your concert experience. Additionally, the venue provides ample parking and transportation options for those who prefer not to drive.

If you're looking for a great concert venue in Colorado, look no further than Fiddlers Green Amphitheatre. With its stunning location, excellent acoustics, and diverse lineup of performers, it's no wonder why this venue has become a favorite of music lovers and performers alike.

#9 Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park

Introduction

Colorado is known for its picturesque landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty, and now, it has a new feather in its cap – the Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park. Located in Grand Junction, this concert venue has quickly become a popular destination for music lovers from across the state.

The Venue

The amphitheater is nestled in the Las Colonias Park, a sprawling 130-acre park that features a riverfront trail, botanical garden, and a kayak park. The venue itself can accommodate up to 9,000 people, making it one of the largest outdoor concert venues in Colorado. The stage is set against a gorgeous backdrop of towering red rock cliffs that add to the ambiance of the performance.

The Experience

One of the standout features of the Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park is the sound quality. The venue has state-of-the-art sound systems that ensure every note is crystal clear, no matter where you’re seated. The seating is also designed to provide an unobstructed view of the stage, so even those in the back row can enjoy the show. The park also offers a variety of food and drink vendors, so you can grab a bite or a drink before settling in for the concert. The staff is friendly and accommodating, ensuring that your experience is hassle-free and enjoyable.

The Performances

Since its opening in 2018, the Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park has hosted a variety of performers, including rock, country, and pop artists. The venue has also become a hotspot for music festivals, with events such as the Country Jam and the Grand Junction Off-Road & Music Festival drawing crowds from across the state.

Conclusion

The Amphitheater at Las Colonias Park is truly a gem in Colorado’s music scene. With its stunning location, top-notch sound quality, and variety of performances, it’s no wonder that it has become a popular destination for music lovers. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this venue is definitely worth a visit.

#10 Boulder Theater

Boulder Theater is a historic venue located in the heart of downtown Boulder, Colorado. It was built in 1906 as Curran Opera House and has been entertaining audiences for over a century. The venue has gone through several renovations over the years, but has maintained its original charm and character.

History

Curran Opera House was built by wealthy businessman James Curran, who wanted to bring culture to the growing town of Boulder. The venue hosted a variety of performances, including operas, plays, and concerts. In the 1930s, the building was converted into a movie theater and was renamed Boulder Theater. It continued to show films until the 1970s when it was closed and fell into disrepair.

In 1981, a group of local businessmen purchased the building and began the process of restoring it to its original grandeur. The renovation took several years and included the addition of a state-of-the-art sound system and lighting rig. The venue reopened in 1990 and has been a popular destination for music fans ever since.

Performances

Boulder Theater has hosted a wide variety of acts over the years, including rock, jazz, blues, and folk musicians. Some of the most notable performers include Bob Dylan, The Flaming Lips, and The Avett Brothers. The venue also hosts comedy shows, film screenings, and other events throughout the year.

The intimate setting of the theater allows for a unique concert experience. The audience is close to the stage, which creates an intimate atmosphere that is hard to find in larger venues. The sound quality is also exceptional, thanks to the venue's state-of-the-art sound system.

Amenities

Boulder Theater has a full bar and a concession stand that serves snacks and drinks. There are also several restaurants and bars located nearby, making it easy to grab a bite before or after the show. The venue is also easily accessible by public transportation, with several bus stops located nearby.

Overall, Boulder Theater is a must-visit destination for music fans visiting Colorado. Its rich history, exceptional sound quality, and intimate setting make it one of the best concert venues in the state.