Hey folks, welcome to this article about Denver’s live music venues! We all know that Denver is a city bubbling with musical talent and has produced some of the most incredible artists that the world has ever seen. Here, music enthusiasts can witness something new, something fresh, something far beyond their expectations. But finding the right venue can often be a headache, with so many options to choose from, it’s hard to know where to begin. Well, don’t you worry, because, in this article, we’ll guide you through some of the most remarkable live music venues in the city, where you can enjoy the best in the business.
By the end of this article, you’ll get an expert’s view of Denver’s live music scene, with expert and insider knowledge. Whether you’re a tourist looking for the perfect spot to enjoy some local live music or a local resident looking for something new to experience, we’ve got you covered. We’ve researched all the details, from the perfect acoustics, the quality of the drinks on offer, and the seating availability, so you’ll know exactly what to expect when you arrive at your chosen venue. Our guide will offer some unique insight that you won’t find anywhere else, so stick around.
Our approach is simple – we’ve tried, tested, and vetted each venue, and we’re confident that we’ve found the best ones to suit all tastes and preferences. We’ve left no stone unturned while selecting these venues’ options, from niche to world-renowned; we’ve got something for everyone. So, whether you’re looking for an intimate setting or a lively atmosphere, we’ve got a Denver live music venue that will fit the bill. Let’s jump right in and explore the magical musical world of Denver!
Red Rocks Amphitheater
Red Rocks Amphitheater is the number one music venue in Denver and one of the most iconic music venues in the world. This natural amphitheater is located in the Red Rocks Park and features two massive sandstone monoliths that create an acoustic environment that is unparalleled. Established in 1941, it can be considered a historical landmark and an outdoor music sanctuary, where visitors can be inspired by the beautiful surrounding scenery and the joyful atmosphere that only music can bring.
The History of Red Rocks Amphitheater
The history of Red Rocks Amphitheater is rich and fascinating. The venue first opened on June 15, 1941, with a performance by the Denver Symphony Orchestra. The idea to create a music venue in the Red Rocks Park came from John Brisben Walker, a magazine publisher, and Mayor Ben Stapleton, who saw the potential of the beautiful natural landscape. The challenge was to find a way to create an outdoor theater that could utilize the unique acoustic properties of the rocks without damaging them. The solution came from designer George Cranmer, who created a system of terraced seating and natural rock formations that could be used for sound amplification. Since then, Red Rocks Amphitheater has become a legendary music venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in music history, including The Beatles, U2, Bruce Springsteen, and many more.
The Experience of Visiting Red Rocks Amphitheater
Visiting Red Rocks Amphitheater is a unique experience that combines the beauty of nature with the joy of music. Whether you’re attending a concert or just visiting the park, there’s something magical about the atmosphere that you can’t find anywhere else. Here are some of the highlights of the Red Rocks experience:
- Explore the park: Red Rocks Park is a beautiful place to hike and take in the natural scenery. There are many trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
- Check out the visitor center: The Red Rocks Visitor Center is a great place to learn more about the history of the amphitheater and the park. You can also buy souvenirs and check out the museum exhibits.
- Attend a concert: Of course, the main attraction of Red Rocks Amphitheater is the concerts. There are shows throughout the summer season, featuring a wide range of musical genres.
- Eat and drink: There are several food and beverage options at Red Rocks, including a restaurant, a bar, and several concession stands. You can also bring your own food and drinks to enjoy during the concert.
The Pros and Cons of Red Rocks Amphitheater
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In conclusion, Red Rocks Amphitheater is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves music and nature. The venue offers a unique experience that is both magical and unforgettable. From the history to the atmosphere to the natural beauty, there are so many reasons to visit Red Rocks. So if you’re planning a trip to Denver, be sure to add Red Rocks Amphitheater to your itinerary.
Top 5 Live Music Venues in Denver
Denver is a hub for live music, offering a great variety of venues to cater to different tastes and preferences. In this subsection, we will provide an overview of the top 5 live music venues in Denver.
1. Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Amphitheatre is an iconic venue located just outside of Denver in Morrison, Colorado. The venue is world-renowned for its natural outdoor acoustics, and attracts music lovers from all over the world. Here are some key facts about Red Rocks Amphitheatre:
- Opened in 1941
- Seating capacity of 9,525
- Surrounded by stunning red rock formations and natural beauty
- Hosts a wide range of musical acts, from rock to country to electronic dance music (EDM)
Red Rocks Amphitheatre has been voted the best outdoor venue in the United States by Rolling Stone magazine for several consecutive years. Its unique natural beauty and exceptional acoustics create a memorable experience for all who attend.
2. The Fillmore Auditorium
Located in the Capitol Hill district of Denver, The Fillmore Auditorium is a historic venue that has been hosting live music since 1907. Here are some key facts about The Fillmore Auditorium:
- Acquired by concert promoter Bill Graham in the 1970s
- Capacity of approximately 3,700
- Hosts a wide range of musical acts, from rock to hip-hop to electronic
- Has been the site of historic performances, including Jimi Hendrix and The Grateful Dead
The Fillmore Auditorium is known for its intimate atmosphere and unique history. Its vintage style and impressive sound system make for an unforgettable experience.
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3. The Bluebird Theater
The Bluebird Theater is a smaller venue located in Denver’s Colfax neighborhood. The venue has a rich history and hosts a variety of musical acts throughout the year. Here are some key facts about The Bluebird Theater:
- Built in 1913 as a movie theater
- Capacity of approximately 550
- Hosts a variety of musical acts, including indie rock, hip-hop, and electronic dance music (EDM)
- Known for its intimate atmosphere and great acoustics
The Bluebird Theater offers a unique experience for music lovers looking for a smaller, more intimate setting. Its rich history and great sound system make it a must-visit venue in Denver.
4. The Ogden Theatre
The Ogden Theatre is another historic venue located in Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. The venue has been hosting live music since the early 20th century and has a reputation for being one of the best places to see live music in Denver. Here are some key facts about The Ogden Theatre:
- Built in 1919 as a movie theatre
- Capacity of approximately 1,600
- Hosts a variety of musical acts, including rock, indie, and electronic
- Known for its art deco style and exceptional sound system
The Ogden Theatre is a great venue for music lovers looking for a unique and historic experience. Its art deco style and exceptional sound system create a memorable experience for all who attend.
5. Levitt Pavilion
Levitt Pavilion is a newer outdoor venue located in Denver’s Ruby Hill Park. The venue opened in 2017 and has quickly become a popular destination for live music lovers. Here are some key facts about Levitt Pavilion:
- Opened in 2017
- Outdoor venue with a capacity of approximately 7,500
- Hosts a variety of musical acts, including rock, folk, and country
- Offers free concerts throughout the year as part of its mission to make live music accessible to all
Levitt Pavilion is a unique and affordable option for live music in Denver. Its outdoor setting and diverse range of musical acts make it a great destination for concerts in the summer months.
In conclusion, Denver has a wide variety of live music venues to cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for an intimate setting or a large outdoor venue, Denver has something to offer for every music lover.
Subsection 3: Best Time to Catch Live Music Shows in Denver
When it comes to Denver’s live music scene, timing is everything. From spontaneous pop-up shows to summer music festivals, Denver offers a wide range of music events all year round. However, some times are better than others to catch your favourite live music acts. Here are some tips for finding the best time to catch live music shows in Denver.
Weekday Nights
If you’re looking for a more intimate live music experience, weekday nights are your best bet. Venues like the Bluebird Theater and the Gothic Theater offer shows during the week, featuring both up-and-coming and established local artists. The best part? These shows are usually cheaper than weekend shows, and the smaller crowds create a more intimate atmosphere.
- Weekday live shows are generally cheaper than weekend shows.
- Less crowded venues create a more intimate atmosphere.
- Weekday nights are often less hectic than weekend nights, so you’ll have more time to enjoy the music.
Summer Music Festivals
Denver’s summer music festivals are a must-see for both locals and tourists alike. The most popular festival is the Underground Music Showcase, which features hundreds of local and national acts across several venues in the Baker neighbourhood. Other popular summer festivals include the Westword Music Showcase, the RiNo Music Festival, and the Five Points Jazz Festival.
| Festival | Location | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| Underground Music Showcase | Baker neighbourhood | Indie, Alternative, Hip-Hop, Rock |
| Westword Music Showcase | Downtown Denver | Rock, Indie, Hip-Hop, Electronic |
| Five Points Jazz Festival | Five Points neighbourhood | Jazz, Blues |
| RiNo Music Festival | RiNo neighbourhood | Rock, Indie, Alternative |
- Summer music festivals attract both local and national acts.
- Denver’s summer music festivals are perfect for experiencing different music genres.
- Music festivals offer a great opportunity to explore different neighbourhoods in Denver.
Weekend Nights
If you’re looking for a night out on the town, then weekend nights are perfect for catching live music shows in Denver. The city’s most popular venues, like the Ogden Theatre and the Fillmore Auditorium, offer shows on Friday and Saturday nights featuring both local and national acts. These shows are usually packed, so make sure to grab your tickets in advance.
- Weekend shows offer a high-energy atmosphere with larger crowds.
- Denver’s most popular venues offer shows on Friday and Saturday nights.
- Weekend shows usually attract both local and national acts.
In conclusion, Denver’s live music scene offers a diverse range of events all year round. Whether you’re looking for a weekday night out or a summer music festival experience, Denver has you covered. So grab your friends, put on your dancing shoes, and get ready to experience the best of Denver’s live music scene.
Where to Find the Best Local Musicians in Denver
Denver is a musical city with a vibrant local scene that caters to almost every genre of music. Whether you are a music lover, a musician, or an event organizer looking for a perfect live music venue, Denver has a wide range of options to choose from. Here, we have compiled a list of the best places to experience local music in Denver.
1. Red Rocks Amphitheatre
If you ask any Denverite about the best place to experience live music in Denver, they will likely mention the Red Rocks Amphitheatre. The venue is located in Morrison and is surrounded by red rock formations that provide natural acoustic benefits. Red Rocks is a world-renowned venue that has hosted iconic performances by legendary musicians such as Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, and U2. Some interesting facts about the Red Rocks Amphitheatre include:
- It was created by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s as part of the New Deal program.
- It has hosted over 500 concerts since its opening in 1906 and has a capacity of 9,450 seats.
- The amphitheater has been listed as a National Historic Landmark since 2015.
If you are planning to visit Denver, make sure to check out the list of upcoming events at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
2. The Bluebird Theater
The Bluebird Theater is one of the most popular music venues in Denver, located on east Colfax Avenue. The venue is known for its intimate setting and excellent sound quality. It has a capacity of 500 people and hosts a range of musical genres, including indie, rock, and alternative. Some interesting facts about the Bluebird Theater include:
- The theater opened in 1913 as a movie house and was transformed into a live music venue in the 1990s.
- It has hosted performances by renowned musicians such as The Black Keys, The Lumineers, and Metallica.
- In 2016, Rolling Stone magazine named the Bluebird Theater one of the best music venues in America.
If you plan on attending a performance at the Bluebird Theater, be sure to arrive early as it is a popular destination among music lovers in Denver.
3. The Ogden Theatre
The Ogden Theatre is another popular music venue in Denver, located on east Colfax Avenue. The venue has a capacity of 1,600 people and is known for its impressive light shows and sound quality. It hosts a variety of artists, ranging from up-and-coming musicians to established performers. Some noteworthy facts about the Ogden Theatre include:
- The theater was built in 1919 and was originally a movie house.
- It was transformed into a music venue in the 1990s and has since become a popular destination for music lovers in Denver.
- The Ogden Theatre is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
If you are looking for a venue that offers high-quality sound and an intimate atmosphere, the Ogden Theatre is definitely worth checking out.
4. The Soiled Dove Underground
The Soiled Dove Underground is a unique music venue located in Lowry. The venue offers an intimate setting that seats up to 200 people and has a reputation for hosting high-quality performances by local musicians. Some interesting facts and features of the Soiled Dove Underground include:
- The venue is located beneath the Tavern Lowry and is designed to resemble a 1920s speakeasy.
- It has a stage, a dance floor, and a VIP area, making it a versatile venue for various events.
- The Soiled Dove Underground offers a wide range of musical genres, including jazz, blues, rock, and folk.
- The venue is equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems to ensure high-quality performances.
- The menu at the venue includes an assortment of drinks and gourmet pub food, making it a perfect spot for dinner and a show.
If you are looking for an intimate music experience or a unique event venue, the Soiled Dove Underground is a must-visit place in Denver.
In conclusion, Denver is a city that offers a wide range of live music venues that cater to all genres of music. Whether you are looking for an outdoor amphitheater, an intimate setting, or state-of-the-art sound systems, Denver has a venue for you. Be sure to check out these places and experience the best local musicians that Denver has to offer.
The Ultimate Guide to Denver’s Live Music Venues
5. The Best Hidden Gems for Live Music
Denver is a hub for live music lovers, and the city has a range of large and small-scale venues to help satisfy everyone’s live music cravings. In this section, we will dive into some of the best-hidden gems for live music in Denver that you might not know about yet.
1. Dazzle Jazz
If you’re a jazz enthusiast and haven’t heard of Dazzle Jazz yet, it’s time to add it to your bucket list. Dazzle Jazz is a “long-running fixture for contemporary jazz and eclectic global music, in a sleek multi-level space with a chic bistro” located in Downtown Denver. The venue provides an intimate and cozy atmosphere that allows visitors to get up close and personal with the artists. With a reputation for bringing in both local and national artists across the jazz spectrum, Dazzle Jazz is a must-visit venue in Denver.
2. The Roxy Theatre
Located in the heart of Denver’s Five Points neighborhood, The Roxy Theatre has become a staple for underground and independent music. Originally opened in 1991, The Roxy has hosted renowned acts such as Jane’s Addiction, Green Day, and Smashing Pumpkins, as well as upcoming and emerging artists. The venue’s capacity of only 450 people contributes to its intimate setting, which enables visitors to have a unique experience with the music they enjoy.
3. Herman’s Hideaway
Herman’s Hideaway has been a staple for live music in Denver for over 50 years. Originally opened as a pizza joint, the venue has hosted some iconic rock and roll acts such as Tommy Bolin and Joe Walsh. The venue, located in the South Broadway area, has seen a variety of artists throughout its history, with its main focus being on rock and heavy metal. Herman’s Hideaway continues to bring in local and national artists and has remained one of Denver’s hidden gems for live music enthusiasts.
4. Syntax Physic Opera
Physic Opera, located in the heart of South Broadway, has been a staple for live music since it opened in 2013. The venue is a gastro-pub, which combines eclectic live music performances, DJ sets, and delectable dishes. Syntax’s Physic Opera unique layout is perfect for anyone looking to host an intimate performance. Composing of three distinct sections, a bar area, a live performance area, and a mezzanine, allows visitors to create a personalized experience.
5. The Black Buzzard
The Black Buzzard, located in the historic Oskar Blues Grill & Brew location in LoDo, has become a go-to destination for local and regional musicians. The venue boasts of an intimate and rustic setting, with a sound system that complements the overall vibe. Guests can come in, grab a drink and enjoy music from underground and emerging acts across rock, blues, country, and Americana.
| Venue | Location | Capacity | Genre |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dazzle Jazz | Downtown Denver | Variable | Jazz |
| The Roxy Theatre | Five Points | 450 | Independent and Underground |
| Herman’s Hideaway | South Broadway | 150-350 | Rock and Heavy Metal |
| Syntax Physic Opera | South Broadway | Variable | Eclectic |
| The Black Buzzard | Lower Downtown (LoDo) | Variable | Rock, Blues, Country, and Americana |
- Dazzle Jazz provides a perfect escape for jazz enthusiasts with various jazz sessions and performances every week.
- The interior of The Roxy Theatre has been untouched since its opening in 1991, providing a raw and rustic feel for any performance.
- Herman’s Hideaway offers an intimate setting that helps visitors become one with their favorite rock and heavy metal artists.
- Syntax Physic Opera offers a unique combination of live music, delicious food, and a striking setting which is capable of creating an unforgettable experience.
- The Black Buzzard offers the best of both worlds by combining magnificent performances with locally brewed beer and a savory menu.
In conclusion, Denver offers a plethora of live music venues for all music lovers. The five hidden gems listed above offer an experience unlike any other, allowing visitors to enjoy performances in a more intimate and personal setting. So, whether you’re into jazz, rock, blues, independent, or underground music, there is a venue waiting for you in Denver.
FAQs: Denver Live Music Venues
What are the best live music venues in Denver?
Denver has no shortage of great live music venues. Some popular ones include Red Rocks Amphitheatre, The Bluebird Theater, The Fillmore Auditorium, and The Ogden Theatre.
How much do tickets for live music shows cost in Denver?
Ticket prices usually vary depending on the artist, venue, and other factors. Generally, you can expect tickets to cost between $10 and $100, but some shows may be more expensive or less expensive than that.
What types of music can I find at live music venues in Denver?
Denver’s music scene is diverse, so you can find all types of music at live music venues. Some venues cater to specific genres like jazz or electronic music, while others offer a mix of genres like indie rock and hip-hop.
What is the best time to catch live music shows in Denver?
Live music shows happen year-round in Denver, but some of the best times to catch shows are during the summer months. This is when many outdoor concert venues like Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Levitt Pavilion Denver host shows.
Can I find free live music shows in Denver?
Yes, there are plenty of free live music shows in Denver. Some venues that offer free shows include Levitt Pavilion Denver, Civic Center Park, and Larimer Square.
Are there any all-ages live music venues in Denver?
Yes, there are several all-ages live music venues in Denver. Some popular ones include The Bluebird Theater, The Marquis Theater, and The Gothic Theatre.
How can I find upcoming live music shows in Denver?
You can find upcoming live music shows in Denver by checking out online event calendars, booking websites, and social media pages of venues that regularly host live music shows.
Are live music venues in Denver wheelchair accessible?
Yes, most live music venues in Denver are wheelchair accessible. Contact the venue ahead of time to confirm accessibility and ask about any additional accommodations you may need.
Can I buy tickets for live music shows online?
Yes, most live music venues in Denver offer online ticket purchasing options. Check the venue’s website or booking websites like Ticketmaster or Live Nation for ticket availability.
Are there any live music venues in Denver that serve food and drinks?
Yes, many live music venues in Denver serve food and drinks. Some even offer full-service restaurants and bars. Some popular venues that serve food and drinks include Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox, El Chapultepec, and Dazzle.
Conclusion
Denver is a vibrant city with a thriving live music scene. Whether you’re into indie rock, jazz, hip-hop or any other genre, there is a live music venue in Denver that caters to your musical taste. From free shows to all-ages shows and from intimate venues to grand outdoor amphitheaters, Denver has it all. After reading this article, we invite readers to explore Denver’s live music venues and discover some new music to love.