Colorado counts three of the nation’s top 10 amphitheaters in a new study compiled by readers and editors of USA Today.
The United States has more than 1,000 amphitheaters, according to the Reader’s Choice Ten Best awards, but hardly any rise to the level of Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater in Vail, Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison and Dillon Amphitheater in Dillon, respectively.
The fact that Red Rocks landed at No. 7 on the list (see below) may surprise some, given its annual dominance on Pollstar and Billboard charts, where it’s been rated as the top global amphitheater in sales and concerts so often that editors must weight rankings against Red Rocks so other venues even have a chance to top the list, owner Denver Arts & Venues has told The Denver Post.
USA Today readers and editors praised the recently-bustling Dillon Amphitheater as No. 9 on the list, lauding “breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains” across Lake Dillon, making it “one of Colorado’s most scenic live music destinations. The open-air venue has tiered seating and a spacious lawn, and hosts a lineup of concerts, from nationally touring acts to local favorites, as well as community events,” the list-maker added.
Red Rocks made the list’s No. 7 spot with mentions of its carved, towering red sandstone formations, calling it a “one-of-a-kind open-air amphitheater” that “offers unparalleled acoustics and awe-inspiring views of the surrounding foothills,” editors wrote. “Hosting an eclectic mix of world-class musicians, film screenings and fitness events, Red Rocks delivers unforgettable experiences, time and time again.” (See Red Rocks’ full 2025 concert and Film on the Rocks listings).
Finally, Vail’s Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater — a.k.a. the Amp (not to be confused with Colorado Springs’ Ford Amphitheater) — notched the No. 4 spot because it “blends world-class performances with breathtaking alpine scenery. Located in Vail, this open-air venue features a covered pavilion and a lush, sloping lawn, ensuring every guest enjoys both stellar acoustics and views,” editors wrote. “From the sounds of the Bravo! Vail Music Festival to lively concerts, dance performances, and cultural gatherings, The Amp hosts a wide variety of events.”
Here’s the full list:
1. Pavilion at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts – Bethel, N.Y.
2. PNC Bank Arts Center – Holmdel, N.J.
3. The Gorge Amphitheater – Quincy, Wash.
4. Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater – Vail
5. Ascend Amphitheater – Nashville, Tenn.
6. Koussevitzky Music Shed – Lenox, Mass.
7. Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre – Morrison
8. Tuacahn Amphitheatre – Ivins, Utah
9. Dillon Amphitheater – Dillon
10. Moody Amphitheater – Austin, Texas