Planning your Denver itinerary and torn between attending a concert at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre or indulging in a Denver Food Tour? Both offer unforgettable experiences, but they cater to different interests. Let’s compare these two top-rated attractions to help you decide.

🏞️ Red Rocks Amphitheatre: A Natural Music Marvel
Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Red Rocks Amphitheatre is renowned for its stunning natural acoustics and breathtaking scenery. This open-air venue has hosted legendary performances from artists like The Beatles and U2. Beyond concerts, visitors can explore hiking trails, attend yoga sessions, or visit the Red Rocks Visitor Center to learn about the venue’s rich history.
Best for:
- Music enthusiasts and concert-goers
- Nature lovers and hikers
- Visitors seeking iconic Colorado experiences
Highlights:
- World-famous live music venue
- Scenic hiking trails and geological wonders
- Historical exhibits and guided tours (see schedule)
- Located about 25 minutes from Denver

🍽️ Downtown Denver Food Tour: Savor the City’s Flavors
Dive into Denver’s vibrant culinary scene with a Denver Food Tour. Our guided walking tours offer tastings from some of the city’s best restaurants, providing insights into Denver’s history, architecture, and food culture. It’s an excellent way to explore the city, especially for foodies and first-time visitors.
Best for:
- Food lovers and culinary explorers
- History buffs and architecture enthusiasts
- Visitors looking for a guided city experience
Highlights:
- Multiple tastings from top local eateries (Full meal included in most tours)
- Engaging stories about Denver’s past and present
- Opportunities to discover hidden gems in the city
- Customized restaurant and activity recommendations for the remainder of your trip
🔍 Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature | Red Rocks Amphitheatre | Downtown Denver Food Tour |
---|---|---|
Type of Experience | Live music and outdoor activities | Guided culinary and historical tour |
Location | Morrison, CO (approx. 25 mins from Denver) | Downtown Denver |
Duration | Varies (concerts, hikes, tours) | Approximately 3 hours |
Best Time to Visit | Spring to Fall (concert season) | Year-round |
Physical Activity | Moderate to high (hiking, stairs) | Moderate (walking tour) |
Suitable for Families | Yes (daytime activities) | Yes |
🧭 Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose Red Rocks Amphitheatre if you’re looking to experience live music in a unique natural setting, enjoy outdoor activities, or explore Colorado’s geological wonders.
- Opt for the Downtown Denver Food Tour if you want to taste a variety of local dishes, learn about the city’s history, and explore downtown Denver with a knowledgeable guide.
Why not both? Many visitors find that combining both experiences offers a well-rounded taste of what Denver has to offer. A food tour may be the perfect way to explore Denver the afternoon before your concert experience. Several of our tours end downtown close to major hotels and shuttles.
📌 Plan Your Visit
- Red Rocks Amphitheatre: Check the official website for concert schedules, hiking trail information, and visitor center hours.
- Downtown Denver Food Tour: Visit Delicious Denver Food Tours to book your culinary adventure and explore other tour options.