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Five ways to experience Red Rocks (without the concert ticket)

Although January 27 marked Red Rocks' first-ever winter show, concert season at Red Rocks is but a speck on the sunny, warm musical horizon. With visions of Coors Light, above-freezing temps and live music dancing through your head, you may feel like concert season will never arrive. You miss the walls of Red Rocks protecting you and tolerating your less-than-stellar dance moves. You miss looking out at the Denver skyline and texting your out-of-state friends to make them jealous. 

You're not alone. There are ways to combat this seasonal depression, and that's by visiting Red Rocks even when there's not another concert for what seems like eternity. Whether you're a get-up-and-bike-10-miles-before-breakfast guy, or one who just likes to sit and drink beer, you're in luck; Red Rocks is calling you. She misses you, too.

5. Explore the exhibits

Whether you paid more attention to Bob Dylan or biology during high school, Red Rocks has an exhibit that's sure to fit your bill. Since Red Rocks is located in a geological wonderland, there is a lot to learn about the rocks and formations that made her what she is. Learn something and school your neighbor/boyfriend/dog about Red Rocks' rocks.

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For those more atune to the musical side of things, there's a long hallway with every concert ever played listed on the walls. Find your birthday and see if anyone played Red Rocks that day. You can also watch videos of concerts recorded there and don't miss the documentary playing in the Southwest Theater at the end of the hall.

4. Eat and drink

The Ship Rock Grille is located within the Vistor's Center and provides great options for eating and drinking. Count on craft beer and a good burger here, or come in for brunch and a mimosa. If you feel like you ate too much, don't worry, you can take the stairs out back.

3. Climb the stairs

Bored with the gym yet? If you haven't noticed, there are tons of stairs at Red Rocks. Walk, run, skip, or jump up and down the stairs or rows go get a great workout, with an even more rewarding view.

2. Hike around

Bet you didn't notice the hiking trails when you were tailgating before that Kenny Chesney concert, did you? Take a hike or bike ride on the network of trails around the venue. 

1. Just hang out

If none of the above sounds appealing, you're hard to please. But you're also in luck, because you can come and just hang out. Bring a blanket and a picnic, board game, book to read and make yourself comfortable. Red Rocks wants to hang out with you too.

, Denver Red Rocks Amphitheater Examiner

Taylor is a Colorado native, University of Colorado alum, entertainment journalist and photographer. She's most known for her meeting-famous-people stories, sharing tales of solo-travel in Europe over craft Colorado beer, and love of sports. Fun fact: Taylor's high school graduation was at Red...

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