The sun dips behind the mountains. A dazzling Colorado sunset paints the sky orange and pink above Ford Amphitheater, and the opening band starts to play. As the first chords ring out, the September air turns crisp. But the warm glow of the firepit in front of me, and the old-fashioned in my hand, keeps me cozy.
This feels like my own private Colorado concert. The towering peaks around the amphitheater are a dramatic backdrop, but somehow it feels like I’m watching the show in my own backyard. I’m sitting in an 8,000-seat amphitheater, yet somehow it feels so intimate. The stage feels so close, and the music hits me in a visceral way.
In this moment, I know most other live music experiences are going to have a hard time measuring up. While Red Rocks stands alone as an iconic music venue, I can skip the crowds and the drive for an unmatched magic at Ford Amphitheatre. This venue has set a new standard for Colorado concerts that will be hard to top.
Whether you’re a regular already or a Ford Amphitheater first-timer, here’s your backstage pass:
12 Insider Tips to Make the Most of Your Concert at Ford Amphitheater
Download the App
The AXS app that is. It makes it easy to buy and keep track of your tickets. Just have them ready to scan at the gate.
Don’t Miss the Sunset
One of the perks of attending a concert at Ford Amphitheatre is the natural beauty surrounding the venue. The scenic backdrop makes for an incredible, free “pre-show” that adds to the overall experience, and the sunsets can be amazing. Later in the concert season, be sure to arrive early enough to catch the sunset. No matter where you’re seated, the view of the sunset is spectacular. It’s no wonder the original name was Sunset Amphitheater.
Pick a Firepit Suite: $$$
For an elevated experience, the firepit suites are the ultimate Ford Amphitheater experience. These suites give you the feeling of watching a concert from the comfort of your backyard. The cozy seating (for eight) paired with cocktails and friends around the fire add up to intimate, luxurious vibes. The suites offer unobstructed views, early shade, easy access to restrooms, built-in charging ports, and concessions served at your seats. They are perfect for groups or anyone looking to make the evening extra special.
The firepit suites are individually owned, but resale tickets are available on the website. They usually come at a premium. Depending on the show, you might pay upwards of $300 or $400 per person. But there is also a Facebook group where you might score firepit tickets in the $125 or $150 range. There is some verification used in the group, but use caution and know that AXS or Ford Amphitheater won’t give you any guarantees against scams if you buy outside their official network.
If you can make it work, there is no better way to see a show than from the firepit suites. And if it’s your favorite band, the firepit is definitely worth the splurge.
Keep It Comfortable with Reserved Seating: $$
The reserved seats at Ford Amphitheater are in the pit and first and third tiers. And they are well-spaced, providing adequate legroom even for taller guests. (Yes, I verified with a 6-foot-5 dude.) You won’t feel cramped, which is a huge plus when you’re there for several hours. Want to make it even more comfortable? Seat cushions, soft-side seat backs and non-metal stadium seats are allowed.
Prices vary by show, but general ticket prices are around $200+ for the pit, $100-$200+ in the first tier, and $60-$150 in the third level. And accessible seating is available in most of the reserved levels. Note that some concerts offer some obstructed view seating, usually in the third level. They are cheaper and clearly marked when you buy them, but there will be some sort of staging equipment in your way.
Chill on the Lawn: $
The grassy lawn is farthest from the stage at the top of the amphitheater. It’s the most economical option, and it gives you a more relaxed, picnic-style experience. Depending on the crowd size, you might get a little more room for dancing too. Chairs with metal are not allowed, but you can bring blankets up to 8 feet by 8 feet to sit or lay on.
If you see obstructed view reserved seats for sale, then the lawn will probably be affected too. And there are a few spots where you’ll want to dodge light poles. Seating is general admission, so plan to get there early to stake out your spot with a clear view of the stage. Expect to pay around $40-$70 for lawn seats.
What to Do for Drinks and Dining
Eventually upscale restaurants and five rooftop bars will ring the back of Ford Amphitheater, but those aren’t built yet for the inaugural concert season. In the meantime, there are plenty of food trucks on site offering a wide variety of options. Expect event-appropriate prices, with beer, wine and cocktails ranging from $10 to $17.
What can you bring in? Each person is allowed to enter with one 24-ounce sealed water bottle or an empty plastic water bottle, but no other outside food or beverages (that includes your secret flask) are permitted. The one exception is small, factory sealed food items for food allergies or medical needs.
Want to Skip the Line?
You can buy a Quick Pass for $20 that lets you bypass the line for immediate entry.
What About Parking?
There are a number of free and paid options. Free parking is available at Compassion International, with a shuttle service that departs at 5:30 p.m. You can also park for free at Bass Pro Shops, but if you’re rocking heels (bless your heart), be sure to pack emergency flip-flops because it’s a half-mile walk.
If you prefer to park closer, paid options are available at the venue and nearby businesses. You can buy suite/VIP parking, the closest access, with your suite ticket. Preferred parking is $35 in advance, $40 on site. Be sure to check parking details on the venue’s website before you go.
Remember It’s Rain or Shine
The show will go on despite bad weather. Rain jackets and gear are allowed. So is a small umbrella. But…
Keep Your Bag Clear
Only clear bags or small clutches no larger than 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches are permitted. This is common at large venues, but be sure to review the bag policy if you’re planning to bring essentials.
Review the FAQs
If you’re a concert pro, there’s nothing surprising about Ford Amphitheater. But every venue is different, so review the fordamphitheater.live FAQs before you go to avoid any surprises.
There’s Plenty of Pre- and After-Party Fun
Northgate has become the entertainment epicenter of north Colorado Springs, and Ford Amphitheater is surrounded by restaurants, bars and funplexes. Whether you’re looking to grab a drink or enjoy a meal, many neighboring bars and restaurants offer pre- and post-concert specials for concertgoers, making it easy to keep the fun going before or after the show.
