Top 10 Outdoor Concert Venues in America

There is something magical about outdoor concerts. The open sky, the natural acoustics, the shared experience of thousands of fans in a beautiful setting. America has some of the world's finest outdoor venues, and here are the ten best.

1. Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison, Colorado

Located 15 minutes from Denver, Red Rocks is arguably the most famous outdoor venue in the world. The amphitheatre is set between two 300-foot sandstone monoliths that create natural, extraordinary acoustics. The venue holds 9,525 and has hosted everyone from The Beatles to every major artist since. The experience of watching the sun set over the rocks while music fills the canyon is truly unmatched.

2. Hollywood Bowl, Los Angeles

The Hollywood Bowl has been the summer home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic since 1922. This Los Angeles landmark seats 17,500 under its iconic band shell and is one of the largest natural amphitheatres in the world. Picnicking before shows is a beloved tradition.

3. The Gorge Amphitheatre, George, Washington

Overlooking the Columbia River Gorge near Seattle, this 27,500-capacity venue is consistently rated the most scenic outdoor venue in North America. The panoramic views of the river canyon are breathtaking, and festivals like Sasquatch! and Watershed call it home.

4. Merriweather Post Pavilion, Columbia, Maryland

Designed by Frank Gehry, this venue near Washington D.C. holds 19,319 and has hosted major acts since 1967. It underwent a significant renovation in 2021 that modernised facilities while preserving its architectural character.

5. Ravinia Festival, Highland Park, Illinois

The oldest outdoor music festival in North America, Ravinia has been hosting performances near Chicago since 1904. The lawn seating, where fans spread blankets and share picnics, is as much a part of the experience as the music itself.

6. Jones Beach Theater, Wantagh, New York

This 15,000-capacity venue sits right on the waterfront of Long Island's Jones Beach. The ocean breeze and sunset views make every summer concert feel special. It is one of the most popular outdoor venues in the New York area.

7. Shoreline Amphitheatre, Mountain View, California

Located in Silicon Valley near San Francisco, Shoreline holds 22,500 and has been a Bay Area staple since 1986. The Grateful Dead played some of their most famous shows here.

8. Alpine Valley Music Theatre, East Troy, Wisconsin

Nestled in the rolling hills of southeast Wisconsin, Alpine Valley holds 37,000 and is legendary in jam-band circles. Stevie Ray Vaughan played his last show here in 1990.

9. Blossom Music Center, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio

The summer home of the Cleveland Orchestra, Blossom seats 19,000 in a stunning wooded setting. The pavilion was designed by Peter van Dijk and has superb acoustics for both classical and popular music.

10. Ascend Amphitheater, Nashville

Located on the banks of the Cumberland River in downtown Nashville, Ascend holds 6,800 and offers stunning views of the city skyline. It has quickly become one of the city's favourite outdoor venues since opening in 2015.

Browse outdoor events near you and experience live music the way it was meant to be heard.