From Lawsuits to Front-Row Views: How Red Rocks Went from ADA Violations to the Best Accessible Seating in Live Music

Red Rocks Amphitheatre, one of the most iconic live music venues in the world, has undergone a major transformation in accessibility. Once the subject of legal scrutiny for overcharging wheelchair-accessible seating, Red Rocks is now recognized as having some of the best ADA accommodations in live music. But how did they get there? It took lawsuits, federal intervention, and a complete overhaul of their ticketing and accessibility policies.

Sold Out Red Rocks Amphitheatre

The ADA Controversy: Red Rocks Caught Overcharging

In August 2022, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) settled with the City and County of Denver over ADA violations at Red Rocks. An investigation found that between 2018 and 2020, the venue had been charging wheelchair users significantly more than non-disabled concertgoers for comparable seating. Over 1,800 accessible tickets were overpriced across 178 events, resulting in a total overcharge of $47,950.90. This practice was deemed a clear violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The Settlement: Fixing the Issue

To address these violations, Denver reached a settlement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office that required Red Rocks to:

• Refund the nearly $48,000 in overcharges to affected ticket buyers.

• Implement a new ticketing policy ensuring accessible seats are sold at fair market value.

• Restrict resale of ADA tickets by making them non-transferable.

• Require purchasers to verify their need for accessible seating through ID checks.

• Improve physical accessibility through infrastructure upgrades, including better ramps, signage, and shuttle services.

Concert promoters involved in the overpricing scheme also paid civil penalties as part of the settlement. These measures were put in place to ensure that disabled concertgoers receive fair and equal access to events at Red Rocks.

Red Rocks Today: A Leader in Accessibility

Thanks to these legal actions and subsequent reforms, Red Rocks Amphitheatre has now become a model for ADA accessibility in live music. The venue has not only corrected past violations but has also gone above and beyond in improving the overall concert experience for disabled attendees. Their enhanced seating options now offer front-row views, easier access, and improved mobility accommodations.

While the changes were initially forced by legal action, Red Rocks has since embraced its role as a leader in accessible entertainment. What was once a venue under fire for discrimination is now one of the best places for disabled music fans to enjoy their favorite bands without unnecessary barriers.

The Takeaway

Red Rocks’ journey from ADA violations to accessibility excellence serves as an important reminder that legal accountability can lead to meaningful change. By ensuring equal access to live music, they have set a new standard for venues everywhere. Other concert halls and amphitheaters should take note—true inclusion isn’t just about following the law, it’s about creating an environment where everyone can experience the magic of live music without obstacles.