Recently, Colorado’s iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre was officially named America’s most beautiful place, prompting a closer look at other extraordinarily positioned concert venues in the United States.
There are indeed venues that rival the stunning beauty of Red Rocks, and hidden among them is the Gorge Amphitheatre, nestled in the breathtaking foothills of Washington’s Cascades.
Located approximately 150 miles east of Seattle and about 130 miles west of Spokane, this scenic venue overlooks the Columbia River, offering jaw-dropping views that have become a hallmark of its reputation.
### The Beauty of the Gorge Amphitheatre
Managed by Live Nation, the Gorge Amphitheatre, affectionately known as The Gorge, is situated just north of Highway 90, near the small town of George, Washington.
The amphitheatre’s dining experience is elevated by its stunning location atop a cliff, providing a panoramic view of the Columbia River Gorge, often hailed as one of the most picturesque natural wonders in America.
With its sweeping vistas of the gorge, it’s no surprise that the venue has won the ‘Best Outdoor Music Venue’ award from Pollstar Magazine nine times.
According to iConcertBoom, it is also recognized as one of the ‘Best Outdoor Concert Venues in America,’ while the Wall Street Journal has labeled it as one of the most beautiful concert locations worldwide.
Boasting a capacity of up to 27,500, the Gorge Amphitheatre is one of the largest concert venues in the Pacific Northwest, though it should be noted that it does not rival the largest venues, such as Michigan Stadium, which can accommodate hundreds of thousands.
### Geological Wonders Behind the Beauty
The breathtaking views at the Gorge Amphitheatre stem from its mesmerizing geological formation.
Over six million years ago, during the last ice age, volcanic activity and flood basalt shaped the eastern Washington landscape, leading the Columbia River to carve its current path.
As the Cascade Mountains began to rise about five million years ago, the river cut deeper into the rock, giving birth to the stunning Columbia River Gorge as we see it today.
A significant contributor to this awe-inspiring landscape was the Missoula Floods that occurred around 15,000 years ago, deepening and sculpting the canyon that serves as the backdrop for the amphitheatre.
The captivating beauty of the Columbia River Gorge is the result of millions of years of natural artistry, providing visitors at the venue with an extraordinary experience in a stunningly dramatic setting.
### The Evolution of the Concert Venue
While the natural environment surrounding the Gorge is awe-inspiring, the backstory of the venue itself is equally remarkable.
Originally envisioned as a site for grape cultivation, the property evolved into a concert location that opened in 1986 under the name Champs de Brionne Music Theatre.
In its early days, the venue featured a modest plywood stage and seated only 3,000 people, but it soon underwent expansions to accommodate the growing demand for live music.
By 1988, the venue could host over 15,000 attendees, a number that grew to 19,000 in 1993 as the amphitheatre continued to rise in popularity.
In the same year, the venue was acquired by MCA, which eventually led to its purchase by Live Nation in 2006.
Despite facing competition from the White River Amphitheatre, which opened nearby in 2003, the Gorge continued to thrive.
The close proximity of the White River venue, approximately 40 minutes from Seattle compared to the Gorge’s two-hour trek, did not deter patrons who sought the unparalleled beauty of the Gorge.
A columnist for The Seattle Times emphasized that while both venues catered to concertgoers, the incredible atmosphere of the Gorge eclipsed any competing experience.
### Future Prospects and Annual Events
Today, the Gorge Amphitheatre stands stronger than ever, welcoming music lovers to its impressive stage with a capacity of 27,500.
Recognized globally for its prestige, the venue even starred in its documentary titled “Enormous: The Gorge Story,” which delves into its powerful narrative.
This summer, the Gorge hosts a variety of events showcasing different musical genres and beloved artists.
### Camping and Visiting The Gorge
Unlike the freely accessible Red Rocks Amphitheatre, visiting the Gorge without a ticket for an event is not an option.
The venue is fully fenced, restricting access to those holding valid tickets for specific concerts or activities.
However, guests wishing to experience the Gorge may do so from certain vantage points around the area, such as Cave B Winery and Cave B Lakehouse.
Throughout the year, a packed schedule of concerts and events ensures visitors have plenty of opportunities to engage with live music surrounded by stunning scenery.
This summer, numerous events are planned at the Gorge Amphitheatre, solidifying its status as a must-visit location for music fans.
### What to Know for Summer 2025
The amphitheatre accommodates around 27,500 guests, offering pre-set seating and general lawn admission, along with camping facilities that include RV and tent options.
For those eager to camp in this scenic environment, the venue features round-the-clock security for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Concertgoers can stay for 24 hours after a show or until noon the following day after multiday events, although camping tickets must be purchased alongside admission.
Limited RV parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis, equipped with essential amenities such as flush toilets, hot showers, and potable water.
There’s also a convenience store on-site and alternative camping options nearby, such as Wildhorse Campground, which offers shuttle services to and from the venue.
For visitors driving to the amphitheatre, general admission parking is included with ticket purchases, and reserved options such as Star Parking and Star Parking Plus are recommended for a smoother experience in and out of the venue.
### Conclusion
The Gorge Amphitheatre, perched along the bank of the Columbia River and nestled amidst the Cascade Mountains, is a true gem among America’s concert venues.
With captivating views and a wide range of events throughout the year, it promises unforgettable experiences for all who visit.
Though access is ticketed, the unique opportunity to enjoy live music in such spectacular surroundings makes the journey worthwhile, ensuring that the Gorge remains a cherished destination for concertgoers and nature enthusiasts alike.
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