Summer is just around the corner and with it comes long, warm days and carefree vacations. Outdoor shows are an annual right of summer so why not make the most of the season and take a trip to one of these top outdoor concert venues?

 

The Gorge Amphitheatre, George, Washington. Widely considered one of the most beautiful settings in the U.S. for an outdoor concert, The Gorge is nestled along the Columbia River in a narrow valley, reminiscent of a mini-Grand Canyon. Open air seating, unobstructed views and excellent sound quality insures a concert experience to remember. (Capacity 20,000)

 

 

Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison, Colorado. A mecca of outdoor music, this geologically formed open air amphitheater has hosted performances for over 100 years. Two 300-foot monoliths of red rock create an acoustically perfect sound while the surrounding mountains provide breathtaking views. The music scene is diverse, unique and vibrant, ranging from Norah Jones to Bassnectar. (Capacity 9,450)

 

The Greek Theater, Berkeley California. On the campus of University of California Berkeley, the classic marble pillars, modeled after an actual ancient Greek theater, create an intimate, theatrical feel in this home to the annual Berkeley Jazz Festival. Mellow crowds enjoy everything from Bach to rock in this acoustically impeccable venue. (Capacity  8,500)

Alpine Valley Music Theater, East Troy, Wisconsin.  Located in the midst of dairy country, but close to Chicago and Milwaukee, this venue feels off the beaten path, but welcomes major rock acts like Dave Matthews Band every summer. It boasts unobstructed views from an enormous picnic-friendly lawn and plenty of volume from the free-standing band shell. (Capacity 37,000)

 

The Backyard, Austin, Texas. The relatively small setting of this natural open-air amphitheater with a “yard” shaded by ancient live oaks gives this Texan favorite its name. The Backyard regularly hosts acts as varied as the people who call music-rich Austin home, from legendary Willie Nelson to pop diva Colbie Caillat. (Capacity 5,000)

Wolf Trap, Vienna, Virginia. America’s only National Park dedicated to the performing arts offers performances for every taste ranging from pop, country, folk, and blues to orchestra, dance, theater, and opera. Set on 100 acres of farmland, the Filene Center is an indoor/outdoor theater that runs an average of 90 performances from May to September. (Capacity 6,800)

Summerstage, Central Park, New York City. Nestled into a corner on the Upper East Side of the park, this tree-lined outdoor venue is within steps of the hustle and bustle of the city. It offers an eclectic mix of acts from world music to indie-rock to adult contemporary. Most of the programs are free, except benefits, and gates open 60 minutes prior to the event. (Capacity 5,000)

If the sounds of summer are calling you, pack your bags and follow the music! Contact Covington Travel to arrange your vacation.