Take Your Front Row Seat at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater
Year-round, Vail, Colorado, provides visitors with a scenic and exciting place to enjoy time far from the hustle of life. Between the amazing views, world-class restaurants, and easy access to many outdoor activities, it’s not hard to see why Vail calls travelers back year after year. Those heading this way in the summer looking for top-notch entertainment will easily find it at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater. This sprawling open-air performance venue can easily accommodate up to 2,500 guests at a time and is owned and operated by the Vail Valley Foundation.
The Heart of Vail's Cultural Scene at the Gerald Ford Amphitheater
Gerald Ford Amphitheater Location
The Gerald Ford Amphitheater is located at 530 S Frontage Road East in Vail, just 1.7 miles and no more than a 5-minute drive from the Lodge at Lionshead.
Amphitheater History
The Gerald Ford Amphitheater was first opened to the public in 1987 and at that time, it was large enough to host 1,200 people across the 900 seats and a scenic viewing lawn. Construction of the amphitheater was the result of years of fundraising on the part of the Vail Valley Foundation which was determined to create a place where community, the arts, and culture would thrive. The first concert here was hosted on June 27th of 1987 and was attended by the 38th President of the United States of America Gerald R. Ford. The President’s wife, Betty Ford, was also in attendance. Other notable figures attending the amphitheater’s grand opening were Bob Hope and Dolores Hope as well as many prominent Vail residents. In July of 1987, crowds made their way to the Gerald Ford Amphitheater to see Willie Nelson perform at $25 a ticket for general admission. Other major concerts held at the amphitheater in 1987 included the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater, the Colorado Springs Symphony, and the U.S. Army Chorale and Band just to name a few.
No matter when you arrive in Vail in the name of fun, having amazing accommodations in place only makes it all that much better. Reach out to the team at the Lodge at Lionshead today to learn more about our incredible vacation rentals available and how we can help you elevate your Colorado experience from start to finish. We can’t wait to see you here soon!