This has been an amazing summer of live music for me, highlighted by Rock and Roll Hall of Famers Paul McCartney, Jackson Browne and Kiss – not to mention a killer show by The Replacements. The icing on the cake was a concert last week at the world’s most beautiful venue.

No, I’m not referring to Roy Wilkins Auditorium or the Medina Entertainment Center. I’m talking about Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado.

I’d heard nothing but rave reviews about Red Rocks, so I was afraid it wouldn’t live up to the hype. Turns out it exceeded my lofty expectations in every way.

You simply have to see a show there if you like music (or even if you just like yourself). The surroundings are stunning. The sight lines are fantastic. The acoustics are perfect.

Red Rocks truly is one of a kind. Carved into the side of a mountain, the roughly 10,000-capacity venue has hosted everyone from The Beatles to Jimi Hendrix to Bruce Springsteen to U2 over the years.

It’s conveniently located about 10 miles outside of Denver. You can park free on-site and tailgate, so get there early to enjoy the atmosphere. You’ll also want to hang out after the show to let the traffic clear out a bit (the venue’s only downside is the long line of cars trying to leave). There’s also a nice museum that is worth walking through if you have extra time.

I’m not one for cellphones at concerts, but I had to snap a few photos throughout the night – although they can’t possibly do the scenery justice.

I’ve been blown away by a lot of concerts in my life, but never by a concert venue. That all changed during my trip to Red Rocks. If you haven’t been there, add it to your bucket list right now.