Sunrise Amphitheater Micro Wedding Guide — Flagstaff Mountain, Boulder, CO

About Sunrise Amphitheater

Perched on Flagstaff Mountain, Sunrise Amphitheater is a historic stone outdoor ceremony space built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Its circular layout and broad tiered seating overlook Boulder and the Front Range, creating a breathtaking backdrop for wedding vows at sunrise or anytime during the day. Boulder’s Open Space & Mountain Parks manages reservations for this unique venue.

Reservation, Pricing & Time Slots

Reservations are handled through the City of Boulder’s shelter rental system. You can select ceremony times and check availability online each year. Typical offerings include sunrise one‑hour windows and multi‑hour blocks during the day.

• Season: Generally May 1 – October 31 (road access for vehicles; after that foot access only).
• Sunrise/Morning One‑Hour Slots: Early morning times like 6–7am, 7–8am, 8–9am.
• Daytime Blocks: Options such as 10am–1pm, 2–5pm, 6–9pm (summer sunset slots are popular).
• Resident Pricing: Around $100/hr or $300 for a 3‑hour block.
• Non‑Resident Pricing: Around $150/hr or $400 for a 3‑hour block.

Important: Parking permits may be required for non‑county vehicles and limited spaces are available at the summit; plan guest transport accordingly.

Reserve online via the City of Boulder Shelter & Facility Rentals page.

What’s Allowed & Restricted

Allowed

• Battery‑powered music, acoustic instruments or recorded playlists on portable speakers.
• Photography and small decor items not fixed to structures or trees.
• Well‑behaved on‑leash pets.
• Portable chairs, signage, and water for guests.

Prohibited

• No amplified live bands, generators or mains power equipment.
• No tents, canopies, arches or shade structures.
• No open flames (candles, grills, fire pits), confetti, balloons, rice or petals.
• No drones above the site without special permits.
• No glass containers unless under an approved ritual.

Transportation & Shuttle Options for Guests

Because parking near the amphitheater is limited and summit access is narrow, consider professional transportation to streamline guest arrival and departure:

• Boulder Transport – Full limo & event charter services ideal for weddings.
• Foothills Limousine – Classic limo rides and chauffeured services.
• Boulder Shuttle – Reliable airport shuttle service for larger guest groups.
• Boulder Trip Service – Local limo service with flexible routing and wedding support.
• Joe's Car Service – Trusted regional car service for guest transit to/from Denver & Boulder.
• Green Ride Charter Services – Group shuttle & charter options for weddings and events.
• Boulder Rides Car Service – Luxury car, limo & bus charter for various group sizes.
• The Boulder Lift - Party Bus Rentals – Fun party bus rentals for wedding guest transport.

Nearby Accommodations

Hotels & Lodging

• St Julien Hotel & Spa – Upscale hotel in downtown Boulder.
• Hilton Garden Inn Boulder – Highly rated mid‑range hotel near Pearl Street.
• Boulder Marriott – Spacious comfortable rooms and amenities.
• Hotel Boulderado – Classic historic hotel with character.
• Boulder University Inn – Good value option near central Boulder.
• A-Lodge Boulder – Affordable choice with a relaxed vibe.
• Colorado Chautauqua – Charming mountain-adjacent lodging at Chautauqua Park.

Short-Term Rentals

Consider booking cozy or luxury homes for family stays or bridal party use through popular short-term rental platforms: Airbnb or VRBO.

Things to Do Nearby

• Hike iconic Flatirons Trails and enjoy scenic panorama viewpoints.
• Pierce downtown Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall for shopping and street entertainment.
• Explore Colorado Chautauqua Park for cultural events and outdoor activities.
• Bike or stroll the Boulder Creek Path.
• Book outdoor adventures like kayaking or rock climbing.

Top 5 Restaurants in Boulder

• Flagstaff House – Fine dining with mountain views.
• Postino Boulder – Casual wine bar & small plates.
• Blackbelly Market – Farm-to-table delights.
• The Sink – Iconic Boulder comfort food.
• Il Pastaio – Cozy Italian favorites.

Wedding Planning Checklist

• ☑ Reserve your Sunrise Amphitheater date/time online.
• ☑ Buy necessary parking permits for non-county vehicles.
• ☑ Arrange shuttle/transportation services for guests.
• ☑ Confirm vendor plans (photography, officiant, music).
• ☑ Pack portable chairs, signage, batteries for music.
• ☑ Communicate ceremony directions & logistics to guests.
• ☑ Arrange nearby accommodations for out-of-town guests.
• ☑ Plan celebratory dinner or reception at a great local restaurant.
• ☑ Pack essentials: sunscreen, jackets, trash bags, water, and snacks.

Sunrise Amphitheater offers one of Boulder’s most magical outdoor wedding experiences — dramatic views, versatile scheduling options, and an affordable ceremony location just minutes from town with all the adventure of Colorado’s scenic high country.