Carter Barron Amphitheatre

The Carter Barron Amphitheatre is an open-air theatre in Rock Creek Park holding approximately 4,200 seats arranged on a natural hillside suitable for various performances. The structure integrates the existing landscape to create a setting where performances could reach large audiences while maintaining connection with the surrounding environment.

Construction began in 1949 as a way to mark 150 years since Washington D.C. became the nation's capital. By 1951, it was renamed to honor Carter T. Barron, a figure who championed public access to arts and culture.

The venue opened its doors to many musical traditions and artistic forms, serving as a gathering place for people from different backgrounds. This commitment to inclusivity shaped how the site was understood and valued by the community.

The site has been closed since 2017 due to structural concerns and is not currently open for visits. Potential visitors should check with the National Park Service for updates on repair work and when operations might resume.

The original design cleverly used a natural depression in the terrain to reduce building costs while still accommodating thousands of spectators. This thoughtful integration with the landscape made it stand out among entertainment venues of its era.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: December 1949

Official opening: August 4, 1950

Capacity: 4200

Elevation above the sea: 76 m

Address: 4850 Colorado Ave NW, Washington, DC 20011

Website: https://nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/cbarron.htm

GPS coordinates: 38.95029,-77.04174

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:02