Your Quick & Easy Guide: Alpine Valley Music Theatre – Troy, WI

Alpine Valley Music Theatre History

Set amid the greenery of East Troy, Wisconsin, Alpine Valley Music Theatre is one of the Midwest’s most beloved music venues. When it opened in 1977 it was the largest amphitheater in the United States. It has continued to be an important summer venue, boasting a long — and sometimes tragic — music history. This is where legendary blues rocker Stevie Ray Vaughan and four others died in a helicopter crash after a show with Eric Clapton in August 1990. But it’s also seen a near endless supply of good times with major national tours, iconic performances and world-class festivals taking place under its wooden roof pavilion.

Alpine Valley Music Theatre Performers

Blues and soul crooner Boz Scaggs headlined the amphitheater’s opening show, followed by Jimmy Buffett and Aerosmith, the latter who’ve performed here over a dozen times since. Other regulars include The Grateful Dead, who played Alpine Valley a whopping 20 times throughout the 1980s. Offshoot Dead & Company and Phish have followed in their footsteps with multiple performances here as well. In between hosting massive touring shows, the venue holds festivals like Lollapalooza, Ozzfest and the 2019 edition of Farm Aid.

Planning Your Visit to Alpine Valley Music Theatre

A show at Alpine Valley Music Theatre goes well with a trip to the adjacent Alpine Valley Resort. Grab a bite at the resort’s bistro or Valley View Lodge — the Wisconsin cheddar cheese curds are a must. Otherwise, downtown East Troy offers a great selection of dining and drinking spots including 2894 On Main for healthy grass-fed meats and veggie-friendly dishes, or East Troy Brewery for filling sandwiches and surf and turf options. Head slightly west for a local brew or kombucha at The Hive Taproom, or go south toward the venue to get fresh pizza on the farm at Grassway Organics.

Alpine Valley Music Theatre Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Alpine Valley Music Theatre parking options?

Parking is included in the price of your ticket, unless otherwise noted. Premier Parking is located close to the gates, at the front of the Blue Lot, and available for an additional charge. Accessible parking is available, but limited, in the Red Lot. Both lots are accessible via the main Marquee entrance at 2699 Highway D.

Does Alpine Valley Music Theatre serve food?

Yes. There are concession stands in the upper plaza, along both sides of the stage, and in the expo building. Grab traditional festival fare including burgers, hot dogs, pretzels, nachos and beer. Outside food is allowed, as long as it fits in a clear, one-gallon zip-top bag.

What are the seating options at Alpine Valley Music Theatre?

Alpine Valley Music Theatre has a capacity of 37,000 — 7,500 covered seats and space for 29,500 on the lawn. Lawn tickets are general admission. Lawn chairs are available to rent. Get tickets here.

What are the Alpine Valley Music Theatre health and safety guidelines?

All bags are subject to search prior to entering the venue. Prohibited items include glass containers, large coolers, oversized bags, alcohol, weapons and fireworks. For the latest on Alpine Valley Music Theatre’s safety guidelines, contact the box office at (414) 455-9550.

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