The Mishawaka has been a staple of the Poudre Canyon since it was founded in 1919 by Walter S. Thompson. From it's inception, it's been a place to enjoy live music and have the time of your life. In 2010, Dani Grant, the current owner, rejuvenated The Mishawaka, honoring it's history while making it a local-loved stop. This iconic music venue has hosted a variety of local and national acts, including The Lumineers and Nathaniel Rateliff.
We spoke with Dani Grant, owner of The Mishawaka, to learn more about this historic venue and restaurant!
What do you love about Fort Collins?
This wonderful city has been a great place to raise my daughters. The schools, the beautiful atmosphere and the outdoor lifestyle has been amazing. I also appreciate what Old Town has to offer including great bars and restaurants and a lot of entertainment options.
What are your top 3 favorite activities to do in Fort Collins?
What "can't miss" activity/restaurant/place would you tell a first-time visitor to go?
The Mishawaka and the Poudre Canyon in the Summer. Chipper's Lanes and The Lyric, an independent movie theater in the winter, and for the best outdoor experience - Horsetooth Reservoir.
What makes The Mishawaka unique?
Mishawaka is in my opinion the most unique and iconic music venues and road house restaurants in the world. We have an amazing full service restaurant in a canyon on a wild and scenic river with unmatched views. This is a place where you can share your love for the outdoors, the arts and live music with your family regardless of their being able to hike into the mountains.
What is the story behind how you got involved with The Mishawaka?
The acquisition of Mishawaka came from a desire to reinvigorate a historical venue that was being poorly managed and was becoming extremely dilapidated and had no good will from the community. What a terrible shame for a place that was once the most beloved community gathering and music dance hall in northern CO. I was looking to generate a better platform for local musicians to play before national touring bands and this stage was the best option in town; unfortunately, no one wanted to go there. After a few years of cleaning, repairs and restaurant overhaul, we began gaining more trust prioritizing working on our commitment to the community and had regained a positive reputation. Now we host over 50 national touring bands a year and 100's of local musicians play our stage, not to mention the gorgeous weddings we are able to host.
What do you want visitors to experience at The Mishawaka?
I want them to get a glimpse of what makes Northern CO such a special place and feel our vibe. I want them to be surprised by the celebrities they see framed pictures of, hung in droves in the bar, that have graced the stage, plunged in the river and marveled at our scenic views. Mostly I want them to try our Reuben and Fish 'n' Chips because they are the BEST!
(Photos by Alex Rosko)
The Mishawaka
Address: 13714 Poudre Canyon Highway, Bellvue, CO 80512
Hours:
Phone: (888) 843-6474
Email: info@themishawaka.com
Website: https://www.themishawaka.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mishawakaamphitheatre
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mishawakaamphitheatre
X: https://x.com/themishawaka
