These days in Colorado, it feels like “permanently closed” signs are taking over, while “grand opening” signs are becoming an endangered species. Over the past couple of months, countless stores and restaurants have shut their doors for good. It’s getting so bad that the only thing thriving seems to be the sign-making industry.
Additionally, several Taco John’s locations across the state have suddenly shut down. While these are just two examples, business closures seem to be happening every week here in Colorado. Yet another chain has announced it will be closing all of its Colorado locations.
American Freight is a store specializing in appliances, furniture, and mattresses. It’s a favorite among many Coloradans for its affordable prices.
The parent company of American Freight, Franchise Group, Inc., has officially filed for bankruptcy. While the company owns several chains operating in Colorado, some of which will remain open, Cheapism reports that American Freight will be among those closing its doors. These are the closing locations:
- Centennial: 9667 E County Line Rd
- Colorado Springs: 1680
- Briargate Blvd, Ste 100
- Westminster: 9180 Wadsworth Pkwy
- Pueblo: 5737 N Elizabeth St
It’s unfortunate to see American Freight shutting down. However, this could be a great opportunity to check out any major sales they might offer. According to local news outlets, you can currently save up to 30% on purchases both online and in-store.
Although the list is much longer, these are some of the Colorado businesses we’ve been most heartbroken to say goodbye to since 2023.
Spice Island Grill(10 North Sierra Madre Street, Colorado Springs) closed its doors in January after 12 years in business. Known for its appearance on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives with Guy Fieri, both Colorado locations have permanently shut down.
After 30 years in business, the TJ MAXX located at 550 16th Street Mall, Denver, CO, closed its doors for good this past January too.
The TGI Fridays located at 1251 E 120th Ave, Thornton, CO 80233, permanently closed in early 2023. While the exact closure date is unclear, observations in December 2022 indicated the restaurant was still operational, suggesting the closure occurred in the first few months of 2023.
Danny’s Carnation Restaurant, a beloved Colorado staple for over 40 years, permanently closed on March 26, 2023. Located at 1395 Wadsworth Blvd., Lakewood, CO 80214, the restaurant may be gone, but here’s the twist: its menu and ownership have transitioned to a new spot, Danny Ray’s, just a short drive away at 11353 West Colfax Ave., Lakewood, CO 80215.
The Regal Continental Theatre, located at 3635 S. Monaco Pkwy., Denver, CO 80237, permanently closed in April 2023. Although it wasn’t initially listed among the 39 Regal Cinema locations slated for nationwide closure, the theater has now officially shut its doors.
Independent Records, the cherished Colorado music store chain, has closed all its locations over the years. The addresses of the closed stores are:
- Denver: 937 E. Colfax Ave., Denver, CO 80218 (closed in 2013)
- Pueblo: 420 W. 4th St., Pueblo, CO 81003 (closed in 2023)
- Colorado Springs: 195 N. Academy Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80909 (closed in 2023)
- These closures mark the end of an era for music enthusiasts across the state.
Winston’s Smoke BBQ, at 5092 S. Syracuse St. in Centennial, CO, closed on January 21, 2023, after 43 years. It was started by Winston Hill, a famous football player who played with Joe Namath. After Winston passed away in 2016, his daughters, Heather and Hovlyn, kept the restaurant going until it closed, making it a favorite BBQ spot for many in Colorado.
If you’re a fan of BIG savings on groceries, home goods, toys, furniture, and more, chances are you’ve visited a Big Lots store. Unfortunately, it was announced that four Big Lots locations in Colorado have closed, including the Fort Collins store on Troutman Parkway:
- Aurora: 6626 South Parker Road
- Grand Junction: 2401 N Avenue, Suite 19B
- Littleton: 8100 W Crestline Avenue, Unit B5
- Longmont: 2151 Main Street
- Colorado Springs:
- 1990 S Academy Boulevard
- 2975 New Center Point
- 5085 N Academy Boulevard
- Greeley: 2628 11th Avenue
- Westminster: 4830 W 120th Avenue
- Wheat Ridge: 4260 Wadsworth Boulevard
These closures are part of a nationwide reduction in Big Lots’ presence across the country.