Downtown Clare Event Venue

The Venue at 501 was built in 1910 in Clare, Michigan. The original brick walls and hardwood floors provide the perfect rustic setting for any and every event. This timeless space lends itself to an array of styles and is the perfect location in Central Michigan for those looking to host a one-of-a-kind event!
 

Not your average michigan wedding venue

If you want a wedding venue that is all-inclusive, easily accessible, in a cute town, and with vendors that relieve all of your wedding planning worries, The Venue is the best place to get married.

Nestled in the heart of downtown Clare, The Venue at 501 seamlessly blends stunning rustic features with modern luxury, providing the perfect backdrop for your special day. With close proximity to great food and comfortable lodging, you’ll have everything you need.

Our dedicated team of experts is committed to ensuring your wedding day is nothing short of extraordinary, offering personalized service and impeccable attention to detail. Your love story deserves a venue as unique as your love, and we invite you to celebrate your wedding day with us!

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500 District Events

The 500 District is home to a wide variety of events all throughout the year. Check out our calendar to stay up to date on our upcoming events.

Click HERE to purchase your ticket!

Click HERE to purchase your ticket!

The Venue at 501 is excited to invite you to our upcoming Bridal Show, bringing together the best wedding vendors and soon-to-be brides. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet a variety of wedding vendors.

Event Details: The Venue at 501 Bridal Show
Date: April 13th, 2025
Time: 10am – 2pm
Location: 501 N McEwan St, Clare, MI 48617

Click HERE to register.

Ready to get started?

We would love to walk you through our facilities and go through the details of your big day! Fill out our information request form and schedule a visit with us today.

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meet the Team

For Morgan Waggener, the owner of 500 District, her dream of joining the business world came true when she was just nineteen by opening the Heart of Michigan Cafe – a cafe with a full menu specializing in coffee that created an environment for the community and travelers to enjoy.
 
Morgan opened the 505 Cafe in December of 2015, but she wasn’t ready to stop there. A year after opening Heart of Michigan Cafe, Morgan continued on to open the Venue at 501 – the Cafe’s sister business – that has since hosted countless weddings, showers, and events.
 
She expanded again in the spring of 2017, opening The Upper Rooms Sleep Suites right above the Cafe. In July 2019, Heart of Michigan Cafe rebranded to 505 Cafe and expanded its menu to lunch options and handcrafted cocktails; then The 500 District was created.
 
In May of 2021, the 500 District expanded yet again and opened the Trap Door Speakeasy located beneath the Venue at 501. Morgan’s dream won’t stop there…stay tuned for what’s to come in the future for The 500 District!
 
Mikaela has deep roots in our community, between growing up in Clare and having graduated from Clare High School and going on to earn her Business Management degree from Northwood University in 2021, she’s excited to bring her passion for making dreams come true back to her hometown.
 
Mikaela discovered her calling while planning her own wedding and assisting countless friends and family with their special day preparations. Her journey led her to specialize in wedding planning.
 
With a results-driven mindset, a keen eye for detail, and a relentless dedication to your unique day, Mikaela is a valuable addition to The 500 District. Her knack for organization and boundless energy will ensure that the planning process is not only stress-free but memorable for you and your loved ones.
 
Mikaela’s true passion lies in helping brides craft creative solutions that turn every aspect of their wedding day into a dream come true. She understands that the process should allow you to savor each moment and relish the joy of planning your wedding.
 
Outside of orchestrating beautiful weddings at the Venue, you’ll find Mikaela indulging in some retail therapy, tackling home projects, or sketching out her next dreamy vacation – preferably one that involves a sun-soaked beach. To unwind, she enjoys sharing a glass of wine with her husband or closest friends.

By Trevor Runner

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Call us

(989) 272-9009

Contact us

thevenue@the500district.com