Coffee around Denver is experiencing something of a moment right now. Everywhere you turn, you’ll find a new amazing coffee roaster with a quaint café, nitro cold brew on tap, house-made syrups, and delicious pastries. But for those of us with kids in tow, hipster coffee shops can seem well, a little intimidating. You’ll find tons of lists of the best coffee shops in Denver out there, but not all of them are great for the little ones.
Let’s be real though, moms need caffeine too (perhaps more than anyone), so without further ado . . . a list of the Best kid-friendly coffee shops in and around Denver.
Novo Coffee – Highlands, Downtown, LoDo, Cherry Creek
My all-time favorite coffee shop, I will go out of my way every time to stop at one of Novo’s Denver locations. The hipster vibe is alive and well, but I’ll take cute guys in flannels slinging delicious cold brew any day. Kids will love the pastry case from Sugar Bakeshop (my girls love the iced scones, shocker) and the paleo muffins are a hit as well.
2914 Coffee – Jefferson Park
This Jefferson Park spot serves up a delicious cup of Denver coffee, and as an added bonus, you can walk to Jefferson Park for some play time after you get your caffeine fix. They’ve also got ice cream for the littles – why not sample a strawberry cone at 9:30 in the morning?
303 Coffee Co – Centennial
Do you live a little further down south, or perhaps you’re on your way to Ikea? Fear not, Starbucks is not your only option! 303 Coffee carries coffee from amazing local roaster Coda Coffee, not to mention Little Anita’s burritos, perfect for a Saturday morning pick me up!
Tattered Cover – Colfax, Aspen Grove, Union Station, & Lodo locations
If you’re downtown or on Colfax and find yourself in need of a coffee fix and keeping the kiddos occupied, look no further than the Tattered Cover. Grab a cup and head to the kid section of this iconic Denver bookstore. Consider your morning in the books!
Nixon’s – Englewood, Wash Park, Hudson Gardens, & Denver Seminary
The Englewood shop of the fabulous local Nixon’s Coffee has a big couch, games, and a fabulous patio! Just across the street, the Englewood library will keep you and the little ones occupied with some literary fun after, or check out the fountain where kids play in the summer! If you’re here in the winter, the Christmas parade goes right by the shop – so you can get your warm drink and watch the festivities. All locations offer fabulous coffee, pastries, and other delicious bites.
Amethyst – Denver
This Golden Triangle spot is lovely enough to make you feel a little fancy, but not at all pretentious. They have a great outdoor space with a fire pit to keep you cozy on chilly days and evenings. Need something stronger than coffee? Amethyst serves adult libations and some really delicious food too!
Onefold – Denver
This local spot not only has fabulous coffee, but also has the most wonderful organic, local selection of foods. Secure your little one in a sturdy IKEA high chair and prepare to be delighted. Perfect drinks, incredible food — count us in. Pro tip: Go early to beat the rush!
Ozo Coffee Company – Boulder & Longmont
This Boulder roastery is a local favorite and has expanded to several locations in their hometown and more recently, to adoring fans in Longmont. Ozo is a great spot for fabulous coffee and great food from some other fabulous local brands.
Ink! – Multiple locations
Ink! Started in Aspen, but this Colorado favorite now has locations all over the Denver metro. Ink! has established itself as much more than a coffee shop, with a wide selection of tasty breakfast, lunch and snack offerings. Don’t worry about carting around that Ziploc bag full of goldfish, you’ll find something for everyone at Ink!
Drip Denver – Golden Triangle
This family-owned local spot in the Golden Triangle boasts not just an extensive and delicious beverage list, but also some delicious snacks to keep the whole family happy! Free parking, a printer, great WiFi, and a loft space you can rent out are just a few things that add to the perks at this lovely shop.
Highlands Cork & Cafe – Highlands
From coffee to wine — this cafe has it all! This family friendly spot also offers unique panini’s, salads and tapas (just to name a few). Pull up a comfy seat and enjoy the company of friends and family, read a good book, or enjoy the complimentary Wi-Fi. Regular events include live music, artist’s receptions, and a working women wine group!
Allegro Coffee Roasters – Tennyson
One of Whole Foods’ first stand-alone roasteries, Allegro pours up some delicious brew and serves lots of tasty snacks for kids and adults alike. They have a ton of gluten-free options, and as a bonus, Cesar Chavez Park is just across the street when the kiddos need to burn off some energy.
Bookbar – Tennyson
If a bookstore is more your speed, head down Tennyson a few blocks to Bookbar, one of Denver’s most impressive bookstores, serving coffee and wine to boot! They also have a ton of literary events, including those for kiddos. Their happier hour on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4:30 includes stories and cookies for kids, and half off wine for mama!
Windy Saddle – Golden
A local favorite in Golden, the Windy Saddle is more than just coffee, it’s a full service café and bakeshop. On any given day you’ll find mommy meetups, cookie decorating, beer talks, and much more. Their kid coral will keep the kiddos busy and happy while you have some much needed mama time!
Quince Essential Coffee House – Denver
Nestled just off of Colfax and Quebec in an adorable old Denver home, Quince Essential Coffee is one of our favorite nooks in the city. Filled with charm and warmth, you’ll feel at home the minute you walk through the doors. If you aren’t in the mood for coffee, they serve up some delicious house-made soda, and they even have some Sweet Action ice cream for the kiddos.
Stella’s – Old South Pearl, Denver
Another charming, happy spot, Stella’s on Old South Pearl is a Denver mainstay. When the weather is nice, post up on the patio, and enjoy the people-watching. Inside, walking through Stella’s numerous rooms to find your favorite spot is an adventure in and of itself. Serving Denver’s own Rosenberg’s bagels and Pablo’s coffee, Stella’s may just be your new go-to.
Monk and Mongoose – Lone Tree and New Location in Greenwood Village
Located under apartment building near Sky Ridge Hospital, this hidden gem is both kid and dog friendly. There is lots of outdoor seating when the weather is nice, and a separate conference room that can be reserved for business meetings. The baristas are very knowledgeable, and the menu includes both hot and cold specialty brews as well as various teas, and their coffee is sourced from Sweet Bloom Coffee Roasters, another local company based out of Lakewood. There are lots of pastry options and milk and juice for the kiddos as well!
These are just a few of our favorite kid-friendly coffee shops around Denver. We’d love to hear yours!
Quince Coffee off East Colfax! The upstairs is full of toys and art supplies for kids. We even did our 1 year olds birthday party there. And the coffee is great, they serve local pastries, and staff are awesome. Not to be missed!