Some people travel to explore the outdoors. Others, to meet new people. But for those of us whose idea of a good time involves holding a hot cup of coffee in one hand and a freshly baked croissant in the other while watching people stroll by on a quaint street—we travel for the cafes.
Below, we’ll explore some of the best small town cafes in the U.S. And, as a bonus, they’re all on the route to some of the most beloved national parks and historic sites. So brew yourself a cup and settle in. Here are the best small town cafes (according to us) to add to your next travel itinerary.
The Depot Bookstore and Cafe in Mill Valley, California
Nearby attractions: Muir Woods National Monument, Golden Gate National Recreation Area, Alcatraz Island, Yosemite National Park
Formerly a train station house and then a Greyhound bus station, The Depot is now a community gathering place for coffee, food, books, and events. With a menu boasting items like bagel and lox, Italian pastries, paninis, and quiche, it’s the perfect place to grab a bite for breakfast or lunch.
More than just a cafe, The Depot hosts poetry slams, book readings, and author meet-and-greets. It’s place in the hearts of Mill Valley residents was solidified when the business was recently bought by a popular restaurateur and a group of locals protested, fearing he would change the cafe they had come to know and love.
On a sunny afternoon, grab an iced tea and a slice of quiche, take a seat on their patio, and get ready for some prime people watching in downtown Mill Valley, nestled among towering redwood trees.
Tourist Home Cafe in Flagstaff, Arizona
Nearby attractions: Grand Canyon, Historic Route 66, Walnut Canyon National Monument, Petrified Forest National Park
Just south of the railroad tracks in this historic Route 66 town, Tourist Home Cafe is that rare breed of business that is part market, part bakery, and part cafe—and excels at all of it. It has a surprising history, though: Originally built in 1926 as a boarding house for shepherds, by 2013, it was at risk of being condemned until new owners breathed life into the decaying building.
For breakfast, try the hash bowl—eggs served over potatoes, beets, and chorizo topped with cilantro pesto—for a hearty meal with a kick of spiciness. If you’re in the working mood, bring your laptop and grab a corner spot for a remote office for a couple hours.
The Book Peddler in West Yellowstone, Montana
Nearby attractions: Yellowstone National Park
This unassuming bookstore and coffee shop combo just outside Yellowstone National Park harbors a sweet secret: They have some of the best cupcakes in the country.
The icing on top? All of their pastries are baked from scratch. The Book Peddler also serves breakfast and lunch items—such as quiche and grilled sandwiches—and has an assortment of books for sale.
Travel Bug in Santa Fe, New Mexico
Nearby attractions: Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, Ghost Ranch, Chaco Culture National Historic Park
Immerse yourself in coffee culture and a good book at Travel Bug near Old Town Santa Fe. This locally-owned specialty store has travel guides, language classes, and travel accessories for the globetrotting coffee lover. And with its floor-to-ceiling bookshelves complete with rolling library ladders, you’ll feel like Belle in Beauty and the Beast.
Travel Bug serves breakfast and lunch—from burritos and bagels to sandwiches and soups—as well as an assortment of hot and cold drinks. For a true taste of New Mexico, try the red chile mocha. Grab a seat at a map-covered table and enjoy a drink and a snack while you plot out your road trip stops.
Fosko Coffee Barre in Pensacola, Florida
Nearby attractions: Gulf Islands National Seashore, Fort Pickens, Perdido Key State Park
While Pensacola is known for its beaches, you can’t miss out on its brews. Fosko, on hopping Palafox Street downtown, takes its coffee seriously. Just take a look at their gleaming Italian espresso machine:
Try their Crazy Goat Nitro cold brew, served on tap—resulting in a satisfyingly smooth and frothy coffee that Fosko describes as “dark chocolate in a glass.” If you like your caffeine with a kick, get the spiced mocha.
When your stomach starts rumbling, Fosko serves made-to-order crepes with options for both sweet and savory fillings.
Which small town cafe will you visit next?
If these small town cafes have you itching to pack your bags and hit the road, you’ll need a rig to get you there.
Check out some of the awesome rentals on Outdoorsy and start planning your next caffeine-infused trip!
