After having our son, my husband, Michael, and I were struggling coming up with ideas to get out of the house and stay connected. It felt like every day was the same and we weren’t really exploring our city the way we wanted. If you have had children, then you understand that caffeine is a non-negotiable! I am a self proclaimed coffee enthusiast and got Michael into espresso recently, as well. So, we came up with a plan; each week we would try a new coffee shop as our date. Every Saturday morning, we get up, get dressed and go out to a new coffee shop as a trio. At first, Michael and I were reading short stories together and then discussing our opinions as we sipped our coffees. Typically, our little one would sleep on us in the baby carrier. Then, it evolved into we would write short stories, as a way to exercise our creative sides. Now, we journal a different prompt each week and respond to each others entries while on our date.After we finish our journals, we break out a board game to play. Usually, we get a second round of drinks and play until the coffee shop closes for the afternoon! It is such a lovely way to reflect, connect, and get out of the house!
We have discovered many new places to enjoy our signature drinks. For my husband, it’s a tried and true cortado. For me, I love flavored iced lattes! We have narrowed down our top 3 favorite coffee shops in Colorado Springs and I’m so glad I can share them with you.
#3 Loyal Coffee
Let’s kick of the list with Loyal Coffee! They have a very beautiful, airy and modern space. It’s great for working or studying! It wasn’t our favorite atmosphere to just enjoy a cozy cup of coffee and play a board game, however. Michael rated their cortado 4/8, and I ordered an iced oatmeal cookie latte, which I would give a solid 5/8. I really enjoyed the concept, but I wish the flavors were slightly more pronounced in the latte. They had a fantastic selection of pour over coffees, so if that’s more your speed you might like this place a lot! Overall, Loyal Coffee is high on our list of coffee places in Colorado Springs with a cool atmosphere and large selection of coffees.
#2 Hold Fast Coffee Co
Hold Fast has such a cute and modern aesthetic; a big garage-style door, patio, natural light and greenery. They also have a cute patio section for when the weather is nice. When you go, I highly recommend the iced banana bread latte. It is easily a 7/8 for me. It’s basically caffeinated banana bread in a cup! I’m obsessed. Michael rates their cortado a 5/8. We purchased some of their Guatemala beans and have been using them for our espresso at home. I’ve brought several friends here to enjoy the sunshine and have a nice day out. An added bonus is that they will soon be opening a cocktail lounge! More to come on that front, once it is opened.
#1 Dynamo Coffee Roasting and Community
Dynamo Coffee is our number one favorite. There are so many things to love here! The space itself gives off a very welcoming vibe when you walk in! The wall has a cool retro wave pattern painted down the side and there is an array of eclectic photo frames decorating the walls. A huge bonus for us was the kids table! They even set out children’s books for the littlest of coffee fans. They are an independent coffee shop run by a husband and wife. I definitely prefer supporting small and local businesses, especially when you can tell how much they care about their product. I am currently dairy free because of my son’s allergies and I could even eat some of their food menu items. Their seasonal menu is what really hooked me, though. I am a sucker for a fun and festive latte! The baristas are so nice and we felt comfortable staying here for a few hours while we gamed and the little man napped. Michael rates their cortado a 6/8 and I would give the iced marshmallow latte with oat milk a 7/8! You just can’t go wrong here!
I hope you enjoy trying out these places as much as we did! Definitely show all of these business some love, they deserve it. Let me know your thoughts on any of them, as well!
