Quick Info
Best area: Downtown Main Street. Style: Mix of local roasters and comfortable cafes. For remote work: Several laptop-friendly options. Character: Community-focused, less pretentious than Boulder.
Longmont has a solid coffee scene with local roasters, comfortable cafes, and spots that welcome laptop workers. The downtown area has the best concentration, but neighborhood options exist throughout town. Quality has risen with the city's overall growth.
Downtown Cafes
The Main Street area offers several coffee options within walking distance:
- Local roasters with their own cafes
- Comfortable hangout spots with espresso and food
- Bakery-cafes with pastries and coffee
Downtown cafes tend to be busier on weekends and weekday mornings. Afternoon is often the quietest time.
Working from a Coffee Shop
Several Longmont cafes welcome remote workers:
What to look for:
- Reliable WiFi (most places have it)
- Adequate seating during non-peak hours
- Outlets for charging
- Food options beyond pastries
Etiquette: Buy something every hour or two if camping out. Don't take up a four-top alone during busy times. Be aware of space and others waiting.
Longmont's fiber internet infrastructure means most businesses have excellent WiFi, making remote work quite practical.
Specialty Coffee
For coffee enthusiasts, Longmont has options beyond basic drip:
- Pour-over and single-origin options
- Quality espresso drinks
- Local roasters offering beans to take home
- Cold brew and seasonal specialties
The specialty coffee scene isn't as developed as Denver or Boulder, but quality-focused options exist for those who care about their coffee.
By Atmosphere
Quick stop: Drive-through and counter-service spots for coffee on the go. Scattered throughout town.
Meet a friend: Comfortable cafes with seating areas, good for conversation. Downtown has several options.
Settle in: Spots with multiple seating areas, longer operating hours, and tolerance for extended stays.
With food: Bakery-cafes and places with full breakfast/lunch menus alongside quality coffee.
Tips
Morning rush: 7-9am is busy at most shops. Lines move quickly but expect waits at popular spots.
Parking: Downtown street parking or lots. Generally easy to find except during events.
Cash vs. card: Most places take cards, but a few smaller spots may be cash-only.
Combine with: Perfect for before or after a greenway walk or browsing downtown shops.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there good espresso in Longmont?
Yes, several shops take espresso seriously. Quality has improved significantly with downtown development.
Are coffee shops kid-friendly?
Generally yes. Most have kid-friendly drinks and welcoming atmospheres. Some may be better for adults during busy times.
How late are shops open?
Most close by late afternoon (4-6pm). A few stay open into evening hours. This isn't a late-night coffee town.
Can I buy beans to take home?
Yes, local roasters sell their beans. Good option for supporting local while taking Longmont coffee home.