In Boulder, coffee shops are more than just places to grab a quick caffeine fix—they’re vibrant hubs of creativity and community. Whether you’re a hardcore coffee aficionado or just someone who loves a good vibe, Boulder’s coffee spots are brimming with personality and flavor, ready to make your visit as unforgettable as that first, perfect sip.
Use this guide as your compass as you embark on your coffee adventure in Boulder, CO. But don’t be afraid to explore off the beaten path. And when you stumble upon a hidden gem that we haven’t mentioned, we’d love to hear all about it!
Located at 1825 Pearl Street, Boulder, CO 80302, right in the heart of Boulder’s vibrant downtown area. This central location makes it easy to pop in for a perfectly brewed cup while exploring the city’s shops, galleries, and the iconic Pearl Street Mall.
Known for its innovative approach to brewing and commitment to top-notch quality. Their standout "boilermaker" method, developed specifically for Boulder’s high altitude, involves boiling water directly over the coffee grounds, ensuring a perfectly extracted cup every time. Boxcar also excels in sourcing the best green beans from around the globe, which they roast in-house to bring out the most vibrant flavors.
The atmosphere at Boxcar is just as inviting as the coffee, with a cozy, industrial-chic vibe featuring exposed brick, wooden beams, and plenty of comfortable spots to relax. Whether you’re enjoying a meticulously crafted pour-over or one of their delicious house-made pastries, Boxcar offers a coffee experience that’s both thoughtful and thoroughly enjoyable. If you’re passionate about great coffee, this place should definitely be on your list.
It is also worth noting that Boxcar has a notable amount nationwide recognition.
Bringing you another Pearl Street icon, the Laughing Goat is located at 1709 Pearl Street, Boulder, CO 80302. They have a second location at 2907 55th Street, Boulder, CO that is our go to Post Office paring 😂. Have any mail to send? Wait until you get to Boulder so you have an excuse to visit.
Either location is it’s the perfect cozy spot to sip on your coffee while you work, study, or catch up with friends. But the Pearl Street location changes it's personality when the evening rolls around, the café comes alive with live music, poetry readings, and other performances that showcase local talent. The space itself, with its eclectic decor and warm lighting, feels both inviting and inspiring—a place where creativity is always in the air and everyone is made to feel at home.
If you're looking for a place that offers more than just a great cup of coffee—a place where you can experience the heart and soul of Boulder’s artistic community—The Laughing Goat is the perfect spot to relax, connect, and be inspired.
Adding another quality roaster to the list. They actually have three locations in Boulder. Two cafes and their roastery:
Pearl Street
Address: 1015 Pearl Street, Boulder, CO 80302 This location is right in the heart of downtown Boulder, making it a convenient stop for both locals and visitors exploring the Pearl Street Mall.
Arapahoe
Address: 1898 S Flatiron Court, Boulder, CO 80301 This location is near the East Boulder area, offering a spacious environment perfect for meetings, studying, or just enjoying a leisurely coffee.
OZO's Roastery
Address: 5340 Arapahoe Avenue, Unit I, Boulder, CO 80303 This spot is where the magic happens—OZO’s roasting facility. You can grab a coffee and get a behind-the-scenes look at the roasting process.