Fueling up before your day of outdoor exploration in the Blue Ridge Mountains is essential. You’ll want to be bright-eyed and bushy-tailed when you hit the trail so you don’t miss a thing! Finding a cup of joe is easy while visiting McDowell County. So, no matter if it’s an early morning start or a late-day pick-me-up, the choices of coffee shops in McDowell County will have you covered and caffeinated.
Where can I find coffee in Marion, NC?
Marion is a terrific home base for your Blue Ridge adventures, no matter the time of year. Before setting off on a day of hiking, start it off right with any of these satisfying options.
- Ingenious Coffee Roasters
Located in downtown Marion, Ingenious Coffee Roasters is a full coffee experience. Order a cup from your friendly barista at the specialty coffee bar and then grab a table to watch the Coffee Production Team live in action. They blend, grind, and flavor all of the coffee they produce right in front of you. A bonus is that you can take a bag of this freshly roasted brew home with you!
- Chance of Sprinkles Bake Shop
In downtown Marion’s Miller Building, you may catch the scent that only drifts from a bakery, so just follow your nose. Cupcakes, turnovers, cakes, and cookies - all the classic favorites and of course, goodies made with a local twist. Treat yourself to a delectable homemade baked good in addition to that cup of courage.
- Flavors on Main
This spot will give you some shopping options while you enjoy your coffee. This Main Street general store gives the old-timey feel and offers the freshest locally made products. Plus, get your fishing and outdoor gear here before the water adventures begin.
- Bigfoot Books & Brews
Part coffee shop, part bookstore, and 100% Marion, the Bigfoot Books & Brews is a quiet spot in the Social District to enjoy a good read and a specialty beverage. And yes, spot Bigfoot.
- Marion Tailgate Market
Grab a fresh cup of coffee and enjoy strolling this market, full of regional vendors offering the finest in sustainable goods and produce. It happens at the corner of South Main and West Henderson Streets on Tuesdays or Saturdays, depending on the season.
Where can I get my coffee in Little Switzerland, NC?
A mountain hideaway town right off the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway? Yes, please. Well, that’s Little Switzerland. It is quite a magical place, and if you’ve been, you already know this. And if you haven’t been, you really should. You’ll be so glad you did.
- Little Switzerland Books and Beans
Little Switzerland Books and Beans uniquely combines treasures, collectibles, and thoughtful gifts with a full-service espresso bar. Plus, the three floors of old, new, and used books to explore as you sip on your favorite coffee drink. Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 334, they close seasonally between December and March, so plan accordingly. While you're here, be sure to step next door (literally) to the Switzerland General Store to stock up on yummy take-home items and trail-day picnic supplies.
Where can I get my coffee fix in Old Fort, NC?
Surrounded by the Pisgah National Forest, time spent in Old Fort, NC, both thrills and relaxes. Mountain bikers flock to the area for the technical trails, and anglers will find a region of streams and rivers full of mountain trout. Before and after these adventures, perking yourself up is both delicious and entertaining.
- Catawba Vale Business HUB
The Catawba Vale Business HUB is a community meeting place on Main Street in Old Fort. The space is warm and interesting, with artwork from local artists adorning the walls and a carefully curated selection of books. They serve North-Carolina-roasted Counter Culture Coffee, known for being sustainably sourced and quality-focused.
- Seeker Coffee
Located in downtown Old Fort, Seeker Coffee might become your favorite new nightlife spot with its rolling live music calendar, in addition to the liquid fuel. Try their in-house blend, a collaboration with Rowan Coffee, they call "A Place On Earth." It makes great-tasting espresso, as well as a brewed cup.
- GoGo’s Handcrafted Cinnamon Rolls
Enjoy a locally roasted Ingenious coffee brew alongside a homemade cinnamon roll. These are some TASTY cinnamon rolls, y’all! There are mini and full-size rolls, as well as more than a dozen specialty flavors. Treat Yourself!
- The Davis Country Store
This country general store originated on the family farm a couple of generations ago and now offers local and seasonal handcrafted goods and produce right on Main Street in Old Fort. The cafe features all of the coffee drinks, teas, cocoa, and cider, with specialty cold brews, as well. This store is a delight for all of the senses.
