Story Coffee Company represents more than just a place to grab a morning caffeine fix; it is a landmark of intentionality and minimalist design in the heart of the Pikes Peak region. Located in Colorado Springs, this independent specialty coffee shop has gained national attention for its unique "tiny house" architectural concept and its founders' commitment to the craft of espresso.

For those planning a visit, Story Coffee Company currently operates two distinct locations:

  1. Downtown (Acacia Park): 120 E Bijou St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903.
  2. Old Colorado City: 2752 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904.

The shops generally open from 6:00 AM on weekdays and 7:00 AM on weekends, closing at 5:00 PM daily. However, the true value of this establishment lies in the narrative behind the beans and the deliberate design of the space.

The 99-Square-Foot Inspiration Behind the Brand

The foundation of Story Coffee Company is rooted in the personal journey of Don and Carissa Niemyer. Long before the first espresso shot was pulled in Colorado Springs, the couple embraced a radical lifestyle of minimalism. This wasn't a temporary trend for them; it was a four-year immersion where they lived in a 99-square-foot Rialta motorhome with their two children.

This period of "extreme minimalism" served as the ultimate testing ground for what would eventually become their business model. During a year-long national trek, they visited over 200 coffee shops across 45 states. They weren't just looking for good coffee; they were studying how space, community, and service intersect. They observed massive, high-ceilinged industrial cafes and tiny, efficient kiosks. The conclusion they reached was that beauty and quality do not require vast square footage—they require intentionality.

The name "Story" stems from this philosophy: every coffee has a story to tell, from the farmer who harvested the cherries to the barista who pulls the shot. Furthermore, the founders believed that every customer who walks through the door brings their own unique story, making the cafe a central hub for human connection.

The Engineering of a Tiny House Cafe

The Downtown location of Story Coffee Company is a marvel of small-scale architecture. Situated at the edge of Acacia Park, the structure is essentially a high-end tiny house on wheels, yet it is designed specifically for public commerce.

Unlike many coffee kiosks that only offer walk-up windows, the Niemyers innovated a space where customers can actually step inside. This design choice creates an immediate sense of intimacy. When you enter the shop, the proximity to the brewing process is unavoidable. You see the precision of the grind, the steam of the milk, and the focus of the barista from just a few feet away.

Architectural Highlights

  • Minimalist Footprint: The shop maximizes every inch. Storage is hidden, and the workflow is optimized for speed without sacrificing quality.
  • Eclectic Interior: The decor features vintage touches and quirky wall art that contrast beautifully with the clean, modern lines of the exterior.
  • Outdoor Integration: The Downtown site features a spacious wooden deck. This allows the cafe to "breathe," providing a transition between the cozy interior and the vibrant life of Acacia Park. It is common to see locals sitting on the deck in the morning sun, overlooking the park's greenery.

Comparing the Two Locations

While the Downtown shop is the iconic "tiny house," the expansion into Old Colorado City (OCC) has allowed Story Coffee Company to bring its philosophy to a different demographic.

Downtown (120 E Bijou St)

This location is the heartbeat of the city's urban center. It is frequented by professionals heading to offices, students from nearby colleges, and tourists exploring the park. The vibe here is energetic and fast-paced during the morning rush, yet it offers a serene escape in the mid-afternoon. Because it is a "walk-in" tiny house, seating is limited, making it the perfect "third place" for a quick conversation or a contemplative solo break.

Old Colorado City (2752 W Colorado Ave)

The OCC location leans into the historic and artistic charm of the neighborhood. While it maintains the minimalist aesthetic, the surrounding environment of Victorian buildings and art galleries gives it a slightly different character. This location often serves as a meeting point for the local creative community and residents of the West Side.

A Menu Defined by Precision and Balance

Story Coffee Company does not try to be everything to everyone. You won't find a dizzying array of neon-colored energy drinks or overly sugary blended beverages. Instead, the menu is a curated selection of espresso-based drinks and drip coffee that highlights the inherent flavors of the beans.

Signature Lattes

The specialty lattes are where the "Story" truly shines. The baristas use house-made syrups and high-quality milk to create drinks that are balanced rather than cloying.

  • Sea Salt Caramel Latte: In our experience, this is the benchmark for salted caramel drinks in the region. The salt is not an afterthought; it is integrated to cut through the richness of the caramel, highlighting the chocolatey notes of the espresso.
  • Honey Vanilla Latte: This drink offers a floral sweetness that feels natural and light, making it a favorite for those who find traditional vanilla lattes too heavy.

The Art of the Espresso

The espresso at Story is characterized by its consistency. Whether you order a straight double shot or a cappuccino, the technical skill of the baristas is evident. The milk is steamed to a silky micro-foam texture, ensuring that every sip is smooth. For purists, the drip coffee and pour-over options allow the specific "story" of the coffee's origin—be it Ethiopia, Colombia, or Guatemala—to come forward.

Pastries and Snacks

To complement the beverages, the shops offer a selection of assorted pastries. These are often sourced from local bakeries, ensuring freshness and supporting the broader Colorado Springs small business ecosystem. The scones, in particular, have a reputation for being the perfect density—not too dry, yet substantial enough to pair with a hot cup of coffee.

The Experience: What to Expect When You Visit

Walking up to the Downtown location feels like discovering a hidden gem. If you are visiting during the peak morning hours (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM), expect a line, but don't let that deter you. The efficiency of the baristas ensures that the wait is rarely long.

Parking and Accessibility

  • Downtown: Parking is primarily via street meters. It is usually easy to find a spot on Bijou St or around Acacia Park, but during city events, you might need to walk a block or two. The location features a wheelchair-accessible ramp, ensuring that everyone can experience the interior of the tiny house.
  • Old Colorado City: Street parking is generally more available here, especially in the mornings.

The Atmosphere

The atmosphere is one of quiet intentionality. There is no loud, booming music or corporate clutter. Instead, you hear the sounds of the park, the hiss of the steam wand, and the low hum of community conversation. It is a space that encourages you to slow down, even if you are just there for five minutes.

The Sustainable and Ethical Philosophy

Story Coffee Company takes its sourcing seriously. While they are a retail shop, they select roasters who prioritize direct trade and ethical treatment of farmers. This ties back to their core mission: if the "story" of the coffee includes exploitation at the farm level, it isn't a story worth telling.

By choosing specific roasters, they ensure that the coffee they serve meets high standards for acidity, body, and flavor profile. This commitment to quality has helped elevate the entire coffee culture in Colorado Springs, pushing other local shops to focus more on the origin and preparation of their beans.

How Story Coffee Company Redefined the "Third Place"

Sociologist Ray Oldenburg coined the term "the third place" to describe environments where people spend time between home (the first place) and work (the second place). Traditionally, these were large community halls or sprawling cafes.

Story Coffee Company challenged this by proving that a "third place" can be 200 square feet. By limiting the physical space, they actually increased the social density and the quality of interactions. You cannot help but acknowledge your neighbor in a tiny house. This creates a sense of belonging that is often lost in massive, cavernous coffee chains where everyone is isolated behind a laptop screen.

While many people do bring laptops to the deck at the Downtown location, the shop feels more geared toward the "experience" of coffee rather than just being a remote office. It is a place for a date, a place to take your kids after playing in the park, and a place to show out-of-town guests a unique side of Colorado Springs.

Summary of the Story Coffee Experience

Story Coffee Company is a testament to the idea that "less is more." From the 99-square-foot motorhome origins to the elegant tiny house in Acacia Park, every element of the business is a deliberate choice.

  • For the Coffee Connoisseur: The espresso precision and bean sourcing are top-tier.
  • For the Architecture Enthusiast: The tiny house design is a must-see example of functional, small-scale construction.
  • For the Local Traveler: It offers a quintessential "Colorado Springs" vibe—outdoorsy, independent, and welcoming.

Whether you are sipping a Sea Salt Caramel Latte on the deck overlooking the park or grabbing a quick drip coffee in OCC, you are participating in a story that has been years in the making.

FAQ

What are the most popular drinks at Story Coffee Company? The Sea Salt Caramel Latte and the Honey Vanilla Latte are the most frequently recommended specialty drinks. For those who prefer black coffee, their seasonal pour-overs are highly regarded for showcasing the specific tasting notes of the beans.

Is there seating available inside the tiny house? The interior seating is extremely limited due to the tiny house design. Most patrons prefer to sit on the spacious outdoor deck at the Downtown location or take their coffee to go for a stroll through Acacia Park.

Is Story Coffee Company dog-friendly? Yes, the outdoor deck at the Downtown location is a popular spot for dog owners. The surrounding Acacia Park also provides plenty of space for pets.

Does Story Coffee serve food? They offer a selection of assorted pastries, such as scones and muffins, usually sourced from local bakeries. While they don't have a full kitchen for hot meals, their snacks are curated to pair perfectly with their coffee menu.

What is the best time to visit to avoid crowds? Early mornings right at opening (6:00 AM or 7:00 AM) are peaceful. The mid-afternoon around 2:00 PM is also usually quieter. The busiest times are mid-morning on weekends when locals are out enjoying the park.

Can I buy their coffee beans for home brewing? Yes, they typically sell bags of the whole-bean coffee they feature in the shop, allowing you to bring a piece of their "story" home with you.

Is the Downtown location accessible for strollers and wheelchairs? Yes, the Downtown tiny house features a ramp that allows for full access to the interior ordering area and the deck.

Why is it called "Story" Coffee? The name reflects the founders' belief that every coffee bean, every business, and every customer has a unique story that deserves to be acknowledged and shared.

Where should I park for the Downtown location? There is metered street parking directly on Bijou St and surrounding streets. Meters are generally active during business hours, so be sure to check the signs or use the local parking app.

Does Story Coffee Company offer non-dairy milk options? Yes, they typically offer high-quality non-dairy alternatives like oat milk and almond milk, which their baristas are trained to steam to the same exacting standards as dairy milk.

Is it a good place to work remotely? While the vibe is inspiring, the limited indoor seating and the absence of many power outlets make it better suited for short work sessions or social meetings rather than an all-day remote office setup. The outdoor deck is excellent for working in good weather, provided your laptop is fully charged.

How does Story Coffee compare to other shops in the area? Compared to larger spots like Loyal Coffee, Story offers a more intimate and architecturally unique experience. While other shops might offer full brunch menus, Story focuses intensely on the purity of the coffee and the minimalist "tiny house" aesthetic.

What makes the Sea Salt Caramel Latte special? Unlike many cafes that use pre-made, overly sweet syrups, Story focuses on a balanced ratio where the salt enhances the coffee's natural flavors rather than just providing a sugar rush. It is often cited by locals as the best version of this drink in Colorado Springs.

Is the Old Colorado City location also a tiny house? While the OCC location shares the same minimalist branding and high quality, it is housed in a more traditional building structure that fits the historic aesthetic of the Old Colorado City neighborhood, whereas the Downtown location is the primary "tiny house" structure.

Can I host a small meeting there? The outdoor deck at the Downtown location is suitable for small, informal meetups of 2-4 people. For larger or more private meetings, you might find the space a bit constrained.

What roasters do they use? They rotate through high-quality specialty roasters, often selecting those who share their philosophy of ethical sourcing and exceptional flavor profiles. It is always worth asking the barista which roast is currently on bar.

Is there a restroom available? At the Downtown location, there is a public restroom conveniently located in the park area right next to the coffee stand.

Do they have seasonal drinks? Yes, Story Coffee Company frequently introduces seasonal offerings, such as an iced hazelnut mocha or specific spiced lattes during the autumn and winter months.

Is the coffee shop open year-round? Yes, they operate throughout the year. The tiny house is heated for the winter, and the deck remains a popular spot during the sunny Colorado winters.

What is the price range? The pricing is competitive with other specialty coffee shops in Colorado Springs, typically ranging from $3 to $7 depending on the complexity of the drink.

Do they offer gift cards? Yes, gift cards are usually available for purchase, making them a popular gift for local coffee lovers.

Is there a loyalty program? Many independent shops in the area use digital loyalty systems (like Square); it is best to ask the barista to check your status or sign up during your first visit.

How far is the Downtown location from Garden of the Gods? The Downtown location is about a 10-15 minute drive from the main entrance of Garden of the Gods, making it an excellent stop before or after a hike.

Does Story Coffee Company sell merchandise? Yes, they often have a selection of minimalist-branded merchandise, including hats, shirts, and mugs, which reflect their clean aesthetic.

What makes the atmosphere "minimalist"? The lack of clutter, the intentional use of space, the simple color palette, and the focus on the essential elements of coffee service all contribute to its minimalist atmosphere.

Are children welcome? Absolutely. Given the founders' own history of traveling and living in a tiny house with their children, the shops are welcoming to families, and the proximity to Acacia Park makes it a hit with kids.

Does the shop have a walk-up window? Yes, the Downtown location is designed for easy walk-up service, allowing you to order and receive your coffee without even needing to spend much time indoors if you are in a hurry.

Is the espresso machine visible to customers? Yes, part of the charm of the tiny house is the transparency of the process. You can see the high-end espresso equipment and the barista's technique from the counter.

How has Story Coffee Company changed since it opened in 2016? While the core philosophy remains the same, they have refined their menu, expanded to a second location, and become an integral part of the Colorado Springs community identity.

What should I do if the line is long? Take a moment to enjoy the view of the mountains or the activity in Acacia Park. The wait is part of the "slow coffee" experience that the shop encourages.

Is the deck shaded? Depending on the time of day, parts of the deck are shaded by nearby trees in the park, providing a comfortable spot even during the warmer summer months.

Can I find Story Coffee on social media? They maintain an active presence where they share updates on seasonal drinks, new roasts, and glimpses into the daily life of the shop.

Is the coffee roasted in-house? Story Coffee Company primarily operates as a multi-roaster or curated shop, selecting the best beans from top-tier roasters rather than roasting all their own beans, which allows them to offer a wider variety of flavor profiles.

What is the best way to support the shop? Visit often, leave a positive review, and tell your friends about the unique "tiny house" experience in the heart of the Springs.