Just when you thought that coffee shops couldn’t get any cooler, a Northwest Arkansas gem proves you wrong. Airship Coffee in Bentonville has broken the mold with its one-of-a-kind café concept within the Coler Mountain Bike Preserve. This open-air coffee shop is not your average hangout spot. It’s a fusion of coffee, restaurant, and beer garden, creating a captivating experience for all who visit.
The Open-Air Coffee Shop Experience
What exactly is an open-air coffee shop, you may ask? Well, imagine a concrete box with no front door. Instead, you’re greeted by a wide-open porch adorned with swings and chairs for you to relax and enjoy the picturesque views of the trails. Enter through the side entrances with open concrete arches, and feel the indoor/outdoor ambiance envelop you as you order your favorite brew from the friendly baristas. The stress melts away, and happiness takes its place.
Your Choice of Outdoor Seating Options
At Airship Coffee at Coler, all seating is outdoors due to its unique open-air concept. Swing on the swings, grab a table or a chair, and settle in for a relaxing time amidst nature. If you prefer a higher vantage point, climb the native stone steps to the beautiful rooftop, complete with comfortable seating and umbrellas. From there, you’ll be treated to a stunning birds-eye view of the trails, creeks, trees, restored barns, and the joyful sight of families and people of all ages enjoying the Coler Mountain Bike Preserve.
Airship Coffee: Learning, Growing, and Thriving
Airship Coffee’s journey began in 2008 as a coffee provider for various shops and restaurants in the region. In 2018, they opened their first retail location on 5th Street in Bentonville. Founder and owner Mark Bray’s aim was to create a community-centric space that empowers employees and fosters learning. The open-air coffee shop at Coler was a concept they started developing in 2019, despite skepticism from those who believed that retail was dead. However, Airship Coffee proved them wrong and embraced the opportunity to continue learning and growing.
A Coffee Shop Meets the Great Outdoors
The Coler Mountain Bike Preserve location attracts a unique customer base compared to the 5th Street location. Here, you’ll find mountain bike riders, families, and tourists exploring the beauty of Coler. It has become a destination for people to disconnect from their daily routines and immerse themselves in nature. Claire Bullard, who manages Airship sales and runs their social media, expressed their surprise at the warm welcome they received in the woods. She believes that Airship Coffee’s motto of “drink coffee, go outside” perfectly aligns with the experience they offer at Coler.
Food and Drink Perfected
Airship Coffee’s commitment to excellence extends beyond their coffee roasting skills. They have expanded their culinary offerings at Coler, smoking their meats to create mouthwatering dishes like trail nachos, BBQ nachos, and brisket nachos. One of their most popular coffee drinks, the Lumberjack latte, pairs perfectly with a chocolate cranberry scone. The food menu caters to both meat lovers and those seeking plant-based options, with the vegan taco being a standout choice. Every food item is thoughtfully crafted to ensure a delightful dining experience.
Reach Airship Coffee At Coler
To visit Airship Coffee at Coler, park at either the Coler Mountain Bike Preserve South Gateway or the Coler North Trailhead Parking Lot. From there, take a scenic stroll or bike ride along the fully paved path, spanning just under a mile, to reach the café at the heart of the park. Restrooms are available, but don’t expect public WiFi as Airship wants you to disconnect and fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. If you prefer a more urban setting, you can also visit Airship Coffee’s flagship location on 5th Street in Bentonville.
Embrace the Outdoors with Airship Coffee At Coler
As we navigate 2021, Airship Coffee is exploring the possibility of hosting outdoor events such as yoga sessions, camping experiences, and outdoor concerts. Whether or not these plans materialize, the presence of a coffee shop in the woods is magical in itself. The journey to Airship Coffee at Coler may require a little effort, but the experience of sipping your favorite brew amidst nature is well worth it. When you find yourself in Bentonville, set aside time to visit Airship Coffee at Coler and relish in the beauty of the outdoors.