Coffee Shops and Cafes with Outdoor Patios

Madcap on Fulton St.

Address: 1041 Fulton St E, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Formerly an auto shop, Madcap on Fulton Street combines a 1930s aesthetic with modern design and clean lines. On warm days, the large, glass garage doors open out to the cement patio to create an open and airy setting that brings together the indoors and outdoors.

The patio has a variety of seating and is a great local spot to grab a cup of coffee and hang out with friends. Madcap also roasts its own coffee beans and serves made-to-order waffles and signature drink specials. You can also find Madcap on Monroe Center and in the Downtown Market.

Customers can find parking on the street, which is free on weekends and after 6 PM on weekdays in Grand Rapids. Anyone parking during weekdays can use pay stations or the Motu app to pay for parking.

The Sparrows Coffee & Tea & Newsstand

Address: 1035 Wealthy Street SE Grand Rapids, MI 49506

The Sparrows Coffee & Tea & Newsstand is known for its cozy, welcoming atmosphere and charming vibe. The neighborhood shop also roasts its own coffee beans. For those who are vegan or who have dairy allergies, The Sparrows offers almond, soy, and oat milk.

The outdoor patio is nestled along the side of the shop with plants and greenery. There are a couple of tables also in front of the building. There’s no parking lot, but guests can find parking on the street.

Outside Coffee Co.

Address: 734 Wealthy Street SE Grand Rapids, MI, 49503

Located in the garden next to Woosah, Outside Coffee Co. is a wonderful spot to enjoy a cup of coffee while soaking in the sun. Coffee and a variety of treats are served out of a 1956 camper.

From the unique geodomes in the winter to hammocks and chairs during the warmer months, Outside Coffee Co. has all of the bases covered for lounging outside in almost any weather condition. You can enjoy this outdoor space with a furry friend, as long as they're on a leash.

The shop is very accommodating to guests with dairy and gluten allergies or food intolerances or people who are simply looking for some plant-based options. Customers can find vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free food options, as well as almond, soy, and coconut milk.

There is ample street parking and a city parking lot nearby. Keep in mind, restroom options are limited to a porta-potty at Outside Coffee Co.

Jam’n Bean Coffee Company - Cascade

Address: 6860 Cascade Rd. SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546

Jam’n Bean has a great selection of house-roasted coffee and treats, including ice cream in the summertime. Check out its large patio space nestled amongst large trees and greenery.

Jam’n Bean is known for live entertainment during the summer months on its patio, making it the perfect place to spend time with friends.

Jam’n Bean has a parking lot available to visitors. You can also find Jam’n Bean in Ada and downtown Grand Rapids.

Ferris Coffee - West Side

Address: 227 Winter Ave NW Grand Rapids, MI 49504

Ferris Coffee’s location on the city’s West Side neighborhood has large doors that open onto the patio when the weather gets warm. Take a seat at one of the tables and enjoy the growing neighborhood. With a tapestry overhang and dangling lights, the patio is shaded during bright, sunny days and beautifully lit in the evening.

Ferris Coffee roasts its own coffee beans and has a large selection of specialty drinks to choose from, such as the nitro cold brew on tap. Customers can find vegetarian and gluten-free food options in addition to milk alternatives. There is a parking lot and street parking available.

Ferris also has a location in Downtown and one in their headquarters on Seward Avenue. You can also take coffee classes on home roasting, brewing, and tasting at their headquarter location. 

That Early Bird

Address: 1445 Lake Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506

That Early Bird is located in the heart of the Uptown neighborhood, focusing on fresh produce to create a healthy and unique food menu. Customers can find a wide variety of dishes, in addition to a large coffee and bakery menu. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available.

The shaded outdoor patio that covers the tables and chairs is a great place to relax or get work done on a sunny day. There is no parking lot, but street parking is available.

Lucy's Cafe

Address: 1747 Plainfield Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505

Located in the North Quarter neighborhood, Lucy’s Cafe is open every day until 3 PM and is known for its breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. Lucy’s Cafe has a coffee bar and bakery with homemade treats, in addition to a mimosa and Bloody Mary bar.

There are plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available at Lucy’s, as well as almond and soy milk.

You can’t go wrong with enjoying brunch out on the patio. Shaded with bright green umbrellas, it’s an excellent place to watch what’s going on around the neighborhood. Lucy’s Cafe has a parking lot, as well as nearby street parking.

You won’t be disappointed visiting any one of these coffee shops with excellent outdoor patios. Hungry for more?

Check out our list of outdoor dining spaces and our guide to late night coffee shops.