Coffee, trains & Koko Beans

Coffee and railroads have a long and proud tradition. Rare was the caboose that didn’t have a coffee pot simmering on the stove. Even today many modern locomotives are furnished with a hot plate and percolator, so it’s natural that coffee would fit well with a railway museum too. And in Snoqualmie, there are no less than four places to buy good coffee within minutes of the trains. On your next visit to the museum, consider buying a coffee and taking a walk along the Centennial Trail or a stroll about the depot.

Koko Beans is the newest coffee shop in the historic downtown and is across the street from the Snoqualmie Depot. New owner Bethany C. has recently taken the reins from founder John G. and she appreciates railway museum patrons. In her earlier years, she was a ticket agent at the Snoqualmie Depot, clerked in the bookstore, and helped run the retail tent during Day Out With Thomas™. She has committed to maintaining her coffee house as a local gathering place and source of great coffee drinks (OK, tea and hot chocolate too, but Spike usually drinks coffee). In the last few weeks, she has added pastries and bagels to her menu. And distinguishing her shop from the others is a fireplace and a broad selection of artwork, some of which depict artifacts found at the Northwest Railway Museum. So another place to visit on your next visit to Snoqualmie and the Northwest Railway Museum is Koko Beans. You’ll help support a successful community so we can continue building a successful museum!