Winter in Baltimore means chilly days that are often gray, AKA the perfect excuse for a hot chocolate date with your kids. If you’re looking for the perfect spot to warm up and make sweet memories, these six local coffee shops are just the place. Bonus: they’re all mom-approved, meaning they’re welcoming to kids and offer something special beyond just great drinks.

1. Artifact Coffee – Hampden

📍 1500 Union Ave, Baltimore, MD

Artifact Coffee feels like a warm hug on a cold day. This inviting café serves up a rich and creamy hot chocolate and delicious pastries. It’s a great place to chat and catch up with your child, and really fill their “connection bucket.”

✨ Mom Tip: Grab a window seat so your child can watch the light rail go by—it’s like a mini train show.

2. 3 Bean Coffee – Federal Hill

📍 209 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD

Not far from the Inner Harbor, 3 Bean Coffee is a bright and airy space that serves up a decadent hot chocolate. They also offer kid-approved treats like muffins and cookies, making it a great stop before or after a walk along the harbor.

✨ Mom Tip: If the weather isn’t too frigid, take a short stroll to Rash Field Park afterward for some playtime.

3. The Roast Coffee and Café – Glen Arm

📍 12302 Long Green Pike, Glen Arm, MD

Nestled in the gorgeous countryside of Glen Arm, The Roast Coffee and Café is a cozy spot that makes for a perfect winter date. Their hot chocolate is a kid-favorite, and their fresh pastries and breakfast sandwiches makes it an ideal stop. This one is our personal favorite.

✨ Mom Tip: After your hot chocolate date, take a short drive to Cromwell Valley Park for some fresh air and a scenic winter walk.

4. Corner Pantry – Mt. Washington

📍 6080 Falls Rd, Baltimore, MD

Corner Pantry is a charming café with British-inspired eats and a cozy, laid-back vibe. Their hot chocolate is a kid-favorite – my children regularly request we stop in whenever we visit that shopping center. The café also offers delicious pastries and breakfast options, making it a great spot for a morning hot chocolate date before heading out for the day.

✨ Mom Tip: Try their homemade pop tarts — they are so good!

5. OneDo Coffee – Canton

📍 913 S Lakewood Ave, Baltimore, MD

OneDo Coffee is a hidden gem in Canton with smooth, European-style hot chocolate and a relaxing atmosphere. There’s plenty of space to sit and unwind. If your child loves baked goods, they’ll be thrilled with the selection of croissants and other pastries. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet morning date before heading to Patterson Park.

✨ Mom Tip: Bring a few coloring supplies or a quiet activity to make it an extended coffee date while you enjoy your own cup of goodness.

6. Atwater’s – Catonsville

📍 815 Frederick Rd, Catonsville, MD

Atwater’s is a local favorite known for its cozy, welcoming atmosphere and delicious, high-quality food. Their hot chocolate is made with rich cocoa and topped with just the right amount of frothy goodness, making it a perfect winter treat for kids. With a variety of freshly baked breads, pastries, and homemade soups, it’s also a great place for a light lunch after your hot chocolate date. The Catonsville location has plenty of seating and a warm, inviting feel that makes it easy to linger a little longer.

✨ Mom Tip: Stop by a nearby local bookstore, such as The Baltimore Bookstore, to pick out a new read for your next café adventure!

Make It a Tradition

A hot chocolate date is such a simple but sweet way to connect with your child during the winter months. Whether it’s a one-time outing or a new seasonal tradition, these Baltimore coffee shops offer the perfect cozy setting to slow down and enjoy the moment together.

Do you have a favorite local spot for hot chocolate? Drop a comment and let me know—I’m always looking for new places to explore with my girls!

Looking for more family friendly life in Baltimore? Browse other posts here.