My Favorite Things in Moab (Beyond the Parks & Trails)

Everyday Moab: The Coffee Shops, Stores, and Local Stops I Kept Returning To

There were a handful of places I discovered early on that I kept going back to. Once I find somewhere I like, I tend to become a regular.

The places below are the ones I visited daily or several times a week — places that fit how I travel and spend my time.

The places that shape a trip are not always the famous viewpoints or major attractions. Sometimes they are the coffee shop you visit every morning, the grocery store that keeps you stocked, or the unexpected stop that becomes part of your routine.

This is my list of the everyday places in Moab that made staying here easier and more enjoyable.


Coffee: Snake Oil Coffee Co.

Let’s start here, because my day does not begin without coffee.

There are several coffee shops in Moab, but after trying a few options, Snake Oil became my regular stop.

It is a small drive-up coffee window tucked away in town. It does not feel like a polished tourist destination — it feels local, simple, and exactly the kind of place you hope to find while traveling.

The owners are local, the hours are limited, and the experience is straightforward. You pull up, order your coffee, and continue your day.

The coffee itself is excellent. I enjoyed both the black coffee and the lattes, and I kept coming back because it was easy, consistent, and had a good local feel.

Why I kept going back:

  • Quick and convenient
  • Great coffee
  • Local ownership
  • Dog-friendly treats available nearby

What I ordered:

  • Black coffee
  • Latte

Location: 495 West 400 North, Moab, Utah

Website: snakeoilcoffee.com


Grocery: Moonflower Cooperative

For healthier groceries and less processed options, Moonflower Cooperative became my go-to.

I still stopped at City Market for traditional grocery runs, but Moonflower was where I found the ingredients and products that matched how I prefer to eat.

It feels like the kind of independent market many small towns used to have — local products, bulk foods, organic options, and a strong focus on quality.

The deli was one of my favorite parts. I would grab individual meals and prepared foods, including their vegan tapioca with blueberries, chicken salad, and tuna salad.

It is a small store, but it offers things you will not find at larger grocery chains.

Why I kept going back:

  • Organic and whole-food options
  • Quality deli items
  • Local products
  • Easy place to stock up while staying in Moab

Location: 39 East 100 North, Moab, Utah

Website: moonflower.coop


Back of Beyond Book Store

This became one of those places I kept returning to without planning.

Back of Beyond is a small independent bookstore on Main Street with a strong focus on the Southwest — hiking guides, maps, natural history, desert writing, and books about the region.

It feels genuinely local. It is not designed just for tourists; it feels like a place built for people who love this landscape.

I originally went in looking for trail books and maps, but I ended up discovering books about Moab’s history, people, and connection to the desert.

The store also carries local authors and rare books, making it worth browsing even if you are not specifically looking for something.

Why I kept going back:

  • Great selection of Southwest books
  • Trail guides and maps
  • Local atmosphere
  • A deeper way to understand the area

Location: 83 North Main Street, Moab, Utah

Website: backofbeyondbooks.com


Bike Shop: Moab Cyclery

This was my go-to place whenever I needed anything for my bike.

I originally stopped because they are a Specialized dealer, and both of my bikes are Specialized. While there, I had my brake levers replaced and also got my second bike tuned up.

The staff clearly knows bikes and understands the demands of riding around Moab.

They have been operating in town since 1993, which says a lot about their reputation.

They also support local riding with shuttle services for popular trails like Porcupine Rim.

Why I kept going back:

  • Specialized dealer
  • Reliable repairs and service
  • Knowledgeable local staff
  • Good resource for Moab riding

Location: 391 South Main Street, Moab, Utah

Website: moabcyclery.com


Food: Moab Garage Co.

I heard about Moab Garage Co. from my friend Mike, who recommended their McLovin’ breakfast sandwich.

After trying it, I understood why.

The restaurant has a vintage garage-inspired style, and the atmosphere feels fun and casual.

The McLovin’ sandwich comes with egg, ham, cheese, and tater tots on a pretzel bun.

It is definitely not the healthiest breakfast option, but it is incredibly satisfying after a morning outside.

It became one of those easy places to return to because it was simple, reliable, and good.

Why I kept going back:

  • Great breakfast option
  • Easy location on Main Street
  • Casual atmosphere
  • Good after outdoor adventures

Location: 1122 South Main Street, Moab, Utah

Website: moabgarageco.com


Pet Store: Moab Barkery

Moab Barkery became my regular stop for Chloe while we were in town.

I first heard about it from the owner of Snake Oil Coffee Co., and it quickly became my place for dog supplies and treats.

They carry higher-quality treats and food, and they also have a dog wash area in the back.

That was especially useful after spending time in Moab’s dusty desert environment. Chloe would come back covered in red dirt, and having a place to clean her up made life much easier.

Why I kept going back:

  • Quality dog treats and food
  • Convenient location
  • Dog wash available

Location: 95 North Main Street, Moab, Utah

Website: moabbarkery.com


Final Thoughts

Moab can feel overwhelming at first — traffic, Jeeps, bikes, and busy national park entrances.

But once you stay longer, you start finding your own rhythm.

You find your coffee shop.

You figure out where to shop.

You discover the places you return to without thinking.

Those everyday stops are what made Moab feel less like a destination I was visiting and more like a place I could actually settle into.

That is the Moab I enjoyed the most.

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