SPRINGFIELD, MO — Springfield’s vibrant coffee culture takes center stage as the Ozarks Coffee Trail launches its 5th season on October 1, offering fresh branding, new prizes, and exclusive menu items at 40 participating shops across the region.
The Ozarks Coffee Trail is a free, mobile-friendly pass that encourages visitors and locals to hit the trail and explore some of the finest brews in the Ozarks. Participants simply sign up at springfieldmo.org/coffee, save the pass to their phone’s home screen, and check in when they make a purchase. Each check-in earns points that can be redeemed for rewards.
Rewards for Season 5 include updated stickers and t-shirts, along with a brand-new, limited-edition crewneck sweatshirt. Only the first 100 participants to redeem 250 points can receive the sweatshirt. Each participating shop will also feature an exclusive menu item available only to Coffee Trail participants.
Last year, more than 3,900 people participated in the trail, which generated over 15,680 check-ins. Some shops welcomed hundreds of visitors through the program, with Dancing Mule Coffee Company leading the way with 900 Coffee Trail customers.
“The Coffee Trail has been such a fun way to introduce new people to Dancing Mule,” said Randy Austin, owner of Dancing Mule Coffee Company. “What we love most is meeting guests who might not have visited us otherwise. It’s a chance for them to discover what we have to offer, and many come back again.”
The 5th season also brings a refreshed marketing strategy. Under the leadership of Visit Springfield’s new V.P. of Marketing, Andrea Copeland, the Coffee Trail will introduce expanded outreach, including new email and text message campaigns designed to engage more participants than ever before.
“The Ozarks Coffee Trail continues to be a signature experience in our region, and these updates reflect our commitment to keeping it fresh and engaging,” said Copeland. “With a refreshed brand, enhanced prizes, targeted email campaigns, and year-round incentives, we are excited to provide even more reasons for both visitors and residents to discover local coffee shops and enjoy the unique flavors of the Ozarks.”
Beyond boosting business for local shops, the Coffee Trail has become a source of community pride, showcasing Springfield’s coffee culture and strengthening the city’s identity as a destination for food and beverage lovers.
On launch day, October 1, Visit Springfield will celebrate with fun activations around town, including surprise giveaways and complimentary coffee deliveries to local businesses. Followers can join the adventure by watching the stories on social media at @lovespringfield. For more information and to sign up for the free mobile pass, visit springfieldmo.org/coffee.
About Visit Springfield, Missouri
Visit Springfield, Missouri is the official destination marketing organization for Greene, Christian and Polk counties in southwest Missouri. Dedicated to boosting the local economy, the organization drives tourism and group business—bringing in leisure travelers, conventions, meetings and sporting events—through innovative marketing initiatives. Visit springfieldmo.org to learn more.