Brews on the Lakeshore

The Coffee Factory is a remarkable case of Muskegon’s revitalization, continuing the culture brewing in West Michigan. Housed in the historic Shaw Walker Furniture Factory—now The Watermark Center, this industrial but cozy coffee house has a classic coffee and espresso menu alongside a selection of teas, pastries, and light bites.

A Culture-Rich Corner of Muskegon

Most of what once was the furniture factory remains vast and deserted–marked by broken windows and signs of construction. But tucked on the opposite side of the Watermark Center, The Coffee Factory has nurtured a smaller version of Muskegon in a culture-rich corner. With outdoor seating that blends metal accents and nature, it welcomes locals and visitors in search of good coffee.

Because it’s tucked inside the Watermark Lofts, The Coffee Factory draws in a mix of coffee lovers—loft residents and passersby popping in for a quick sip or bite. The café serves Grand Rapids’ own Madcap Coffee alongside grab-and-go quiches, pastries, and slices of ornate cakes from Muskegon’s Happy Endings Gourmet Bakery.

The Coffee Factory is more than a coffee shop, it’s an artistic hotspot. Just past the entrance, shelves from The Book Nook Too and Fuddy Duds Vintage Junque are stacked with books, cards, artwork, and trinkets. And thanks to a partnership with Montague’s Book Nook & Java Shop, a tucked-away corner doubles as a cozy mini bookstore (See Busy Bee Cafe and The Book Nook & Java Shop: Exploring Montague’s Coffee Spots to read all about the The Book Nook & Java Shop in Montague, Michigan).

Reviving the Furniture Factory

The dining area is open with plenty of seating spread across several sections, including a central bar. Many of the surfaces are crafted from reclaimed materials from the original Shaw Walker Furniture Factory, weaving Muskegon’s history directly into the fabric of the space. A unique touch: several booths are equipped with light therapy lamps, offering a cozy boost during Muskegon’s grayer days.

The Coffee Factory often hosts Muskegon’s run club and sprinkles in a variety of unique events, like henna parties and small business pop-ups, to permanent jewelry and piercing sessions. Plus a perfect way for adults to connect: a weekly group called Coffee With Friends, hosted at The Coffee Factory with no set schedule other than friendly conversation, and a few adult-friendly activities.

The Coffee Factory is more than a coffee stop—it’s a cultural space where Muskegon’s history and creativity come together. Whether for a quick drink, browsing art and books, or joining local events, it’s an heirloom hub that welcomes you to Muskegon.