Just a stone’s throw from the Great Western Trail in Cumming, Iowa, sits a place that feels like it was made for cyclists, neighbors, and curious wanderers alike. It’s a place with deep local roots and a fresh take on hospitality.

Welcome to Middlebrook Mercantile - or simply, The Merc - your new favorite stop along the trail.

Built in 1900 as a one-room schoolhouse serving local students from kindergarten through high school, this historic building has been beautifully restored by Diligent Development to preserve its original character. Today, it serves as the heartbeat of Middlebrook Agrihood - Iowa’s first agrihood community, where healthy food, local farming, and neighborhood connection take center stage.

Since opening in 2022, The Merc has grown into a lively community hub, welcoming trail users, locals, and visitors with open doors and cold drinks. Whether you're rolling in for your morning espresso or winding down with a glass of wine after a ride, this place is built to make you feel at home - no matter where you started your day.

So, what’s inside?

• A full espresso bar to fuel your ride (or your remote work session)

• Craft cocktails and beer that hit just right after a trail ride

• Specialty wines for your patio conversations

• Grab-and-go eats for those mid-ride cravings

• A curated selection of locally sourced groceries and home goods

It’s more than a coffee shop. More than a wine bar. More than a store.
It’s a place to meet friends, hear live local music, work remotely, or just take a break in the A/C or set on the patio.

Happy Hour Hours are: All Day Wednesday, Thursday & Friday: 2:00 - 6:00 PM, Saturday: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

And speaking of the patio - yes, there’s a bike rack out front, and yes, you can hear the music outside thanks to the surround sound system. Whether it’s Friday and Saturday nights or Sunday afternoons, The Merc is one of Central Iowa’s most unexpected and delightful places to catch a show.

Cyclists Supporting Cyclists

At The Merc, you’re not just welcomed - you’re understood. Both Robert (General Manager) and Rick (Assistant Manager) are avid cyclists and RAGBRAI veterans. Their love for two wheels shapes the culture of this trail-connected destination.

Just Follow the Trail

You’ll find The Merc just east of Cumming Tap and Iowa Distilling Company at 4125 Cumming Avenue. From the Great Western Trailhead in Cumming, simply go East for 3 blocks - you can’t miss it. You can also skip a block on Hwy G14, by riding through Main Street, turning right on 2nd Street for a block, a right on N43rd Street and getting on the the short trail for a block to the Merc!

Once you’re here, settle in. Catch a band. Sip something seasonal. Say hi to a fellow rider. And before you head home, don’t forget to explore Middlebrook Farm and the small businesses popping up along Cumming’s blossoming Main Street.

Planning a Group Ride or Event?

The Merc is also a unique space for private events, meetups, and celebrations. For event inquiries, contact:
Email Events@MiddlebrookFarm.com
Event Booking Pricing and Details

Follow Along

Middlebrook Mercantile shares specials, live music lineups, community events, and cycling-friendly news through their social channels:

Instagram |Facebook

BIKEIOWA Sponsor Page

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