The Front Porch

This is a cute little spot. The play area is unique but it's way overrated for what it's chalked up to be. A BIG portion of the local homeschool community talks it up like it's this grand ole spot. It's nothing to write home about by any means. our first visit there wasn't a clean table to sit at I wiped it down with a baby wipe. There's only one barista and there's NO enforcement of the play area rules. YET, heaven forbid you ask your own kids to follow the rules without nasty looks! I was astonished to see how many kids above the age limit were in the play area, that NO ONE was telling them to leave or even get off the TOP of the play structures. They were rough housing and making it so younger kids were constantly running out to their moms in tears because the big kids had hurt them in some way, shape, or form. The other thing that just had me besides myself is how many people bring their kids but also pack full on lunches and snacks and DO NOT actually purchase or support the business!!! The few times we've gone to meet with other homeschool families I've gotten looks for purchasing myself a drink and sandwich and a cup of goldfish for my kids. I get this place is attached to a church and it's likely deemed a "safe haven" of sorts but it's also a business and business les are struck right now between supply shortages and inflation you'd think people would have the decency to be respectful and buy a drink at the very least! I likely WILL NOT return until I've heard that they start putting their foot down and enforcing their own rules. I seriously think adults should also be required to purchase a drink or food item to make use of the play area for their kids. I totally get that kids are picky and packing snacks is easier but adults have no excuse as to why they shouldn't be supportive of the business kind enough to have a free indoor play area.

Where else in Lincoln can you get enjoy a coffee or smoothie and sandwich while your kids play indoors (for free), away from the elements, with comfy seating a see through wall away? Yep, you get all that and more at The Front Porch at Cross the Line Church. This is not McDonald's playroom, folks. it's a coffee shop with music and chill people and - even better - a clean, safe place for kids to run out all that energy. I met up with a friend here and we enjoyed actual conversation over turkey bacon panini's while her daughters played and we were able to watch them and they were able to come in and out and ask questions, get drinks, go to the bathroom, etc. What a wonderful place! You don't even need to be a member of the church. It's open to everyone. There are also plenty of tables to host small gatherings and I hear the playroom can be rented out (with a private attached room) for events. The food menu is small, but mighty tasty. Prices are reasonable - $7 for a sandwich, bag of chips and a drink. The girl behind the counter was extremely welcoming. I felt comfy and welcome as soon as I walked in and really felt like we were able to enjoy ourselves without the hassle of finding a sitter or to constantly keep the kids entertained at the table with us. Win win all around. Even better they are open 7 to 1 and August 21, 2017 they will be open 7 to 6!

The front porch has an awesome coffee shop to order drinks and food! Love how updated it was and noticed there were a lot of options! The girl working behind the counter was very friendly and even started a punch card for us. This was our first time, about a 20 min drive for us. The play structures for kids are nice, but don't think we will come often regarding it's on the other side of town.

Friendly and knowledgeable staff, large seating area including a number of soft cushy chairs, perfect for quiet reading or conversation. Hours are limited which is the only disappointment.

Fun little place for kids to run around while you sip a coffee great atmosphere and plenty of space

This is a great free place...especially for young kiddos. Mom gets a guilt-free cup of coffee and watches from the coffeehouse. Awesome!