I have spent a large part of my time on campus trying to find the right study spot. A traditional library study space just isn’t the place for me. Just by walking into Shad or Martin I can feel myself getting overwhelmed by the amount of work I have to do, and after hours of sitting in the small, poorly lit spaces the libraries have to offer, my eyes start to get heavy.
I found the best places to study aren’t even in the library. It’s nice to get away from campus every now and then, and the separation helps you focus. And, by studying in a cafe, you also get the added bonus of some wonderful study snacks.
From lavender white hot chocolate to baked oatmeal, these cafe study spots will keep you fueled and ready for all the work that comes your way.
1. Mean Cup
Photo by Allie Dang
Mean Cup is the coolest place you could possibly go to do work. It has the convenience factor of being only a short walk from campus and you never need to worry about forgetting your earbuds because the employees always have the best music playing.
My personal favorite drink to get is the London fog, but they also have crazy specialties (maple bacon latte, anyone?) to keep your veins pumped with caffeine.
Even the wifi showcases the staff’s distinct personality and humor with passwords ranging from “buy something” to “Godzilla drinks coffee,” giving you a sense of the unique environment that can only be found at Mean Cup.
The small tables and comfortable nooks are perfect for settling down and getting to work with your favorite drink, which will be much better than anything you can find at Starbucks.
Address: 398 Harrisburg Avenue
Hours: 7am – 7pm (winter hours end at 5pm)
Photo by Hunter Siegrist
2. Chestnut Hill Cafe
Photo by Allie Dang
Still fairly close to campus, Chestnut Hill Cafe is the place to go when you know you’ll be out studying for a while and you won’t just want a study snack, you’ll want a good meal. It’s one of the less popular spots for students, so it’s easy to hide out for the afternoon and do work.
When the weather is warm, sitting outside and drinking a frozen chai latte is the perfect way to keep you calm and focused. During the wintertime, the unique indoor space provides a tranquil environment that will help you concentrate.
They also have plenty of creative drinks to choose from, including their cinnamon bun latte and their raspberry truffle latte.
Address: 532 West Chestnut Street
Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30am – 8pm, Saturday & Sunday 8am – 8pm
Photo by Allie Dang
3. Commonwealth on Queen
Photo by Hunter Siegrist
Commonwealth on Queen has great breakfast and lunch menus that are sure to keep you on track with your studying. They have a cute cafe vibe that’s still relaxed enough to study for the day and get caffeinated.
Their drinks include a matcha latte, for green tea fans who want to try something new, and a speciality “local mochal,” which uses Wilbur cocoa to create a decadent chocolatey coffee drink.
Address: 301 North Queen Street
Hours: Monday-Friday 7am – 6pm, Saturday 8am – 2:30pm, Sunday 9am – 2pm
Photo by Hunter Siegrist
4. Prince Street Cafe
Photo by Hunter Siegrist
You can never go wrong with Prince Street Cafe. It is located in the middle of downtown Lancaster, which means the Lancaster Loop can conveniently drop you off and pick you up right by the cafe.
It’s usually pretty busy but, if you can find a place to sit, it’s a great spot to work with a group of friends. While you study, you’ll be able to enjoy some wonderful soups and sandwiches along with my personal favorite, baked oatmeal.
Also sold at the front of their cafe are delightful French macarons, sure to make any study trip worth it.
Address: 15 North Prince Street
Hours: 6:30am – 11pm
Photo by Hunter Siegrist
5. Square One Coffee
Photo by Hunter Siegrist
Square One Coffee is my favorite off-campus spot to do work. The coffee found here is some of the best in Lancaster. This paired with the peaceful work environment makes it the ideal place to camp out for the day.
They don’t have an extensive food selection, but their baked goods provide just the right amount of energy you’ll need to make it through your study session.
To top it off, they have a mini library in the back of the cafe and an outdoor secret garden seating area that makes it look like a you’re in fairy tale. You’ll never want to leave.
Address: 145 North Duke Street
Hours: Monday-Friday 7am – 8pm, Saturday & Sunday 8am – 8pm
Photo by Colin Martin
Check out the other awesome things Lancaster has to offer: