As the semester progresses and assignments start to pile up, finding the right place to study and focus can make all the difference. While the bedroom desk and lunch table are reliable options, sometimes a change of scenery is needed to avoid burnout. 

Whether working on a group project, studying for a test or completing weekly homework, our community offers several great study spots for students. Here are some of the best local study spots to keep you on track. 

For students looking for a calm and comfortable location, Panera Bread on Mitchell Hammock is a solid choice.

With free Wi-Fi, plenty of outlets, a clean bathroom, free refills and a menu full of affordable snacks and beverages, it is a great place to settle in for a long study session.

The Oviedo Panera is typically not too crowded, which adds to its relaxing atmosphere. However, it can occasionally become busy, especially after school gets out.

Freshmen Isabella Zimmerman, Amelie Reyes and Bella Reynolds go for about three hours a week, saving up all of their homework for their weekly outing.

“I feel more motivated by studying at Panera because I am on the spot and feel like I have to do my work,” Zimmerman said.

When I visited the Oviedo Panera after school, it was initially very busy, but after about two hours, it had mostly cleared out.

I did not feel like having any food, so I decided to order a fountain drink, and they gave me a large drink for free!

I sat by the window initially, but was able to move to a comfortable booth when one opened up. It was only a nine-minute drive from school, so I would definitely recommend studying at Panera by yourself or with a friend.

If you are looking for a more energetic atmosphere, Foxtail Coffee on University Blvd, only a nine-minute drive from school, is a great choice. With trendy decor and plenty of college students from the nearby University of Central Florida, it is a great environment to be productive. It has free Wi-Fi, many charging outlets, a clean bathroom and plenty of energizing beverage options.

“Everyone goes to Panera, so I like the change of environment at Foxtail,” senior Laney Chamelin said. “I can get my homework done and be more focused.”

I visited on a weekend, and it was quite busy, but I had no trouble finding a seat due to the variety of options. There are cozy armchairs, communal worktables and secluded personal workspaces. I felt comfortable leaving my bag and computer unattended when I went to the bathroom, which says a lot about the overall clientele and vibe of the place.

That said, be prepared for some loud music–this is great if you work well in an upbeat environment, but if you need complete silence, this probably is not the place for you. I wore my headphones and could still hear the music, even with my noise-canceling setting turned on. To top off the experience, the barista misheard my name and called me “Dave,” which added a small, funny moment to my visit.

I ordered a caramel iced coffee, but it did not live up to my expectations: it barely tasted like caramel, and I would rate it a 6 out of 10. However, I also tried the turkey ham & cheese pretzel bun, and it was an absolute 10 out of 10. I would definitely recommend ordering it if you ever find yourself studying here near lunch or dinner. Despite the noise and the mid-tier coffee, Foxtail’s atmosphere and seating make it a solid option if you are looking for a more social study space.

For those looking for a popular study spot, Starbucks on Mitchell Hammock is a classic. It is known for its great seasonal menu, with items such as pumpkin spice lattes in the fall. This location has both indoor and outdoor seating, giving customers options depending on the weather and their personal mood.

Being such a well-known study and hangout spot, you are almost guaranteed to run into someone you know–so if you are hoping to study in peace, this might not be the place for you.

Amenities include free Wi-Fi, a clean bathroom and some charging outlets. The seating is pretty bare with wooden seats, which is not my exact version of comfort. Additionally, if you use a reusable mug, glass, or personal cup in-store, you could be eligible for a free refill on hot or iced brewed coffee and tea. There are a variety of exclusions, so the refresher I ordered was ineligible.

I visited one day after school, and to say it was busy is an understatement. I was able to find a seat, but it was near the line and in the middle of the store, so I did not feel exactly comfortable.

It was also hard to focus because people I knew from school kept walking in, leading me to the conclusion that this is definitely the spot for a social butterfly.

“I like to have a strawberry acai lemonade while I study at Starbucks, and it is relaxing because I can listen to my own music,” senior Maria Rivero said.

Taking Rivero’s advice, I had a strawberry acai lemonade, and I would rate it a nine out of 10, one point off for the copious amount of ice. Overall, if you are someone who enjoys background noise and the occasional conversation, this Starbucks is a convenient place to knock out some work while sipping on your go-to drink.

Lastly, for a lesser-known study spot, Haraz Coffee House on North Alafaya Trail is a great choice, and it is only an 11-minute drive from school.

With a large and unique menu featuring refreshers, matcha, frappes, hot and iced coffee and more, there is something for everyone. Amenities include a clean restroom, free Wi-Fi and many personal work tables and outlets. The atmosphere is calm and aesthetic, making it a great place to study for those who like a peaceful vibe.

“It is a really good spot, with really good eats and drinks, and it is a really nice place to go with your friends and hang out,” junior Suhybe Mohammed said.

I went out of my comfort zone and ordered a mango dragon fruit refresher and was pleasantly surprised. It was unique compared to the other study spot beverages I tried, and had a refreshing aftertaste. I would rate it a 10 out of 10.

The staff were friendly and I did not find it too busy after school. Haraz feels niche, like a place you would want to gatekeep–but it is definitely worth sharing. If you are tired of the typical chain coffee shop experience and want somewhere that feels a bit more unique, this is a great spot to try.

Venturing outside of my home to study in these local coffee and food places proved to increase my productivity and happiness; after all, I did get a fun drink every time. I encourage you to do the same and try some of the places, and drop a comment to let us know what you thought!