As a Biology major, I spend plenty of time studying. In my experience, a change of scenery can be refreshing and boosts your productivity. I have worked in all of these locations, sometimes bouncing from one to the next within the same day! I adore John C. Hitt Library and All Knight Study on the University of Central Florida’s main campus; however, in light of finals season, you might have an easier time finding a seat in one of these other spectacular locations.
- Snowbean
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5310 E Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32807
Snowbean is a wonderful Korean cafe serving desserts, coffee, and relaxing sunset views. This lakeside coffee shop is perfect for independent study or meeting up with friends. The seats are comfortable, the environment is productive, and the staff is welcoming! You may study inside or outside, as both allow access to outlets and WiFi. While outside, you can appreciate the many heart-shaped locks along the fence as this is their wholesome Love Deck – a nod to Namsan Tower in Seoul, South Korea. Be sure to support this local small business cafe by making a purchase, I especially like the Vanilla Chai Frappucino and the Rose Butterfly Lemonade. The shop is open until 1:00 a.m. each day of the week and can get pretty chilly inside, while this is great for keeping you awake on a late-night studying, you might want to bring a sweater.
- Krungthep tea time
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1051 W Fairbanks Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789
A hidden gem and home to one of the best sandwiches I’ve ever had, Krungthep is a Thai tea and eats bar. Usually not too crowded, this location features comfortable half booths and is great for group study. I have never had issues with WiFi here and an outlet is never too far from reach. To stay nourished and in optimal studying shape, you might want to try the Grapow sandwich!
- Stardust Video and Coffee
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1842 Winter Park Rd, Orlando, FL 32803
If you want to feel light and like the main character while you study, this is the place to go. The environment is so eccentric, fun, and unique while remaining a place where you can focus and get your work done. I love the lights strung across the ceiling and the random collection of artworks throughout the cafe. They serve sandwiches, drinks, coffee, and host events ranging from open mic nights to community markets. There is a large room that features a stage and a photo booth; I enjoy writing in this room while listening to the music played over their speakers. On days requiring more focus, the cafe has a smaller seating area on the opposite side of the cafe where there’s less foot traffic. Overall, it’s an enjoyable experience to visit this cafe and you may discover a song that becomes your favorite.
- Burnett Honors College Garden
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12778 Aquarius Agora Dr, Orlando, FL 32816
On the days when it’s not too hot on campus, I enjoy studying outside the Burnett Honors College. This is a relaxing and bright environment, allowing you to be productive while savoring the day. When it feels like a drag to start studying, this location might offer you ease. Whether it’s here or in a hammock on Memory Mall, being outdoors can stimulate a new flow of thinking.
- Honorable mentions
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- Mecatos Bakery (I promise that an empanada with mayo ketchup is worth your while and the perfect study snack)
- Maya Cafe Lounge
- The Glass Knife
- Shake Shack in Winter Park – lakeside patio
- Canvas Restaurant and Market
- Ice and Bites Cafe
- Achilles Art Cafe
I hope each of these locations near UCF’s campus can serve you as well as they have served me in being comfortable, productive working environments with the bonus of mingling and good eats!