Best Study Spots

For Teens and College Students

by Emma DiStefano. Illustrations by Shainna Rosenbaum

​With the fall semester rapidly approaching, finding the perfect study spot is an essential back-to-school item for students. As a St. Johns local who attended Bartram Trail and is now a senior at Rollins College, I have spent plenty of time in search of a good cup of coffee and a cozy corner to settle in with my textbooks. Thankfully, we have some best study spots right in our own backyard. Whether you what a quiet place to focus or a space to work with friends, these 5 local spots have a little something for everyone.


My all-time favorite café to study at is Spring Park Coffee, located in the heart of Green Cove Springs. Spring Park offers unique and delicious specialty lattes, and cozy atmosphere, this is the perfect spot for a productive afternoon. With antique furniture and eclectic décor, this café makes you feel like you are on the set of the beloved sitcom Friends.


Brass Tacks is another great local spot, and I like to think of it as the hip, younger sibling of Spring Park. With its locations in Fruit Cove and on Southside Blvd, it’s a great spot for both local high schoolers and students at UNF. If you’re visiting for the first time, I recommend the Rex sandwich and their signature Black Jack cold brew.
    
For students at Jacksonville University, The Greenhouse Bar located in the Riverside neighborhood, is an excellent choice. This bright, plant-filled café boasts plenty of room for friends and creative drinks. I recommend the Velvet Elvis, one of their signature lattes with banana and peanut butter, inspired by the music legend’s favorite snack!


The next spot on my list is Tetherball Coffee, located in the Mandarin area right off San Jose Blvd. This spot is great for whimsical spirits or anyone looking to spice up their usual coffee order. The welcoming atmosphere and fun seasonal drink menu make every visit feel a little different, so be sure to ask what's currently on special.


Finishing my list is Miss Cruffin in Fruit Cove, a charming French-style bakery that's become a local favorite. With great pastries, bright décor, and a cozy atmosphere, it's an ideal destination for a study date, getting lost in a good book, or tackling a creative project.


No matter what you’re looking for, St. Johns is home to an incredible variety of locally owned spots. Supporting small businesses gives you the chance to discover great coffee, delicious food, and welcoming spaces along the way. This semester, skip the chain coffee shop and explore one of these local gems, you may just find your new favorite study spot.