You walk into a coffee shop, head held high, ready to fly through a research paper and upcoming exam material. You feel hip and studious as you lay a book open on the table next to your chia tea latte, with the justification that this coffee will give you both energy and motivation. Yet, a couple hours pass by and you find yourself right where you started. The idea of going to the library crosses your mind, but you don’t want to feel like you’re missing out on anything while you “read” your textbook. So you settle for a trendy coffee shop with other college students coming in and out. Let’s be honest here, coffee shops are a great place to “study” because they trick you into thinking you’re actually being productive. Undoubtably though, everyone knows coffee shops are the place to go if you want to run into a friend that will do you the honor of distracting you from the work you actually have to finish.

For those of you who have been studying at the library this whole time and want to experience “studying” somewhere different, here are five near-by coffee shops ready to welcome you in Blacksburg:

1. Idego Coffee-

   Hello affordable coffee! Shout-out to Idego Coffee for understanding we already pay a small fortune for tuition. Idego is a great place for students to “study” for long periods of time because a refill for a house mug is only $0.95. #Bless.

2. Bollo’s Cafe and Bakery-

   Yes, you heard right: Bollo’s has gluten free and vegan baked goods. This eclectic, earthy cafe also serves espresso drinks and smoothies. Bollo’s provides an urban atmosphere in the midst of a college town. (Fun fact: the owner of Gillie’s opened Bollo’s to expand their baking repertoire in Downtown Blacksburg.)

3. Deet’s Place- 

   Attention freshmen! Deet’s is probably your best option for “studying” because it’s on campus. You’re sure to see someone you know that will gladly distract you from your accumulating academic workload.

4. Mill Mountain-

   Mill Mountain is an expert on roasting fresh coffee. This hipster coffee shop has plenty of delicious, fresh coffee options to keep you going, and serves teas from all over the world. Their menu is multifaceted and includes fresh baked goods, breakfast, and lunch.

5. Next Door Bake Shop- 

   This fashionable coffee shop is literally right next door to the academic side of campus. You’ll notice an Asian Fusion menu consisting of bubble tea and Thai styled paninis. Rest assured though, there’s also a more traditional side of the menu with your typical cup of coffee and tasty bakery items.