- Mugshots
Mugshots is a personal favorite for me. Their coffee is Wheeling’s finest and their wraps are served with hummus and pita chips, making them the perfect thing to snack on while doing homework. The only downside to studying at Mugshots is that they close at 5 p.m., but they are now extending their hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays for “Study & Sip”, staying open until 7 p.m. on those days.
Most people don’t go to Mugshots to study only for the food and beverage, it’s the overall vibe of the downtown coffee shop that draws people in. The lighting is calm, indoor plants fill the corners and local artwork fills the walls. In the back, there are couches and a pretty view of the river through the large window on the back wall.
Mugshots enthusiast, Devin Lew, said, “Mugshots provides a cozy and aesthetic work environment and they have the most friendly staff. Their food and beverages are great during those long study sessions.”
2. Wilson Lodge (temporarily closed for renovations)
Wilson Lodge was my absolute favorite place for long-term studying. Coffee shops are good for a couple of hours and getting some homework done, but the upstairs lounge in Wilson Lodge was the place to go for those all-day study sessions. In the past few weeks that area has been turned into a restaurant, so next time I spend eight hours cramming a research paper or studying for three AP tests, I’ll have to find somewhere new.
3. Cafe 1925
Cafe 1925’s biggest draw is its proximity to the school, but better quality than the Kroger Starbucks and much closer than driving to the highlands. It has a comfortable vibe inside, plus they serve Starbucks coffee. There are plenty of windows which add enough natural light to keep you awake during your studies and they have a small outdoor deck that is perfect for the warmer weather.
“Doing schoolwork is so convenient to do at Cafe 1925 because it’s right off the hill and the environment is friendly and peaceful,” said junior, Gianna Cipriani.
4. Starbucks (Highlands)
The Highlands Starbucks has a very cozy vibe with enough bustle that you don’t drown in silence, but quiet enough that you’re not distracted. My favorite time to study there is in the evening when it’s starting to get dark outside, its soft lighting and popular drinks make it a great study spot.
5. Panera
While Panera is not my first choice for a study spot, it does have a bright and pleasant atmosphere. Although the food can be rather pricy and driving to the highlands is farther than I’d prefer, they have outlets, booths, and your favorite comfort foods making it a relaxing study space where you can stay focused for long periods.
“I like to study at Panera because it’s quiet, there’s a lot of space, it smells really good, and I love the food,” said junior, Rosey Davis.
