Everyone needs a change of location every once in a while, especially while studying or locking in to do some homework. Charlotte may not seem like somewhere to branch out and try new places, but you may just not know of where to look. Some may be right down the street, or in a cozy corner uptown. You never know until you try. If you need some help, or don’t know where to start, here are some ideas.
Close to school, a fan favorite: is Amelie’s French Bakery. First thing about Amelie’s that will stand out is the atmosphere. No other place can compare to the mix and match of chandeliers, couches, chairs, art, you name it. With so many different vibes, there is always something new to see! No matter where you decide to set up shop, and no matter what you might grab to eat, you must pair it with one of their delicious coffees or teas. Lattes to English breakfast teas here never disappoint and never will. Forgot your headphones? Not worry! Amelie’s background music is surprisingly very good- and not always in French. Although this is a great and close spot, it can be a little distracting especially when going for the first time. Once you get past seeing all the exciting things it has to offer, Amelie’s is a wonderful, cozy warm place to lock in for a couple of hours without needing to leave for food or beverages!
Traveling a little further from school is Summit Coffee on Providence Road. This one is closer to uptown. There is a second location in Piedmont Town Centre, however with only three booths and very quickly filling tables, making the drive is worth it. Summit Coffee has many booths, and tables with outlets everywhere! The coffee is amazing and so worth trying. Summit is a staple and the atmosphere is much calmer than Amelie’s, having more wood and blue tones, it is much easier to stay focused and have no distractions. One negative thing about Summit is the parking. Since it is such a great spot, the parking lot does get filled very quickly. If you don’t mind parking down the street- then this is the perfect place for you!
Another much-used location is the two-story Starbucks on Sharon Road. This is a staple and you can never go wrong with the drinks. Starbucks is always busy, but has enough seating where finding a table shouldn’t be a problem! One negative thing about Starbucks is that since it is always busy, without headphones it can be hard to focus. People coming in and out constantly with a lot of chattering may be distracting for some, but if looking for a place to study with friends this is a perfect option! The seating here is not the most comfortable, but it does the job and they have many outlets for anything you may need to charge.
If you are looking to check out a super cool spot, a little farther uptown than Summit you must try Coco and The Director. The atmosphere inside of this coffee shop is one of a kind. Seating is not a problem with an entire upstairs of tables and chairs. They have super cool stair seating with pillows if you are looking to switch it up from the regular table. The only negative to this new place is the location. It is farther from Myers Park and is just a block from the Belk Theater. Nevertheless, if you don’t mind uptown or a little drive, Coco and The Director is a must-try. If you need to get away for the day to focus on some homework or studying, this is the place for you!
Coffee shops can be intimidating to try, not knowing what to expect the first time going. Hopefully, this article helps broaden your horizons and lets you try new things! A new location can change your mindset and let you get so much done. Next time, use some of these awesome spots to grab a cup of joe and lock in.