As we approach the halfway point in the semester, it is normal for students to start looking for a change in study scenery. After all, a demanding homework load can only be tackled so many times in the typical dorm room, library, or other campus haunt. Lucky for us, there are several great coffee shops near Furman that can offer a fresh location for hitting the books while also providing that much-craved caffeine kick. Below are three coffee shops not far from campus for your next homework outing.
Coffee Underground 1 E Coffee St, Greenville, SC 29601
Opening its doors in 1995, Coffee Underground — previously named Pony Espresso — began satisfying the sweets-cravings and pick-me-up needs of the downtown area. Under the slogan “hot coffee, cool vibes,” the cafe serves a variety of coffee drinks, homemade desserts, savory dishes, and for those over 21, beer and wine. Coffee Underground is just enough removed from the hustle and bustle of Main Street to make it a perfect study spot, and their darker, quiet interior helps limit distractions. The cafe has guest wifi that students can use to complete online homework, and late-night comedy for even later-night cram sessions — Theatre Underground (the theatre attached to the coffee shop) hosts comedians, improv, singers and songwriters, poets, and various other performances each week.
In addition to a great location, Coffee Underground features an expansive and delicious menu. From a simple cup of joe to a specialty latte, teas to smoothies, or beers to wine, this place has you covered. And when the munchies hit, they also serve a variety of sweets, salads, sandwiches, soups, and more. My personal favorites are the strawberry cake and honey bee latte. Coffee Underground is open from 7am to 9pm or 10pm — hours to fit any study schedule.
The Village Grind 1258 Pendleton St, Greenville, SC 29611
Located in West Greenville, the Village Grind is a small cafe perfect for a cup of coffee and studying. In contrast to Coffee Underground, this small shop offers great views out onto Pendleton Street, including outdoor seating when the weather permits. The Village Grind is open from 8am to 4pm, closing earlier than Coffee Underground, but their hours are still perfect for a midday study session or change of location for an online class. There is also guest wifi that allows students to access online homework and Zoom.
The menu focuses on staple coffee drinks, such as lattes and americanos, with signature drinks each season. You can customize your drink with a variety of flavors and milks, but the menu is more nuts and bolts. The coffee is the main event at this cafe, but sometimes simplicity is best.
The cafe also offers a small pastry selection, but you will need to get there early because they run out fast. My recommendation here is the lavender latte. It is slightly sweet and floral without tasting like a bar of soap — the perfect thing to pair with writing a paper.
Treehouse Cafe 27 S Main St, Travelers Rest, SC 29690
Located on Main Street in Travelers Rest, the Treehouse Cafe is a fun unique location to get a little work done and have some fun too. While not as conducive to studying as the other two options, the cafe has a vibrant atmosphere thanks to its in-house art studio. Students can go there to work on homework and, if a study break is needed, also paint a canvas! And while one may go there to paint, the cafe does offer wifi to use should you choose to study there.