Looking for a place to study, read or just hang out and relax with friends? If so, check out these sweet coffee shops with the perfect atmospheres for just that, all located right here in Ames.

According to Spoon University, studying at coffee shop-like settings is actually more beneficial than studying at the library.

They claim this is because of the “creativity the coffee shop offers, alertness and ability to learn the coffee offers, and the fact that you went out of your way to do your work at the coffee shop, so chances are you will actually do your work once you get there.”

The Odyssey Online also points out some very valid reasons as to why studying in coffee shops are a good idea.

These include the coffee, the positive vibes, the free WiFi, and the fact that coffee shops are a great place to meet for group projects.

Here are a few of the many coffee shops/cafes located in Ames to get you started on finding that perfect hangout. 

Literary Grounds

Literary Grounds is located inside the Ames Public Library, with easy access via Cyride because a stop is located right outside its doors.

Literary Grounds is more a used book store than a coffee shop, but they do offer complimentary coffee and hot water for tea, free for the public.

Literary Grounds offers the public a relaxing and full-of-life environment to sit, visit and read, and it is open on the same schedule as the library. Literary Grounds also offers gift certificates, if you have any book lovers in your family.

Arcadia Cafe

Arcadia Cafe is in the heart Campustown. Arcadia offers a unique selection of pastries, sandwiches, coffees and teas. Serving breakfast, lunch, and light evening dining, Arcadia has something to offer for people of all ages. Arcadia’s atmosphere is very relaxed, modern and airy, yet it still offers a cozy feel to its customers.

“[Arcadia offers] a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s comfortable to work in or hang out at, with very friendly people,” said Kamry Peyton, a sophomore in mathematics.

Plus, if you dine at Arcadia during the warmer months of the year, you will get to enjoy the open window, patio door atmosphere, unlike a lot of other cafes.

Cafe Diem

Cafe Diem is located downtown Ames. Offering customers a very homey and comfy-cozy vibe, Cafe Diem is the perfect place to study or grab a coffee and a bite with friends.

“[Cafe Diem offers] an atmosphere that is cozy and industrial like, as well as being well equipped for a coffee house, having Wi-Fi and outlets,” said Amelia Wanless, a resident of Spirit Lake, IA.

Outlets are available at some tables for customers who want to charge their devices, as well as the free Wi-Fi, making Cafe Diem the perfect college hangout. 

Vinyl Cafe

Vinyl Cafe is located in Downtown Ames as well. Not only does Vinyl Cafe offer a wide variety of coffees, teas and smoothies, but they also have an amazing selection of vinyl records for customers to look at, buy and enjoy.

 “[Vinyl Cafe is] a fairly small and quaint shop, located in the basement behind a cupcake shop. It’s a perfect place to stop and relax after a long day,” said Kenzie Kilcoin, junior in aerospace engineering. “Blake, the owner, is quite the conversationalist and will give you the scoop on new vinyl arrivals. Each Sunday they also host an open mic night for musicians in the area to gather with some coffee and share their talents.”

If you find these spots interesting, also check out Morning Bell Coffee Roasters, Burgies Coffee & Tea, Cafe Milo and Stomping Grounds, all located in Ames.

So go out there and find your next favorite hangout!