Ah… the holiday season. Christmas tree lights twinkle in the evening, the smell of gingerbread fills joyful homes, and finals are looming over your head like a massive gray cloud. But where is there to escape this holiday cheer to quietly study? Look no further than a few spots here in Austin that will get the job done.

1. Summer Moon Coffee Bar (3201 Bee Caves Rd.)

This coffee shop is fresh to the Westlake area and is only a five-minute drive from the school. It’s handy in its proximity, but be warned. You may just see every person in your chemistry class while you’re there. It’s worth the sightings of your peers for the general calm ambience and the great coffee and snacks.

Hours: Monday – Friday: 6 a.m. – noon, Saturday: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m., Sunday: 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.

       2. Bennu Coffee (2001 E Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.)

MLK Blvd holds the cute hidden gem, Bennu Coffee. Though the drive may seem daunting, this cozy haven is closer than you think. The round tables are perfect for bringing along friends to help you through any mental breakdown you may have late into the night, and luckily, it’s open 24/7.

3. Caffe Medici (1101 W. Lynn St.)

Though this local Austin chain has many locations, the original is my personal favorite and has never disappointed. The weekends can be a bit crowded in the mornings, as most places are, but go at noon or later, and it’s a calming and quiet sanctuary. Their coffee is delicious, and it just so happens to be right next to Galaxy Cafe, the perfect place to grab a quick bite after an intense study session at Medici.

Hours: Monday – Friday: 6 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday: 6:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

4.  Galaxy Cafe (1000 W. Lynn St.)

Speaking of Galaxy Cafe, this spot is the perfect place to study if you’re not into coffee. Along with Caffe Medici, it also gets pretty busy during peak hours, like 10 a.m. and noon. If you bide your time and head over later, the place is all yours. Plus, they won’t look at you weird if you sit and eat alone. Believe me, I’ve been there.

Hours: Every day: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.

5.  Whole Foods (525 N. Lamar Blvd.)

If you’re anything like me, Whole Foods is undeniably your happy place. Besides the great food and overall sense of  “Look at me! I’m so healthy!”, Whole Foods is a great place to plop down with your laptop and get some work done. There’s a small seated section inside upstairs, but your best bet is sitting outside if the weather permits.

Hours: Every day: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.  

6.  Joe’s Coffee (242 W. 2nd St.)

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve seen the “I love you so much” sign. But the South Congress location that holds the local landmark isn’t the only Joe’s Coffee location. In my opinion, the one on 2nd street is the best for studying. There’s adequate inside seating with nice big booths to splay out in. On top of that, they also have great coffee and amazing food. If you don’t mind paying for parking, it’s the perfect spot for the weekdays.

Hours: Monday – Friday: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday: 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.

7. Book People (603 N. Lamar Blvd.)

Here’s one for my library rats and coffee lovers. Book People is the largest independent bookstore in Texas, and with a reputation like that, the cafe is bound to impress. Obviously, the library is a quiet place to study, which makes it perfect for those who need absolute silence in order to focus. Plus, if the pressures of school get to be too much, take a break by browsing the extensive collection of books and trinkets.

Hours: Every day: 9 a.m. – 11 p.m.

8.  Trianon Coffee (3654 Bee Caves Rd.)

Finally, if you’re still weeping over the loss of Trianon, there’s no need to fear. The new location is up and running on Bee Caves Road. Personally, I haven’t been inside the new shop, but I’m dying to have one of their almond milk lattes again. It’s the perfect place to pop some headphones in and study for your finals while enjoying some coffee or cram-session drink of choice.

Hours: Monday – Friday: 6:30 a.m. – 7 p.m., Saturday: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.