The first round of tests is hitting, and Downtown Waco is ready to fuel your focus. Whether you’re a Baylor student powering through exams or a remote worker in need of a change of scenery, the heartbeat of the city is buzzing with the best blend of caffeine, community and cozy corners to study in. From local coffee shops to hidden gem study spots, here’s where to go when the pressure’s on!

Where to Study

In need of a place to focus (or cram in some last-minute studying)? It’s nearly impossible to walk through downtown without stumbling across a coffee shop, making it the perfect one-stop destination to find a place to sip and study. Here’s our roundup of the best places to hunker down, stay fueled and make the most of your study time:

Bitty & Beau’s – Looking for more than just a caffeine fix? Bitty & Beau’s offers warm, community-first energy with every sip. This inclusive café hires individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities—serving not just coffee, but empowerment and connection.

Brû – Located inside Anthem STORIES, Brû offers a spacious, quiet atmosphere to check off all of your to-dos. With a cafe attached, you can not only grab some caffeine but also grab a bite to keep your mind and stomach happy!

Cha Community – If you’re not a coffee drinker, this Asian-owned café serves up handcrafted milk teas and fresh Taiwanese bites. With warm hospitality, cozy seating and a mission to build bridges across cultures, Cha Community is the go-to spot for sipping, studying and sparking real community.

Dichotomy Coffee & Spirits – With a variety of seating options and a relaxing atmosphere, Dichotomy is an excellent place to crank out some work. If you’re in need of a short study break, be sure to grab some fresh air at their rooftop seating area!

Fabled Bookshop & Cafe – Doubling as a bookstore offering a wide selection of literature and a coffee shop with free Wi-Fi and plenty of seating, Fabled is a must-visit study spot. If you get tired of reading for class, it’s just that easy to pick up a new read for fun while there!

Glory Bell – Designed with community in mind, Glory Bell is the largest coffee shop in Waco! In about 4,000 square feet of space, Glory Bell always has a seat at the table for you.

Lighthouse Coffee & Wine – Reopening soon, Lighthouse offers natural light, community work tables and small bites to keep you going. If the fall weather is enjoyable, take your work outside to their picnic tables!

Magnolia Press – If you want the iconic Magnolia experience, head to Magnolia Press, where you can lock in at a comfy booth with friends. Try everything from their signature 1905 latte or their newest seasonal items. Pro tip: if the main press is busy, head to The Hotel 1928 for a more underground, less touristy spot!

One Day – One Day focuses on intentionally crafting creative cocktails and coffee, making it a great spot to try something new as you work on the semester’s load.

Street Dog Cafe – Study with double the purpose at Street Dog. With a mission to get local dogs fostered and adopted, this East Waco cafe is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of campus.

Where to Work

Tired of working from home? Coworking spaces in Downtown Waco offer a professional, productive and collaborative alternative. They are not only cost-effective but also come with a variety of amenities. Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, remote worker or small business, WacoWork, StartUp Waco or 25N Coworking might be the perfect option for you.

Where to Unwind

Downtown Waco is the ideal spot to both accomplish tasks and unwind, offering premier locations for work and relaxation.

To relax the mind: Take a walk downtown and stroll through Indian Spring Park to promote mental clarity, reduce stress and release endorphins. If you’re looking for a way to take a brain break while still staying sharp, look no further than Waco Escape Rooms to improve cognitive functions such as memory, focus and problem-solving!

To relax the body: Enhance your well-being at Waco Bodymend where fitness regimens meet recovery therapies. From oxygen and red light therapy to saunas and massage chairs, Waco Bodymend has all you need to incorporate wellness into your routine. Check out their sister company I-Vit Hydration Lounge, to receive tailored IV therapy solutions to help replenish essential nutrients, boost energy levels and promote hydration.

So, what’s fueling Downtown Waco these days? A mix of fresh businesses, welcoming community spaces and all of your support. From coffee spots to creative hubs, the downtown district is becoming a go-to for students, locals and anyone looking for inspiration (or just a really good latte). Whether you’re studying, working or taking a break, there’s something about Downtown Waco right now that makes it feel alive—and like you’re right where you’re supposed
to be.