The Fall semester is in full swing — and so are long homework and study sessions. Luckily, Gainesville has no shortage of coffee shops to fuel students.
Hitting Starbucks in the libraries on campus is convenient, but sometimes a change of scenery helps. Here are five other coffee spots to try, in no particular order.
Daydreamer, a local coffee shop near campus, creates a welcoming study space for students between classes on Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025.
Daydreamer Cafe
Located five minutes away from UF’s campus on University Avenue, Daydreamer is a bright, welcoming option for students who need a change of scenery. Its high ceilings, large tables and modern aesthetic set it apart from on-campus staples.
Daydreamer’s menu offers a mix of classic coffee drinks and seasonal specials —- its fall flavors include pumpkin spice, cookie butter and cinnamon bun. Similar to competitors, the average price for a specialty drink is about $5 to $7.
Anna Nguyen, an 18-year-old UF nutritional sciences sophomore, said she frequents Daydreamer when she needs a break from the library. Nguyen first started going to the cafe during her freshman year because it helped her focus.
“Having that separate study space was good for my mindset,” Nguyen said. “I never completed as much work as I could in Marston because everyone’s there.”
Nguyen’s Recommendation: iced vanilla matcha latte
Opus Coffee
Opus Coffee is a familiar name in town, with 10 locations including the Airstream at 4th Ave Food Park and one at Innovation Square. It doubles as a study spot and a workplace; for student baristas, Opus is a place where campus life and coffee culture overlap.
Each Opus location offers a slightly different menu, but signature drinks like the Mayan Mocha and Honey Cinnamon Latte can be found at many of them. Its fall menu will launch Sept. 8 at all locations. It includes two syrups (gingerbread and caramelized honey with vanilla and cinnamon) and four signature drinks (Faux Fall, Ginger Snapped, Pumpkin Patch Latte and Crumb and Get It).
Andrea Dixon, a 19-year-old UF public relations sophomore, has worked at the Airstream location for over a year. She worked as a barista in her hometown, and she originally applied to Opus because of its location. She had already tried and enjoyed their drinks.
The atmosphere among employees is just as positive as what customers see on the other side of the counter, Dixon added.
“All coworkers truly do get along,” she said. “I don’t think I’ve ever been in a workplace with so little drama.”
Dixon’s Recommendation: Mayan mocha
108 Vine
Tucked slightly off the main campus area by Newberry Road, 108 Vine offers a more minimalist and quiet experience. For students who value calm over chatter, its clean lines and understated decor create a space that feels intentionally peaceful.
Its owner and director, 46-year-old Bren Strickland, has run the shop for five years. She said the store’s approach is built on quality and creativity.
Homemade syrups make 108 Vine stand out. From seasonal flavors like rosemary maple and pumpkin spice to classics such as vanilla and caramel, each drink offers customers a taste experience they wouldn’t find at a chain café.
“We change our seasonal menus often, and there’s always something new to try,” Strickland said.
Part of 108 Vine’s appeal comes from its combination of coffee and retail. Customers can sip a latte while browsing small gifts, giving the shop a boutique feel.
Beyond the menu and shopping aspect, 108 Vine employees work to add a level of connection that makes the customer’s experience memorable.
“It’s not just getting a cup of coffee,” Strickland said. “It’s getting a coffee somewhere where we’re going to remember your name and remember your order.”
Strickland’s Recommendation: rosemary maple matcha
Karma Cream
Known as Gainesville’s fully plant-based cafe, Karma Cream combines a coffee menu with vegan ice cream, baked goods and sandwiches. The shop has become a favorite for students who want something indulgent but still compliant with dietary restrictions.
Its walls are lined with art, and the smell of freshly brewed espresso blends with the sweet scent of pastries. The cozy, welcoming environment makes it a perfect place to study solo or catch up with friends.
James Zhu, a 19-year-old UF psychology sophomore, first visited Karma Cream with friends during the Spring semester. The café stands out to him because he doesn’t feel rushed there, he said.
“It felt like a warm and safe atmosphere,” Zhu said. “It’s rewarding to go.”
For Zhu, the drinks are only part of the appeal — the service and environment make Karma Cream special.
“They do a great job at being that welcoming place for students to come by and study,” Zhu said. “If you’re trying to see more of Gainesville, going for a walk and having Karma Cream at the end makes it worth it.”
Zhu’s Recommendation: vanilla latte
Workers at Wyatt’s Coffee, a local shop near campus, prepare orders on Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025.
Wyatt’s Coffee
Downtown Gainesville is home to Wyatt’s Coffee, a cafe that prides itself on precision. Known for its carefully crafted drinks and clean, minimalist interior, Wyatt’s has become a spot for students who value both quality and atmosphere.
Instead of the usual hustle and bustle at the shops closer to campus, Wyatt’s offers a calmer pace. The open layout and bright lights make it feel less like a crowded hangout and more like a retreat — a place where students can recharge while still getting work done.
Having originally tried Wyatt’s on a random Wednesday last Fall, 19-year-old UF history and economics sophomore Francesca Nelsas has found herself continuing to frequent the shop. The staff’s attention to detail keeps her coming back.
“You can tell the baristas care about what they’re serving,” Nelsas said. “It feels like a place where quality really matters.”
Nelsas’ Recommendation: The Wyatt
No matter the mood — a quick pick-me-up, a long study session, or a coffee date with friends — Gainesville is nothing short of options for students. So whether it’s matcha or coffee, there’s a cup waiting with your name on it (and it’s probably spelled correctly).
Aaliyah is a general assignment reporter for The Avenue. She's a second-year journalism student in her first semester at The Alligator. In her free time, she loves to bake, read and also write for Her Campus UFL.
