There is nothing better than escaping the repetitive flow of campus and studying at one of the many tranquil spots in downtown Hammond. From the espresso-filled atmosphere of local coffee shops to the scenic sanctuaries of the urban environment, hidden gems are all around you, which is just what you need to refresh your mind.
Junior student Angelina Neal said, “I like to study at Luma because it is so cute there and they have upstairs and downstairs seating with lots of charging outlets. Plus, the coffee is yummy.”
Located at 125 E. Thomas St., inside the Historic Central Rexall Drugs building, Luma Coffee Roasters offers guests various seating options and a homey atmosphere.
The baristas are friendly and attentive, serving the finest quality coffee and beverages that go hand-in-hand with the shop’s colorfully crafted brunch menu to fuel your brain. Luma Coffee is open Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
One owner, Logan Torrance, said, “Another thing is that we stay open late. Three of the four owners were Southeastern students, and there was nowhere to study in Hammond after 5 p.m. when we were in school, so we wanted the shop to be open late for students.
Courtyard Cafe is another homey coffee shop with a lush, sun-dappled courtyard tucked in the back. It is located at 110 N. Cate St., and the menu has an array of brunch favorites, like coffee, bagels and crepes. If you want to study in silence, the courtyard seating is recommended; if you don’t mind music playing, the inside seating is excellent as well. Courtyard Cafe is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Sophomore student Carly Johnson said, “My favorite study spot is Courtyard Cafe. Of most of the coffee shops downtown, I feel that Courtyard is more accessible, with better parking and its proximity to campus. In Courtyard Cafe you can sit inside but also outside in the courtyard, which is a good place if you need a peaceful place to study. It is never too busy at Courtyard Cafe and they have amazing coffee!”
Another locally-owned place with productivity potential is PJ’s Coffee, located on 224 W. Thomas St., 1913 S.W. Railroad Ave. and University Avenue Suite A. Each location in Hammond offers its own unique seating, whether that be outside in the fresh air or inside the cozy cafe. There is a wide array of food and beverage items, such as pastries, coffee, tea, energy refreshers and more. PJ’s Coffee operates Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Johnson said, “I went to the PJ’s on University Avenue and I loved that there was an upstairs area. PJ’s is usually packed, however, with this, I was able to focus more and get away from all of the noise.”
If you are looking for some vitamin D while you are studying, look no further, because Cate Street Park has just what you need. This gem lies in the heart of Hammond on 200 W. Charles St.
There are benches and even a gazebo to sit in the solitude of nature, or you can even bring a blanket to lie on and soak in some rays of sunshine. If you require Wifi to do your schoolwork, Cate Street Park is within walking distance of the PJ’s Coffee located on West Thomas Street.
Neal said, “I went to Cate Street Park to study my freshman year, but I didn’t have a hotspot so I printed my notes out before. I liked that I was able to extend my legs on the bench without hunching over my laptop like I normally do at a coffee shop. Being outside was rejuvenating.”
Whether you want a change of scenery or you just want to try out some local coffee, Downtown Hammond offers many options for you to explore. So grab your backpack and switch up your study environment because you might find your new favorite spot.
