Although Brock’s campus provides many picturesque study spots, a change of scenery can help to inspire some extra motivation and focus.
Studying comes easier when paired with fresh coffee, delicious treats or beautiful views found around St. Catharines.
Whether you need a break from campus or you’re looking to explore Brock’s surrounding cityscape, here are a few study spots to visit in St. Catharines.
Mahtay Café and Lounge
Found at 241 St. Paul Street, Mahtay Café and Lounge has an environment that is perfect for inspiring productivity. The cafe takes pride in their commitment to provide a safe space for all people since their opening in 2011. Not only do they have an exquisite menu of food and drink options, but they also house products made by small local businesses.
Mahtay’s biggest appeal to students is their flexible hours. The café opens at 8 a.m. every weekday and 9 a.m. on weekends. During the week they stay open until 9 p.m. On Fridays they stretch their hours to midnight and on Saturdays they close at 10 p.m. The café’s hours benefit students with different schedules, providing all-day off-campus study time.
Mahtay Café and Lounge’s full menu and more information can be found on their website.
Caffe Gatti
If you are looking for a secluded café in St. Catharines’ downtown area, look no further than Caffe Gatti on 3 Race Street, located off Carlisle Street beside the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre.
Caffe Gatti is a small European-style café with an affordable menu selling everything from sweet treats like specialty lattes, bakery items and gelato to savoury meals like homemade pizza, sandwiches and salads.
Caffe Gatti is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. from Tuesday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. The café is closed on Monday.
The quieter atmosphere of this café paired with the calming jazz instrumentals you will likely find floating through its seating area make Caffe Gatti a great place to focus and get productive.
A full menu, customer testimonials, and more information can be found on Caffe Gatti’s website.
Balzac’s Coffee Roasters
Located on 9 Lock Street, Balzac’s can be found in the small town of Port Dalhousie in the north end of St. Catharines. Although the café is further away from campus than other choices on this list, it is worth the journey. With both indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the historic town, Balzac’s Coffee Roasters offers a peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for ticking off tasks on your school to-do list.
According to their website, Balzac’s Coffee Roasters aims to provide a space that embodies the culture of Parisian cafés.
Balzac’s drink menu has many options and includes unique seasonal beverages. The café is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
More information about Balzac’s Coffee Roasters can be found on their website.
Lakeside Park
If you are looking to do some unplugged studying, Lakeside Park is a convenient outdoor spot for students to get focused in nature. Located at 1 Lakeport Road, a two-minute walk from Balzac’s Coffee Roasters, Lakeside Park provides a beautiful view of Lake Ontario. The park has a large pavilion beside the pier shading many picnic tables looking onto the water.
This spot is best for taking advantage of sunny days while keeping up with your assignments.
––
Despite the beauty found within Brock’s campus, it is healthy to spend time in new spaces. Exploring off-campus study options is a great way to become familiar with the welcoming local businesses and beautiful scenery that St. Catharines has to offer.
