Students at Indiana University Indianapolis often balance packed schedules, long study sessions and the search for a reliable caffeine fix. Several cafés within a short drive of campus offer distinct atmospheres, specialty drinks and food options that appeal to different study and social needs. Here’s a look at six nearby shops and what they offer students.
Coat Check Coffee
Located about two miles from campus, Coat Check Coffee offers a warm and quiet atmosphere with soft lighting, wooden accents and detailed wall décor. During a morning visit, the café remained peaceful, with customers speaking quietly enough for focused work. Although seating can be limited, the environment lends itself to studying.
The tiramisu latte is the standout specialty drink. It has a balanced flavor that complements the shop’s calm setting. An Americano costs $3.50. Coat Check also sells a large croissant that pairs well with any drink.
Calvin Fletcher’s Coffee Company
Calvin Fletcher’s, roughly 2.6 miles from campus, is known for its colorful artwork and bright natural lighting. During a late-morning visit, the café was quiet and had enough seating despite a steady stream of customers. No music played, which made the space even more study-friendly.
The matcha with lemon curd foam offers a light, citrus-forward twist on a classic drink. The matcha rates about an 8 out of 10 for flavor. An Americano costs $4.15. The shop also serves a breakfast burrito for $8.75. While it was smaller than expected, it had strong flavor.
Amelia’s at The Stutz
Amelia’s, located 1.5 miles from campus, features bright natural lighting and large windows that make it ideal for people watching. However, the café can become loud and echoey during the afternoon, which may distract students who need quiet space.
The French toast latte has a subtle flavor, and an Americano costs $3.50. Amelia’s also offers a cinnamon roll croissant for $4. The pastry is flaky and not overly sweet, making it a reliable morning treat
Bovaconti Coffee
Bovaconti Coffee, about three miles from campus, is known for its artwork and friendly staff. Even during busier afternoon hours, drinks come out quickly. The biggest drawback is the limited number of outlets, which may make it difficult for students who rely on laptops.
The Spanish latte is the top recommendation. Made with condensed milk and cinnamon, it is sweet without being overwhelming. An Americano costs $3.50. The cobb salad, priced at $7.50, has a good balance of ingredients, though the chicken can be slightly dry.
Coffee Haus at Guggman
Coffee Haus at Guggman, just 1.3 miles from campus, offers an eclectic interior with exposed woodwork and plenty of seating. The environment is homey and one of the better spots for studying, especially during long work sessions.
The shop’s seasonal specialty, the Scotchie Claus latte, has a strong butterscotch flavor and leans into a holiday theme without becoming too sweet. At $3, the Americano is the most affordable of all the cafés reviewed. The Sunrise Scramble is a vegetarian breakfast option with fresh vegetables and strong flavor.
Public Parlor
Public Parlor, located 1.7 miles from campus, has upbeat music, bright natural lighting, friendly staff and plenty of plants. The louder environment makes headphones necessary for focused studying, but it still offers an inviting atmosphere.
The Fireside latte stands out for its presentation, complete with a sugar rim and marshmallows on a skewer. An Americano costs $4. The almond croissant is warmed, lightly sweet and has a distinct almond flavor.
Choosing the Right Spot
Each café brings something different for IU Indianapolis students:
Best for studying: Coffee Haus at Guggman and Coat Check Coffee
Best specialty drinks: Bovaconti Coffee and Public Parlor
Best food pairings: Amelia’s cinnamon roll croissant and Guggman’s Sunrise Scramble
Best value: Coffee Haus at Guggman
Whether students want a quiet corner to work, a well-crafted latte or a cozy meeting spot, the city’s coffee scene offers plenty of options within a short drive of campus.
Finn Williams (they/them/she/her) is a senior double majoring in media arts and science and journalism and is a writer for The Campus Citizen. In their free time they enjoy cooking, dancing and motorsports.
REVIEW: ‘It's Never Over,’ a tribute to Jeff Buckley
By Mya Kalita | Dec. 17Named one of the greatest singers of all time by Rolling Stone Magazine, Jeff Buckley is recognized as one of the ‘90s most striking talents. From Buckley's diverse vocal range, to his resonating lyricism, he was an ethereal voice that was unheard of for its time. In director Amy Berg's intimate and somber film, “It's Never Over, Jeff Buckley,” Berg showcases his charismatic spirit as well as his technical skill.
‘Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure’ welcomes Hoosiers for the holidays
By Cristina Bueno | Dec. 11The Eiteljorg Museum’s annual Christmas tradition, “Jingle Rails: The Great Western Adventure,” returns to Indianapolis on Nov. 15, 2025 running until Jan. 29, 2026. The exhibit inaugurates the winter season by featuring G-scale electric trains traveling through miniature American landscapes.
GenAI review: a student's perspective
By Devin Bates | Dec. 9In the fall of 2025, IU enrolled all of its students in an online course called Gen AI 101, which earned students a microcredential that showed they had been trained to use artificial intelligence (AI) in an efficient way as a tool and thought partner. Some classes, including Foundations of Journalism and Mass Communications, have even asked students to complete this course.
