Bobcat Bucket List #75: Sip and Study at Local Coffee Shops

While studying at Starbucks is always an option, there are many local places that offer free wifi and a wide array of caffeinated drinks. Everyone has their favorite spot off campus, so we made a list of the top three local coffee shops to visit.

Jo’s Cafe - The Cozy One

There’s a reason Jo’s Café is a staple coffee shop for the Texas State student population and San Marcos locals alike. The Café is a great place to study, eat breakfast or lunch, and of course grab a cup of Jo!

Jo’s Café has been a San Marcos favorite for the past 10 years. They serve all-day breakfast as well as a great lunch menu. Stelos Alliance intern Madelyn Parson’s favorite food item is the breakfast quesadilla with eggs, bacon, cheddar, veggies, smoked paprika sauce, and a side of sour cream.

They have an endless array of specialty coffee drinks and non-coffee options. Their beans from Redbud Roasters are locally roasted, fair-trade and organic. Jo’s is filled with local art and a lively bulletin board to keep you updated on many local events. There is a recently remodeled inside seating section and a dog-friendly patio.

310 Mary St, San Marcos, TX 78666

Stellar Coffee Co. - The Community One

This shop is located close to campus and is always filled with students on their laptops. The owners believe in good coffee and authentic community, which is why there are both individual tables and long tables where you can sit and work next to new people. Their shop slogan “be a good human” can be found on their sweatshirts, mugs, and travel cups.

Stellar Coffee Co. serves everything from matchas and teas to flavored lattes. They’re community-oriented and host open mic nights and local performances.

232 North LBJ Dr Suite 101 San Marcos, TX 78666

Wake the Dead Coffee House - The Funky One

Wake the Dead lives up to its name with its Tim Burton style house. Located just off the square, this house is a hub for those needing a late night place to study or go to an event.

They host all things funky including witch’s markets and comedy nights. They even have rotating art exhibits mostly submitted by students. Historically, the coffee shop was open until 3am. After COVID-19, their hours have shifted, so they now close at 10pm.

Since the shop is geared toward those staying up late, they offer a large selection of beer and wine in addition to espresso drinks. For those just looking to hang out, spend time in their beer garden and listen to local DJs or comics.

1432 Old Ranch Rd 12 San Marcos, TX 78666

Honorable mentions: Lamppost Coffee, The Coffee Bar, Mas Que Cafe