College towns have their own special energy, and our college towns in Kosciusko County are no exceptions. Students attract students, and in a county including Grace College, Ivy Tech, and Indiana Tech, some favorite watering holes are bound to emerge. Here’s a primer of favorite Kosciusko student hangs. 

Coffee Shops

Coffee Depot, Syracuse, IN

It’s enjoyable to study in a place that has delicious coffee and food, and some coffee shops offer board games and books. Many coffee shops and restaurants feature free Wi-Fi and plenty of electrical outlets for charging laptops. The coffee shop ambiance increases creativity, alertness, and learning ability, which is why studying at a coffee shop is so popular.  Here is a list of popular area coffee shops.

Coffee shops:

Light Rail Café, Winona Lake, IN

“I like Warsaw’s Buffalo Street Emporium for great fudge, low-priced books, and friendly owners! My favorite coffee shop for the study is Rise N Roll.” – Emily Bradford, senior psychology major, Grace College.  

“Getting coffee at Light Rail has always been one of my favorites. There are also a bunch of little shops, a park, a beach, an ice cream shop, and my all-time favorite, the Winona Lake trails! ” – Ava Silveus, Warsaw Community High School senior, taking Ivy Tech classes toward a degree in special education or human and social services. 

Three Crowns Coffee, Warsaw, IN

Restaurants

Channel Marker, Syracuse, IN

Some college students need more than a coffee to stay alert for the long hours studying. These are some of the college’s favorite restaurants to satisfy their hunger. 

Local restaurants:

“For studying, it’s Light Rail’s porch, in the shade. I go to Social Ice Cream two or three times a week for my summer fix. Dairy Queen is a winter staple for ice cream and watching the sunset. The Warsaw area is like a protected environment filled with good-natured people.” – Chloe Reel, senior visual communication and design major, at Grace College 

Boondocks Peterson Fish Syracuse Indiana
Boondocks “Home of Peterson’s Fish” Syracuse, IN

“I enjoy the many Kosciusko restaurants. We like Winona Lake’s Cerulean, which has an amazing Poke bowl. For steak, I like Warsaw’s One Ten Craft Meatery, where Wagyu is my favorite. I enjoy the Ramen from Three Crowns Coffee. For breakfast, it’s Maria’s Family Restaurant east of Warsaw. Boondock’s “Home of the Peterson’s Fish” in Syracuse has amazing options, including all-you-can-eat. Hogs R Wild and Ledgeview Brewing Company in Warsaw have great barbecues. Bomy’s is the place for Indian cuisine – make mine mild!” – Leo Patino, Indiana Tech admission staff and business administration and sport management student. 

Social Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop, Winona Lake, IN
Social Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop, Winona Lake, IN

Outdoor Locations

Winona Lake Limitless Park, Winona Lake, IN

Sometimes getting some fresh air is just what you need to get your brain in gear to focus. Plus, sometimes you need a study break to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you are looking to study from a hammock, picnic table, or sitting by a lake, here are some potential parks in the area for your next study session or study break.

Remembrance Park, Etna Green, IN

“We love the Grace campus for the library, Martin’s, or the new Starbucks to study. For just hanging out, we have new campfire pits and hammock stands. Winona Lake has restaurants for coffee or lunch, and studying by the lake makes it feel more like a vacation than college. We love beach volleyball, spike ball, and Frisbee, and renting kayaks, canoes, or paddle boards. In Warsaw, we like the roller-skating rink, Frisbee golf in the parks, the movie theatre, and the YMCA. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here, and want to stay close to the community!”  – Brittney Klotz, senior nursing major, Grace College

Winona Lake, IN

In conclusion, Kosciusko County has plenty of spots where college students can study and relax. From coffee shops to restaurants, parks to beaches, the area is filled with great options for students looking to take a break from their studies. Whether it’s Light Rail Cafe & Roaster’s porch, Social Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop, or Maria’s Family Restaurant, there is something for everyone. With such a diverse range of options, it’s no wonder that Kosciusko County is a popular destination for students seeking a great college experience.