As the school year wraps up, students tend to hit the community coffee shops in order to prep for the last few 5 a.m. wake up calls of the year. From Advanced Placement exams to finals, the level of stress on students continues to rise. More importantly, the need for coffee increases as many battle to stay awake at the wee hours of the morning. Finding the best mocha or iced coffee is important, especially when you’re trying to find the best bang for your buck.

Although both menus tend to provide the same things, there are significant differences in overall satisfaction, taste, and quality between coffee shops around town. Since Antioch takes the cake in a typical midwestern-suburb, the options tend to be limited. From chain stores such as Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts, to community shops such as The Latte Cafe, White Willow Beverage Co. and Cafe Book, there are a wide variety of options to choose from.

“I usually go to Starbucks and get a caramel frappuccino,” Kristian Kicklighter said. “The inside is nice and relaxing.”

Other high quality shops in Lake County include Hansa Coffee in Libertyville, Julie’s Coffee in Lake Villa and Somethings Brewing Inc. in Grayslake.  Hansa Coffee tends to take the cake for a picture perfect location, along with affordable and delectable coffee and tea choices.

Although distance might scare you, a few places in Wisconsin commonly known for classy style and delicious lattes are located in Burlington, such as The Coffee House at Chestnut & Pine. Those who visit the Burlington location recall the groovy open mic nights and homemade patisseries.

For the best deal in town, check out Dunkin Donuts, Cafe Book or The Latte Cafe, each serving classic coffee favorites alongside breakfast and lunch foods. White Willow Beverage Co. also serves pastries and meals in addition to daily coffee brews and an assortment of tea. More importantly, these go-to shops tend to be great places for study sessions while enjoying a brewed cup of coffee or iced tea.

“I definitely go to Dunkin Donuts,” Mary Cook said. “It’s the only place I’ve been and super affordable during happy hour.”

From Dunkin’s .99 cent coffee from 2-6 to the unique flavors offered at Julie’s Coffee, the coffee and tea deals near Antioch are endless. When in preparation for finals, some students support small business. Meanwhile, others venture out to chain coffee shops, all in hope of getting an afternoon buzz to keep themselves rejuvenated. Where are you picking up your cup of joe?