Hidden hangouts in town give students feeling of comfort, individuality

There are many hidden hangouts in Mount Pleasant that students have discovered and found they love to spend their time.

Grand Rapids graduate student Shawn Witte has been religiously coming to Kaya Coffee House every single day since his junior year.

“It’s a good place to get my work done,” he said.

Witte said he lives downtown but the moped ride to get his loose leaf tea every day is worth it.

“It is usually pretty quiet , which makes for a good studying, but even when it’s a little louder on open mic night, I’m here,” he said.

Remus senior Elly Cotton has worked at Kaya Coffee House, 1029 S. University Ave., for five years and said it has become homey and even if she isn’t working she loves to be there.

She recommends students check out Mill Pond Park and Island Park for a hangout that they may not have noticed before.

“There is beautiful scenery, an awesome trail, a nice river area and the parks are cool to just have a picnic or read a book. I really like the parks in Mount Pleasant since they all connect,” she said.

Negaunee senior Helen Collins said The Book Garden, 114 Main St., in downtown Mount Pleasant is a hangout she likes to spends her days at.

“There is a wide variety of books there and the customer service is always really friendly,” she said.

Sophomore Amanda Snyder recommends that students checkout 216 E. Broadway St., which is home to the Broadway Theatre.

"It's one of the only quirky spots downtown that I like going to," the Lake Orion native said.

The Broadway Theatre hosts small, acoustic shows for fundraisers and a good time to see local and out of town bands, she said.

"Sometimes I have went and it is free, and other times there is a small cover if RSOs are trying to raise money," Snyder said.

The theater is an old movie theater that has turned into a showcase spot for many bands that hipster students love.

"It's a pretty intimate venue that just has one stage light, but they have little concerts that I've seen friends perform at, and it's really fun," Snyder said.