By Josh Hertzog   Published May 11, 2005 at 5:07 AM

{image1}It's that time of year again when students are cramming and pulling all-nighters, trying to absorb as much information as humanly possible while throwing down caffeine in various forms. OnMilwaukee.com decided to help out with some alternative study spots to get more accomplished with less stress.

Just don't fall asleep

Selfcares Relaxation Center
777 E. Wisconsin Ave., (414) 273-1501
Selfcares allows you to relax and study without making an appointment. Just walk on in, books in hand, and review your notes as you experience one of their many relaxation treats.

Communing with nature

Lake Park -- What could be better on a sunny study-filled day? Pack your notes and maybe a snack and let the sun be the light instead of the fluorescent ones in the dorms. Or bring a blanket and head down the bluff to Bradford Beach.

Grant Park -- Shady trees and a comfortable breeze make it a spot for many, weather permitting of course.

Kilbourn Park -- Another great outdoor location, where North Avenue curves around the reservoir, with peaceful surroundings and many study areas to choose from. Plus, one of the best views of downtown.

A classroom vibe

Not often taken advantage of, some very ingenious students have discovered empty classrooms and lecture halls as very effective study spots. If peace and quiet is what you're aiming for, this is the target. Just be sure it's within the rules...

Noodles & Company -- With indoor and outdoor seating available, Noodles provides a great study spot after a quick bite to eat. It might not be the quietest spot, but it is a quality one.

Qdoba -- Also with indoor and outdoor seating, Qdoba allows for a fast meal and a studying dessert.

Jimmy John's -- There's one on Marquette's campus and one near UWM, too. The food is good and relatively cheap and the vibe is loose, if a little loud at times.

Books and a cup o' joe

Of course, coffee shops have become student havens and studying hot spots. Check out a few of these spots to possibly expand your studying horizons, especially the 24-hour Node.

Alterra Coffee Roasters
2211 N. Prospect Ave., (414) 273-3753
1701 N. Lincoln Memorial Dr., (414) 223-4551
Especially at the lakefront location, during busy periods, there are sometimes time limits for students.

Starbucks
1677 N. Farwell Ave., (414) 224-7760
1610 W. Wisconsin Ave., (414) 933-1233
2551 N. Downer Ave., (414) 332-6105

Gasthaus
2200 E. Kenwood Blvd., (414) 229-6319
In the basement of the UWM student union. Beer, food, loud Tvs and more.

Roast Cafe
2132 E. Locust St., (414) 963-6363
Handy location for UWM students and outdoor tables when it's warm.

Node
1504 E. North Ave., (414) 431-9278
Open 24 hours but full of smoke.

Mocha
124 W. Wisconsin Ave., (414) 27-MOCHA
Open 24 hours and an easy walk from MU

If you have any alternative study spots you'd like to recommend, just leave a comment using our talkback feature.