Now that classes have begun there’s no putting it off – studying is coming. Sometimes you need a place to go to study when your apartment, dorm, or cupboard under the stairs isn’t cutting it. So I’ve compiled a list of places to go in downtown Chi town that will silently rock your socks off.
1. All Chicago Libraries – Did you know that with your student ID you have access to all college libraries on the many campuses in Chicago? Simply show your ID and you’re in. Some of my favorites are: the spacious third floor of Columbia College’s library, the top floor of the Harold Washington Library, the stacks of SAIC’s library, and the lobby of DePaul’s campus library. This last one makes me feel like I’m nestled in the hall of the King under the Mountain from J.R.R Tolkien’s The Hobbit – cozy places!
2. Grant Park – Who doesn’t want to get away from the city for a little while and enjoy nature? With backyards being a rarity in the metropolitan area, Grant Park offers a multitude of options for green space. If the weather permits, pack a snack, a blanket, a few friends, and head to the park for some inspiration.
3. Art Institute of Chicago’s South Garden – Located on top of a parking garage and opening onto Michigan Avenue, this garden is a small-scale wonderland. Low-hanging honey locust trees create a sheltered canopy that muffles city noises. The area is constructed with stone planters that provide a place to sit and offer a relaxed environment that is seconds away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
4. Hotel Lobbies – If you’re feeling a little more adventurous and work well with some background noise, meander over to a hotel. Two of my frequent spots are the grand lobbies of the Congress Plaza Hotel and The Hilton, both located on Michigan Avenue.
5. Hero Coffee Bar – Conveniently located near the University Center, Hero’s offers its own freshly brewed coffee, tea, and sandwiches. If you’re looking to get away from the colloquialisms of chain coffee shops this is a perfect cozy spot with free Wi-Fi and great indie music.
Art Institute of Chicago’s South Garden – 111 S. Michigan Ave
Columbia College Chicago Library – 624 S. Michigan Ave
Congress Plaza Hotel – 520 S. Michigan Ave
DePaul Loop Library – 1st East Jackson Blvd, DePaul Center 10th floor
DePaul Lincoln Park Campus Library – 2350 N. Kenmore Ave
Harold Washington Public Library – 400 S. State St
Hero Coffee Bar – 439 S. Dearborn St
Hilton Chicago – 720 S. Michigan Ave
John M. Flaxman Library (SAIC) – 37 S. Wabash Ave, 5th and 6th floor
Newberry Library – 60 W. Walton St
Robert Morris Library – 401 S State St, 10th floor
Roosevelt University Library – 430 S. Michigan Ave, 10th floor