8 L.A. Study Spots to Spice Up Your Finals Week
By Alyssa Wall
Between turkey overloads and mistletoes, there comes a little nightmare we like to call finals week. Despite the Hogwarts-esque aura of Doheney’s main hall, or Leavey’s personal study caves, studying amongst fifteen-thousand stress-ridden peers can get a bit old. Especially if it’s a 24-hour affair.
This finals week, it might be time to look elsewhere for a clear-minded study sesh. We’ve gathered eight of our favorite spots, both on campus and around Los Angeles, to help you switch up your routine.
Nature’s Brew
There’s no need to leave the neighborhood now that Nature’s Brew is in town. This USC hotspot has tables for individual and group study, and it’s only a bike ride away. With an inviting vibe, funky curations of local art decking the walls, and an abundance of outlets, this local spot has our vote. Looking for a study incentive? Treat yourself to their infamous mini Maple Bacon cookies.
2316 S Union Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90007
Philz Coffee
San Francisco-based Philz Coffee has finally brought its magic to Los Angeles. And the hype followed. Offering over 20 customized blends and plenty of dark roasts, this spot is ideal for anyone from coffee connoisseurs to caffeine-hungry students. Their communal tables and high-top counters offer a laid-back studying environment. Plus, Downtown’s new Whole Foods is right around the corner.
801 S Hope St., Unit A Los Angeles, CA 90017
Literatea
If you’re keen on staying on campus, but looking for a bit more ambience than the library can offer, check out this Trojan-friendly coffee joint. Tucked behind Doheny, Literatea offers comfortable plush seating and an adjoining sun-soaked courtyard. As an added perk, dining and discretionary funds are accepted.
3550 Trousdale Pkwy, Los Angeles, CA 90089
Demitasse
Located just downtown in Little Tokyo, Demitasse is a quaint coffee shop known for its strong brews. Window seating and a relaxed ambiance make this spot a winner. If you’re looking for an extended stay, however, be wary that the Wi-Fi codes are only valid for two to three hours.
135 S San Pedro St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
UnUrban Café
The ultimate bohemian coffee house. If you’re looking to add a little color to a drab week, go no further than this Santa Monica gem. Grab a seat amongst the eclectic array of found furniture and your creative juices are sure to flow. And if you stay long enough you might just catch one of their nightly performances on the mini-stage. UnUrban isn’t just for art or music majors, but if you need a more convential business-minded study environment, we’d recommend you look elsewhere.
3301 Pico Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90405
Bricks and Scones
With tables and seating galore, this Larchmont spot is not opposed to letting guests overstay their welcome. Bricks and Scones offers an “quiet zone” area with old-fashioned table lamps and multiple private spots for group work. If the hours are dragging on, check out the communal magazines, cards and board games to liven up your study break.
403 N Larchmont Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90004
Insomnia Cafe
This one is for the night owls. Open until 1 AM, Insomnia’s name says it all. The abundance of tables, couches and outlets make it easy to sit back and read or write until the wee hours. Most customers are doing the same, so the noise level is never an issue. Tip: Insomnia Cafe is cash only, so come prepared.
7286 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Los Angeles Public Library
If you’re looking to switch up your library loyalties, DTLA’s Central Library offers a change of scenery. A gorgeous one, at that. Designed with ancient Egyptian and Mediterranean Revival influences, its architecture has deemed it worthy of recognition on the National Register of Historic Places. What’s more, you’ll feel like a true intellectual when you’re surrounded by this seemingly infinite collection of literature.
630 W 5th St, Los Angeles, CA 90071
While your heads may be stuck in the books for what feels like forever, just remember it is the final stretch. Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or somewhere to liven up your routine, we can guarantee that these study spots will offer a well-deserved change of pace. Happy studying!
Reach Contributor Alyssa Wall here.
