UPDATE: Best Places to Study in Philly

Whether you are heading home for winter break or still need to find a quiet place to study for finals, one of the challenges many students face is finding somewhere great to study. If you’re anything like us, the space doesn’t have to be dead silent (although that doesn’t always hurt), but it does need to be comfortable enough to spread out. Of course, a place that offers coffee and snacks always helps. Luckily, Philly is full of these spots. We’ve revisited some of our favorite places and added a few more that we think are worth mentioning. Make sure to really explore these places as some of them host reading series and or open mic nights. Also, If you’re setting up in a coffee house or café for an extended period of time, be courteous and purchase an item.

Here are our picks of the best places to study in Philadelphia:

Located right off of South Street in Philadelphia, Chapterhouse Café & Gallery is a rare space that offers three good-sized rooms filled with tables, chairs, and couches. While there are always plenty of people around, it never seems to be too noisy or crowded.

690 S. 9th Street, Philadlephia

Although it’s not that far from Chapterhouse, Good Karma Café in Washington Square West is another coffee house that students flock to and for good reason.  The open layout offers plenty of table space. There’s even a small garden in the back. We also enjoy the menu, which includes vegan and vegetarian options.

928 Pine Street, Philadelphia

At first glance Menagerie Coffee in Old City might seem a bit cramped for studying, but the long tables, back area, and simple design actually make it a conducive place to get some serious work done. Bonus points for being an overall bright and clean space!

18 South 3rd Street, Philadelphia

The main branch of the free library is filled with tables and other nooks and crannies that are perfect for studying or quiet reading. There’s also a new café on the first floor. On good weather days, you have the whole stretch of Benjamin Franklin Parkway and nearby Kelly Drive to consider if you need a nature fix.

1901 Vine Street, Philadelphia

Aside from gaining national recognition as the country’s top coffee shop, Ultimo Coffee in Point Breeze has also proven itself to be a good place to study. The room is cozy but serviceable. Outside seating is available during the warmer months, and don’t forget to try the coffee or their delectable pastries.

1900 S. 15th Street, Philadelphia

You can’t wrong at The Lola Bean in Fishtown. This coffeehouse has a strong community feel and a collection of books to skim for that much needed study break. Soups, sandwiches, and salads are all prepared in house daily.

1325 Frankford Avenue, Philadelphia

Fairmount-favorite Mugshots offers an extensive and eclectic menu along with comfy couches and booths. It can get busy on weekend mornings so your best bet is to come early or at an off time for a more relaxed atmosphere.

1925 Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia

If you’re familiar with West Philly, then you’ve probably heard of Green Line Café.  This intimate space is accessible by the trolley (the Green line, get it?), and the big windows allow for people watching year-round. Clark Park is also right across the street.

4239 Baltimore Avenue, Philadelphia

Another park worth mentioning is FDR Park in South Philadelphia. Located on roughly 300 acres, this park offers plenty of  space for wandering, ruminating or studying. While the park is easily accessible by the Broad Street Line, bring your own food since there are no offerings within the park itself. Make sure to check out the skateboard park under I-95.

1500 Pattison Avenue, Philadelphia

Last but not least are the bookstores affiliated with the local colleges. Depending on the day these can be a bit crowded. Although, with a little creativity, you can usually find a quiet corner to browse or study. One of our favorites is the Penn Bookstore in University City.  This bookstore-meets-Barnes-and-Noble boasts a larger than average space and the addition of a café on the second floor.Populated mostly by Penn students, the serious study vibe can only inspire you.

3601 Walnut Street, Philadelphia

Let us know if any of these places have worked for you. Or write us a comment to let us know about your favorite study spot in Philly!