My Underrated Study Spots On/Around Campus
Everyone has their go-to study spot at Tufts. For most people, that means Tisch Library, the Campus Center, or wherever's closest to their dorm or off-campus house. But, sometimes, you want a change, and luckily there are plenty of underrated places on, and even off campus, where you can get work done in a new environment. Here are some of my favorite hidden gems that haven't failed me yet!
1. 574 Boston Ave
It’s easy to forget about 574 Boston Avenue if you don’t have classes there, as it sits on the edge of campus and houses departments like Physics, Community Health, and more. In my opinion, the building has some of the best quiet seating on campus. There are usually tons of open tables, study rooms equipped with whiteboards, the atmosphere is calm, and it’s a great place to focus when you want a bit of distance from the center of campus.
2. Granoff Music Center - my personal favorite!
Lilly Music Library is housed in the basement of Granoff, and is undeniably the best place on campus to work in peace, but the Granoff lobby is a bright and modern space, with tons of natural light streaming in throughout the day and some of the best views of the sunset over the football field. The building itself is usually quieter than the main academic buildings, aside from the occasional ensemble or A Cappella rehearsal that is audible through the halls, which only adds to the ambient noise and overall attraction for me!
3. The Laminian Lounge in Olin Center
The Laminian Lounge in Olin is a small room on the first floor of Olin. It’s often used to host events for the various language departments in the evenings, and I have tried many a new cuisine in that room! As a study spot, mostly during the day, it's comfortable with couches and lounge chairs and work tables, rarely packed, and it's super centrally located to the academic quad. It also has great views of the Rez Quad, one of my favorite campus views, and the vibe just feels very collegiate to me, so I'm always very productive here!
4. Prez Lawn (When the Weather Is Nice)
President's Lawn is Tufts students' favorite outdoor gathering place, and is home to countless traditions, from sledding in the winter to the Illumination Ceremony to Bowen Gate. However, when it’s warm out, Prez Lawn can be one of the best places to do work or meet with study groups. I have found that the fresh air helps me stay awake, especially after a busier class day, and the space is big enough that you can usually find a quiet corner. It helps that people are always out doing a variety of different things on Prez Lawn when the weather is nice; some study, some play guitar, some nap on a hammock, and some (me) just enjoy taking in the scene. Pro tip: just make sure your laptop is charged before you go!
5. Eaton Hall
Eaton has a lot of small lounge areas that people don’t normally frequent unless they have class there. During the afternoons and evenings, especially, it can be one of the quietest academic buildings on campus, and the basement and upper floors have a quiet ambience that is deeply peaceful, which makes it conducive to my productivity. During the day, the natural light (noticing a theme?) makes it a great place for longer study sessions as well.
6. Davis Square Cafés
If campus feels too distracting, Davis Square is close enough to walk but far enough to help you focus. Cafés like Diesel, Bloc, or Pavement give you background noise without being overwhelming, which can make it easier to stay productive. Plus, having coffee nearby never hurts. ☕
Why Finding the Right Spot Matters
Where you study can make a huge difference in how productive you are. Having a few underrated spots in your rotation means you always have somewhere to go when the usual places are full. Whether you like complete silence, background noise, or studying outside, Tufts has more options than people might realize.
So next time you're looking for a change in your routine, try one of these places. You might find your new favorite study spot.