With nearly six weeks of winter break quickly approaching, many students will soon have a substantial break from classes. Most people use this time to travel, visit family, and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation, but it’s also a great time to catch up on recreational reading and personal writing projects. Check out this list of some of the best places to sit back, relax, and read and write in Chicago, focused on places near the Lincoln Park and Loop campuses.
Near the Lincoln Park Campus
Two-Hearted Queen
1201 W. Roscoe St.
About a mile north of the Lincoln Park Campus, students can find abundant seating options in a community atmosphere at Two-Hearted Queen. This coffee shop with a sustainable mission has couches, tables, and oversized chairs as well as handmade coffee drinks and local pastries. With free WiFi, you can comfortably sit and work for hours.
Kibbitznest
2212 N. Clybourn Ave.
As Kibbitznest describes on its website, “We are a third place. The first is home. The second is work. Here, the community is welcome to engage and share, face to face.” This bookbar includes new and used books as well as happy hour food and drink specials. Big disclaimer: Kibbitznest has no WiFi, so it’s best for writing by hand or spending some time reading.
Lincoln Park Conservatory
2391 N. Stockton Dr.
If you’re looking for a quiet place to read and escape the cold this winter, one step into the Lincoln Park Conservatory will transport you into a world of tropical gardens. Built from 1890 to 1895, this Victorian-era conservatory surrounds visitors with humidity and warmth. There are several benches and a few tables where visitors can linger with a good book.
A Cozy Local Coffee Shop
Can you really go wrong with visiting your friendly neighborhood coffee shop? This winter break, visit a local shop that you’ve been meaning to try or explore the surrounding area on Google Maps to find somewhere new to go. You might just find your new favorite place you can return to time and time again.
Near the Loop Campus
The Poetry Foundation Library
61 W. Superior St.
Did you know that Chicago is home to the only library in the Midwest dedicated to poetry? At The Poetry Foundation Library, you can find 30,000 volumes of poetry as well as rotating exhibits and interactive programs. The light-filled public reading room features two stories of bookshelves with desks and modern couches, ideal for a productivity session.
Starbucks Reserve Roastery
646 N. Michigan Ave.
In mid-November, the world’s largest Starbucks Reserve Roastery opened in downtown Chicago, with 34,000 square feet and four stories of all things coffee to explore. A 56-foot cask roasts coffee beans in-store. On the third floor, check out the seating nook by the flavor wheel, or head up to the fourth floor to sit at the Barrel-Aged Coffee Bar.
Two Zero Three Coffee & Wine Bar
203 N. Wabash Ave.
Located on the first floor of the Virgin Hotel, Two Zero Three Coffee & Wine Bar offers free WiFi, local drip coffee and espresso, and a spacious area filled with wooden tables, bar seating, and sofas. If you find yourself in need of inspiration, you can walk down the block to the American Writers Museum, where students can take advantage of discounted admission.
Harold Washington Library
400 S. State St.
If you haven’t yet visited the Harold Washington Library, winter break might be a great time to explore this well-respected establishment. Check out the Winter Garden on the 9th floor, which encourages quiet contemplation, or find a quiet area to sit anywhere throughout the library. While you’re there, get a Chicago Public Library Card and check out DePaul’s holiday window display.
What’s your favorite place to study? Let us know in the comments!