Just because you’re in school doesn’t mean you’re condemned to the library. Forget studying all day in your Athens Ohio apartment. Get outdoors into the bright sun to study! You can read geology just as easily in a hammock as you can at a desk. Here are a few great places to do it.
The Hocking River by the Bike Path
Nothing helps the studying like the tranquility of a river. Walk down to the Hocking River and find a nice spot in the shade. Its quiet, perfect serenity will help you get your study on.
Strouds Run
Strouds Run does require a car or a bike ride, but there are plenty of picnic tables under the trees that make for a perfect study spot. It’s quiet without distractions. If you have parking at your rental, it shouldn’t be difficult to make the trek.
Oh, and just so you know, they Strouds has boat rentals, too, if that’s more your speed.
The Ridges
Take a hike up to the Ridges with some books and blanket. You can find a nice spot in the woods to study, or at the top of the ridgeline with a perfect view of Athens in the skyline. Maybe you can even spot your apartment!
Your front or back yard
The value of having a house with a yard and a nice view cannot be understated.
Sometimes, you just want to kick it back at your place, but also don’t want to be cooped up inside. Get some nice lawn furniture, sit down and bask in the sun as you crunch numbers or write up the essay you’ve been procrastinating. If you’re worried about noise, invest in some nice noise-canceling earbuds or headphones.
Oftentimes, your apartment’s front yard is all you need for a little inspiration.
Bong Hill
For a panoramic view of the city, take a hike up Bong Hill. This spot offers a quiet place to read and study, with a stunning view of Athens as a backdrop.
The Ohio University Golf Course
Most students don’t even know this place exists! If you live close to campus, it’s just a ten-minute walk – right by Ping.
The course offers a tranquil setting to hit the books. Find a cozy spot under a tree, listen to the birds chirping, and enjoy the open space. You might even get some putting practice in between study sessions.
Sells Park
Sells Park is a beautiful and serene spot to study. With winding trails, beautiful flora and fauna, and plenty of shade, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing study break.
Here’s a video of the trail leading up to the park, though they’re probably a little more active than you will be studying.
Athens County Public Libraries
While studying outside is a great way to connect with nature and soak up some vitamin D, sometimes you just need a quiet indoor space to focus. Athens County Public Libraries offer a peaceful and air-conditioned space to get work done, with access to a wide range of resources including books, study materials, and computers – all while getting a different academic scenery from Alden Library.
The library is a bit further off campus, though, so if you don’t have parking at your rental or don’t live within walking distance – you’ll have to take the bus.
The Shade of a Tree on College Green
The center of Ohio University’s campus, College Green, is a popular spot for studying outdoors.
Take a seat under one of the many trees and enjoy the beautiful scenery. With plenty of food and drink options nearby, it’s easy to take a break and grab a snack when you need it. And with it being right on campus, your off-campus rental – and Uptown Athens as a whole – is never more than a few minutes away.
The Plains Community Park
Located just outside of Athens, the Plains Community Park offers a peaceful and quiet spot to study. There are plenty of benches and tables scattered throughout the park, making it easy to find a cozy spot to hit the books.
Burr Oak State Park
If you’re looking for a more secluded outdoor spot to study, Burr Oak State Park might be perfect for you. This state park is located about 20 minutes away from Athens, and it offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking trails, fishing, and swimming. The park has several picnic tables and benches scattered throughout the area, making it easy to find a quiet spot to study.
Lake Hope State Park
Lake Hope State Park is another great option for outdoor studying. This park is located about 30 minutes away from Athens, and it offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere that’s perfect for studying. You can bring a blanket and find a spot by the lake, or set up at one of the park’s many picnic tables. You’ll have a beautiful view of the lake as you work on your assignments.
If you don’t want to make the trip alone – bring your roommates! I’m sure they’d be happy to get out of the apartment, even if it is a nice uptown rental.
Donkey Coffee
If you prefer to study in a more urban setting, Donkey Coffee is a great option. This cozy coffee shop is located uptown, just off Court Street, and offers plenty of outdoor seating. You can grab a cup of coffee and set up at one of the tables outside.
The atmosphere is perfect for studying, with a quiet and relaxed vibe that’s perfect for concentration – all right next to campus and your student rental!
West State Street Park
If you’re looking for a quiet outdoor spot that’s close to campus, West State Street Park might be perfect for you. This small park is located just a few blocks from campus, and it offers a peaceful and secluded atmosphere. You can bring a blanket and find a spot under a tree, or set up at one of the park’s picnic tables.
Incorporating outdoor study sessions into your routine can help break up the monotony of studying inside and improve your overall mood and productivity. Plus, with so many beautiful outdoor spots in Athens, you’ll never run out of options for a peaceful study session.