Best Places to Study in Athens for Finals

by Alexandria Anderson Sellers

With the semester ending and finals approaching, it’s time for students in Athens, Georgia, to lock in and hit the books. What better place to do this than at a library or coffee shop?

Here’s a list of the best places to study for finals in Athens based on Google ratings, student popularity and, of course, my personal opinion — the most important factor.

Alexandria Anderson Sellers, incoming PRSSA director of BEDI

Buvez

Buvez is my personal favorite. There’s something for everyone here — coffee, tea, sparkling drinks, bagels, matcha, pastries, you name it. Located on the outskirts of downtown and the industrial district, Buvez allows you to get away from campus while still feeling close to home. This coffee shop offers unique indoor seating, including bench-style tables and porch swings. The outdoor patio is great for soaking up the sun, sipping a cold drink and studying hard — and maybe even bringing your dog along for your study session. When you’re done studying, Buvez offers outdoor games such as cornhole for visitors to unwind and connect. With 4.6 stars on Google, Buvez is a must-try. And if that’s not enough, just know it comes highly recommended by yours truly.

1,000 Faces

1,000 Faces is located in the northeast corner of downtown Athens, making it the perfect place for University of Georgia students to stop by and enjoy a drink or pastry after class. As a tea lover myself, I can safely say 1,000 Faces has amazing blends — and they even serve them in your own personal glass kettle. Very cute and aesthetic. While this shop has no outdoor seating, its communal tables, modern wooden bench seats and high-top chairs are sure to make you feel comfortable while studying. 1,000 Faces has 4.6 stars on Google and is a staple in hundreds of UGA students’ study routines.

Alexander Campbell King Law Library

This UGA law library is an underrated haven for students. Its diverse study areas, on-site Jittery Joe’s, black leather couches and high ceiling with a wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling window make it one of the few places that get me excited to study. With bay windows, large wooden communal tables, booths and leather chairs, there’s a setup that will meet anyone’s studying needs. Located on North Campus, this library was my home during study season when I lived on campus. The only downside: It’s only accessible to law students during certain hours of finals week, so make sure to check its availability before stopping by. With a 4.5 rating (I personally think it deserves more), this library is a must-visit.

Sips Espresso Cafe

Sips, located on Prince Avenue, offers a great indoor and outdoor space for personal work, group projects or grabbing a sweet treat. The takeout window is a great option for those wanting to get out of the house and grab a drink for a quick study break. It’s located on UGA’s Health Sciences Campus, and with a 4.7 Google rating, Sips comes highly recommended.

McBay Science Library

Sci Li, as it’s more commonly referred to by UGA students, is set in the heart of UGA’s South Campus. Next to the Myers Quad dormitories, lecture halls and Snelling Dining Commons, Sci Li is the perfect location for students reviewing for a big test. What separates Sci Li from other libraries is the variety of study spaces it offers. With study rooms, booths, communal tables, pods and desks, it’s easy to work independently or have a group study session. Additionally, the building houses a Jittery Joe’s on the first floor, making it easy to get your caffeine fix and power through an all-nighter. With 4.9 stars on Google, Sci Li is a staple for UGA’s academic weapons.