Great off-campus study spots in Halifax

Yes, finals are approaching. Where are you going to study when you need a change in scenery?

Person studying at a table in the Halifax Central Library There are some nice sunny spots in the Halifax Central Library. (photo: Jason Petersson)

Just because you might be studying more doesn’t mean you have to feel limited to getting your work done in the spaces available on campus or in your apartment. There are many places in Halifax to explore and study, most of which are just a short walk or bus ride away. Here are some of personal favourites.

 

Coburg Social

Just a block away from Howe Hall and the Mona Campbell Building, Coburg Social is a perfect place to get some work done while you’re waiting between classes. Indoor and outdoor seating is offered where you can grab a drink and settle into your finals review. Since it’s not a library, Coburg Social is also a great place to meet your friends where you can discuss questions without worrying about bothering anyone working. If you don’t have the time to go home and eat, it also offers great lunch items to snack on. It’s an excellent option if you’re looking for a place close to campus.

 

Halifax Waterfront

If you’re willing to brave the cold blowing off the water at this time of year, the Halifax Waterfront is a great place to study. The dock is lined with different seating options ranging from benches to hammocks where you can take your laptop or books to catch up on reading and enjoy one of the benefits of living in an oceanside city. The downtown waterfront is about a 20 or 30-minute walk from campus, but if you don’t feel like walking, one of the city buses will take you straight there.

 

The Nook

This is a great place to set up for an hour or two and get stuff done. Located on Gottingen St. in the north end, The Nook is small and cozy, so it doesn’t get too loud and it’s easy to stay focused. Even though it’s small, there’s still a lot of space for you to settle in and study. And their snack menu has some great options for study snacks.

 

Halifax Central Library

Located in downtown Halifax right beside Sexton Campus, the Central Library is a great study spot if you need a quiet place to get work done. It has bookable study spaces you can reserve for yourself or with your friends, and open spaces you can use as well. Because of its convenience to my residence, I normally go to the Killam Library to get my work done, but a change of scenery can make all the difference in your mood and productivity.

 

Steve-O-Reno’s Cappuccino

Brunch until 3pm, yes please! On the weekends Steve-O-Reno’s offers its breakfast menu until 3pm, so if you feel like having breakfast for lunch on a Saturday, this is the place to go. Located downtown on Brunswick St., near the Central Library, it’s known for its breakfast sandwiches and Spanish-inspired dishes.

 

Take a trip to Dartmouth

If you have the time to get there, Dartmouth has its own share of suitable study spots worth visiting. Take a bus from campus down to the Halifax waterfront and enjoy a ferry ride to Dartmouth courtesy of the U-Pass on your DalCard. Right off the ferry terminal in Dartmouth you’ll find restaurants and cafés, a library, and parks where you can get your work done while taking in the beautiful view of the Halifax skyline.

If you plan to do most of your studying on campus, here are some places you might want to check out.

Where’s your favourite place to study off campus? Share your suggestions in the comments below.