Juliette Robinson (SFS’28) is a first year in the School of Foreign Service. She plans to major in international politics and pursue a certificate in international business diplomacy. She conducts research as a Mortara Undergraduate Research Fellow, consults at Georgetown Global Consulting, works for the Center for Social Justice and writes for the Free Speech Project. For fun, she captains the Georgetown Women’s Rugby team and enjoys exploring DC (especially the different food options) with friends.
Tired of campus and looking for a fresh spot to get work done? Whether you need a quiet library, a cozy café, or a coffee shop with just the right amount of background buzz, DC has plenty of options. Here are some of the best off-campus places to study, write or power through your next assignment.
Blue Bottle
Need a distraction-free zone? Blue Bottle’s sleek, modern aesthetic is perfect for deep work. Their coffee is top-tier, and the no-frills environment makes it easy to concentrate. There’s usually a steady stream of people coming in and out, but it never feels too loud or overwhelming. Plus, there’s outdoor seating — perfect for enjoying the warmer months. If you like a clean, minimalist workspace with great espresso, this is your spot.
Compass Coffee
A DC staple, Compass Coffee is all about good coffee and good vibes. It’s spacious, with plenty of seating and a solid mix of students and professionals getting work done. There’s always a bit of background noise, but in a way that feels energizing rather than distracting. Their draft lattes are a must-try, and if you need a change of scenery from campus, this is a reliable go-to.
Georgetown Neighborhood Library
Want library-level quiet but don’t feel like trekking to Capitol Hill? The Georgetown Neighborhood Library is a perfect middle ground. It’s bright, spacious, and has plenty of seating, making it an ideal spot for a focused work session. The second-floor reading room has gorgeous views of the neighborhood, and if you need a study break, there are plenty of coffee shops nearby. Plus, it’s usually way less crowded than Lau.
Kogod Courtyard
Tucked inside the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery, Kogod Courtyard has to be one of DC’s best-kept study spots. The massive glass ceiling lets in tons of natural light, and the open space has plenty of seating, making it a perfect place to spread out and get work done. It’s quiet but not too quiet: just the right balance of peaceful and lively. Plus, you’re steps away from world-class art, so study breaks are actually inspiring.
Library of Congress
The Library of Congress is unbeatable if you want to feel like a serious scholar. The Main Reading Room feels like it’s straight out of a movie: high ceilings, grand architecture and a quiet atmosphere that practically forces you to focus. You’ll need a Reader ID card to access the reading rooms, but the process is quick and easy. Once you’re in, it’s a peaceful oasis away from campus. Bonus: You’ll be surrounded by books and history, which makes writing that research paper feel a little more inspiring.
Maman
Maman feels like studying in a friend’s (very stylish) living room. With rustic decor, comfy seating and delicious baked goods, it’s one of the coziest spots in DC. Their coffee is solid, and their menu is full of comforting treats like chocolate chip cookies and warm quiches. It’s a great place to get some writing done or have a casual study session without the stress of a packed library.
Tatte Bakery & Cafe
If you like your study sessions with a side of pastries, Tatte is the place to be. With nine locations in DC, every Tatte location is Instagram-level pretty, with bright interiors, communal tables and an inviting atmosphere. The food is great (think Mediterranean-inspired salads, avocado toast and buttery croissants), and the coffee will keep you going for hours. It can get busy, but if you grab a seat early, it’s a great place to settle in with your laptop.
