Written by Lydia Carlson
Midterms are coming up and finding a new place to do homework off campus can be a daunting task. Fortunately, the Twin Cities area is full of great options. Here are four of the best underrated study spots near the University of Northwestern – St. Paul:
#1 – Shoreview Library
Open seven days a week, the Shoreview Public Library is a great study spot for college students. It’s free and offers plenty of seating in a quiet space, creating a focus-friendly environment. The modern interior is full of natural light and a variety of seating options, including armchairs, desks, computer monitors, and benches. Pick your favorite spot and enjoy a quiet study hour (or several – midterms are coming up soon!).
Address: 4560 Victoria St N, Shoreview, Minnesota 55126
Weekday Hours: Monday – Thursday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Weekend Hours: Friday – Saturday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sunday 12:00PM – 5:00PM
Website: https://www.rclreads.org/locations/SV/
#2 – Honour Coffee
Next on the list is Honour Coffee, near downtown Minneapolis. It’s open every day of the week but is particularly great for studying on the weekend. Don’t be deceived by the name! Honour offers so much more than coffee. Their acai bowls are the perfect fuel for a long day of homework and they serve tea and smoothies as well. Located in a refurbished bike shop Honour’s cheerful yellow and green color scheme brightens moods and makes assignments easy to finish. There’s also plenty of seating for individual studying so don’t be deterred on a busy weekend.
Address: 451 Stinson Blvd, Minneapolis, MN 55413
Weekday Hours: Monday – Friday: 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Weekend Hours: Saturday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Website: https://www.honourcoffeempls.com/
#3 – Barnes & Noble Booksellers
Next to a library, what better place to study than a bookstore? Roseville Barnes & Noble is a short drive from campus just off Snelling Avenue near Chick-fil-a. Other perks include free seating at their many tables and a central Starbucks café if the study budget allows for a treat. While not as quiet as a library, this bookstore still offers a peaceful homework environment and a fun browsing space during breaks.
Address: HarMar Mall 2100 North Snelling Ave Roseville, MN 55113
Weekday Hours: Mon-Sat 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Weekend Hours: Sun 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Website: https://stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/2614
#4 – Limu Coffee
Last but not least is Limu Coffee. The authentic Ethiopian coffee is not only delicious, but also affordable. This study spot is ranked last because it has the least amount of seating. There are desk, couch, and outdoor table options but on a busy day, it offers the least guarantee of a spot. It’s in a cute area of New Brighton about five minutes away from campus off County E. The proximity to campus and several restaurants nearby make it a great option for morning and midday study sessions.
Address: 500 5th Ave NW # 109, New Brighton, MN 55112
Weekday Hours: Mon-Fri: 6:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Weekend Hours: Sat: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Sun: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Website: https://www.limucoffee.net/
