From quiet study corners to hidden Providence skyline views, students across campus have discovered their favorite hidden gems in which to work, unwind or simply escape the rush of College Hill.
For Court Cummings ’26, Rhode Island Hall on the Main Green is at the top of their list. “Upstairs is just gorgeous, and I love to study there whenever I get the chance,” Cummings said. They also praised Stephen Robert ’62 Hall — referred to by students as New Watson — for its energizing atmosphere. “The vibes are great. It’s very bright, so you just walk in, and you’re immediately like, ‘Time to work.’”
When they need a break from studying, Cummings often heads downtown to their go-to spot, Harry’s Bar and Burger. “They do burgers and sliders, and then they also do alcoholic milkshakes, which is super interesting,” Cummings said.
Olesya Naryshkina ’28 said she discovered an underrated study spot, the Sidney Frank Hall for Life Sciences, through her lab work. “If you go in from Meeting Street, there’s a bunch of seating,” she said. Naryshkina described the space as “peaceful” and “cozy” — a place where she can stay productive without the intensity of a formal study environment.
For Divya Narayanan ’28, the building that houses the Division of Applied Mathematics offers both quiet and character, making it a preferred spot to get work done between classes.
“It’s got a very old-castle feel — gothic, with stained glass and a beautiful large staircase,” Narayanan said.
The department’s building, officially known as the Henry and Elizabeth Pearce Estate, was purchased by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence and served as a convent until it was acquired by the University in 1952.
Other students find solace in spots that feel far removed from the bustle of campus life. Lillian Gale ’28 described the Plant Environmental Center, located on the roof of 85 Waterman St., as a hidden sanctuary. She first visited the spot during a plant propagation workshop with the Department of Earth, Environment and Planetary Sciences and walked away struck by its warmth and tranquility.
“When I went to pick up my plant, I saw how gorgeous it was,” Gale said.
She now visits the conservatory as a retreat during colder months. “It’s great in the winter because it’s warm, and it’s also quiet there,” she said. “There are only two benches, so a lot of people can’t sit in there. But it’s great, especially when it gets dark and snowy.”
Teah Simon ’28 also mentioned the Edna W. Lawrence Nature Lab at the Rhode Island School of Design as one of her go-to leafy escapes.
Simon highlighted a few quiet corners that often go unnoticed, such as the courtyard behind the Maddock Alumni Center. “It’s really secluded. There are tables and a little garden,” she said, adding that she’s studied there before but also enjoys it as a peaceful place to sit.
She also recommended Tea in Sahara, a Moroccan cafe on Governor Street known for its relaxed atmosphere. “It’s open really late, which is nice — it closes at 11 p.m.,” Simon said. “They have a really good tea selection, warm lighting, lots of plants and chill music. It’s just a really good vibe.”
