One of the many great things that I enjoy about Mason is the close proximity to different study spots off-campus. In this blog section, I will be highlighting some of my favorite study spots in Fairfax. All of the locations are less than 12 miles away from the heart of campus, and Mason’s Shuttle Services provides FREE transportation to the majority of the sites listed.
1. De Clieu Coffee & Sandwiches
Starting with De Clieu Coffee & Sandwiches, located on Main Street, Fairfax, just a couple minutes away from campus. De Clieu has the best studying vibes, including free wifi and tables next to the windows with Historic Old Town Fairfax views. They also have other studying necessities, including caffeinated drinks such as their delicious coffee and yummy food and snacks. De Clieu is a great spot to study in a friendly and comfortable environment and a great spot to study with friends.
2. City of Fairfax Regional Library
The City of Fairfax Regional Library is a super reliable study spot that offers free wifi, great lighting, friendly and helpful librarian staff, and an excellent proximity to local shops in the area while also being located about 2 miles from campus! This study spot provides variety in sitting selections to study comfortably and in a quiet environment to keep you focused while studying. The City of Fairfax Regional Library is conveniently located in the center of Fairfax, surrounded by many local coffee shops and restaurants that are great to walk to while taking a study break!
3. Patriot Pawsabilities Cat Lounge
Patriot Pawsabilities Cat Lounge is a unique study spot located in University Mall, right next to campus, just a 14-minute walk from campus. Patriot Pawsabilities Cat Lounge offers a unique place to study that provides a home type of environment where you can come study or take a class while being in the company of delightful adoptable cats. They offer a spacious area to work while also having the opportunity to hang out and destress with great company! (They also provide a 10% discount code to students when you present your ID.)
4. Old Town Square
Old Town Square in Fairfax, VA, is a great place to study outdoors that has plenty of seating areas with an awesome view of Historic Old Town. This is a refreshing outdoor study spot where you can change your usual study spot for something different while enjoying the views. They also have free wifi and are located near many local shops, restaurants, as well as right across the street from the City of Fairfax Regional Library, which makes this outdoor spot even better!
5. Fountainhead Park
Fountainhead Park is a 2,000-acre regional park in Fairfax, VA, that views the Potomac River. Fountainhead Park is an ideal spot study that has plenty of roofed seating with beautiful views of nature. This location is perfect for reading, taking notes, working in collaborative groups, and overall studying in a quiet and peaceful environment where you can enjoy the views away from the crowded areas of Northern Virginia. This spot is also a great way to explore different trails with friends during study breaks.
Now that I’ve listed my Top 5 Study Spots in Fairfax, which one do you see yourself studying at? It’s difficult for me to choose just one, but you can definitely find me at De Clieu next to a window seat!
I hope you get to check out these awesome study spots when you become a Patriot!