As we near our ridiculously late finals week, writing papers, studying for tests, and procrastinating on Facebook become unfortunate realities. Bobst is a battleground teeming with overworked, fatigued students clawing for the last outlet in LL1, and on-campus computer labs and study lounges aren’t much better. And considering NYU wireless only works 60-70 percent of the time (that’s a generous estimate), going off campus to study may be your best bet. And no, we’re not recommending you try to secure a table at the Washington Square Starbucks. Here at NYU Local, we want you to finish your papers, get A’s, and get on home, so we’ve compiled a list of the best places to study off campus to make your finals week preparation a little easier.

1. The Vagabond Café, 7 Corneila Street (Between West 4th and Bleecker)

This is the kind of place that should be all over Manhattan, but sadly, is not. By far our favorite coffee shop in the city, the Vagabond Café is set up like an inviting living room (à la Central Perk), and has inviting owners to match. You’ll be able to set up camp in Vagabond without feeling guilty or pressured to rack up a huge bill, but, with the quality of the fresh and homemade food served, you might anyway. Vagabond is open reasonably late, and is located close enough to Bobst that you can easily pack up your belongings and pull an all-nighter in LL2. Live music four nights a week (Wednesday through Saturday) will keep you from going completely bonkers, and welcomed conversation with the owners is always a nice reminder that not everyone is as evil as your Psych professor. Vagabond also boasts a clean bathroom, free WiFi, a comfortable couch, and reasonable prices, securing its spot at the top of our list.

2. Argo Tea Café, 75 University Place

If you’re into tea, Argo is your place. The University Place location is larger than most, and complete with big tables and plenty of outlets. The food is decent (what you’d expect) and on the pricier side, but Argo’s proximity to the Fairchild Building and to Union Square make it an attractive option. Argo is open until 11pm Monday-Saturday, and until 10pm on Sunday. Already a popular spot among NYU students, Argo fosters a nice study environment, especially for those who just want to plug in and be ignored. Argo is clean, offers free wifi, and has a friendly, attentive staff, making it a great place for you to finally finish your research paper.

3. The New York Public Library, 455 Fifth Avenue (among others)

Ditch Bobst and head to the New York Public Library to get your study on. Unlike most cafés, the Library is extremely quiet, meaning you can get some serious work done. While 42nd Street is kind of a trek (let’s be honest), it’s well worth it to get away from the crowds in Bobst. Free Wifi and wired internet and lots of study space earned the New York Public Library a spot on our list, although, before you pack up your textbooks and hit the Q train, keep in mind that the library closes at 8pm Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and 6pm Thursday-Monday, meaning that it’s only really a good option if you’re studying during the day.

[Image via]