Quiet Spots to Read and Study in Atlanta

By Sarah Krisak

Last Updated November 27, 2024

Add Discover ATL as a preferred source on Google

When you’re living in the city it can be easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle. If you are a book lover like me, reading is an escape from all the noise, and finding a quiet space can be a daunting task. If you need a change of scenery from your living room, Atlanta has several hidden gems where you can slow down and read. Here are five quiet spots to read in Atlanta.

Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum

Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum is filled with several interactive displays and fascinating exhibits. It also is home to a perfect, secluded spot right in its backyard where beautiful gardens beckon. Try sitting near the koi pond. Enjoy the still water and comforting quietness of the surrounding greenery while you take a deep breath and open your book.

Virginia Highland Books

Virginia Highland Books, a friendly neighborhood bookstore, is home to two stories of books and plenty of space to relax and read. The exposed brick walls and hardwood floors give a homey feel. Grab a window spot in the peaceful reading area and enjoy your book. Before or after your reading respite, stop at PERC coffee, just a short walk from the bookstore, and refresh.

image of customers at Sean's Heart of the Park in atlanta ga — Grab a bite to eat at Sean’s Heart of the Park before finding your reading spot. (Photo by Sarah Krisak)

Piedmont Park seems like the obvious choice for a city getaway. It is, but do you know that there are some spaces nestled in the center of the park perfect for reading? Start by walking to Sean’s Heart of the Park, a great place to fuel up before settling down with your book. Directly left of Sean’s Heart of the Park is the Piedmont Park Pool and Aquatic Center. Grab your book and slather on some sunscreen for poolside reading. When you need a break from your book, take a dip in the pool and try out the lazy river. Swim for free Monday-Friday from 3-5 p.m. or pay $5 to read as long as you like.

If the pool isn’t for you, head to the swings overlooking Lake Clara Meer. This may seem oddly specific, but the second swing is the best spot. It offers the perfect views of the lake for those between-chapter pauses.

Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party

This place is just as unique as the name. Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party is a cozy, eclectic cafe that offers coffee, pastries and high tea. There are many tables, and the walls are lined with shelves full of books making this a great spot to grab a snack and read. Get there early to snag a place on one of the couches. You’ll be extra comfortable for your perfect reading day. Also, make sure to try out a sweet treat or some tea because a percentage of every sale benefits the tea house’s women’s education project in Darjeeling, India. You’ll be reading for a good cause.

Buckhead Library

Of course, the last recommendation is a library because a library truly is the perfect place to read. It’s so perfect you may even finish your book. If you do, you can just grab another one right off the shelf. The Buckhead Library has a clean and refreshing atmosphere with an open concept. The library includes three study rooms, a computer lab, a teen center and a children’s story-time room. There are many seating options, but the best place to settle down is in a chair right by the floor to ceiling windows in the back.

When you’ve satisfied your need for a quiet read, consider Free and Cheap Things to Do in Atlanta. Or grab your besties and check Things to do With Friends in Atlanta.