Considering it’s finals week, you’ve probably locked yourself in your dorm or apartment for at least a few hours to study. However, even though you have exams you need to pass, this warm and springy State College weather should not be ignored. Take a break from cramming and get outside and find a fabulous outdoor patch of grass to sprawl out on. Better yet, take your books with you and venture over to one of these gorgeous trees on campus. The sound of birds and white noise mixed with the shade of these trees serve as a perfect studying environment. Who needs a stuffy dorm, anyway?

Though this campus is massive and has more beautiful spring trees than I could count, some are certainly jaw-dropping. So I toughed out my raging spring allergies, and with determination, found the best blossoms on campus. Using Penn State’s new website with a map called “Tree Locator,” I even learned about each tree itself. Though the system is new and many of the trees are not fully detailed yet, I was able to find a few the map had taken note of that perfectly lent themselves to studying.

 Peace and Quiet

Located near the White Building is a quaint little bench nestled away from the hustle and bustle of student life. You can lie down under this beautiful blossoming tree while simultaneously feeling secluded and at peace. This is the perfect study spot for the more introverted students and those who aren’t exactly comfortable tanning themselves proudly on Old Main lawn.

 East Halls or The Rain Forest?

Though East Halls is not notorious for luxurious dorm rooms, beautiful wildlife still abounds. Conveniently placed next to my not-so-convenient dorm building is a gorgeous weeping tree. Lounging and reading under this flourishing beauty is relaxing and tranquil, with just enough noise from freshmen wandering the quad and playing frisbee so you don’t get too distracted.

A Quick Break From The Library

If you’re the type to spend hours upon hours studying in the library, this is perfect outdoor location is for you. Located right outside the Pattee Library is a set of benches nestled near lovely greenery and a cute maple tree. Whether you plan on taking a quick lunch break outside, or just need some fresh air from the stuffy library, this is the place for you.

 Nature Near The Natatorium 

You don’t need to be a swimmer to lounge outside the natatorium right next to East Halls. This gorgeous cherry blossom offers ample shade for a great reading environment. Conveniently placed near The Creamery, one can study here and even grab a bite to eat in between cramming sessions.

 Enjoy Your Big O Pizza Outside

Right outside Findlay Commons is this beautiful Japanese Flowering Cherry Tree. The benches are comfortable and perfect for a larger study group, or even just you and a few friends. Sprawl all your belongings on this bench for the ultimate studying experience, and retreat easily back into the commons for quick snacks and a coffee break.

Ditch The Hub Steps For The (Almost) Hub Lawn

Though the HUB Lawn isn’t exactly refurbished yet, this is the next best thing. While enjoying your fast food, Smoothie King, or Starbucks in the amazing new HUB, take an hour or two to enjoy the shade under this lovely blossoming tree for some real relaxation.

 No Environmental Science Pre-Requisites Required

You don’t have to be a science major to enjoy the gorgeous landscape set outside the Millennium Science building. This patch of greenery is accompanied by a path of pebbles, an interesting new feel compared to the hard pavement you’re used to trekking to class on. Enjoy the benches to take a quick nap or read a book. It’s the perfect secluded shelter without being too far from the middle of campus. Just watch out for the sprinklers.

 Southern Comfort

Near South Halls is a gorgeous elm tree with great long branches, supplying more than enough shade to escape the heat. A soft patch of grass beneath this tree makes it perfect for casual study groups. Grab a blanket, some snacks, and get studying.

So there you have it. Some of the most gorgeous trees and landscapes to enjoy yourselves while studying for your finals. Though exams are certainly stressful, these tranquil paradises are minutes outside your room and perfect for a quick escape whenever you’re feeling too stressed or overwhelmed. Take advantage of them, because before you know it, they’ll be covered in snow all over again.