Will Washko | Staff Writer

“There is more refreshment and stimulation in a nap, even of the briefest, than in all the alcohol ever distilled” — Ovid

Stayed up late studying? Need a break between classes? There’s nothing more refreshing than a quick nap. If you’re too tired to make the pilgrimage back to your dorm (no shame, we’ve all been there), here are a few places on campus that are perfect to nod off.

Indoor napping spots: 

On campus, sleeping outside is risky business. You’re exposed to the elements, subject to the weather, and surrounded by people trudging from class to class. Napping indoors, on the other hand, ensures climate control, consistent comfort, and a humane degree of privacy. 

Olin basement:

Let’s get this one out of the way. You can squeeze yourself into those strange doggie beds on the second sub-level, but I wouldn’t recommend it. They are moderately comfortable, but the experience, in my expert opinion, is far too cramped and exposed for a truly excellent nap. If you do plan to nap in Olin, I would recommend the orange seat and footrest combos on the second floor, or the big orange armchairs on the third floor. As an added bonus, people tend to be very productive around you. That way, you can work vicariously through everyone around you as you nap. 7/10

Crow Library:

My personal favorite. This space is quiet, cozy, and just far enough away from the bustle of campus to feel like a spa retreat. The library’s second floor has these wonderful, overstuffed beanbags, perfect to flop on and forget about everything. It is completely antithetical to any kind of productivity. Truly a napper’s Eden. 9.5/10

Caleres Lounge, Hillman Hall:

There is a small cluster of couches on the third floor of Hillman Hall, and, in the warmer months of the year, nappers can expect not only a gorgeous view of the East End of campus, but also easy access to Hillman’s rooftop garden, providing a luxurious indoor-outdoor nap experience. There are, however, a few problems with this spot. The climb is difficult (three flights of stairs!), and the couches are in the middle of the room, which feels a little exposed. The couches are also backless, so napping semi-reclined is not really an option here. 7.5/10

DUC Fun Room:

The couches in the DUC Fun Room are one of the most comfortable surfaces on campus, if not the most comfortable. The Fun Room, however, becomes too busy and noisy as the day goes on for comfortable napping. It is ideal for a short nap after an early morning class, but gets too congested for afternoon or evening naps. Regardless, the morning naps are divine. 7.5/10

Bonus: DUC Fun Room wall couches:

There are two wall couches built into the outside walls of the DUC Fun Room. They are covered in murals, and have a surprisingly comfortable cushion — perfect for lying down! For taller nappers, I would advise you to steer clear of these. They are quite cramped. I also have never seen anyone sit or lie in these alcoves, so proceed with caution. If Crow Hall is a napper’s Eden, then this is a tall napper’s Purgatory. 5.5/10

Outdoor napping spots:

Contrary to my expectations, WashU students have been outside in the past — at least enough to make use of a select few outdoor napping spots. They are pretty terrible in the colder months, but they will become slightly more tolerable in the coming months, especially as other WashU students retreat indoors.

South 40 hammocks:

Itchy. Isolated. Uncomfortable. Do not nap here. 4/10

Hillman Hill:

Despite the silly name, the short, grassy slope next to Hillman is a wonderful option during the warmer months of the year. Lay down a blanket, prop your backpack behind your head, and bask in the sun. Alternatively, walk across the path to the hill under Brookings for a nice shady sleep. 7.5/10