Don't get me wrong, Alma Mater is always gonna be my girl, but when the temperature creeps above 60 degrees, everyone and their mother sits on her steps and Low Beach turns into Low Zoo. When you don't want to see every single person you've (literally) ever met at Columbia and still wanna get that fresh glow, try one of Spectrum's alternate sunny spots instead.
The lawn near Lewison and Dodge buildings
You know, near the statue of the guy that looks like he's asking Leo to paint him like one of his French girls? (It's The Great God Pan, if you ever wondered). Best part? You can watch all the sunbathers fighting for space on Low, but they can't see you.
The tables outside of Uris Deli
Right across from Schermerhorn, and merely steps away from a snack inside. If tanning makes you thirsty, Uris sells Stumptown iced coffee, and they accept dining dollars.
The East Campus Overpass.
Located in front of International Affairs and Casa Italiana. Bonus: you can creepily gaze into Greene and people-watch all the law students whilst they have emotional breakdowns.
Outside of the Dining Halls
During the dining hall's peak hours, these spots will be taken, but try Ferris at 2:30, and you have can snag a table on the balcony that has a sweet view of Butler and the South fields. Or get to John Jay right when it opens, bring your work, and sit at one of their outdoor tables all day.
Hamilton Hall Steps
You're too much of a hipster to sit on Low, but you secretly love the ambiance of the whole tanning-on-steps thing. The stairs leading to Hamilton are the perfect compromise. Sure, the Alexander Hamilton statue isn't quite Alma, but he'll do.
The Roofs of any building (at your own risk)
Rumor has it that roof access is available from different residence halls and libraries. There's nothing quite like a sunny rooftop hangout, unless, of course, security writes you up.
all gifs via giphy.com
