Laundromats, Cemeteries, and More: Odd Places to Write

Ever get bored of your desk? I do. And let’s be honest: writing at home can get a little stale. Same chair, same view, same tea mug with that one chip you keep ignoring. If you’re freelancing, you’ve got the freedom to shake things up. Why not actually use it?

We tend to think of “good” writing spots as cafés or libraries, but those get old fast too. So here’s my slightly strange (but practical) list of writing spots you may not have considered. Some might sound ridiculous, but hear me out, they just might help you write more (or at least make the workday feel less tedious).

1. Laundromats

Yep. The hum of dryers. The weirdly satisfying smell of detergent. The forced wait time. Perfect for those writing sprints you keep putting off. You’re not going anywhere for at least 45 minutes. Might as well open your laptop. It’s productive and your clothes get clean.

Bonus: most have free Wi-Fi these days, and the vibe is so unglamorous you won’t waste time people-watching.

2. Your Car (Parked Somewhere Nice)

This one’s my personal favorite on weird days. Drive to a shady spot in a park or a quiet street. Crack the windows. Bring snacks. Instant mini-office with zero interruptions. No one’s knocking on your door. No chores staring you in the face. Just you and your thoughts.

If you’re stuck on how to actually make freelancing pay your bills, you might enjoy my post on making money freelance blogging. I wrote a big chunk of that one in my car while it rained.

3. Cemeteries

Ok, hear me out before you judge. Cemeteries are quiet, beautiful, and strangely calming. You won’t get side-eyed for sitting alone for hours. Bring a foldable chair or picnic blanket. Respect the space, of course, but there’s a peaceful energy that’s perfect for big thinking.

4. Hotel Lobbies

You don’t have to stay overnight. Many hotels welcome folks to use the lobby as a workspace if you buy a coffee or pastry. You get nice chairs, fancy-ish vibes, and plenty of plugs. Bonus: you feel like a mystery guest working on secret plans. No one there knows you’re writing about shampoo ad copy or haunted romance novels. It feels oddly luxurious without costing much.

5. Parks (But Not the Obvious Spots)

Everyone goes for the big fountain bench. Don’t. Wander deeper. Find that weird back corner with the scraggly tree. The place no one else thinks to sit. Fewer distractions. Nature, but with privacy.

Writing outside also helps if you’re fighting burnout. I’ve talked about that more in Why Freelancers Burn Out (And How to Avoid It).

6. Museum Cafés

Museums are usually designed to be quiet, calm, and inspiring. Their cafés tend to be underrated writing spots. You’re surrounded by weird art, old bones, or strange machines, which is great fuel for creative ideas. And museum coffee is better than you’d think.

7. On Public Transport

If you’re writing a novel and are stuck on a plot twist, take the bus or train. No one expects you to make small talk. You’re just another commuter. I’ve written entire blog outlines on the metro. The movement helps you think differently. Plus, you can people-watch for character ideas. Just try not to stare too obviously.

8. Rooftops (Yours or a Friend’s)

Even if it’s not fancy. Even if it’s just the top of your apartment’s fire escape. You get fresh air, a new view, and enough discomfort to keep you focused. Something about seeing your city from above makes your brain wake up. Careful with your laptop if it’s windy, though.

9. Libraries (But the Weird Rooms)

Everyone heads for the main reading room. Instead, hunt for the microfilm room, the kids’ reading nook (when it’s empty), or even the random desk between stacks. These places feel forgotten. That’s the point. Less traffic = more writing.

10. A Friend’s Empty House

House-sitting? Cat-sitting? Offer to watch the place while they’re out of town. Suddenly you have a new “office” with no rent. Bonus points if it has a view. There’s something energizing about working in someone else’s space, just don’t be too nosy about their fridge.

Tips for Trying These Spots

If you’re going to experiment with weird places, be prepared:

• Bring a hotspot: Wi-Fi can be spotty in the oddest corners of civilization.
• Pack light: Don’t lug your entire desk with you. Laptop, notebook, charger. Maybe a granola bar.
• Stay safe: Pick places where you’ll feel comfortable and aware of your surroundings.
• Respect the vibe: Don’t take a loud Zoom call in the cemetery. That one should be obvious.

Why Bother with Weird Spots?

Because routine can kill your drive. If you’re writing the same dull sentences in the same dull chair, maybe it’s not you that’s stale. Maybe it’s just the setting. Changing your environment can shake something loose. You might find the words flow easier, or at least you won’t fall asleep on your keyboard.

If you’re just getting started with freelance blogging, you might like my guide on how to begin from scratch. Many of those tips work wherever you choose to write.

Yep, This Is a Bit Weird. That’s the Point.

You don’t have to try them all. But don’t write off the strange options just because they seem silly. Even one weird writing day a week can refresh your brain and help you see your work with new eyes.

And if you’re looking for more freelancer tips (including stuff like making a cheap home office that actually feels good), I’ve got you covered in this post.

Try one weird spot this week. Let me know how it goes.

Happy writing!