See why ‘Third Spaces’ are the best places to experience Small Town Vibe!
Third Spaces
The concept of a “third space” or “third place” refers to social environments that are distinct from the two primary places where people spend most of their time: home (first place) and work (second place).
When we visit small towns, generally places that draw us in are the spaces (indoor and outdoor) that we see people congregating and socializing, giving the place energy and a Vibe!
History of the term Third Space
In sociology, the third place refers to the social surroundings that are separate from the two usual social environments of home (“first place”) and the workplace (“second place”).
Examples of third place include churches, cafes, bars, clubs, libraries, gyms, bookstores, barbershops, stoops, parks, theaters, etc.
The term was first coined in the book The Great Good Place (1989), Ray Oldenburg argues that third places are important for democracy, civic engagement and a sense of place. Oldenburg’s coauthor Karen Christensen argues in the 2025 sequel that third places are the answer to loneliness, political polarization, and climate resilience. She also clarifies the difference between third places and public spaces.
Third places, then, are “anchors” of community life and facilitate and foster broader, more creative interaction. In other words, “your third place is where you relax in public, where you encounter familiar faces and make new acquaintances.”
Characteristics of a Third Space
In the original 1989 book The Great Good Place, Oldenburg summarized his view of a third place with eight characteristics listed below. In our travels. we find all sorts of places that reflect the spirit of a Third Place in that they foster community.
small town vibe
Neutral Ground
“Occupants of third places have little to no obligation to be there. They are not tied down to the area financially, politically, legally, or otherwise and are free to come and go as they please.“
Example: Walsenburg Mercantile in Walsenburg, CO (pop3,069*) serves as a shop for local artisans, as well as having a range of food options from coffee to snacks to deli with table seating and couch seating among the merchandise. There are short term rental lofts above. The Stokehouse, accessible through an open door, is full-service restaurant with frequent live music and other community events is in the attached building next door.
Mercantile Shop with food options
City Parklet
small town vibe
Leveler
(i.e. a leveling place)
“Third places put no importance on an individual’s status in a society. One’s socioeconomic status does not matter in a third place, allowing for a sense of commonality among its occupants.”
Example: this super cute parklet is located on a corner on the main business street in Idaho Springs, CO (pop.1,782) – a beautiful spot for intentional and accidental meet-ups!
small town vibe
Conversation is the main activity
“Playful and happy conversation is the main focus of activity in third places, although it is not required to be the only activity. The tone of conversation is usually light-hearted and humorous; wit and good-natured playfulness are highly valued.
Example: Lemon Hill Cafe & Book store and coffee shop in Montesano, WA (pop.4,138*) is a great place to converse with a friend.
Local Coffee Shop
Community art venue
small town vibe
Accessibility and accommodation
“Third places must be open and readily accessible to those who occupy them. They must also be accommodating, meaning they provide for the wants of their inhabitants, and all occupants feel their needs have been fulfilled.“
Example: The Creamery Arts Center in Hostckiss, CO (pop.875*) is an impressive space to display (and sell) art created in many mediums and for all ages. They also host a variety of community events.
small town vibe
The regulars
“Third places harbor a number of regulars that help give the space its tone, and help set the mood and characteristics of the area. Regulars to third places also attract newcomers, and are there to help someone new to the space feel welcome and accommodated.“
Example: The Mana Cloud Geek Boutique in Lafayette, OR (pop.4,423*) is both a gaming shop and a place for community members to play games together.
Gaming Shop
Local Library
small town vibe
A low profile
“Third places are characteristically wholesome. The inside of a third place is without extravagance or grandiosity, and has a cozy feel.“
Example: The Public Library in Hudson, CO (pop.1,651*) has a wide variety of community activities spanning all ages. It has both activity rooms and comfortable corners for quiet.
small town vibe
The mood is playful
“The tone of conversation in third places is never marked with tension or hostility. Instead, third places have a playful nature, where witty conversation and frivolous banter are not only common, but highly valued.”
Example: The Warehouse Food Hall in Craig, CO (pop. 9,060*) offers family friendly fun and lots of food options, as well as hosting community events.
Local food court
Local Diner and Coffee Shop
small town vibe
A home away from home
“Occupants of third places will often have the same feelings of warmth, possession, and belonging as they would in their own homes. They feel a piece of themselves is rooted in the space, and gain spiritual regeneration by spending time there.”
Example: Saguache 4th Street Diner & Bakery in Saguache, CO (pop. 539) provides a homey meet-up space for community and visitors alike!
