Discovering Third Spaces: Two Favorites from My Travels and Why You Should Seek Them Out
Every time I travel, I learn something new about different cultures or histories. Sometimes, I even discover tips and tricks related to the places I visit.
On this trip to Phoenix, my cousin introduced me to a new term: third space. He repeatedly used the phrase, and I honestly had no idea what it meant. At first, I thought it was just some new slang, like "Gucci." There is an eight-year age gap between us, after all.
However, it turns out that this term originated from a 1989 book called The Great Good Place, written by sociologist Ray Oldenburg. After my cousin explained its meaning, I did some research to learn more about it.
Third Spaces
If you are like me, you have also been to third spaces but may not have known the term. The third space is a place that isn't your home (first space) or work (second space). Third spaces include coffee shops, parks, bookstores, community centers, churches, etc. They are places you visit regularly, and you either go to them to connect the new with the old or because they’re where you feel safe.
We all need a place to feel like ourselves, and sometimes, we need to learn who we are—which is something we all can relate to while traveling solo.
These are great places where you can meet other solo travelers, too. Third spaces are where you can build a community or a family, whether for an hour, a day, a weekend, or even for life. They are amazing for making memories and sharing your story.
The Thread Phoenix and the House of Story, Phoenix, Arizona
During a stroll through Phoenix, my cousins and I stumbled upon a thrift store. To our surprise, it was more than just a place to shop. The Thread Phoenix, or The Thread, as locals call it, is a business that cherishes the story behind each item it sells. It advocates for eco-friendly practices and offers affordable prices that encourage storytelling through clothes and household items.
They also have a second business called the House of Story, which is a place where people love to create a space for others to share their stories. The House of Story provides classes such as yoga, breathwork, and dancing. People can rent the space to promote their small business, which brings people closer together and fosters confidence.
When I talked to the owner, Matt, he was passionate about bringing people together, especially with what's happening today. I told him I am a solo traveler, and I have seen so many people who fear traveling alone, meeting people, or not having a place where they feel safe and seen. We bonded over how much we wanted to build a community (the whole reason I built Wandering Bel).
Matt told me that they will add a coffee shop in front of the thrift shop in the next couple of months to create a space where people can shop but, most importantly, meet people and have a space for those who need a space or a break from their first and second places.
I highly recommend visiting The Thread Phoenix!
The Well, Telluride, Colorado
I wrote about this business last fall when I first visited. It was such a cute and much-needed coffee shop in Telluride. Telluride doesn't have any other coffee shop like this where you can get the best cup of coffee in town for free! However, this one is indeed free; there isn’t any hidden fee.
Free? Say What?
Yes for free. There is no catch. They want this place to be a place were people can come together. Which I will explain down below.
Now, if you want you can donate in the little box where you order your coffee if you’d like. If you donate, that money will not go to the church but will instead be given directly to "The Living Water Project." This project digs wells in countries where clean drinking water is inaccessible, making a significant difference in people's lives.
The unique part of this coffee shop is that it's inside a church. On my latest trip to Telluride, I talked to Chris, who runs the coffee shop and opens it every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 8-12 pm, about how much Telluride needs this safe space.
I know religion is a hot topic, and I do not like talking about it, but I love how this place invites you to have a simple coffee. As Chris said, nothing is hidden; you must listen to a sermon before getting your coffee. Now, if you want to talk about religion, they are happy to do that, but they never push. They only want you to enjoy a cool place to work, chat with people, and drink good coffee!
He told me they have big goals to get more people to enjoy this spot. As I listened to him, I became excited because this place was still unknown, and people were scared to enter because it was inside a church. But I believe this place will grow and serve not only the little town of Telluride but all the travelers who wander into it. Every time I visit The Well, I feel this calming feeling, like I can relax and get work done.
Why Do You Need a Third Space?
When I travel, I enjoy spending time in coffee shops, bars, and other unique venues because you never know who you might meet or what adventures await you. However, if you're new to solo traveling and feel overwhelmed or unsure about making friends, these places can provide a good spot to converse with others.
You might also feel confused or lost while navigating life and discovering more about yourself. These spaces offer a safe atmosphere where you can feel more at ease, much like Wandering Bel.
I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Have you heard the term "third spaces"? Which ones do you enjoy visiting? I would love to check out these places and help promote them!