Do you have a third place around Lexington? Besides your home (first space) and workplace (second space), where do you go throughout the week to find solace? Take a moment to reflect. Whose faces do you see + who do you talk to when you go there? Do you look forward to going and feel welcome?
If you could easily picture this space + answered “yes” to the ease of the gathering, congratulations — you’ve found a third place. If you couldn’t, that’s okay. We’ll give you some ideas for finding one around Lexington.
What is a third place?
Ray Oldenburg, sociologist and author of “The Great Good Place,” shares that third places are public, informal gathering spaces that you frequent in your community (think: coffee shops, parks, libraries, bookstores, salons... etc.). Oldenburg says that these places are important for many reasons, but particularly because they promote social vitality + a sense of community.
Editors’ picks
“It’s hard for me to pick just one so I’m going with two. The first one is for sure my yoga home at Creative Yoga. Whether you’ve been going there for years or it’s your first time, everyone is so welcoming and happy to see each other. I’m also so grateful for Sorella’s. In addition to their delicious gelato, Alma + Selma know their customers by name and are always thrilled you are there.” — Molly, City Editor
“I’m a mindfulness gal, so any place that allows me to fully present in my surroundings is a go-to. My most frequented spot has to be Liberty Park, where the greenery gives me that heavy dose of biophilia needed for a healthy mental break, and the path to Brighton Rail Bridge let’s me appreciate this beautiful city from a different perspective. — Aayat, City Editor
Readers’ picks
“The Arboretum, great place to walk and enjoy nature. Always feels safe and yet private. Everyone you see there is always super friendly!” — Amanda H.
“Cross Keys Park. Geese, adult park bench swing, pond. I can walk to 3 parks from my house.” — Lee D.
“Shamrocks Brannon Crossing. It’s close, food is great, beer is ice cold and the staff is awesome!” — Gwen H.
“McConnell Springs, an absolute oasis in the middle of an industrial park in the city.” — Jill D.
“Lexington Salt Cave! A calm, yet rejuvenating space to relax and breathe!” — Sandy M.
“My third place has to be Joseph-Beth Booksellers. I can get lost in the aisles of books, peruse one by taking a seat between the aisles, or just meander around till something catches my eye. I’ve only lived in Lexington four years and Joseph-Beth was a place I was familiar with before I moved here. Its familiarity helped me settle into a new city until it felt like home. Now Joseph-Beth feels like a little piece of home.” — Kelli W.
“The UK arboretum! I have been on the walking trail probably 100 times, but it still brings me joy and peace. And I love seeing other Lexingtonians enjoying the outdoors in an accessible, fun way!” — Rachel W.
“The labyrinth at Wellington Park. Peaceful, quiet, contemplative solace in the center of the business.” — Susan C.
“Cycle You Fitness — they focus on all things mind and body and make it a welcoming, supportive space.” — Kaitlin H.
“The Arboretum! I meet a friend 4-5 times a week early in the morning to walk, talk, enjoy the weather and all that nature has to offer! The path one time around is 2 miles and the scenery, smells and sounds make me happy and ready to start the day!!” — Lesley A.
“I love love love @highonartandcoffee, vibes are immaculate, super chill, tasty coffee and delicious food! The owners are also the absolute sweetest humans!!” — @makshausofglam
"@burlbrew hanging with the regulars that are much more like friends that I get to see all week, playing pool and serving beers to these wonderful people when I do work.” — @johnmiller.jr
“Meditative walks, birdwatching, historic — The Lexington Cemetery” — @annesworld1
"@martinespastries! Wonderful coffee, baked goods, lunch menu and space!” — @lighter.than.air.ky
"@lexpublib @lexkyparks some of our favorites are Free Friday Flicks at Jacobson Park, library main branch events (fun adult centric stuff!), Thriller dance lessons and parade, Lexington senior center for 65+, moondance theater shows, Jazz in the Park. Shilito disc golf. Bike ride the Legacy Trail. All free (bring your own equipment) and really fun. Many you can bring your own food and drinks to and enjoy the space.” — @morganchojnacki
Now, we want you to join the conversation. Take this survey to tell us about your third place, and why you love it.
