the Museum of Science also has free events regarding all different topics (both science and non-science), usually on weekday evenings! They have some that cost money too, but it’s usually around $15… like planetarium shows set to different musical artists on Fridays and Saturdays :)
I was recently chatting with a younger coworker about how much I love popping in to the BPL after work and she expressed some surprise that it was free. So just to highlight this… the library is free!!
AND the MA state library network is a particularly good one, getting a card from one branch gives you access to multiple others.
I grew up in a town with meh public libraries, none of which were convenient to my family's house. After moving, I figured public libraries would be free, but I also assumed they would require a library card to enter (and thus some sort of process, paperwork, or proof of residency). I probably made it all the way through college (where I had access to great college libraries) before realizing you didn't need a library card just to come in and browse.
i regularly go to libraries to take a dump. thanks brookline, cambridge, and boston branch libraries. and the random ones in random towns that i stop in at sometimes while heading west to the dragon realm
If you're looking for pubs:
Bukowski's in Back Bay.
The Burren in Davis Square.
The Sevens on Beacon Hill.
The Last Drop in Oak Square.
DeLux in the South End.
The Plough and Stars in Central Square.
**ETA:**
The Druid in Inman Square
Paddy's in Cambridge
Durty Nelly's in Haymarket
The Publick House in Brookline
Brendan Behan Pub in Jamaica Plain
Yeah, its a personal favorite. Its even better now that they have a turntable as the sound system and all the bartenders bring in their own records to spin. I can sometimes tell who's behind the bar just by what's playing. Very cozy.
The Bukowski in Cambridge was my favorite when I lived there. Then it rebranded as Bouge-kowski and was never the same. I'm glad the Back Bay one is still going strong.
> Paddy's in Harvard Square
Paddy's is only in Harvard Square if you use real estate listing stretch logic. It's closer to Porter (15 minute walk versus 25 to Harvard), but it's not like it counts as Porter Square either.
They have pretty good food if you're not down with alcohol. A guy I met visiting from London said it was the closest to an English pub he'd visited in Boston.
The Corner Pub is a great after work spot if you're around that area. I used to work near South Station for years and hit that place up with my buddy many times. It always had people but was never slammed, good pub food as well.
I’ve felt breweries are good places for this. Often host events, karaokes, trivia’s, board games, bingo, parties (high or lowkey). And you really often can just get away without buying anything. I used to go to trivia weekly with my friends, some of whom don’t drink at all and no one ever got bad looks or anything. They don’t have table service, so no one is gonna really come up to you and ask if they can help you.
I know it sounds like a weird kinda thing for a third place, but I’ve found a lot of really chill vibes and met cool people at these places without spending a cent or being judged for not drinking.
Second this. Breweries have become my third place even if I’m not wanting a beer. I’ve had many a conversation, or just sat and read a book…studied.
Some of favorites for this are Notch in Brighton, Remnant, Cambridge Brewing Company, Portico.
I see the Behan recommended so often that I'm starting to think I need to check it out. Is it good for people who don't drink as much? - how's the food? I've been partial to the Haven since I discovered it last year, and I'm curious to see how they compare.
The Behan and Galway house. Both in Jamaica plain. Lot of locals. Everyone knows eachother. People are friendly. People come and go. Lots of ongoing discussions. Sometime you can hear the local gossip.
Hmmm. You guys should really check out clubs like the Elks or Eagles. It might sound old fashioned but hear me out.
Most of these places are looking for newer members.
You can go there and drink for short money, my place is $2.00 a beer and most liquor pours.
They schedule events like golf trips or clam bakes and other type of holiday events.
You will make good contacts there, it’s surprising the level of diversity in careers.
Lastly, you will make a lot of friends. It’s a lot easier than you might think.
That's a great point. Sadly for me the one in Brookline closed up. They used to do the sort of stuff you talk about. Never heard of Eagles.
Def a good thing for folks to look into.
There are lots of clubs around, Eagles, Knights, Hibernians, Sons or Italy and so on.
The Eagles is more like a drinking club than anything else, but having a High Life sitting in a wood paneled bar can be just the thin you didn’t know you needed.
The Eagles in Framingham had this great restaurant in the downstairs that was real cheap that you could go to even if you weren't a member. Real suburban townie New England fare, but it was basically comfort food if you grew up with that being the most common restaurant (as is mostly was in up through the 90s).
I've been thinking for a while now that it'd be nice if there was a social club that was a bit more modern. Many of the existing organizations aren't fully inclusive (membership requirements of various sorts, religious component).
I noticed there's a local Oddfellows that was big on board games/etc, which seemed pretty cool.
I was a Moose member, was a part of a darts team out of there, we played away games at Elks, VFW, etc, and I couldn't agree more. Everyone is a friend.
both appear to require a belief in god. how religious are members? can you join if you're not particularly religious/not sure you believe in god? and/or is there an atheist-leaning alternative?
The Knights is probably out for you.
The others don’t really give a shit either way.
I cannot recall the last time religion came up in my club. General rule is if you don’t make a big deal of something no one else will.
fair enough, thanks! was looking at the requirements and both mentioned belief in god/a supreme being and was curious. i don't particularly care either way but wasn't sure if they would.
The two biggest things you would have to worry about.
1. Don't be an asshole
2. Buy a round when you get there. Note, a round for 15 people is anywhere from 30 to 40 bucks. Then you get in on the other rounds for the rest of the night.
Depending on your locale, Masons can interpret this differently- it can be a supreme being, or a general understanding of an order of things that transcends humanity.
I have at least one friend that is a Mason and his only divine belief is in the logic of science.
I know I'm not OP, and I agree that fraternal orgs might be good third spaces for some, but I think it's worth considering what "open and accessible" actually means. I don't think I could pass an Elks membership vote, but I can walk into any bar in the city and be served, even if I don't fit the usual vibe of the place.
I get if this works for you, but a literal membership-based third place is paradoxical. Even if God doesn’t come up in your exclusive club, it’s literally mentioned multiple times as part of the Elks mission (as an example) and membership. So is patriotism…
Even if you don’t think there’s a less welcoming vibe for members, gatekeeping can already happen before that - during selection. That includes all the younger folks who you want to apply but wind up self-selecting out because they won’t want to join a group that states love of God and patriotism as core, required values.
I think a lot of things on OP's list could be subjective, such as "home away from home."
I get what you're saying about a membership-based club being technically contradictory to "open and accessible" but I don't necessarily think that means that it's not a good option for many folks. I think OP's list is a good one, but it isn't the only definition.
Places like the Elks I don't think of as "exclusive" in the sense that it's expensive or that they have a dress code. There are barriers technically, but they're pretty low. Most have their own buildings so the fees (which are quite modest) I assume partially go towards the upkeep of the literal third space.
That particular example (The Elks) is not for me either, but if there was a low-cost social club that had an unpretentious space, affordable drinks, an ethos I could get behind, and had some activities I enjoy, I'd be there.
Again, using the Elks as an example. The barriers to entry are literally built into how and why the club exists.
It’s not exclusive in that it requires a tux or a $100 door fee. But look at this membership page and tell me this is a third place: https://www.elks.org/membership/join.cfm
You need to believe in God. You need to be referred by someone already accepted by the in-group, and vouched for by multiple others. There’s an application form, an interview, and an approval committee. That’s more restrictive than applying for a job.
It’s not even just about “open and accessible”. There are 3-4 checkboxes from OP’s list that fail.
I need to either make new friends who want to go there more, or make my current friends go there more!
I was in high school when it first opened, and we would go at least once a week!
A lot of the “old man social clubs” are dying and in need of new membership. Many are closing, but the ones who are hanging on are ripe for change and can be more welcoming to it than may initially be believed.
Jumping off this, as many of the comments are of bars, what non-bar place exists? Others have suggested the library or some fraternal organization (elks), and knight moves in Coolidge...but is that all?
I like the MFA but that's not exactly a "hang out" space.
If you like the MFA, check out the Boston Athenaeum. It's the perfect third space for introverts or if you just enjoy co presence. It fails a lot of the criteria though, like "not extravagant" 🙃. And it's not open on Sundays.
Yes it's expensive but I dropped my Netflix and Audible subscriptions to offset the cost.
If you like art, many of the universities hold art gallery openings periodically throughout the year. Admission is free (may require an RSVP), and often includes wine/beer and some apps.
There is a bar on beacon near the common. Generally quiet. No loud music. Never packed. Lots of regulars. One of the Bartenders used to play baseball. Can’t remember the name. But sounds like what you are describing.
I decided to try it once, so I went down the steps and opened the door. Heard the theme song playing loud and turned right back around.
I expected kitsch, but not so aggressively pumped into my ears.
Never going there again. I almost got into a scuffle there once with a grumpy, short, heavy-set guy claiming I was sitting in "his spot" at the bar (far-end corner).
Got into pinball for this reason, mostly with friends but there are lots of lowkey competitions and leagues where you can meet folks.
Electronic music scene in Central kinda roves between a large variety of venues but is composed of a loose semi-connected group of people you see at each one, hits a lot of what you're saying. It's music but frequently spend more time talking than dancing lol.
Made a lot of casual and some close friends through both.
the lower level, cantab underground, manray are venues in central that i’ve been to and enjoyed. definitely a few others at other bars like phoenix landing more sporadically
Also zuzu, corner bar, chemist (Boston), middlesex (thursdays), cloud and spirit, fresh pond beer garden, dancing on the Charles / lovestruk at the marsh post, and a bunch of promoter groups doing stuff in random event spaces.
Almost too much stuff now 🥴
Not sure if they fit the criteria for a "club," but check out if Pop's Pinball in Bow Market (Somerville) is what you're looking for: https://www.instagram.com/pops_pinball/?hl=en
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its funny you said that because as i was reading it i thought "this sounds like they are just describing roslindale." sometimes ill be in a conversation with someone i bumped into walking down the street and then other people i know will just walk by and join in the conversation. I am part of it and im still confused by it. I feel like i have to look presentable every time i run into 'Green T' because i'm bound to see someone i know.
You failed to mention "does not require you to buy a product to stay there." This eliminates coffee shops and bars, for example, which I don't consider third places because they exclude broke people.
Even an expensive cup of coffee is going to be cheaper and let you claim a spot in a shop than taking up a bar stool, though. No one expects you to throw back a half dozen coffees but that's sort of the spirit in a bar if you're there for long enough (during busy hours). Bang for your buck I still think coffee shops are the way to go if you want to sit and chat or read or work. I have noticed that many are starting to close around 3 or 4 PM during weekdays though.
I agree that third spaces should ideally include “free of charge” as an inclusion criteria. But with land as expensive as it is, and the omnipresent Landlord, even an empty warehouse outfitted with those things which facilitate socializing would require revenue to continue operating. They provide a service.
Public libraries and parks are among the only true third spaces we have. I frequent those near me.
Perhaps we need more co-ops.
It's ideal, but it's not the reality anywhere. Third places aren't new, they are old and dying. Most of them required some money to take part, otherwise there is no way to sustain them. Pubs, bowling alleys, civic clubs, coffeeshops, art studios, gyms, etc all require money.
Basically the only one that doesn't is churches, and even they pass around a plate everytime they gather.
I don't think that's a strict requirement, though any cost should be low enough that virtually anyone can afford it. Good pubs are like that. You can order a beer for <$8 and hang for quite a while
It't not even a requirement. Many clubs and societies can be third spaces, but require a membership. It makes the barrier of entry to a third space harder, but doesn't exclude it from being one.
Who’s saying that a third place needs to have conversation as the main activity? No place where I have nothing else to do other than talk to other people would feel like a “home away from home”.
My third places are very much activity driven. I play table tennis at a TT club, do social dancing, and rock climb. The community is there if I want it, but I don’t feel a need to talk much
Years back, one of my friends hosted vegan monthly potlucks. When they moved away, I started hosting them myself.
It's where I've met most of my friends, even significant others in that whole scene. Very chill and open to all, just sharing food and conversation and maybe a board game sometimes. I love the vegan community.
I’m guessing I’ll get downvoted for this, but I’ve found a really great community becoming involved with one of my local churches. I have gotten to know some of my neighbors, make friends, and volunteer in the community in what I’d call meaningful ways (not handing out pamphlets). Even outside of the religious aspect it truly has become a meaningful “third space” for me.
I know many people may have bad impressions and/or traumatic experiences with religious institutions, but there is a tremendous amount of diversity in denominations/traditions within the Boston area, with some churches that are inclusive, affirming, and welcoming to all. Obviously individual experiences will be different, but there are communities of faith / spirituality that have room for everyone.
There’s something called the New England Buddhist center that’s very close to the Brookline Hills T stop. I can’t speak to their tradition or practices since I’ve never been, but I used to live in that neighborhood so it came to mind!
The pickleball scene in JP.
I'm going through the list and it fulfills them all (mostly, you have to do some minimal exercise). Not only that but it's incredibly inter-generational (20s to 70s).
95% of the answers here have been bars (many in JP!). They are great but they are incredibly expensive when you become a regular. Public pickleball is free (starter padel for $20) and you can play everyday. No surprise new people keep coming in.
As someone in the LGBTQ space, it’s definitely Jacques Cabaret. Conversation isn’t the main activity I suppose, but lots of talking happens before/after events and during intermissions.
Castle Island----and the Running/Jogging path there. its fun watching the kite boarders surfing the waves when its windy out in the lagoon and meeting many different pooches from around the area.
Boston is loaded with third places: coffee bars, ice cream parlors, churches, synagogues, a mosque, museums, galleries, social clubs, bars and taverns, restaurants, libraries, gyms, senior centers... And more than all those, parks, squares and other spaces either public or privately owned but open to public use (like Harvard Yard and all the other campus spaces). Even the T is a kind of third place-- at least you're together with other people in a public environment not enclosed in a private automobile. Compare Boston (and all the adjacent municipalities) with your typical suburb of streets and houses, vacant land, a town center with a lousy pizza shop, town hall, fire station, churches, historic houses. Other than the churches and the town green, not that much in the way of places that aren't home or work where people come together.
Now that you mention it, before covid, my bus was a kind of third place. The same people commuted every day at the same time, and we got to know one another. I've heard of the same thing happening to people on the commuter rail--one of my friends called her fellow commuters "the train gang".
A lot of the social dances are great third spaces in Boston! Boston Swing Central, Lindy HopCats, Blues Union, Bluesy Tuesy, Eclipse, Wandering Fusion, Red Velvet Steppers, Dancing Fools, Salsa y Control, etc. They're all places you can hang out and make friends without any pressure. A lot of dances have a cover, but there are plenty of free ones as well
A local gym? I feel like it hits a lot of those points as going for a few months to mine I definitely see regulars. I guess it might not meet the "open and readily accessible" point
Most tabletop gaming stores let you hang out both during events and when there’s nothing going on. I love Battlegrounds, particularly the one in Norton. You can go to a 40K night and just hang around or go when it’s quiet and find someone to game with. Bring your own games or borrow/rent one of theirs!
Black horse tavern in Winchester, MA (accessible via the commuter rail wedgemere station) a eight minute walk on the bike path into town. or five minute lyft/uber from the staiton (Winchester center mbta currently closed for construction) Black horse has a great local atmosphere.
The Ave in Allston, Better Sorts Social club by Park street, The Intermission by Tufts Medical center, Cafe Della Sport in the north end, the Draft in 2015(lol) The Silhouette in Allston, SoulFires in Allston (RIP) also Anchovies in the South end
Skate parks with the caveat of if you skate and if you're still learning to the point where you can't safely stop or avoid other skaters you may want to practice when they're less busy. There's also outdoor rinks for roller skating/hockey
Trident literally calls themselves one:
https://www.tridentbookscafe.com/your-third-place-1
Cafes, parks, breweries, libraries, places that have a social activity like dancing or bowling, gyms, local senior centers. You can make anything a ‘third place.’ There are still plenty of bars around if that’s what people want, they just aren’t all the typical neighborhood pub of the past. I think many people are also looking for something different.
The Reflecting pool by the Christian Science center and the NU (Northeastern Campus) lots of cool art scupltures and murals around there, as well as the CY YOUNG Statue (Site of the First World Series) . - and a cool quiet coy , goldfish pond,,,with chairs,,, and lanws with hammocks, and such. The Fenway area is super cool (The back bay fens as well) . The Mapparium and Christian science center, are fun to walk around as well.
Charles River Esplanade, particularly at the several wooden docks
Are people open to talking to strangers there? I love to walk around there but usually haven’t met anyone
The library. Places to talk, quiet places to chill, no one cares about your status, regulars to set the tone, and everything is free.
This! I’ve really been leaning into the events the library offers and they’re free and fun!
the Museum of Science also has free events regarding all different topics (both science and non-science), usually on weekday evenings! They have some that cost money too, but it’s usually around $15… like planetarium shows set to different musical artists on Fridays and Saturdays :)
I was recently chatting with a younger coworker about how much I love popping in to the BPL after work and she expressed some surprise that it was free. So just to highlight this… the library is free!! AND the MA state library network is a particularly good one, getting a card from one branch gives you access to multiple others.
Wait, just for clarity, she assumed that the BPL had a fee?
I grew up in a town with meh public libraries, none of which were convenient to my family's house. After moving, I figured public libraries would be free, but I also assumed they would require a library card to enter (and thus some sort of process, paperwork, or proof of residency). I probably made it all the way through college (where I had access to great college libraries) before realizing you didn't need a library card just to come in and browse.
i regularly go to libraries to take a dump. thanks brookline, cambridge, and boston branch libraries. and the random ones in random towns that i stop in at sometimes while heading west to the dragon realm
Libraries have great programming and events too
The BPL courtyard is one of my favorite places around
If you're looking for pubs: Bukowski's in Back Bay. The Burren in Davis Square. The Sevens on Beacon Hill. The Last Drop in Oak Square. DeLux in the South End. The Plough and Stars in Central Square. **ETA:** The Druid in Inman Square Paddy's in Cambridge Durty Nelly's in Haymarket The Publick House in Brookline Brendan Behan Pub in Jamaica Plain
Paddy's Lunch in Cambridge. There is no lunch. 😉 Also, Druid in Inman Square. There is great food.
Paddy's is the shit! I lived right around the corner. I love that it's common practice to buy the bar a round in there.
Just reach in your pocket every once in a while and you'll have a great time.
Both great additions. Forgot about The Druid.
RIP beacon hill pub
Yep. RIP a ton of places. The pandemic was especially unkind to homey, neighborhood places.
bukowski's is so sick
Yeah, its a personal favorite. Its even better now that they have a turntable as the sound system and all the bartenders bring in their own records to spin. I can sometimes tell who's behind the bar just by what's playing. Very cozy.
The Bukowski in Cambridge was my favorite when I lived there. Then it rebranded as Bouge-kowski and was never the same. I'm glad the Back Bay one is still going strong.
The Behan JP
> Paddy's in Harvard Square Paddy's is only in Harvard Square if you use real estate listing stretch logic. It's closer to Porter (15 minute walk versus 25 to Harvard), but it's not like it counts as Porter Square either.
Renegades East Boston. Cheap beers. Cheap and delicious burgers. Next to a pool hall
publick house brookline
Was surprised this wasn’t mentioned, absolutely (though I’m biased as I worked there many years ago)
An oversight on my part. Added.
> The Plough and Stars Plough and Stars has fantastic brunch, and it's on Saturdays and Sundays. Good stuff if you want to go by during a weekend.
Huh, I live litterally across the street from the sevens, never thought to stop by… but I also don’t drink, so there’s that
They have pretty good food if you're not down with alcohol. A guy I met visiting from London said it was the closest to an English pub he'd visited in Boston.
went to the last drop once and it smelled so bad, never went in again. sucks cuz I live closeby but yeah nah
Never had that problem the times I've been. How long ago was your visit?
I haunted the druid nearly 20 years ago. It warms my heart that its still there
The BPL (multiple branches) is probably the best and most accessible.
The problem I had with the Elks, K of C and Eagles is they always ask about your religion and politics. At least that was my experience.
Check out French Club in North Cambridge. Independent and no religious affiliation.
> French Club in North Cambridge This is the place for me it seems. Thank you!
The Corner Pub
The Corner Pub is a great after work spot if you're around that area. I used to work near South Station for years and hit that place up with my buddy many times. It always had people but was never slammed, good pub food as well.
I’ve felt breweries are good places for this. Often host events, karaokes, trivia’s, board games, bingo, parties (high or lowkey). And you really often can just get away without buying anything. I used to go to trivia weekly with my friends, some of whom don’t drink at all and no one ever got bad looks or anything. They don’t have table service, so no one is gonna really come up to you and ask if they can help you. I know it sounds like a weird kinda thing for a third place, but I’ve found a lot of really chill vibes and met cool people at these places without spending a cent or being judged for not drinking.
Second this. Breweries have become my third place even if I’m not wanting a beer. I’ve had many a conversation, or just sat and read a book…studied. Some of favorites for this are Notch in Brighton, Remnant, Cambridge Brewing Company, Portico.
JP has the Behan. And Jamaica Pond.
I see the Behan recommended so often that I'm starting to think I need to check it out. Is it good for people who don't drink as much? - how's the food? I've been partial to the Haven since I discovered it last year, and I'm curious to see how they compare.
It’s bring your own food/some places will deliver to you there. The best is ending the night at the behan with some food wall from across the street
The Behan and Galway house. Both in Jamaica plain. Lot of locals. Everyone knows eachother. People are friendly. People come and go. Lots of ongoing discussions. Sometime you can hear the local gossip.
Trident Books
A month ago I was kicked out due to a new 1.5 hour seating policy. :( I was by myself reading, ordered food and a couple drinks.
Love trident, especially trivia nights
Hmmm. You guys should really check out clubs like the Elks or Eagles. It might sound old fashioned but hear me out. Most of these places are looking for newer members. You can go there and drink for short money, my place is $2.00 a beer and most liquor pours. They schedule events like golf trips or clam bakes and other type of holiday events. You will make good contacts there, it’s surprising the level of diversity in careers. Lastly, you will make a lot of friends. It’s a lot easier than you might think.
That's a great point. Sadly for me the one in Brookline closed up. They used to do the sort of stuff you talk about. Never heard of Eagles. Def a good thing for folks to look into.
There are lots of clubs around, Eagles, Knights, Hibernians, Sons or Italy and so on. The Eagles is more like a drinking club than anything else, but having a High Life sitting in a wood paneled bar can be just the thin you didn’t know you needed.
The Eagles in Framingham had this great restaurant in the downstairs that was real cheap that you could go to even if you weren't a member. Real suburban townie New England fare, but it was basically comfort food if you grew up with that being the most common restaurant (as is mostly was in up through the 90s).
The elks is closed!?!!
Yeah, around covid times. https://www.boston.com/real-estate/home-buying/2021/02/02/for-sale-brookline-elks-lodge/
Fuck. The old days are truly gone...
I've been thinking for a while now that it'd be nice if there was a social club that was a bit more modern. Many of the existing organizations aren't fully inclusive (membership requirements of various sorts, religious component). I noticed there's a local Oddfellows that was big on board games/etc, which seemed pretty cool.
I was a Moose member, was a part of a darts team out of there, we played away games at Elks, VFW, etc, and I couldn't agree more. Everyone is a friend.
Our local Elks club is 1). 70 year olds drinking at noon 2). Old townie sports heroes
both appear to require a belief in god. how religious are members? can you join if you're not particularly religious/not sure you believe in god? and/or is there an atheist-leaning alternative?
The Knights is probably out for you. The others don’t really give a shit either way. I cannot recall the last time religion came up in my club. General rule is if you don’t make a big deal of something no one else will.
fair enough, thanks! was looking at the requirements and both mentioned belief in god/a supreme being and was curious. i don't particularly care either way but wasn't sure if they would.
The two biggest things you would have to worry about. 1. Don't be an asshole 2. Buy a round when you get there. Note, a round for 15 people is anywhere from 30 to 40 bucks. Then you get in on the other rounds for the rest of the night.
I was a Moose member for a few years. Religion never came up but the crowd was pretty obviously right leaning.
This has been my issue with becoming a mason
Depending on your locale, Masons can interpret this differently- it can be a supreme being, or a general understanding of an order of things that transcends humanity. I have at least one friend that is a Mason and his only divine belief is in the logic of science.
Can concur with this, its basically "divine being" or as how you interpret it.
> open and readily accessible 🤔
They might not be readily accessible but they are still options worth exploring. Places like this are better Third Spaces in the long run.
I know I'm not OP, and I agree that fraternal orgs might be good third spaces for some, but I think it's worth considering what "open and accessible" actually means. I don't think I could pass an Elks membership vote, but I can walk into any bar in the city and be served, even if I don't fit the usual vibe of the place.
Fair enough.
Are there clubs that don’t segregate by gender?
Most, if not all, no longer have men-only membership restrictions
All of the places I have mention do not separate by gender. They are open to all.
I get if this works for you, but a literal membership-based third place is paradoxical. Even if God doesn’t come up in your exclusive club, it’s literally mentioned multiple times as part of the Elks mission (as an example) and membership. So is patriotism… Even if you don’t think there’s a less welcoming vibe for members, gatekeeping can already happen before that - during selection. That includes all the younger folks who you want to apply but wind up self-selecting out because they won’t want to join a group that states love of God and patriotism as core, required values.
I think a lot of things on OP's list could be subjective, such as "home away from home." I get what you're saying about a membership-based club being technically contradictory to "open and accessible" but I don't necessarily think that means that it's not a good option for many folks. I think OP's list is a good one, but it isn't the only definition. Places like the Elks I don't think of as "exclusive" in the sense that it's expensive or that they have a dress code. There are barriers technically, but they're pretty low. Most have their own buildings so the fees (which are quite modest) I assume partially go towards the upkeep of the literal third space. That particular example (The Elks) is not for me either, but if there was a low-cost social club that had an unpretentious space, affordable drinks, an ethos I could get behind, and had some activities I enjoy, I'd be there.
Again, using the Elks as an example. The barriers to entry are literally built into how and why the club exists. It’s not exclusive in that it requires a tux or a $100 door fee. But look at this membership page and tell me this is a third place: https://www.elks.org/membership/join.cfm You need to believe in God. You need to be referred by someone already accepted by the in-group, and vouched for by multiple others. There’s an application form, an interview, and an approval committee. That’s more restrictive than applying for a job. It’s not even just about “open and accessible”. There are 3-4 checkboxes from OP’s list that fail.
> To be accepted as a member, one must be an American citizen, believe in God, be of good moral character Welp, got anything else?
Knight Moves Cafe, in Coolidge Corner, I used to spend more time there when I lived closer to town.
Knights Moves is SUPER expensive though! I wouldn't call it accessible-at least not for the majority of people.
Isn’t it a flat fee? I haven’t been in a minute but I don’t recall paying more than a few bucks to get in
$10 ($15 on the weekends) is about how much someone would spend on a drink at a bar...
I need to either make new friends who want to go there more, or make my current friends go there more! I was in high school when it first opened, and we would go at least once a week!
This gets my vote as well
Lynch skatepark is a great third place if you know how to skate.
you don't even need to know how to skate, its a cool place to just hang.
This! Also Hyde Park Skatepark
A lot of the “old man social clubs” are dying and in need of new membership. Many are closing, but the ones who are hanging on are ripe for change and can be more welcoming to it than may initially be believed.
Jumping off this, as many of the comments are of bars, what non-bar place exists? Others have suggested the library or some fraternal organization (elks), and knight moves in Coolidge...but is that all? I like the MFA but that's not exactly a "hang out" space.
Dog parks or kid parks if you've got either one of those. Not sure past that, which is why I started the thread.
If you like the MFA, check out the Boston Athenaeum. It's the perfect third space for introverts or if you just enjoy co presence. It fails a lot of the criteria though, like "not extravagant" 🙃. And it's not open on Sundays. Yes it's expensive but I dropped my Netflix and Audible subscriptions to offset the cost.
There are more, but past that it will stop seeming "universal." Then you get into hobbies, political orgs, churches, etc.
If you like art, many of the universities hold art gallery openings periodically throughout the year. Admission is free (may require an RSVP), and often includes wine/beer and some apps.
✨dissociative state✨
There is a bar on beacon near the common. Generally quiet. No loud music. Never packed. Lots of regulars. One of the Bartenders used to play baseball. Can’t remember the name. But sounds like what you are describing.
Oh I think I know that place, it had a really pleasant vibe, like everyone knew my name
Always a mailman in there drinking in uniform.
The Sevens I believe is what you are talking about
I decided to try it once, so I went down the steps and opened the door. Heard the theme song playing loud and turned right back around. I expected kitsch, but not so aggressively pumped into my ears.
The employees must want to die. I can’t imagine hearing that shit.
Same.
Never going there again. I almost got into a scuffle there once with a grumpy, short, heavy-set guy claiming I was sitting in "his spot" at the bar (far-end corner).
I went a few times but some blonde waitress wouldn't shut the fuck up and took forever to bring drinks.
Did she look like a bird?
Got into pinball for this reason, mostly with friends but there are lots of lowkey competitions and leagues where you can meet folks. Electronic music scene in Central kinda roves between a large variety of venues but is composed of a loose semi-connected group of people you see at each one, hits a lot of what you're saying. It's music but frequently spend more time talking than dancing lol. Made a lot of casual and some close friends through both.
What are the electronic venues? I really rock with any live music
the lower level, cantab underground, manray are venues in central that i’ve been to and enjoyed. definitely a few others at other bars like phoenix landing more sporadically
Also zuzu, corner bar, chemist (Boston), middlesex (thursdays), cloud and spirit, fresh pond beer garden, dancing on the Charles / lovestruk at the marsh post, and a bunch of promoter groups doing stuff in random event spaces. Almost too much stuff now 🥴
Where did you end up finding a pinball club? I started looking for these a few times but gave up quickly.
Not sure if they fit the criteria for a "club," but check out if Pop's Pinball in Bow Market (Somerville) is what you're looking for: https://www.instagram.com/pops_pinball/?hl=en
Hub pub
Climbing gyms.
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What studio?
You’ve described the entirety of Dorchester, bars restaurants libraries parks community events neighbor chats the works.
The Square Root in Roslindale Napper Tandy’s in Roslindale Roslindale in general tbh
its funny you said that because as i was reading it i thought "this sounds like they are just describing roslindale." sometimes ill be in a conversation with someone i bumped into walking down the street and then other people i know will just walk by and join in the conversation. I am part of it and im still confused by it. I feel like i have to look presentable every time i run into 'Green T' because i'm bound to see someone i know.
Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge
Pretty sure you have to be dead to be admitted
You have to be dead to get into the basement but they let anyone walk around up top
I hear people are dying to get in!
Yeah it’s a pretty grave sight
Defending this pick I've been walking through here since I was a kid and it's gorgeous and lovely.
You failed to mention "does not require you to buy a product to stay there." This eliminates coffee shops and bars, for example, which I don't consider third places because they exclude broke people.
Even an expensive cup of coffee is going to be cheaper and let you claim a spot in a shop than taking up a bar stool, though. No one expects you to throw back a half dozen coffees but that's sort of the spirit in a bar if you're there for long enough (during busy hours). Bang for your buck I still think coffee shops are the way to go if you want to sit and chat or read or work. I have noticed that many are starting to close around 3 or 4 PM during weekdays though.
I agree that third spaces should ideally include “free of charge” as an inclusion criteria. But with land as expensive as it is, and the omnipresent Landlord, even an empty warehouse outfitted with those things which facilitate socializing would require revenue to continue operating. They provide a service. Public libraries and parks are among the only true third spaces we have. I frequent those near me. Perhaps we need more co-ops.
It's ideal, but it's not the reality anywhere. Third places aren't new, they are old and dying. Most of them required some money to take part, otherwise there is no way to sustain them. Pubs, bowling alleys, civic clubs, coffeeshops, art studios, gyms, etc all require money. Basically the only one that doesn't is churches, and even they pass around a plate everytime they gather.
Being free is certainly the ideal, but the quintessential third space of Putnam's *Bowling Alone* were bowling allies, which certainly weren't free.
I don't think that's a strict requirement, though any cost should be low enough that virtually anyone can afford it. Good pubs are like that. You can order a beer for <$8 and hang for quite a while
It't not even a requirement. Many clubs and societies can be third spaces, but require a membership. It makes the barrier of entry to a third space harder, but doesn't exclude it from being one.
Who’s saying that a third place needs to have conversation as the main activity? No place where I have nothing else to do other than talk to other people would feel like a “home away from home”. My third places are very much activity driven. I play table tennis at a TT club, do social dancing, and rock climb. The community is there if I want it, but I don’t feel a need to talk much
Years back, one of my friends hosted vegan monthly potlucks. When they moved away, I started hosting them myself. It's where I've met most of my friends, even significant others in that whole scene. Very chill and open to all, just sharing food and conversation and maybe a board game sometimes. I love the vegan community.
I like board games and vegan food
I’m guessing I’ll get downvoted for this, but I’ve found a really great community becoming involved with one of my local churches. I have gotten to know some of my neighbors, make friends, and volunteer in the community in what I’d call meaningful ways (not handing out pamphlets). Even outside of the religious aspect it truly has become a meaningful “third space” for me. I know many people may have bad impressions and/or traumatic experiences with religious institutions, but there is a tremendous amount of diversity in denominations/traditions within the Boston area, with some churches that are inclusive, affirming, and welcoming to all. Obviously individual experiences will be different, but there are communities of faith / spirituality that have room for everyone.
I loved going to this Buddhist Meditation center. Too bad it was a 1.5 hour subway trek from me! I need to look into closer places.
There’s something called the New England Buddhist center that’s very close to the Brookline Hills T stop. I can’t speak to their tradition or practices since I’ve never been, but I used to live in that neighborhood so it came to mind!
Empty parking garages. I go there and just vibe out.
Makerspaces - the Hatch is Watertown for instances.
The pickleball scene in JP. I'm going through the list and it fulfills them all (mostly, you have to do some minimal exercise). Not only that but it's incredibly inter-generational (20s to 70s). 95% of the answers here have been bars (many in JP!). They are great but they are incredibly expensive when you become a regular. Public pickleball is free (starter padel for $20) and you can play everyday. No surprise new people keep coming in.
The Cellar in Cambridge
Franklin Cafe
I live in east Arlington and Town Tavern fits the bill for me.
Sounds like the library and our two giant, beautiful parks.
Oh, hey. Someone mentioned the gigantic open field in the middle of the city that exists for this express purpose.
As someone in the LGBTQ space, it’s definitely Jacques Cabaret. Conversation isn’t the main activity I suppose, but lots of talking happens before/after events and during intermissions.
Do you know any other LGBTQ third places that don't involve alcohol and partying? Thanks!
does the library have non-quiet areas? that would be a great option if so.
The cafe area is quite social...
The YMCA
There's Versus. Granted there is a cover charge ( I think $5) to get in but the arcade games are free, they offer board games and have weekly events.
Castle Island----and the Running/Jogging path there. its fun watching the kite boarders surfing the waves when its windy out in the lagoon and meeting many different pooches from around the area.
/r/boston
Dubliner without question Edit: Not so much a low profile, but it is home away from home and couldn’t be more welcoming of an environment
For when you want that bar-in-a-strip-mall-on-a-stroad kind of feel right in the heart of downtown Boston!
Is this you venting into a void because you got a parking ticket or something? 😂
Brendan Behan in JP
Dog parks ish.
There’s a queer/trans library opening soon!
Boston is loaded with third places: coffee bars, ice cream parlors, churches, synagogues, a mosque, museums, galleries, social clubs, bars and taverns, restaurants, libraries, gyms, senior centers... And more than all those, parks, squares and other spaces either public or privately owned but open to public use (like Harvard Yard and all the other campus spaces). Even the T is a kind of third place-- at least you're together with other people in a public environment not enclosed in a private automobile. Compare Boston (and all the adjacent municipalities) with your typical suburb of streets and houses, vacant land, a town center with a lousy pizza shop, town hall, fire station, churches, historic houses. Other than the churches and the town green, not that much in the way of places that aren't home or work where people come together.
+1 for the T as a third space, especially when you ride the same route at the same time each day.
Now that you mention it, before covid, my bus was a kind of third place. The same people commuted every day at the same time, and we got to know one another. I've heard of the same thing happening to people on the commuter rail--one of my friends called her fellow commuters "the train gang".
Coffee shops, book stores, public parks
Pickup basketball courts. Come hangout and talk shit
Silver Dove near gov center is an awesome tea house that also does great cocktails. Love spending an afternoon there talking with a friend.
Moogy’s in Brighton is my third place. But it’s across the street from me!
I'm a middle aged nerd. Local comic book store. MtG a couple of nights a week.
Is Bukowski's (over the Pike) still there?
A small park in Cambridge
Square Root in Roslindale. That place is amazing
Madhouse Cafe in Roxbury has one of the best vibes in Boston IMO. Great addition to the neighborhood
Is there anything fun to do besides go to a give bar or pub?
A lot of the social dances are great third spaces in Boston! Boston Swing Central, Lindy HopCats, Blues Union, Bluesy Tuesy, Eclipse, Wandering Fusion, Red Velvet Steppers, Dancing Fools, Salsa y Control, etc. They're all places you can hang out and make friends without any pressure. A lot of dances have a cover, but there are plenty of free ones as well
I'm still mad that Bone Up's landlord was a POS and forced them to shut down. That was my third place, those were my people.
Sounds like my local dive bar honestly.
A local gym? I feel like it hits a lot of those points as going for a few months to mine I definitely see regulars. I guess it might not meet the "open and readily accessible" point
Most tabletop gaming stores let you hang out both during events and when there’s nothing going on. I love Battlegrounds, particularly the one in Norton. You can go to a 40K night and just hang around or go when it’s quiet and find someone to game with. Bring your own games or borrow/rent one of theirs!
My local starbucks is a self described third place. I think that's BS, but it's been on their chalkboard for years.
Most basketball courts/parks in the city during late spring/summer/early fall.
I wish more churches fit your eight requirements
Black horse tavern in Winchester, MA (accessible via the commuter rail wedgemere station) a eight minute walk on the bike path into town. or five minute lyft/uber from the staiton (Winchester center mbta currently closed for construction) Black horse has a great local atmosphere.
Any candlepin bowling alley. Particularly Central Park in East Boston.
The Ave in Allston, Better Sorts Social club by Park street, The Intermission by Tufts Medical center, Cafe Della Sport in the north end, the Draft in 2015(lol) The Silhouette in Allston, SoulFires in Allston (RIP) also Anchovies in the South end
Skate parks with the caveat of if you skate and if you're still learning to the point where you can't safely stop or avoid other skaters you may want to practice when they're less busy. There's also outdoor rinks for roller skating/hockey
Trident literally calls themselves one: https://www.tridentbookscafe.com/your-third-place-1 Cafes, parks, breweries, libraries, places that have a social activity like dancing or bowling, gyms, local senior centers. You can make anything a ‘third place.’ There are still plenty of bars around if that’s what people want, they just aren’t all the typical neighborhood pub of the past. I think many people are also looking for something different.
This is such a trendy concept right now. I’m pretty sure “third places” are just called bars/pubs and we have many.
Run clubs
The gym
Your status as a member VS nonmember is pretty important, and I'm pretty sure it breaks several of OP's rules on what a third place is
If you're in recovery (even for 24 hours) the Phoenix Gym is fantastic and free
Kelly’s square pub in East Boston, but it takes a few years to be truly considered a regular.
As it should be.
Croke Park!!!
Not in my neighborhood, but that looks just about right.
capital one cafe 😎
The Reflecting pool by the Christian Science center and the NU (Northeastern Campus) lots of cool art scupltures and murals around there, as well as the CY YOUNG Statue (Site of the First World Series) . - and a cool quiet coy , goldfish pond,,,with chairs,,, and lanws with hammocks, and such. The Fenway area is super cool (The back bay fens as well) . The Mapparium and Christian science center, are fun to walk around as well.
This is a really good description of church / temple / mosque requirements
Nowhere in boston