It’s easy for students to find themselves dragged through the monotony of home and school; an inevitable burnout-inducing routine. At home, you sleep, cook and procrastinate. At school, you study, take notes and procrastinate. Unintentionally, you find yourself getting sucked into the routine of your early 20s. When the burnout occurs and the exhaustion hits, even your own room can feel claustrophobic and unwelcoming.
Enter the third place.
In Friends (1994), it’s Central Perk. In How I Met Your Mother (2005), it’s MacLaren’s. In Gilmore Girls (2000), it’s Luke’s Diner. What about in Halifax?
A “third place” is generally defined as a public space to “connect with others known and unknown, over a shared interest or activity.” Articulated by Ray Oldenburg and initially interpreted as locations for gathering, this broad definition can be shortened to, simply, another place to sit.
Third spaces are valuable for their community, atmosphere and location. You can’t underestimate the comforts of familiar faces, familiar seats and the serenity of a home away from home. A harmonious combination of all three lands you in an environment both rejuvenating and relaxing, with new and old faces alike.
Check out this list to land on your next routine location devoid of the good ol’ uni strain.
Coffee and drinks
Oxford Taproom: The Taproom is a great bar fused with a great café, featuring couches. Whether you need to celebrate, lock in during exams, grab a drink after work or a coffee before your shift, the Taproom is a flexible location. Stick downstairs for 10/10 music and the best ale in town. Head upstairs for outlets and a dream study spot.
Trident Booksellers & Cafe: Trident is the dream combination of a bookshop and coffee shop. Halagonians swear by the magical quality of this spot. Find new and used books, take in the aroma of baked goods and listen to a live reading. Trident is academia heaven without the pressure of academia. Check it out, and take home a book or two.
The Local: A uni student classic. We’ve all experienced the magic of Gin & Jazz, and if you haven’t yet, I’ll see you there next Wednesday. The Local is a dizzying array of pure community with the gauzy aura of a student bar. Stay awhile and take in the pool tables, fried pickles and ceiling bicycles.
Outdoor spaces
Halifax Public Gardens: In the summer, catch a free live show at the gazebo. In the winter, enjoy the magic of the holiday lights. In the fall, gaze at the changing leaves. In the spring, take a seat and watch the flowers bloom. Truly a sliver of magic along Spring Garden Road.
Point Pleasant Park: Pro-tip — bring a hammock, a few friends and a picnic, and head to Point Pleasant for a great afternoon. Spot the seals out at the point and hunt for sea glass. Or simply get lost in the winding trails of the woods: there’s more out there than you think.
Halifax Common: I’ve established the Commons as the spot to go sit when it’s nice out. Grab some ice cream or a warm drink, and check out the public art or simply appreciate the location for what it is: a prime blanket-placing spot.
Halifax Waterfront: The more you stroll along the waterfront, the more you notice its ever growing viewpoints, snack stops and lounging areas. Take advantage of the lack of traffic and pretty views.
Community spaces
Halifax Central Library: The Spring Garden Road library features a sunroom on the top floor showcasing some of the best city views, two choices for cafés, a plethora of sitting spots and so many free event options. Halifax Central Library is truly a beacon for all in need of a third location. Oh, they also have books.
Every One Every Day: A free, welcoming, community-centred arts spot fit for all ages. Take advantage of their ever-evolving workshops, open project time and seasonal events. Get lost in your craft while supporting your community.
The Board Room Game Cafe: A well-loved spot for friends. If you need a space to get lost in, grab a few people, pick up a game and order a “potion” cocktail. Guaranteed, you’ll fall in love with the engaging atmosphere and find a new family board game to bring home.
Brewery Market: Saturday mornings are never really Saturday mornings without the Brewery Market. Many head over to the Halifax Farmer’s Market for their weekly groceries, however, the Brewery Market holds the dream trifecta of homemade goods, fresh produce and grab-and-go breakfast, for a perfect start to your day. Bring cash and a big bag, and don’t forget to grab a fresh sourdough loaf.
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