Main Street: The Ultimate Community “Third Place” 

 THIRD PLACES IN THE 20TH CENTURY. 

Ray Oldenburg effectively describes gathering spots that serve as third places, especially in small cities and towns. His idea also extends to the “Cheers” bar in bigger cities. Members-only clubs do not qualify. Entry needs to be freely accessible to customers, visitors and a regular clientele, preferably by walking or biking. 

MAIN STREET AS A THIRD PLACE. 

A leap of the concept from a bar to a main street is alluded to in The Good Great Place when main street is offered as a third place. Collectively, stores, shops, bars, parks, plazas, restaurants and sidewalk benches can serve as the place where people find a neutral, egalitarian place for conversation, support and comfort along with food and beverage.