Third spaces are those spots beyond home (the first space) and work (the second space) where people gather to relax, socialize, and connect with their community. You may have heard the term before. We’ve compiled a list to help you find your perfect third space.
If You Love a Lively Atmosphere
Millwork Commons – Offers a space to work, eat, drink, collaborate, and spend your free time. Whether you set up shop to work for the day or stop by for Yoga in the Prairie or Lunch on the Lawn, you can enjoy a coffee in the morning from Archetype and switch to a drink in the evening from Kros Strain.
Aksarben Village – Enjoy food from the food hall, drinks on the patio at Sonny’s, or a Sunday farmers market. It’s a great place to eat, drink, work, hang out, and even bring your dog.
The RiverFront – Spanning 72 acres in downtown Omaha, this area features three parks with food trucks, sand volleyball, roller skating, yoga mornings, fire pits, fitness classes, or cozy spots to lay in a hammock and read a book.
If you’re a creative soul
Luli Creative House – Luli’s motto is “create and connect.” It’s a versatile space where you can host meetings, workshops, celebrations, photoshoots, and more. They also host open workdays occasionally. Follow them on Instagram to stay updated on upcoming community events and opportunities to connect with fellow creatives.
Hot Shops Art Center – Hot Shops is a free space to visit, offering a chance to see artists at work and view hundreds of artworks. They host various events and provide art classes ranging from glassblowing workshops to pottery and lamp making. It’s a vibrant hub for artistic exploration and learning.
Creative Mornings – Every month, in 241 cities across 69 countries, community members gather through Creative Mornings. Each event features a speaker at a new location in Omaha, providing opportunities to connect with others in the community. Visit the Omaha Chapter’s webpage to learn more and see when the next event is scheduled.
If You Enjoy park outings
Memorial Park – A beautiful space to gather for picnics, walks, and enjoying the rose garden.
Chalco Hills – Chalco Hills offers something for everyone who loves the outdoors. From fishing to hiking and wildlife spotting, it’s an ideal spot to relax and unwind.
Zorinsky Lake – Zorinsky Lake is an urban oasis featuring hiking and biking trails, playgrounds, athletic fields, fishing docks, and more.
If You love cozy cafes
Lola’s – An all-day café where you can start your day with coffee and switch to cocktails in the late afternoon. It’s a cozy spot for both morning productivity and evening relaxation.
Stir Coffee Bar – “Built on coffee & human connections,” Stir Coffee Bar is the perfect third space in West Omaha. Enjoy a variety of coffee, tea, and refreshers in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Grove Juicery – The Grove is a wellness café offering delicious and nutritious smoothies, salads, acai bowls, and more. With two beautifully designed locations, it’s an ideal spot to set up your laptop and hang out for the day or gather with friends and enjoy refreshing smoothies.
If You want to bond over books
The Next Chapter Books and Gifts – The Next Chapter offers a charming patio where you can relax and read. Situated conveniently next to Zen Coffee’s Midtown location, it’s the ideal spot to enjoy a coffee while diving into your favorite book. Additionally, you can connect with fellow readers by joining one of their book clubs.
Omaha Public Libraries – As we anticipate the opening of the new Omaha Central Library, there are plenty of exciting libraries scattered throughout town. Each offers unique opportunities for reading, learning, and community engagement. Visit their website to see what they have going on!
The Bookworm – The Bookworm is an independent bookstore with a cozy atmosphere. It’s perfect for book lovers who enjoy browsing the shelves, attending author events, story times, or joining a book club.
If You Want to Grow a Fitness Community
Fleet Feet – Committed to cultivating a thriving fitness community through running and walking, Fleet Feet Omaha offers a comprehensive schedule of events designed for everyone. From Saturday long runs at Miller’s Landing to Inner Rail Run Clubs, and evening group walks at Lake Zorinsky, there’s something for everyone, every night of the week.
CycleBar West Omaha – Cycling enthusiasts know it’s more than just a workout; it’s a space to feel empowered, sweat, and connect while pumping up your heart rate. Cycle Bar West Omaha fosters a supportive community and welcomes everyone to join in the experience.
YMCA of Greater Omaha – YMCA is a welcoming third space with a mission to strengthen communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Enjoy activities like pickleball, swimming, and group fitness classes at any of our local Y locations.
Omaha offers a wealth of opportunities to connect with others. We hope this curated list helps you find your own perfect third space, where you can relax, socialize, and feel a sense of community.
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