Explore Iowa City’s vibrant ‘Third Spaces’ from the library to the best cafes

Iowa City has found its stride in the post-pandemic world thanks to its dizzying array of “third spaces.” The locations have become gathering points for friends as well as a place to escape the mundane routine of work, where creativity radiates.

A third place is defined as “the social surroundings that are separate from the two usual social environments of home (“first place”) and the workplace (“second place”).” Libraries, parks, salons, barbershops, and cafes are some of the widely known and utilized third spaces. Third spaces became virtual hotspots during the pandemic, but now people are returning to the community. The concept has recently gained traction on social media, especially on the popular video-sharing app, Tik Tok.

Iowa City has many third places, from iconic spots to some underrated gems. Here are some of the best third spaces to explore in town:

Iowa City Public Library

123 S Linn St., Iowa City

The ICPL is one of the most popular “third places” in Iowa City, as it is a free and neutral gathering spot. The library provides a great place to work remotely while it also hosts many free community activities for all ages, from baby storytime to community blood drives and digital media labs for adults. The library is full of other worlds and opportunities.

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Robert A. Lee Recreation Center

 220 S Gilbert St., Iowa City

The complete structure of the Robert A. Lee Recreation Center now occupies the former site of the Civil Defense Network of Nuclear Fallout Shelters, originally constructed to provide safety for occupants in the event of nuclear explosions. It is now best known as a community hotspot with a multitude of classes from ceramics to yoga, as well as a general workout space. Yearly memberships are available, but other events are open for non-members for a small fee or free of charge.

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Artistic Spaces

Public Space One

538 S Gilbert St., Iowa City

Public Space One, or PS1, was founded in 2002 for University of Iowa students in need of an off-campus space to rehearse and perform an original play. Since then, PS1 has maintained a multidisciplinary, experimental space for the Iowa City community to present and experience creative work. PS1 offers many resources for artists and cultural educational opportunities, from workshops to exhibitions. Workshops are open to the public with a registration fee.

Home Ec. Workshop

24 E Jefferson St., Iowa City

Home Ec. Workshop is Iowa City’s natural fiber, fabric, yarn, and craft supply shop. It is a welcoming and inspiring environment filled with great people and covers all the needs for sewing, knitting, quilting, and crocheting needs. Home Ec. Features a workshop space for sewing projects and a community “living room” where people can spend time together, show their work, chat, and work on current projects in good company. The location also offers classes. Home Ec. is a great place to meet other crafty individuals.

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Beadology

355 S Clinton St., Iowa City

Opened in 1987, Beadology is full of beads from around the world, a haven for all things jewelry. The store prides itself on creating a respectful, supportive, and nonjudgemental atmosphere where jewelry designers – from beginners to professionals − can thrive. The store offers a multitude of classes at various experience levels and prices, from beading to glasswork.

Other Artists Spaces:

Renee’s Ceramic Cafe, 940 S Gilbert Ct., Iowa City

Cafés

Trumpet Blossom Café

310 E Prentiss St., Iowa City

Trumpet Blossom Café is a 100% plant-based restaurant with a rotating seasonal menu. The eatery is a perfect change of scenery from the work-from-home life. Anyone can find a space that gets the creative juices flowing. Trumpet Blossom Café also hosts local and touring musicians, regularly transforming into a music venue that allows guests to meet like-minded individuals.

Press Coffee

1120 N Dodge St., Iowa City

Tucked away on Dodge St., Press Coffee is a hospitable coffee shop specializing in French press coffee. The establishment has all the regular charm of the typical café with plenty of cozy couches and board games. Press Coffee is seamlessly intertwined with the community of regular customers, from welcoming local artists and displaying their art to hosting a local LGBTQIA+ group to talk about their experiences.

Other Cafés:

Prairie Lights Books and Café: 15 S Dubuque St., Iowa City

Coffee Emporium: 301 E Market St., Iowa City

Other Third Places to Explore

Chart Room for Trivia Tuesday from 7-9 p.m.

2441 James St. #4, Coralville

Open Mic with J Knight at La Wine every Wednesday from 7- 10 p.m.

180 E Burlington St., Iowa City

Jessica Rish is an entertainment, dining and business reporter for the Iowa City Press-Citizen. She can be reached atJRish@presscitizen.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @rishjessica_.