Rosie McDonald, Managing Editor
The third space — not school, not your dorm or apartment, but a place to be (as in, a place to exist). While some might say the third place is going extinct, with people using the internet as an escape in their free (and not free) time, Toronto has no shortage of perfect third spaces for hungry minds and hearts to find connection or solitude. Take it from me: someone fresh out student residence who made it a mission to find places other than my secluded apartment to start building myself as a student and adult living in the city of Toronto.
Carbonic Coffee – 37 Baldwin Street – @carboniccoffee
Located just a couple blocks south of campus, Carbonic Coffee is a Baldwin Street staple. Their coffee is classic and tasty, and they have the perfect set-up for independent reading time or chats with close friends and new faces. Plus, they promote and host independent artists of all trades (I’ve seen both a pottery sale and a house music show within the walls of Carbonic).
The Art Gallery of Ontario – 317 Dundas Street West – @agotoronto
One might not consider visiting an art gallery a third space for a multitude of reasons, but our Art Gallery of Ontario challenges all of them. The Art Gallery of Ontario is free for those under the age of 25, includes a restaurant, a shop, an espresso bar, and many a couch for sitting, chatting, reading, contemplating, and/or intense analyzing. Not to mention, the Art Gallery Ontario houses an enormous collection of art that is worth checking out, to say the least.
The Rex Hotel Jazz and Blues Bar – 194 Queen Street West – @therextoronto
If you’re looking for a more energetic environment after sitting in class all day, think about getting tickets to see a show at The Rex Hotel Jazz and Blues Bar. The Rex welcomes all ages to enjoy their live shows and dinner, plus drinks for those who are 19+. If you’re really into the show, there is seating up front close to the stage, but if you’re looking more to spend quality time with people in a fun environment, seating at the back is perfect for chatting. The University of Toronto Student Jazz Ensembles take the stage at The Rex quite often, so don’t miss it.
Exile Vintage – 60 Kensington Avenue – @exilevintage
Exile Vintage is in the heart of Kensington market. In the warmer months, the front of the shop opens on to the street, welcoming passers-by with warm lighting, oldies blaring, and wracks upon wracks of vintage clothing. If you’re looking to shop or play dress up with friends, this is a great stop with some great finds. Occasionally, the “bargain basement” opens to customers looking for some steals.
Your Favourite Toronto Park
Last but not least, Toronto has a variety of parks that are perfect for picnics, summer activities, listening to music, hanging out with friends or alone, and people watching. My personal favourite is Grange Park, but between Queen’s Park, Trinity Bellwoods, Christie Pits, and the like, you’re not at a loss for options relatively close to campus.
Photo Credit: Rosie McDonald
