As the city of Miami grows the sense of community declines. This makes it difficult for newcomers to build friendships and have meaningful conversations. A third space is a social setting where people can gather, relax and, most importantly, build community. These are crucial for well-being because they combat loneliness and encourage people to connect. Here are five third spaces in South Florida to check out if you’re interested in meeting new people or stepping out of your comfort zone.
1. Books & Books
265 Aragon Ave.
Coral Gables
(305) 442-4408
Monday – Tuesday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Wednesday – Saturday: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Opened in 1982 in Coral Gables by Miami Beach native Mitchell Kaplan, Books & Books is an independent bookstore that has brought literature and comfort to South Florida. In addition to being a bookstore, Books & Books features a small cafe where customers often work independently. The store also hosts author events and book signings almost daily, along with reading parties and poetry nights completely open to the public, creating a welcoming space for locals to connect.
The bookstore is now primarily run by Kaplan’s son, Jonah. Having grown up in the book industry, he continues his family’s commitment to literature by advocating against book bans in the community. The store hosts a Banned Books Club on the last Thursday of each month and features sections dedicated to frequently challenged titles.
2. Tea & Poets
5701 Sunset Drive, Unit #126
South Miami
(786) 216-7201
Monday – Tuesday: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wednesday: 12 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Thursday: 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Friday: 12 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Since 2016, Tea & Poets has become a popular spot for younger individuals in South Florida whether it’s to meet friends after school, attend poetry nights or music shows, or just to enjoy a cinnamon roll while getting some work done.
From its creative ambiance and varied seating areas to its large column stocked with board games and rotating local vendors, Tea & Poets offers diverse opportunities for visitors to relax, create and meet new people.
3. 1-800-Lucky
143 NW 23rd St.
Wynwood
(305) 768-9826
Monday – Thursday: 12 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Friday – Sunday: 12 p.m. – 3 a.m.
In November 2017, 1-800-Lucky opened its doors as the city’s first Asian food hall. Featuring a mix of cuisine and Miami nightlife, it creates a balance between dining and entertainment. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a small yet lively record shop. Outside, you are met with the bar which later transforms into a nightclub.
Each day features a different music genre or theme, ranging from latin reggaeton during the week to Afrobeats on the weekends, making it a perfect opportunity to meet others with similar tastes and becoming part of Miami’s nightclub culture. For those seeking something different, 1-800-Lucky also offers private karaoke rooms.
“There’s definitely a sense of community here,” said Wilman Carillo, a cashier at the record shop. “There aren’t a lot of places doing this ‘two-in-one.’ it is very beneficial for the community, especially in a high-traffic area like Wynwood.”
4. Dale Zine
50 NE 40th St.
Miami
Monday – Friday: 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
For many artists in South Florida, meeting new people can be intimidating due to fear of judgement. At Dale Zine, that concern is replaced with acceptance. Located in the Miami Design District, Dale Zine is a bookstore and local publisher that highlights work from the local artistic community. The shop hosts events such as collage nights and local art shows, fostering creativity and connection.
“It seems like it is genuinely a bookstore for the people,” said Nick Paleco, a returning customer reading near the entrance of the shop. “ You can tell it’s a community space for the people who live here, and everyone is welcome. It has a ‘come as you are’ vibe.”
5. Magic City Flea
174 East Flagler St.
Miami
Sundays noon – 6 p.m.
Magic City Flea is a weekly Sunday market located in Downtown Miami. What began as a small flea market in 2022 has grown to include more than 200 vendors every Sunday, an official retail space and themed holiday pop-ups. The market has become a lively gathering place for locals. Its central location allows visitors to shop, explore nearby restaurants and easily make plans with friends. Aside from going with friends or a loved one, being around those with similar interests makes it easier to form new connections.
