We've all heard the sayings "third time is a charm," "three strikes and you're out," but what about third place?

Sociologist Ray Oldenburg explains this phenomenon in his book, “The Great Good Place." It's that sports bar you love watching football at every week, or that coffee shop where all the baristas know your name because you're a dedicated patron. Or perhaps, it's that one park you love to go to — away from the bustling city and retrieve into your own world. Whatever it is, we want to know, but we'll go first in a second (no pun intended). These places are important for many reasons, but particularly for promoting social vitality + a sense of community.

City Editor Kellina's pick

The Bookhouse, located in Reynolda village, has become part of my weekly routine, thanks to the familiar faces I encounter every time I come in, and the baristas who always greet me with a big smile. My go-to order is a half-sweetened iced chai latte with oatmilk and cayenne pepper to add a bit of a kick to the taste. Plus, they’ve got plenty of gift ideas for the special people in your life.

WStoday readers' picks

Here's what some of our readers + Instagram followers said:

"Chads Chai! I love the cozy atmosphere, the drinks are phenomenal, and it’s really close to where I live making it so easy to stop in." — Jess W.

"Be Kind coffee shop, clemmons. staff is so friendly,social causes are promoted , great place to be outside ( if and when it ever warms up!)" — Judy S.

"easytalk at Walnut & Broad Because I love the welcoming environment when I want to meet friends, catch up on work, try out the new cocktail or mocktail they introduced that week, begin or end our weekend, or have fun at a Sunday school class." — Lisa F.

Pro tip: Order the peach tea if you're looking for a fruity yet calming flavor. | Photo by WStoday

"Chad’s Chai is my go to for their off the chart quality tea concoctions and friendly atmosphere. It’s my cozy escape when I need to get out of the house and feel the vibe of this great city I now call home." — Amy W.

"West End Cafe" — Annie J.

"Lot 63" — Lia S.

"Pulliam’s Hotdogs and BBQ! Friendly place, Mark knows you by name" — David K.

"Workhouse Fitness and Synergy!!" — Leigh H.

"Reynolda Gardens" — Mary R.

"Mixxer Community Makerspace! Can make really cool stuff while hanging out with cool people." WStoday reader

"@fiddlinfishbrewing best place for beer and community" — @emerysnow27

"@dose.ws Monthly Monday shows!!! Bailey Park strolls & all their additional walking trails!! Love a @synergywsnc class + cocktails @easytalkws" — @roadswithria

Now, your turn. Where is your third place in Winston-Salem? Think public, informal gathering spaces that you frequent most like coffee shops, parks, libraries, churches, breweries, bookstores, salons... etc. Leave your answer in the comments section below.