Central Perk. Cheers! (Where Everybody Knows Your Name). McLaren’s Pub. If you can close your eyes for a second and picture these spots, you’ll realize quickly that they are all the same. They are places where the characters of some of our favorite shows go to hang out. Their “home away from home”. These are all classic examples of a “Third Place.”

Sociologist Ray Oldenberg suggests that each of us needs three places: first is the home; second is the workplace or school; and beyond lies the place where people from all walks of life interact. An anchor of community life. It is a third place.

There are certain hallmarks of a true “third place”:

1. Neutral ground – A place where people can come from home or work and be on different turf
2. Leveler – A place where everyone is equal and social status has no great bearing
3. Conversation – A place where conversation is the main attraction, and is easily achieved
4. Accessibility – A place that is easy to navigate, and is easy to find
5. Regulars – A place where people become “regular” and are often present
6. Wholesome – A place where you might see your Grandmother hanging out or take your four year old
7. Playful – A place that isn’t stuffy or pretentious

It’s our great dream to turn Trek Brewing Company into your third place. We have spent many many hours talking, dreaming, and drinking many many beers, as we think about how to craft our taproom to meet the guidelines set forth by Dr. Oldenberg. We can’t wait for you to check it out.