The New York Times asked, “Where have all the third places gone?” The answer? They’ve moved online.

What are 3rd places?
A third place is defined as somewhere that’s neither work nor home. And in 2025, content creation is reshaping how we experience them. People are on their phones constantly. Consuming, creating, and connecting. These digital spaces are today’s new third places, and they’re starting to move from screens to streets.

Communities are seeing large-scale third places take shape through annual conventions and creator-led events. Twitch streamer Kai Cenat recently organized the first-ever “Streamer University,” flying out over 150 people and renting out The University of Akron for a weekend-long boot camp. The goal? To create space for creators of all sizes to collaborate, learn, and build real world connections.

But it’s not just massive events. Smaller, more intimate local third places are growing too. Such as YouTube Creator Collectives. These are regional meetups happening all across the country, organized by YouTube to help creators hang out, exchange ideas, and build community with like minded people. DaObeezy, a Youtube Partner, shared his recent experience at the Youtube Creator Collective in Tampa Florida. “ As creators we sometimes feel very isolated so Youtube hosts events across the country. Most people who struggle with community do not have avenues to reach their community.” For those out there wanting to gain community and third spaces do not be afraid to use social media and get involved.

Youtube is helping bridge those gaps and create mediums for community building. Third places haven’t disappeared. They’ve just evolved, and they’re still bringing people together in powerful ways.