When you’re young, it’s not difficult to realize how little spaces there are for teenagers to hangout. Every establishment seems to be targeted toward older demographics, especially 21 and up. Unfortunately, this may also mean that these spaces for mature audiences are a little boring, so to speak. Which also means the adolescents have limited enjoyable options, or potentially have no awareness of these third spaces.
Third places are social environments that one can hang out in besides work or school. These spaces are important, even more so for the youth, because of the sense of community it provides. Benefits from such public places also include improvement in social and behavioral development, due to interaction with members and staff.
South Bend is not that small of a city, therefore it’s easy to not be aware of third spaces around the area. Especially third spaces that offer a cozy and fun vibe while likewise being teenager friendly. So, I have compiled a list of hidden gems I’ve discovered and fell in love with. Some establishments require money while others you can simply enjoy without spending a dime!
Pigeon & The Hen
One of these third spaces that may be more well known is the Pigeon and The Hen Pottery Shop. This cutesy place is located downtown on 217 Michigan St. While it is certainly more pricey, I believe the cost to be well worth it. This local business offers services where you’re able to pick any ceramic piece of choice, and paint it however your creative mind desires! Afterward, when you’re finished with your piece they throw it in the kiln for glazing, and contact you for pickup whenever it’s completed. Furthermore, if you’re feeling adventurous, the option to create a ceramic piece from scratch using a pottery wheel is also offered. For one of my past birthdays I did that exact session and attempted to make something nice, which was more difficult than expected, but it turned out abstract. The instructor was also very helpful so I learned a lot for it being my first time creating pottery. They offer a variety of services, such as hosting parties, special events, classes and similar programs which are further detailed on their website. Overall, this place embodies such a comfortable and creative environment, with some of the kindest staff members. It’s perfect for any type of demographic looking for a fun, rewarding activity.
Battell & Kamm Island Park
A common third space that may come to mind are public parks. Though unlike most of the parks in the South Bend area, Battell / Kamm Island Park, a part of Century Park on St Joseph St., is one of the most scenic. The views of the place are near the river walkways, where the craft put into it truly shines. Some of the highlights I’ve witnessed at this park was the huge rock structure, which is also a fountain with flowing water. I remember seeing a sort of duck bath area while walking around, with a small water wheel and other wooden decorations. But the main thing that I love most about this park is a specific tree that had little trinkets on it. People from the community would put toys or figurines on this tree, as if they were living in it. It’s been a while since I have gone back, so hopefully the tradition is still continuing. I admired how people from our community came together for something so silly, and have withheld it. This park area would be ideal for people who like photography, as the scenery makes plenty of material to work with. Or for individuals who are just searching for a place to de-stress.
Shirojiri Niwa Garden
Shirojiri Niwa Garden, located on 450 Niles Ave., is a small but beautiful traditional Japanese garden. The plants and greenery found all around the garden only adds to the beauty. For instance, Shirojiri houses a huge willow tree, which is personally one of my favorite plants. The main star of the show would be the bright red soribashi bridge that perfectly encapsulates Japanese culture. It also makes for a scenic photoshoot location for special occasions such as prom or weddings. The garden also features other installations and artistic statues, such as an area for others to sit down with a group of stone people. This place is worth the visit–especially during the spring season–and is open from sunrise to sunset!
Mishawaka Antiques
If you’re someone who enjoys antique or vintage shopping, Mishawaka Antiques is a treasure trove for just that. This heavenly place can be found downtown on 118 Lincolnway with two entrances. One of the main reasons I love this place is because of how large it is, with a downstairs and in-progress upstairs area. They have a wide selection of neat items to fit anyone’s niche; including–but not limited to–old records, keys, seashells, vintage cookbooks / books, dishes, clothing, figurines, postcards, furniture, jewellery and cameras. Even those are the few that I can list off the top of my head. Every room and shelf is stacked with a random assortment of items, which makes it fun to search through every piece! I would recommend this place to any collector or people who enjoy browsing through cool shops.
Erasmus Books
One of my top favorite hidden gems in the area is Erasmus Books, located on 1027 Wayne St. To start, this bookstore inhabits an old, worn down house which really proves the ‘hidden’ aspect. It may be hard to spot the entrance at first, but once you do you’ll likely be greeted with a cute Bernese dog at the door. You will also notice the sea of books that can be found in basically every corner of the house. There’s various categories to choose from, along with even more options in the basement of the home. Aside from the books themselves, this shop has the kindest elderly man running the entire business, who’s always open to more book donations. The whole aesthetic of this bookstore has the coziest vibe, and honestly would be something found in a Studio Ghibli film. For the time I visited, it gave me the essence of the “Kiki’s Delivery Service” bakery with its small but aged ambiance. I can definitely see how one can spend hours looking through the offered selection, and for that I’d label Erasmus as every bookworm’s dream.
LangLab South Bend
If you’re a person who is heavily interested in the arts, LangLab on 1302 High St. is essentially the perfect hub for you. LangLab South Bend is a business that supports local artists and bands. They often host live music shows for all types of music groups, and you could even sign up yourself! LangLab’s building is a huge 33,000 square foot warehouse with tons of space, allowing for anyone to rent a room/space for their small business or studio. They also have a cafe that offers caffeinated drinks as well as food options. Another unique addition to LangLab is their grey kitty mascot named Smokey, who you can spot either outside or inside the building if you’re lucky. From what I was informed, Smokey was previously a stray before LangLab staff decided to take him in. He’s a very social and vocal cat from personal experience, but if you have an allergy toward cats be warned of the possibility of encountering him. I spent all of winter break here, being part of an artist camp during my sophomore year. With that, I can say this is definitely a hidden treasure many more locals should know of–especially fellow artists.
The Market Place
I was introduced to The Market Place by one of my good friends, and it was a pleasant surprise to know that it existed. This flea market is technically in Niles, Michigan, but also really close to the border that it’s not that far of a drive from South Bend. Placed on 2428 11th St., This market is another large place filled with various items for various people. While you can definitely find some antique pieces here, I wouldn’t say it’s the main selling factor; From my time there I saw more whimsical / funky type dishes, jewelry and trinkets. Each vendor booth has their own niche that has a little something for everyone! This establishment also has three cats that can be found roaming around the store–in my case, one was sleeping in a chair at one of the booths–or in the cage the market has set up for them. People with allergies be warned, but they usually keep to themselves as cats do. If you have the time and willpower, I’d say the long-ish drive would be well worth it!
The Cat Lady Cafe
On the trend of cats, you may have heard of cat cafes but never considered that South Bend would have them. The Cat Lady Cafe is one of the only cat cafes that I’ve been to, and remains one of the most healing. You can find this place at 401 Colfax Ave. where walk-ins are not permitted, and reservations by their website or by phone are required. You have the option to buy a drink while you’re waiting your turn in the kitty playhouse, or browsing through the small gift shop near the entrance. Once it’s your turn you’ll be taken to a lounge area with cat toys, cat houses, and of course cats! From experience, most of them will be asleep somewhere in the room. It’s mostly the younger ones that are curious enough to check you out and play. This cafe works together with the Humane Society of St. Joseph County, which means that all of the cats are adoptable, except for Chipmunk who is the manager. I’d recommend this place to anyone who feels down in the dumps lately, a visit here will surely improve your mood even by just a little bit.
Whether you’ve heard of these locations or not, being reminded of the local businesses here in St. Joseph County can also be a reminder of the creativity and talent of local civilians. Having locations in a city where all kinds of people can build community is incredibly important. Teenagers deserve to have more third spaces where they’re able to enjoy themselves and indulge in their hobbies, just as adults are able to do. It also can’t hurt to visit new places that you’re interested in while also supporting these hard-working businesses!
