The dreaded moment returns – the group chat is buzzing as your friends send yet another list of malls, cafes or bars, in search of an ever-elusive hangout spot that won’t suck your wallets dry. We’re facing a shortage crisis, but it’s not land we lack; it’s a third space where we can chill for the whole day without being disturbed.
Tired of paying exorbitant prices for matcha lattes while cafe staff shoot you not-so-subtle looks at peak hour? The Third Place in Bishan might be your new favourite stomping ground, and the entry fee costs less than some cafe meals.
A bomb shelter turned communal space, The Third Place in Bishan is the latest in a wave of up-and-coming third spaces designed for slowing down and connecting with others.
Co-working spaces packed with people busy on their laptops can sometimes feel a little tense, while crowded cafes can be noisy and overstimulating. In contrast, The Third Place aims to be a space where people can meet up spontaneously for some R&R or get some quiet time away from the office or the chores waiting at home. No bookings are needed, so you can drop in any time.
For just $18 per person, you get full-day access to the space and all its amenities, although re-entry is subject to capacity. Students enjoy 20% off with proof of a valid ID, making it an affordable option for those on a tighter budget.
Pawrents will also be glad to know that the space is pet-friendly, but they must be supervised at all times, and uncleaned mess may incur a cleaning fee of $300.
You can skip the endless TikTok scroll looking for cafes with Wi-Fi and charging ports, because The Third Place has both, and you won’t have to worry about dining time limits here either.
Even better, they’ve got free water dispensers, as well as snacks and chilled soft drinks for sale to satisfy any mid-work cravings. You’re also welcome to bring your own meals as long as you avoid foods with strong odours and clean up after yourself.
Pro tip: Drop by in the afternoon for more quiet time, as the space tends to get busier closer to 7pm.
Snooker halls and pay-to-play board game cafes often charge by the hour, but here, you’ve got free rein to take things at your own pace.
Image credit: Anabelle via Google Maps
The star of the show is the 9ft competition-ready pool table, fitted with professional-grade cloth and precision 4¼″ pockets – a win for dedicated enthusiasts and casual players alike.
If your skills are a little rusty, the staff will be more than happy to catch you up to speed on the basics.
While waiting your turn, you can also try your hand at the electric dart machine with multiple game modes and an automatic scoring system.
Image credit: The Third Place
No need to whip out your old mahjong table when your friends come over – The Third Place has its own automatic mahjong table for fuss-free setup and shuffle, so there’s less mess and more fun. Before you head down, be sure to book the mahjong table in advance through the WhatsApp number on their website.
Although the mahjong table is tucked away in its own corner, it’s good to keep in mind that it’s still part of the shared space. If you’re looking for more privacy, it might be best to opt for actual game cafes.
Here’s something you don’t find in your usual game cafe: a remote-controlled sand pit, complete with a mini bulldozer, excavator, crane, and dump truck that actually work.
There’s also a LEGO wall, where you can DIY your own mini masterpieces or add to creations already on the community wall.
A must-have for any game set-up, The Third Place stocks over 80 card and board games from icebreakers to strategy-based classics. Some crowd favourites you might recognise include Herd Mentality, Secret Hitler, and Unstable Unicorns.
If you’re not sure where to start, don’t be afraid to approach the staff. They’ll recommend easier games to start with, match you with other visitors also in the mood for a game, and they’ll occasionally join in on the fun too.
They’re open to recommendations as well, so leave your suggestions with the staff, and you might see your favourites on the shelves in the future.
Image credit: Priscilla Kor via Google Maps
Whether you’re planning a group study session, board game nights, casual tournaments, creative workshops, or community events, The Third Place is a great option with enough space to host between 40 and 50 people at a time.
Rates start at $300 for 8-hour off-peak weekday blocks, with flexible scheduling for morning, afternoon, or evening slots. Keep in mind that bookings cover the entire space, so you’ll have better bang for your buck if you’re hosting a larger group.
The Third Place is conveniently located near Bishan, Marymount, Ang Mo Kio, and Brighthill MRT stations .
From Bishan MRT, take Exit B and cross the overhead bridge on your right. Hop on bus 13, 52, 54, or 88 from Opp Bishan Stn bus stop, and you’ll arrive at Block 257. You’ll find The Third Place across the road.
Screenshot from Google Maps.
If you’re coming from Marymount MRT, look for Exit A, make a left, and walk straight to the bus stop. At the Marymount Stn bus stop, wait for bus 74, 851 or 852. Once the bus arrives at Marymount Community Club, cross the road, and you’ll reach The Third Place. Alternatively, you can also take bus 54 from the bus stop to Block 245.
Screenshot from Google Maps.
From Ang Mo Kio MRT, cross the overhead bridge on your left from Exit A to get to Opp AMK Stn bus stop. Catch either bus 88 or 74, and get off at the bus stop under Block 245.
Another way to reach The Third Place is from Brighthill MRT. From there, make a right after Exit 1, cross the road, and keep going straight. You’ll reach the Bright Hill Stn Exit 1 bus stop. Board bus 52 or 162, and alight at the Blk 245 bus stop. The Third Place should be within the HDB blocks, right behind the bus stop.
For a visual guide, follow the video directions under the “visit us” highlight on The Third Place’s Instagram to find their exact location.
It might feel intimidating to walk into a space with other strangers, but you’re not the only one who feels that way. Those who visited the space said the same thing on their first visit, but The Third Place’s thoughtfully curated selection of games and welcoming vibe seems to have worked in bringing people together, with positive reviews from strangers connecting over their shared love of games.
So if you’re looking for a low-stakes environment to meet new faces and maybe make a few friends, consider this your sign to drop by.
For more things to do in Bishan:
Cover image adapted from: @thethirdplacesg via Instagram, The Third Place website, Anabelle via Google Maps
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