Types of Public Spaces in English

When you travel or give directions, it helps to know the right words for different public spaces. In this video, you will compare 'a park' with four other places you often find in towns and cities. A 'square' is an open area in a town, usually with four sides and buildings around it. Many cities have a main square where people meet. A 'plaza' is similar to a square and is often used for open shopping areas or public spaces, especially in American English and Spanish-speaking countries. A 'courtyard' is an open space surrounded by walls or buildings, often inside a hotel, school, palace or apartment block. A 'promenade' is a wide path for walking, usually along the sea or a river, where people go for relaxing walks. These words are very useful when reading maps, booking hotels or explaining where to meet. For example: Let's meet in the main square. The hotel has a beautiful courtyard. We walked along the promenade at sunset. Watch the video, repeat each word, and practice describing your own city using this practical English vocabulary for public spaces.