Newcomer Friendly Spots

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New to Second Life? Check out these locations that offer orientations, tutorials and other resources for new virtual world Residents.

Editors' Pick

Voice Chat Hot Spots

London City

London City has a multilevel freebie store with regularly updated mesh clothing and accessories. Additionally, there is a tutorial area, with Support staff to assist new Residents. You can enjoy daily events with free-to-enter contests and Linden Dollar prizes, live voice chat, a busking area, sandbox, pubs, clubs, concert area, and a large hangout park, where new and older residents mix. For details see mainlandlondon.blogspot.com

Editors' Pick

International

Unihispana

Grupo de enseñanza y ayuda de habla hispana, tenemos a vuestra disposicion un recorrido para recien llegados con, zona gratuita, tutoriales y guias, clases semanales basicas y avanzadas, sandbox, zona infantil, juegos, punto de encuentro y galeria de arte. Celebramos distintas actividades, fiestas y eventos.

Editors' Pick

Help & How To

Firestorm Gateway

New residents are invited to learn the day-to-day basics of Second Life on this lush, wooded tutorial path. Learn movement, communication, outfits, and more. Assistance and mentoring are also available for new and experienced residents alike. All are welcome, but this tutorial zone is optimized for the Firestorm Viewer. (firestormviewer.org).

Editors' Pick

International

Ayuda Virtual

Ayuda Virtual, la principal comunidad de habla hispana en Second Life. 10 años al servicio de los usuarios, enseñando, ayudando, construyendo, entreteniendo y creando lazos de amistad y camaradería entre sus miembros y los nuevos usuarios.

Editors' Pick

Music

Cafe Musique

Since opening in 2015, Cafe Musique has welcomed more than 600 live music performers to its stages, bringing together aspiring artists, newcomers and established performers in a warm, supportive and inclusive community. With more than 60 live performances every week, there is always something to discover, someone new to enjoy, and a reason to come together through the love of music. What makes Cafe Musique special is more than the music. It's the people, the incredible staff, the welcoming atmosphere, and a genuine passion for supporting performers and helping the live music community in Second Life grow and thrive.

Editors' Pick

Linden Destinations

Sandbox Welcome Area

Ready to create? Visit the Sandbox and learn to build in Second Life! Whether it's a small gadget or a dream mansion, your imagination is the only limit.

Editors' Pick

Education

Virtual Worlds Education Consortium Eduverse

The goal of the VW Education Consortium (VWEC) is to bring educators together both to share what has been successful and to tackle obstacles across virtual platforms and communities. For more information contact: Valibrarian Gregg, Elli Pinion, or Dodge Threebeards.

Editors' Pick

International

Brazil Tour

Brazil Tour is inspired by the beauty and culture of Brazil. Explore vibrant spaces, meet others, and discover creativity, fun, and possibilities through a social and engaging experience with Portuguese-speaking community support. This destination is part of an official onboarding experience for new residents.

Editors' Pick

International

Ajuda SL Brasil - Voluntários

Ajuda e orientacao - idioma portugues. Nesta Comunidade Gateway, apoiamos os residentes mais novos, oferecendo ajuda para todos. Somos um Grupo de Voluntarios, desde 2009; atualizado em 2011. Community Gateway 2017. Sejam bem-vindos e divirtam-se! New Residents can get help and guidance in the Portuguese language at this destination. This is a Volunteer Group since 2009 and a Gateway Community since 2017. Welcome and have fun!

Editors' Pick

Discussions & Communities

Corsica South Coasters

Follow the roads and waterways of Corsica's southern coast and discover a Mainland community full of surprises. Corsica South Coasters brings together an international community of artists, musicians, explorers, and residents. Newcomers and longtime residents alike are welcome. Start at the Tourist Center, choose a destination, and see where the journey leads.

Editors' Pick

Linden Destinations

Second Life Community Exhibition

The Second Life Community Exhibition (SLCE) is designed to showcase a variety of communities to new Residents right from the start, by featuring them prominently at the Welcome Hub, a key initial gathering spot. We will regularly update the exhibition with a diverse mix of community showcases.

Editors' Pick

Second Life Origins

Builder's Brewery

Established in 2008, Builder's Brewery is one of Second Life's oldest destinations for learning. Visit and take a free training class and learn all about building, textures, scripting, mesh, animations, and more. Join their 3x award-winning group, and there is even a Sandbox for builders. Check their website for their schedule of educational events. More info at buildersbrewery.com

Editors' Pick

Linden Destinations

Welcome Hub Social Plaza

Want a chill place to socialize? The Welcome Hub Social Plaza is your go-to! Located under the main dome at the Welcome Hub, meet friends old and new, share experiences, or simply watch the world go by. It is an ideal place for newcomers to get assistance and navigate to other parts of the Welcome Hub.

Editors' Pick

Second Life Origins

Ivory Tower Library of Primitives

This self-guided, self-paced, comprehensive building tutorial also includes a weapons testing area and safe sandboxes where you can try out your newly-acquired skills.

Editors' Pick

Help & How To

The Fitting Room

The Fitting Room provides a private, comfortable space to try on clothing and work on your avatar. 8 dressing rooms available on a first-come, first-served basis. Each room features a complimentary photo studio and concierge/tailor assistance.

Editors' Pick

Pets & Animals

Teegle

Ready to meet your next four-legged friend? Set off on a horseback riding adventure? Build your own stable? Steal the limelight at the dog show? Customize your horse's color, saddle, and look! Recreate your favorite pets in SL! Join in on regular classes, trail rides, competitions, and fun! Whatever your plans, the Teegle community is ready to help you create the perfect pet life of your dreams!

Editors' Pick

Voice Chat Hot Spots

Central Park Newcomer Welcome Area

Central Park is a newbie-friendly voice-enabled hangout. They have live helpers to help you get started with your new life, from building avatars to basic in-world help. Visit Central Park and have the time of your life!

Editors' Pick

Help & How To

Helping Haven Gateway

New Second Life Residents can find a helpful hand at Helping Haven, a spot filled with experts who can share tips and tricks to getting started in SL. Visit this newcomer-friendly community for freebies, landmarks and other useful items. More at http://helpinghaven.weebly.com.

Editors' Pick

Help & How To

The Shelter

The Shelter was established in 2004 and is a haven for those new and old! Relax and meet new people at a safe place for new avatars in Second Life.

Editors' Pick

International

Raizes do Brasil - Community Gateway

Raizes do Brasil foi criada para auxiliar os novos residentes a ter uma boa experiencia dentro do Second Life. Nosso grande objetivo é mostrar nossa preocupacao com preservação do tesouro mais precioso do Brasil. " A Floresta Amazonica"

Editors' Pick

International

Germany Gateway

Die "Germany Gateway" der Community Baunatal ist der ideale Treffpunkt für alle, die neu in die Welt von Second Life eintauchen. Hier lernst Du die wichtigsten Grundlagen, machst Deine ersten Schritte und knüpfst unkompliziert Kontakte zu anderen. Tausche Dich über spannende deutsche Regionen aus, probiere Dich in der Sandbox beim Bauen aus oder schau in unserem Freizeit- und Spielebereich vorbei. Und falls Du mal nicht weiterweißt: An unseren Hilfestationen kannst Du jederzeit Unterstützung rufen.

Editors' Pick

International

Japan - Hiroba

Visit Japan-HIROBA, a helpful place for Japanese-speaking residents of Second Life. Here you'll find assistance from a supportive community, as well as a dressing room, beginner tutorials and free sandbox.

Editors' Pick

Role-playing Communities

Harmony Hills Welcome Hub

An extension of the Harmony Hills RP community, Newbury Landing is a welcoming place to begin your Second Life journey! Their friendly mentors are here to help you get started: find your first home, join social activities, explore shops, or just relax. Come explore, learn, and make yourself at home!

Editors' Pick

Role-playing Communities

Everwinter Dystopian Roleplay

Step into a sprawling metropolis surrounded by the wastelands, where technology decays and divinity festers. Engage in deep, story roleplay as a Runner, Outlander, Vaulted, or Synthetic, each marked by hidden cravings and fractured memories. Beyond the walls, cosmic horrors stir and ancient powers awaken. Your story begins where the world ends.

Editors' Pick

Help & How To

Happy Hippo Building School

The Happy Hippo Building School is a long-term, well-respected and large school. The instructors provide a building course to take you from absolute beginner onward.

Editors' Pick

Anthro/Furry

Luskwood

Running continually since 2003, Luskwood is Second Life’s original and longest-running furry community, and developed the first furry avatars for the world. There are casual hangouts on the platforms most evenings and rotating special occasion events with live music or DJs. For those seeking something quieter, there are many trails to explore through the wooded surroundings around the giant tree.

Editors' Pick

Help & How To

SLEA Art Sandbox

Discover the creative side of Second Life! Explore amazing art, immersive worlds, music, performances, and exhibitions. Whether you love exploring or want to create something of your own, there’s a place for you here. Join the SLEA Group and SLEA Art Collective to discover events, meet artists, and explore creativity across the grid. Come explore the SLEA Art Sandbox!

Editors' Pick

Real Life

Dublin

Dublin Community Gateway offers new users a walk-through tutorial to learn the basics of Second Life while connecting to the vibrant Dublin region. This detailed recreation of Dublin, Ireland, features daily events, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere with Irish hospitality, bars, and entertainment. Learn more at dublinsl.net

Editors' Pick

Music

Club Midnight Pulse

Midnight Pulse is a neon-lit nightclub where music, movement, and social interaction come together. Step onto the dance floor to start dancing automatically, earn experience as you move, and unlock new animations. Explore the bar and lounge, complete mini-quests, and connect with others in a high-energy setting. This destination is part of an official onboarding experience for new residents.

Editors' Pick

Linden Destinations

The Learning Center

The Learning Center by Linden Lab is an interactive destination designed to teach the basics through gameplay. Explore obstacle courses, collect hidden stars, and learn core skills while progressing through challenges alone or with others. This destination is part of an official onboarding experience for new residents.

Editors' Pick

Sports & Hobbies

Driving Dirty

Driving Dirty by Bad Unicorn is a fast and fun social experience where you can play different games, grab free prizes, meet new people, and hang out with others. Enjoy a laid-back, all-original mesh world built for both competition and connection. This destination is part of an official onboarding experience for new residents.

Editors' Pick

Help & How To

London Town Gateway

London Town Gateway offers new users a walk-through tutorial to learn the basics of Second Life while connecting to the vibrant London town region. This detailed recreation of London, England, features shopping, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Editors' Pick

Linden Destinations

BelliHub

BelliHub is the go-to destination to learn more about Bellisseria! With detailed tutorials and information about Premium membership, how to get a Linden home, using land tools, and more - you'll be up and running in no time! Explore the DEMO region and get an up-close look at all the Linden home themes and models. Plus, hang out with other Residents, play games, and get to know the Bellisseria community!

Editors' Pick

Help & How To

Caledon Oxbridge Gateway

Caledon Oxbridge University (COU) is an independent, community-supported, Second Life skill-training facility, located within the Victorian-Steampunk estate of Caledon. COU supports students of all avatar ages. A primary feature of COU is the seven-building walk-through tutorial, COU also has live, walk-in classes as well as live tutors in the plaza to answer questions and provide assistance.

Editors' Pick

Help & How To

Virtual Ability

Virtual Ability is a place where people with disabilities and chronic illnesses can safely learn about virtual worlds. Details on VirtualAbility.org

Editors' Pick

Education

Rockcliffe University Consortium

Rockcliffe University Consortium is an online nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of science, education, and research in 3D virtual environments. There are free workshops and forums provided on a regular basis, as well as live music and movies. There's also a theater, art gallery, sandbox and a full academic research library.

Editors' Pick

Games

Skill Gaming Lounge

Skill Gaming Lounge welcomes new Residents to the skill gaming in Second Life with a simple selection of games: Roto Loto, No Devil, and WinGo.

Editors' Pick

Romance

Rush Week

Rush Week is a special Greek Row experience built to spark the right connections. The right role. The right energy. The right people. With the matchmaking Spark system, it pairs you with compatible residents and live scenes from the moment you arrive. Become someone on campus and find your vibe. This destination is part of an official onboarding experience for new residents.

Editors' Pick

Help & How To

MadPea Scaredy Cats

A cute yet spooky funhouse adventure where players explore whimsical, slightly eerie rooms filled with playful monsters and hidden kittens. Rescue lost kittens across three themed rooms, earn points to climb the leaderboard, unlock achievements, and win exclusive prizes while avoiding trickster monsters and light jump scares. This destination is part of an official onboarding experience for new residents.

Editors' Pick

Help & How To

Kore Communifur

Kore Communifur is a furry community gateway designed to welcome and guide new residents. Explore a tutorial area, connect with mentors, discover freebies, and visit spaces like the town hall and amphitheatre. Built as an interactive hub, it helps visitors learn, socialize, and get started with confidence. Join them at their grand opening on March 21st from 4pm to 12am SLT with live entertainment, trivia, and games!

Editors' Pick

International

Coliseum Italian Gateway

Comunità di accoglienza e aiuto dei nuovi residenti italiani Coliseum è partner e partecipante al programma Official Community Gateway di Linden Lab. Coliseum Gateway is also a location for racing with the SL Cycling Federation.

Editors' Pick

International

Santos Dumont Airfield

Especialistas da Aeronautica Community Gateway is located at the Santos Dumont Airfield. It was founded on June 7, 2012, with the purpose of bringing the routine of this important Brazilian Air Force organization to Second Life. It is a newcomer-friendly Portuguese destination.

Editors' Pick

Linden Destinations

Linden Homes Demos

Dreaming of a Second Life home? Visit the Linden Homes Demo region! Explore an array of beautiful, fully furnished homes that come with our premium subscription.

Editors' Pick

Help & How To

The Faery Crossing Learning Grove

When you take your first steps into Second Life, it can be overwhelming. We've all been there. You can go anywhere! Be anything! So... why not visit the Fae? Especially for newcomers to Second Life, they have constructed a fully interactive tutorial area, where you can learn how to walk, talk, shop, fly, and more. Attended by their wonderful Gateway Guides, the Gateway to the Faery Crossing will ultimately lead you to the lands below where you can explore the wonderful world of The Faery Crossing in its full splendor.

Editors' Pick

Help & How To

New Citizens Incorporated

New to Second Life? New Citizens Incorporated is a community-run portal offering help, education and support for new Residents.

Editors' Pick

Help & How To

Echo Group Band of Brothers

Echo Group Band of Brothers is a real-life Veteran's non-profit with a chapter in Second Life. They provide assistance with anything a Veteran or their family members may need including VA, claims, DIC, etc. There are 2 regions and a Gateway for new residents to learn SL! It is well done, easy to maneuver, and lots of fun. The main region boasts the only Armed Forces Museum Experience in SL, with lots more to see. How can they help you?

Editors' Pick

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Second Pride

Established in 2005, this destination is the headquarters of the Second Pride organization in Second Life. They hold four annual events, featuring plenty of music and fun. Spread across two regions, with everything from a cityscape to a massive beach and boardwalk, all centered around a huge park that spans both regions. There are shops on the pier, carnival rides, a zipline over the beach, a working trolley to take you on a tour, and more! More info at: second-pride.com

Editors' Pick

Help & How To

Door to America

Door to America is a region within Second Life built specifically to onboard new users using the theme “Second Life is a virtual world for human connection!” DtA can promote a healthy, positive, transformative learning curve for users. Second Life is porous and learned skills, talents, and lessons of all types can transcend the virtual world and bring real-world benefits. Learn more at doortoamerica.blogspot.com

Got a favorite Spot?

Suggest your venue or favorite place for consideration in the Destination Guide today.

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Suggest a Destination

For general questions about the Destination Guide or to report an issue like a broken link contact editor@lindenlab.com.

Destinations

London City

Unihispana

Firestorm Gateway

Ayuda Virtual

Cafe Musique

Sandbox Welcome Area

Virtual Worlds Education Consortium Eduverse

Brazil Tour

Ajuda SL Brasil - Voluntários

Corsica South Coasters

Second Life Community Exhibition

Builder's Brewery

Welcome Hub Social Plaza

Ivory Tower Library of Primitives

The Fitting Room

Teegle

Central Park Newcomer Welcome Area

Helping Haven Gateway

The Shelter

Raizes do Brasil - Community Gateway

Germany Gateway

Japan - Hiroba

Harmony Hills Welcome Hub

Everwinter Dystopian Roleplay

Happy Hippo Building School

Luskwood

SLEA Art Sandbox

Dublin

Club Midnight Pulse

The Learning Center

Driving Dirty

London Town Gateway

BelliHub

Caledon Oxbridge Gateway

Virtual Ability

Rockcliffe University Consortium

Skill Gaming Lounge

Rush Week

MadPea Scaredy Cats

Kore Communifur

Coliseum Italian Gateway

Santos Dumont Airfield

Linden Homes Demos

The Faery Crossing Learning Grove

New Citizens Incorporated

Echo Group Band of Brothers

Second Pride

Door to America

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