Laguna Woods Village, nestled in the heart of Orange County, California, is a premier 55+ active adult community renowned for its vibrant lifestyle and extensive amenities. With seven unique clubhouses, each offering a diverse array of activities, residents have endless opportunities to socialize, stay active, and pursue their passions. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, an arts and crafts lover, or someone who enjoys lively social gatherings, the clubhouses in Laguna Woods Village provide the perfect setting to connect with like-minded individuals. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the rich tapestry of clubhouse activities, highlighting what makes each clubhouse special and how residents can make the most of these exceptional facilities.
A Hub of Activity: The Seven Clubhouses
Laguna Woods Village boasts seven distinct clubhouses, each designed to cater to different interests and needs. From fitness centers and swimming pools to arts studios and performance venues, these clubhouses are the heartbeat of the community. Let’s explore the unique offerings of each clubhouse and the activities that bring residents together.
Clubhouse 1: The Social and Fitness Epicenter
Located at 24232 Calle Aragon, Clubhouse 1 is often referred to as the community’s flagship clubhouse. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., it features a large fitness center, a shaded swimming pool, and a hot pool, making it a go-to spot for health-conscious residents. The pool, heated to a comfortable 84 degrees, is ideal for lap swimming or relaxing dips, with a spa adding to the wellness experience.
Beyond fitness, Clubhouse 1 is a hub for social and recreational activities. Residents can enjoy archery, billiards, badminton, basketball, shuffleboard, and volleyball. The clubhouse also offers various rooms for club meetings, classes, and social events. For those planning private gatherings, the dining rooms and main lounge can accommodate up to 300 for lectures or 220 for seated events, complete with a fully equipped kitchen and patio with barbecue facilities.
One of the standout activities at Clubhouse 1 is the Sunday Discussion Club, held every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Dining Room Two. This vibrant forum allows residents to engage in lively debates on global events, national news, and local updates, fostering a sense of community and intellectual stimulation. With an annual membership of just $10, it’s an affordable way to stay connected and informed.
Clubhouse 2: Golf and Leisure with a View
Situated at 24112 Moulton Parkway, Clubhouse 2 is adjacent to the community’s 27-hole golf course, offering stunning views of the Saddleback Mountains. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with extended hours for reservations), this clubhouse features a pool, a hot pool, a video learning center, two card rooms, and two lawn bowling greens.
Clubhouse 2 is a favorite for golfers and those who enjoy leisurely activities. The card rooms host regular bridge and poker games, while the video learning center offers educational workshops. The lawn bowling greens are a unique feature, attracting residents who enjoy this classic sport. The clubhouse also hosts community events like the Gate 11 Pot Luck Dinner, a popular social gathering that encourages resident interaction.
Clubhouse 3: The Performing Arts Center
While not a traditional clubhouse, the Performing Arts Center (PAC) at 23822 Avenida Sevilla functions as Clubhouse 3 and is a cultural gem in Laguna Woods Village. Open daily from 9 a.m., the 814-seat venue hosts a variety of special events, musicals, seminars, and theatrical performances.
Residents can join performing arts clubs, such as the Village Theater Guild, which organizes plays and musicals, or attend concerts and lectures. The PAC is also available for private rentals, making it a versatile space for community celebrations. For those interested in the arts, this clubhouse offers a creative outlet and a chance to experience professional-quality performances without leaving the community.
Clubhouse 4: The Arts and Crafts Haven
Clubhouse 4, located at 23501 Via Mariposa West, is the arts and crafts center of Laguna Woods Village. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (with extended hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 8 p.m.), it provides state-of-the-art facilities for hobbyists and artisans.
Affiliated with the Saddleback College Emeritus Institute, Clubhouse 4 offers classes in ceramics, textiles, lapidary, photography, and more. Residents can explore their creativity through painting, pottery, or jewelry-making workshops. The clubhouse also hosts art exhibitions, showcasing the talents of local artists like Christina Carter Haskins, a retired biology teacher turned painter.
For those looking to join a club, the Arts and Crafts Club organizes regular events and provides a supportive environment for beginners and seasoned artists alike. The studio spaces are open seven days a week, allowing residents to work on their projects at their own pace.
Clubhouse 5: Entertainment and Games
Clubhouse 5, at 24262 Punta Alta, is a lively hub for entertainment and social activities. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with extended hours for reservations), it features a large main lounge with a stage and dance floor, a swimming pool, a hot pool, a drop-in fitness center, a fitness studio, and a game room.
The main lounge is equipped with a Sennheiser Hearing Enhancement System, making it accessible for hearing-impaired residents. It hosts monthly entertainment events organized by clubs like the Chicago Club, which offers 12 free shows annually for a $40 membership fee. These events range from live music to comedy performances, fostering a festive atmosphere.
The game room, with 12 tables for card games and a no-smoking billiards room with a Snooker table and three pocket pool tables, is a popular spot for friendly competition. The clubhouse’s multi-purpose rooms, equipped with kitchenettes, are ideal for club meetings or smaller gatherings, accommodating up to 50 people for lectures or 32 for classes.
Clubhouse 6: Intimate Gatherings
Clubhouse 6, located at 24061 Algarrobo, is designed for intimate private parties and smaller community events. Situated in a tranquil setting, it features a large dining room with a spacious dance floor, a fully equipped kitchen, a multipurpose room, and a seasonal swimming pool open during the summer months.
This clubhouse is frequently reserved by community clubs and organizations, as it can accommodate up to 130 people. Residents use Clubhouse 6 for events like book club meetings, dance classes, and small celebrations. The pool, heated between 82-84 degrees, provides a cozy backyard-style experience for summer relaxation.
Clubhouse 7: Bridge and Banquets
Clubhouse 7, at 24111 Moulton Parkway, is a premier venue for private parties and club gatherings, with a capacity of 130 people for dining and dancing. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with extended hours for reservations), it is home to the American Contract Bridge League, boasting 60 tables for duplicate and progressive bridge games.
Bridge enthusiasts flock to Clubhouse 7 for regular tournaments and casual games, making it a social hub for card players. The clubhouse also hosts banquets, dances, and themed parties, with its spacious dining room and dance floor providing an elegant setting for memorable events.
Over 250 Clubs and Organizations
In addition to the activities offered at each clubhouse, Laguna Woods Village is home to over 250 clubs and organizations, catering to a wide range of interests. From arts and crafts to fitness, dance, music, and cultural groups, there’s something for everyone.
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Arts and Crafts Clubs: Join the Arts and Crafts Club at Clubhouse 4 to explore painting, pottery, or photography. The Library Club at Clubhouse 1 also showcases quarterly art exhibitions by local artists.
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Fitness and Sports Clubs: Stay active with fitness classes at Clubhouses 1, 5, or the Community Center, or join sports clubs like the Table Tennis Club or the Laguna Woods Yacht Club for sailing enthusiasts.
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Cultural and Social Clubs: Celebrate diversity with clubs like the African American Culture Club or the Chicago Club, which hosts monthly entertainment and bus trips.
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Games and Hobbies: From bridge at Clubhouse 7 to chess and mahjong at Clubhouse 5, game-focused clubs provide endless fun.
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Educational and Discussion Groups: Engage in intellectual pursuits with the Sunday Discussion Club or attend seminars at the Performing Arts Center.
Residents can explore these clubs at events like the Club Expo 2024, held at Clubhouse 5, where they can meet club representatives and learn about membership opportunities.
Getting Involved: Tips for New Residents
For newcomers to Laguna Woods Village, diving into clubhouse activities is a fantastic way to build connections and discover new hobbies. Here are some tips to get started:
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Attend a Village Living Information Session: Held at the Community Center, these sessions provide insights into amenities and activities, with resident ambassadors answering questions.
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Visit the Recreation Department: Located at the Community Center, the Recreation Department offers information on club registrations, event schedules, and facility reservations. Contact them at (949) 597-4273 or recreation@vmsinc.org.
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Check the Events Calendar: The Laguna Woods Village website and the Laguna Woods Club Facebook Group list upcoming events, from dance parties to art classes.
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Join a Club: With over 250 clubs, there’s no shortage of options. Start with a low-commitment club like the Sunday Discussion Club or attend a meeting of the Library Club to meet fellow book lovers.
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Reserve a Space: Planning a personal event? Clubhouses 1, 2, 5, 6, and 7 are available for private rentals. Contact the recreation office for fees and forms.
Why Clubhouse Activities Matter
The clubhouse activities in Laguna Woods Village are more than just pastimes—they’re the foundation of a thriving community. These activities foster social connections, promote physical and mental well-being, and provide opportunities for lifelong learning and creativity. Whether you’re perfecting your golf swing, performing on stage, or debating current events, the clubhouses offer a space to live life to the fullest.
As resident George Stein said, “It started out as a visit to Laguna Woods Village and now this is where I want to spend the rest of my life.” The clubhouses, with their diverse offerings, play a pivotal role in making Laguna Woods Village a place where new adventures begin.
Conclusion
Laguna Woods Village’s seven clubhouses are the heart of its vibrant 55+ community, offering residents a wealth of activities to suit every interest. From fitness and sports to arts, entertainment, and intellectual pursuits, there’s no shortage of ways to stay engaged and connected. By exploring the clubhouses and joining one of the many clubs, residents can create lasting memories and friendships. So, whether you’re a longtime resident or considering a move to Laguna Woods Village, dive into the clubhouse activities and discover why this community is truly a senior paradise.
For more information, visit lagunawoodsvillage.com or contact the Recreation Department at (949) 597-4273. Ready to explore? Your next adventure awaits at one of Laguna Woods Village’s iconic clubhouses.
