Northwood Community Center: Plan Your Visit
Northwood Community Center is a City of Irvine recreation facility at 4531 Bryan Avenue, Irvine, CA 92620, near the intersection of Bryan Avenue and Yale Avenue. It provides recreation classes, community gathering spaces, youth activities and indoor and outdoor facilities available for reservation.
The center is part of Northwood Community Park, a 17.7-acre public park with playgrounds, soccer fields, tennis courts, picnic shelters, a ball diamond and walking or cycling connections.
Information reviewed October 19, 2026. Holiday hours, class schedules, facility reservations and fees may change.
Quick Visitor Guide
Check opening hours
Compare community-center hours with the surrounding park schedule.
Hours and contact →Find an activity
Explore arts, sports, science, cooking, karate, tennis and fitness.
Programs and registration →Rent a room
Compare multipurpose, meeting, classroom and exercise-room capacities.
Indoor room rentals →Reserve a picnic shelter
Find shelter capacities, barbecues and reservation requirements.
Picnic options →Request a permit
Follow Irvine’s facility reservation procedure and check current fees.
Booking instructions →Visit Northwood Park
Discover nearby outdoor recreation and driving directions.
Park map and access →Northwood Community Center Hours
The City of Irvine publishes the following regular operating schedule for Northwood Community Center.
| Day | Center hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 9:00 AM–9:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:00 AM–9:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00 AM–9:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:00 AM–9:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:00 AM–9:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM–10:00 PM |
| Sunday | 12:00 PM–6:00 PM |
Reservation hours
The City lists the same regular time windows for facility reservations: weekdays 9 AM–9 PM, Saturday 9 AM–10 PM and Sunday noon–6 PM.
Additional reservation hours may be accommodated upon request. Holiday reservation hours and building access may differ.
Community park hours
Northwood Community Park is open daily from 6 AM–10 PM. These outdoor park hours should not be confused with the shorter Community Center building schedule.
Community Center phone: 949-724-6728
Facility reservation phone: 949-724-6620.
Northwood Community Center Programs and Classes
Irvine Community Services offers recreation and educational classes at Northwood Community Center. The current schedule is published through the City’s yourirvine.org registration system.
Youth sports
Sports and recreational instruction, with activities suited to specific ages and ability levels.
Arts and crafts
Creative projects, art classes and related hands-on activities.
Cooking
Scheduled food-preparation and introductory cooking activities for eligible participants.
Science
Educational classes that can include demonstrations and age-appropriate experiments.
Karate
Martial arts classes based on the current instructor and course schedule.
Tennis and soccer
Scheduled sports instruction associated with the center and park facilities.
Pilates
Adult exercise and conditioning classes when offered in the seasonal program catalog.
Adult fitness
Fitness and movement classes scheduled through Irvine Community Services.
Seasonal activities
Additional recreation opportunities may be added to the City’s program calendar throughout the year.
Are programs available every day?
No. Opening hours do not guarantee that every class is running. Each course has its own dates, session times, eligibility criteria, enrollment limits and fees.
How to register for classes
- Visit the official registration portal. Open yourirvine.org from the City’s Community Center page.
- Search for Northwood Community Center. Filter activities by facility or use a specific class name.
- Choose your activity. Review the participant’s age range, skill level and course description.
- Confirm the location. Some classes associated with the park may take place outdoors rather than inside the center.
- Check the dates and fee. Verify the full course cost and any supplies or equipment needed.
- Sign in or create an account. Add the appropriate participant information.
- Complete registration. Follow the City’s approved checkout procedure and save your confirmation.
Northwood Community Center Rental Rooms and Capacities
The facility offers several reservable indoor rooms with different sizes, floor types and seating arrangements.
The maximum number of guests depends on room layout, accessibility requirements, event use and the City’s approved permit.
| Rental room | Area | Published capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Multipurpose Room | 1,540 sq ft | 54–105 people, depending on seating. |
| Meeting Room | 670 sq ft | 24–46 people, depending on seating. |
| Classroom | 880 sq ft | 30–61 people, depending on seating. |
| Exercise Room | 985 sq ft | Up to 69 people. |
| Courtyard | 300 sq ft | Up to 30 people. |
| Picnic Shelter #1 | Outdoor | Up to 75 people. |
| Picnic Shelter #2 | Outdoor | Up to 75 people. |
Multipurpose Room
The 1,540-square-foot multipurpose room has carpeting and can accommodate banquet-style or theater-style arrangements. Some setups may include a dance area.
Capacity: 54–105 attendees, depending on the approved seating arrangement.
This room may suit community celebrations, presentations, larger meetings and permitted gatherings.
Meeting Room
The 670-square-foot meeting room has carpeted floors and supports banquet or theater seating.
Capacity: 24–46 attendees.
This space may suit small meetings, workshops and group activities.
Classroom
The 880-square-foot classroom has carpeted and tiled flooring and supports different meeting or event arrangements.
Capacity: 30–61 attendees.
The City identifies banquet and theater seating as potential setups.
Exercise Room
The 985-square-foot exercise room features a bamboo floor and is designated for activities such as dance and exercise.
Maximum capacity: 69 attendees.
Courtyard
The 300-square-foot courtyard is available for approved reservations as an additional rental component.
- Maximum capacity: 30 people.
- Additional fee required.
- Subject to availability.
- Existing tables and chairs cannot be moved.
Ask whether the courtyard can be added to your chosen indoor rental arrangement.
Kitchen Rental: What Is Allowed?
Northwood Community Center has a kitchen that may be added to eligible room reservations.
The City specifically limits kitchen rental to events that also reserve the Multipurpose Room or Meeting Room.
Available kitchen equipment
- Microwave.
- Oven.
- Refrigerator.
- Freezer.
Can I cook food in the kitchen?
No. The City does not permit cooking or barbecuing in the rental kitchen. Prepared or catered food may be kept warm or cold using the available appliances.
Additional kitchen charges
The kitchen has a separate add-on fee. Confirm the current amount and any applicable cleaning or food-handling restrictions with Irvine Facility Reservations.
Picnic Shelter Rentals at Northwood Community Park
Northwood Community Center has two adjacent picnic shelters, making outdoor gatherings an alternative to renting an indoor room.
Picnic Shelter #1
Located closest to the playground.
- Up to 75 guests.
- Six picnic tables.
- Two barbecues.
- Reservations subject to availability.
Picnic Shelter #2
Located behind the Community Center building.
- Up to 75 guests.
- Six picnic tables.
- Two barbecues.
- Reservations subject to availability.
Can I use a picnic shelter without reserving it?
Yes, within the City’s rules. The City keeps one of the two picnic shelters available for first-come, first-served use for groups of 49 people or fewer.
The other shelter can be reserved.
When is a reservation required?
The City states that a reservation is required for groups larger than 50 people or groups bringing vendor services, such as catering or bounce houses.
Picnic reservation checklist
- Estimate the total attendance, including children.
- Choose the desired shelter and date.
- Check whether vendors, entertainment or equipment will be present.
- Confirm the shelter’s permitted capacity.
- Ask about barbecue use and fire restrictions.
- Confirm any electrical requirements.
- Follow approved cleanup and departure rules.
For rentals, contact 949-724-6620.
Rental Prices, Deposits and Permit Rules
The City of Irvine maintains separate policies and fee schedules for reserving community facilities.
Northwood’s rental cost depends on the requested room, applicant category, booking duration, equipment and any additional services.
What affects the reservation price?
| Cost factor | What to verify |
|---|---|
| Room or shelter | The approved space and applicable fee category. |
| Reservation duration | Minimum permit time and total billable hours. |
| Applicant classification | Which City policy category applies to your organization or event. |
| Kitchen access | Separate add-on charge. |
| Courtyard | Separate add-on charge and availability. |
| Equipment | Furniture, staging or other permitted equipment charges. |
| Special event activity | Possible additional fees for alcohol service, filming or other uses. |
| Staffing or extra hours | Charges for approved special arrangements. |
Are exact 2026 hourly rental rates available?
Irvine publishes a Community Facility Fees document through its reservation-policy page. The accessible facility description does not provide a current room-by-room price table directly alongside the Northwood room listings.
Instead of relying on an outdated rate, obtain the current fee schedule and ask staff to identify the specific category that applies to your rental.
How to Reserve a Room or Picnic Shelter
The City’s Facility Reservations team manages bookings. Applicants can also submit a Facility Reservation Application & Request form online.
- Decide on the event. Determine whether you need a meeting, party, class, reception, dance or outdoor gathering space.
- Choose the correct facility. Compare the Multipurpose Room, Meeting Room, Classroom, Exercise Room and picnic shelters.
- Check capacity. Match your guest count to the approved seating arrangement and room restrictions.
- Prepare the event schedule. Include setup, event activity and cleanup time.
- Contact Facility Reservations. Call 949-724-6620 or email reservations@cityofirvine.org to check availability and fees.
- Complete the application. Use the City’s current Facility Reservation Application & Request form.
- Review City rules. Confirm food service, amplified sound, alcohol, insurance, equipment and any other requirements.
- Confirm payment and approval. Follow the City’s application, permit and payment instructions.
- Save the permit. Keep the approved dates, rooms, authorized use and final conditions.
- Prepare for event day. Communicate the facility rules to guests, vendors and organizers.
Facility Reservations contact
Telephone: 949-724-6620
Email: reservations@cityofirvine.org
Important booking distinctions
- Checking availability is not the same as receiving an approved permit.
- Room capacity depends on the specific setup.
- Special event uses can need additional documentation.
- Additional hours may be possible only when staff approves them.
- Reservation hours may change on holidays.
- Park shelter rules differ from indoor room-use rules.
Which Rental Space Is Best for Your Event?
Multipurpose Room
Best starting point for receptions, large meetings and flexible seating layouts.
Published capacity: 54–105.
Meeting Room
Practical for workshops, association meetings and smaller gatherings.
Published capacity: 24–46.
Classroom
Suited to instructional sessions, presentations and group learning.
Published capacity: 30–61.
Exercise Room
Designed for movement activities with a bamboo floor.
Capacity: up to 69; no tables or chairs.
Courtyard
Optional outdoor component with fixed seating.
Capacity: up to 30.
Picnic Shelter
Picnic tables and barbecues make a shelter suitable for approved outdoor gatherings.
Capacity: up to 75 per shelter.
Northwood Community Park: Outdoor Attractions
The Community Center sits inside Northwood Community Park, which covers approximately 17.7 acres.
Children’s playground
Outdoor play facilities for visiting families.
Soccer fields
Two soccer fields used for scheduled athletics and park recreation.
Lighted tennis courts
Two tennis courts, subject to park-use and scheduling rules.
Partial basketball court
An outdoor basketball area, not a full-size indoor gym.
Ball diamond
Outdoor field space for appropriate recreational activities.
Handball wall
Outdoor wall available subject to park rules and conditions.
Fitness parcourse
Outdoor exercise stations integrated into the park.
Bike trail access
Connections for visitors traveling or exercising by bicycle.
Memorial and open areas
Northwood Gratitude and Honor Memorial, open play space and picnic areas.
Park convenience features
The City’s park listing also identifies three restrooms, two drinking fountains, a Little Free Library, four barbecues, two picnic shelters, 14 picnic tables and electrical outlets.
Athletic field reservations
Sports-field booking uses a different City contact from community-room reservations.
Athletic field reservations: 949-724-6830
Email: fieldreservations@cityofirvine.org.
A field being present in the park does not guarantee it is available for a private league or organized event without an approved permit.
Is There a Gym, Fitness Membership or Pool?
Northwood Community Center is mainly a facility for recreation classes and reservable community spaces.
| Feature | Verified information |
|---|---|
| Exercise Room | Yes, used for approved dance and exercise activities. |
| Adult fitness classes | Yes, including Pilates and other scheduled programs. |
| Outdoor basketball | Yes, a partial court in Northwood Community Park. |
| Outdoor tennis | Yes, two lighted courts. |
| Full-size public indoor basketball gym | Not listed among the Irvine center’s facility amenities. |
| Public indoor swimming pool | Not listed at the Irvine facility. |
| General daily fitness-club membership | Not advertised as a standard service on the facility’s official page. |
Accessibility and Visitor Preparation
If you are arranging an event or class for visitors with mobility, sensory or other accessibility needs, contact the City’s staff before arrival.
Questions worth asking
- Which entrance is closest to the reserved room?
- Where are the designated accessible parking spaces?
- Does the approved room layout allow enough wheelchair circulation?
- Is the courtyard appropriate for your guests’ mobility requirements?
- Are accessible restrooms available near the event space?
- What accommodation-request process applies to classes?
- Can equipment or seating arrangements be adjusted within facility rules?
The facility page does not provide a reliably verified count of accessible parking spaces or detailed room-by-room accessibility measurements. Request that information directly from the City rather than relying on estimates.
Before leaving home
- Confirm the correct address in Irvine, California.
- Check whether your visit is for a class or a reserved event.
- Bring class registration or event invitation details.
- Check for holiday closures or changes.
- Confirm the facility’s approved room or shelter.
- Ask about weather plans if attending an outdoor event.
Northwood Community Center Map and Directions
Address: 4531 Bryan Avenue, Irvine, California 92620.
The center is located near the intersection of Bryan Avenue and Yale Avenue in Northwood Community Park.
Arrival and parking tips
- Enter the complete Bryan Avenue address rather than only the name Northwood Community Center.
- Check your event confirmation for the room or shelter number.
- Ask about designated event parking and accessible unloading areas.
- Allow extra time when soccer fields or other park facilities are busy.
- Follow posted parking and traffic restrictions.
- Use the Bryan Avenue and Yale Avenue intersection to orient yourself.
- For outdoor events, remember that park hours differ from center hours.
Northwood Community Center in Irvine vs. Northwood, Ohio
Two public facilities share this name but are operated by different cities.
| Detail | Irvine, California | Northwood, Ohio |
|---|---|---|
| Street address | 4531 Bryan Avenue | 3700 Main Street |
| Phone | 949-724-6728 | 419-690-1633 |
| Monday–Thursday | 9 AM–9 PM | 5:30 AM–8:30 PM |
| Friday | 9 AM–9 PM | 5:30 AM–6 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM–10 PM | 8 AM–3 PM |
| Sunday | Noon–6 PM | Closed |
| Highlighted amenities | Classrooms, event rooms, courtyard, picnic shelters. | Indoor gymnasium, fitness equipment, suspended track and splash pad. |
The Ohio facility uses its own City of Northwood recreation and RecDesk systems. Memberships, fees, waivers and room bookings from one city do not transfer to the other.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mixing up Irvine and Ohio
Both have a Northwood Community Center. Check city, ZIP code and phone number before traveling.
Confusing park hours with building hours
The Irvine park opens at 6 AM, while the Community Center opens at 9 AM on weekdays and noon on Sunday.
Assuming a room’s maximum capacity applies to every layout
Multipurpose, classroom and meeting room capacities vary with seating arrangements.
Planning a catered event without kitchen restrictions
The kitchen may be used to keep prepared food warm or cold, but cooking is not permitted.
Using picnic shelters without checking group size
Large gatherings and vendor services can trigger mandatory reservation requirements.
Assuming a submitted application means approval
Wait for the City to approve your reservation and provide the applicable permit conditions.
Related Community Center Guides
These guides cover other municipal recreation centers and may help compare classes, facilities, opening hours and event-rental arrangements.
Antioch Community Center
California recreation programs, indoor gym activities and event space planning.
Monrovia Community Center
Community classes, senior services, banquet rooms and event reservations.
Lexington Community Center
Multigenerational programs, community meeting rooms and visitor services.
These internal paths reflect previously prepared articles. Confirm the live WordPress permalinks before publishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Northwood Community Center located?
The Northwood Community Center covered in this guide is located at 4531 Bryan Avenue, Irvine, CA 92620, near Bryan Avenue and Yale Avenue.
What are Northwood Community Center hours in Irvine?
The Irvine center is open Monday–Friday 9 AM–9 PM, Saturday 9 AM–10 PM and Sunday noon–6 PM. Holiday hours may differ.
What is the Northwood Community Center phone number?
For the Irvine center, call 949-724-6728. For room and picnic reservations, call Facility Reservations at 949-724-6620.
What programs does Northwood Community Center offer?
The City of Irvine offers scheduled sports, arts, cooking, science, karate, tennis, soccer and adult fitness activities including Pilates. Registration and availability are listed on yourirvine.org.
Can I rent a room at Northwood Community Center?
Yes. The Irvine facility has a Multipurpose Room, Meeting Room, Classroom, Exercise Room and optional Courtyard, subject to City reservation policies and availability.
How many people fit in the Northwood Multipurpose Room?
The 1,540-square-foot Multipurpose Room accommodates approximately 54–105 attendees, depending on the approved banquet or theater seating arrangement.
Can I use the kitchen for a private party?
The kitchen is available as a paid add-on to a Multipurpose Room or Meeting Room reservation. Cooking and barbecuing are prohibited, but prepared food may be kept warm or cold using the available appliances.
Can I reserve a picnic shelter at Northwood Community Park?
Yes. Two shelters each accommodate up to 75 people and include six picnic tables and two barbecues. One shelter remains available for first-come use for groups of 49 or fewer, subject to City rules.
How do I book Northwood Community Center for an event?
Contact Irvine Facility Reservations at 949-724-6620 or reservations@cityofirvine.org. You can also submit the City’s Facility Reservation Application & Request form online. A booking is subject to City approval and applicable fees.
Is Northwood Community Center in Ohio the same facility?
No. Northwood Community Center in Ohio is a separate facility at 3700 Main Street, Northwood, OH 43619. Its hours, membership system, gymnasium, indoor track and rental rules are different from the Irvine center.
Official Sources and Contact Details
City of Irvine — Northwood Community Center Hours, Classes, Rooms and Reservations
City of Irvine — Northwood Community Park Amenities and Hours
City of Irvine — Facility Reservation Policies and Fees
YourIrvine — Current Classes and Registration
Irvine Community Parks and Centers Directory
City of Northwood, Ohio — Separate Northwood Community Center
Center phone: 949-724-6728
Rental phone: 949-724-6620
Rental email: reservations@cityofirvine.org
Irvine address: 4531 Bryan Avenue, Irvine, CA 92620.
Independent visitor guide, reviewed October 19, 2026. The City of Irvine administers Northwood Community Center programs, reservations, rental fees and permits. Verify all time-sensitive information before registering, paying or traveling.