Senior Access

Pros

• The bar and the food are great.
• The views are beautiful and the atmosphere is wonderful.
• The Senior Center in Novato offers lots of activities, card games, a pool table, and many classes.
• It has a very friendly, neighborhood atmosphere.
• There are lots of exercise classes.
• It is the best run senior center in the SF Bay Area.
• The center is a great place with great people and activities.
• They were glad they could charge their phone during the power outage.
• People love the Margaret Todd Senior Center; they have had a lot of fun at its events and have made new friends.
• The staff are friendly and the facilities are neat and clean.
• Jeanette's classes are fantastic.
• It offers a variety of great activities for seniors.
• The Country Western Night and BBQ dinner featured an excellent band, terrific food, and lively, friendly patrons.
• Community service events are fun, such as breakfast with Santa.

Cons

• The last review I read seemed like the person had an axe to grind.
• Very poor choice of words, and it seemed vindictive.
• That person should get an attitude adjustment.
• This negative person did not have the guts to include their name.

Review

The Margaret Todd Senior Center in Novato emerges in these reflections as a lively and welcoming hub, where a broad mix of activities sits at the heart of the community. Reviewers repeatedly highlight the center's weekend and weekday offerings, noting that Wednesday brings a dedicated Duplicate Bridge session, while the surrounding environment delivers a sense of warmth and atmosphere. Several people mention a bar and good food as part of the experience, and they consistently describe beautiful views and a pleasant, inviting ambiance that makes the center feel like a communal gathering place rather than a sterile facility.

A common thread across many opinions is the breadth of activities on offer. From games to fitness, there is a strong emphasis on staying social and active. Pickleball is a standout for some, with comments about hours spent enjoying the sport, and others mention carving out time for board games on Mondays and Bocce on Wednesdays. Card games, pool, and a variety of classes appear repeatedly, suggesting a well-rounded slate designed to appeal to different interests and energy levels. A monthly lunch, commonly noted around a $15 price point, is cited as a pleasant social touchpoint that brings people together in a relaxed setting.

The center is often described as friendly and neighborhood-like, with staff that are generally seen as helpful and supportive. Several reviewers point to neat and clean facilities and a comfortable, contemporary feel. The multipurpose room, reading room, and pool area are mentioned as practical, welcoming spaces where people can study, chat, or simply spend time with friends. Others appreciate the opportunity to volunteer - one person notes they volunteer every Monday - underscoring a sense of mutual engagement and contribution within the community. For many, the combination of activities and approachable staff creates a positive cycle of participation and belonging.

There is also a clear sense of pride in the range of events and the lively social atmosphere. Country Western Night with BBQ, dancing, and live music is described as a standout, with a singer reminiscent of Willie Nelson and a menu that includes beer, wine, and cocktails. Reviewers call the events great for meeting new people and enjoying a festive, sociable vibe. Bingo rooms, scenic views from the facility, and regular events add to the sense that the center is a center of gravity for senior residents who want to stay connected and entertained. For some, the variety alone makes the Margaret Todd Center a go-to option for community life in the North Bay and beyond.

Of course, not every note is perfectly glowing, and a few critiques surface alongside the praise. A handful of reviewers describe the center as cold or institutional at times, suggesting that a more overt presence of leadership - someone who can greet newcomers with a "Hi, how are you?" - would enhance the experience. There are mentions of moments when individuals felt ignored or misunderstood, reminding readers that even well-loved spaces can improve with more proactive friendliness and attentiveness. Yet even these criticisms are generally balanced by praise for the staff's overall helpfulness and the center's ability to connect people through activities and programs.

Overall, the Margaret Todd Senior Center appears to be a cornerstone for social life and activity in Novato. People come for the variety of programs - exercise classes, games, and community events - and stay for the friendly, neighborly atmosphere, clean facilities, and the chance to form meaningful connections. There is a strong sense of community ownership: volunteers contribute regularly, activities are designed to be inclusive, and the center is seen as a place where friendships can flourish and families can look forward to new experiences for themselves and their loved ones. Looking ahead, many reviewers express anticipation for continued engagement and positive moments as they introduce friends, family, and especially their moms to all the center has to offer.

This part of Novato, California, offers a variety of amenities and services that may be appealing for seniors looking to relocate. In close proximity, there are multiple pharmacies for easy access to medication and healthcare needs. Additionally, there are several parks nearby providing opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. A selection of restaurants offering diverse cuisine options can cater to different dietary preferences. Medical facilities such as urgent care centers and dermatology clinics are conveniently located within a short distance, ensuring access to healthcare services. Transportation options such as the Smart Train Station offer ease of travel around the area. Furthermore, places of worship provide spiritual support and community engagement for residents. Overall, this area provides a well-rounded environment with essential services and recreational opportunities suitable for senior living.

Pharmacies

• CVS Pharmacy (0.3 miles)
• Longs Drugs (0.3 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (0.5 miles)
• Walgreens (7.4 miles)
• Rite Aid (7.6 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (7.7 miles)
• Depth Body (8.7 miles)

Parks

• Pioneer Park (0.3 miles)
• Miwok Park (0.9 miles)
• Lucas Valley Park (5.1 miles)
• Lagoon Park (8.2 miles)
• McNear Park (8.4 miles)
• Peri Park (8.6 miles)
• China Camp State Park (8.8 miles)

Restaurants

• Bacon (0.6 miles)
• Italian Delite Submarine Sandwiches (0.9 miles)
• Mi Pueblo (1 miles)
• Chick-Fil-A (2 miles)
• Moylan's Brewery & Restaurant (2 miles)
• In-N-Out Burger (2.3 miles)
• Skywalker Ranch (4.5 miles)

Physicians

• Novato Urgent Care Center (0.8 miles)
• Novato Dermatology (0.9 miles)
• Brian Hollander, DDS, MS (1 miles)
• Gail Altschuler (1.1 miles)
• Tamalpais Pediatrics (1.1 miles)
• Novato Dermatology Associates (1.1 miles)
• Marin Orthopedics & Sports Medicine (1.3 miles)

Cafes

• Starbucks (1.1 miles)
• Red Whale Coffee (6.9 miles)
• Split Rock Tap & Wheel (8.4 miles)
• Fairfax Coffee Roastery (8.5 miles)
• Java Hut (9.5 miles)
• M.H.Bread and Butter (9.7 miles)

Hospitals

• Chaplain's Office: Novato Community Hospital: Sutter Health Affiliate (1.7 miles)
• Novato Community Hospital (1.7 miles)
• Caremeridian (7.9 miles)
• Evergreen Health Rehabilitation Center (8.7 miles)
• Tamalpais Shambhala Meditation Group (10.1 miles)
• Petaluma Valley Hospital-Radiology & Laboratory Outpatient Clinic (10.1 miles)

Transportation

• Smart Train Station Hamilton (5.1 miles)

Theaters

• Century Theaters (7.8 miles)
• Boulevard Cinemas (9 miles)

Places of Worship

• Valley Baptist Church (8.5 miles)
• St Vincent De Paul Church (9 miles)