In an effort to meet a wide variety of recreational needs, the RSC offers both free and fee-based programs. In addition to specific programs, the RSC also has many amenities that are available whenever the RSC is open.
Free Amenities
Please feel free to drop by during business hours to take advantage of the following:
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Card & Game Playing - The tables in the lobby are available for drop-in play. Table space is first-come, first-served and tables may not be reserved or saved. Decks of cards are available, as well as various board games such as checkers & chess and deluxe Scrabble.
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Beverage Bar and Lobby - The lobby has a “hotel-like” atmosphere. Stop in and enjoy a cup of coffee or glass of iced tea while you relax and read a magazine; or meet friends, old and new, and participate in lively conversation.
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Computer Corner – the RSC has free Wi-Fi, four networked computers with internet access, and printer for participant use. Details on how to become an “Authorized User” are available at the Front Desk. Computer use is free; however, printing is limited to five sheets per day. Prior experience is required; at this time there is no assistance available for those with no computer experience. Authorized Users must be age 50 or better.
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Garden Plaza – our beautiful “backyard” boasts lots of flowers, a stream-like fountain, two covered areas, exercise equipment, a horseshoe pit, pickle ball courts, and an expansive lawn.
- Greenhouse - New programming for the greenhouse is under development. Look for updates on activities and program details in the RSC News. Participants are allowed to store plants during the winter months. Each gardener is responsible for the care of their own plants while housed at our facility.
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Library – The library is self-serve and functions on the honor system. Participants are welcome to borrow three books at a time. The books are organized by genre and then alphabetically by author. Donations of current fiction are accepted – please, no Reader’s Digest Condensed Books or non-fiction. Please return books to the cart for our library assistants to re-shelve in proper order. 
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Pool (Billiards) – The RSC has one of the best pool halls in town, with three tables available for drop-in play. Play is open to everyone age 50 or better, with players rotating as needed to allow everyone to play. Tables may not be reserved.
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On-going interest groups are a major part of the RSC’s programs. Led by volunteers, these groups bring together like-minded people to pursue a wide variety of activities. Most groups meet weekly, however some meet monthly. There is no fee to participate. Participation is limited to those age 50 or better. Meeting days and times occasionally change, so be sure to check the current RSC News for the latest information on the groups that interest you.
We are always looking for new and interesting activities. If you have expertise in a topic that we do not offer, and would be willing to lead and organize a new group, please contact the Program Coordinators.
- Book Club - Get together with friends and talk about the monthly reading selection. Check at the Front Desk for the group’s current reading selection. Group meets the third Friday of each month
- Bridge – A very popular pastime at the RSC, it is played two different days during the week. Both duplicate and party bridge are played; check the newsletter for days and times. Everyone is welcome and you need not have a partner (but bring a friend if you can). When tables do not come out with even numbers, players are asked to rotate so everyone gets a chance to play. Duplicate - Monday, 12:00-3:30 pm
- Chess - Players of all skill levels and experience are welcome. Everyone will be given the opportunity to participate in both informal and tournament play.
Thursday, 8:45 am-12:00 pm
- Chorus - This group welcomes all who love to sing. As volunteers for the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) the Chorus performs at sites in Redmond and East King County. Thursday, 1:00-3:00 pm
- Dreams & Self Discovery Discussion Group – Have you ever wondered what a dream meant? Or what the symbolism of different things in your dreams might represent? Start keeping your dream journal now and bring it to the group where they study the psychology put forth by Dr. Carl Jung, whose ideas are related to wholeness and the universal principles we all live by. 2nd Wednesday
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English as a Second Language - Is English a Second language for you? Would you, or someone you know, like to improve your English? If so, come to this basic English class. This is an informal class, in a relaxed environment, led by volunteers. We are looking for volunteer tutors for this class. Friday, 1:00-3:00 pm
- Just Reminiscing Band – This is a musical group of people who enjoy playing music together for their own fun and enjoyment. Monday, 1:00-3:00 pm
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Line Dancing - This informal line dancing group has a great time kicking their heels up for fun and fitness. If you know the basics of line dancing, come join the group to develop your skills. Wednesday, 1:30-3:30 pm
- Needlecrafts (a.k.a. the Crafty Ones) - Bring and share whatever craft you are working on; or use donated yarn to knit for a variety of community charities. Visit while you work and learn from others. Help is available on knitting and crochet projects. Thursday, 1:00-3:00 pm
Open Art Studio (a.k.a. Come & Paint) - For people who love painting and enjoy the company of other artists. There is no instruction. Share your knowledge and ideas. Bring your own supplies; watercolor, acrylics or pastels. Easels are available. Sorry, we are unable to store paintings and oils are not allowed. Tuesday, 8:45 am-1 pm
- Pinochle – Also a popular game at the RSC, everyone is welcome to join the fun. If you don’t know how to play, the group is willing to teach you. Wednesday, 1:00-3:00 pm
- Quilting - Socialize with other quilters while working on your own project or use donated fabric to make quilt tops for charities. Newcomers to quilting are welcome; the group is happy to share their experience and offer advice on projects. Wednesday, 1:00-3:00 pm
- Sophisticated Swing Big Band – This musical group is dedicated to preserving the big band sounds of the 30’s, 40’s and 50’s. Ability to read music is required. Everyone is invited to come and listen. See Dance Schedule listed under “Special Events” in the RSC News for more information. Friday, 1:00-3:30 pm (Dance 3rd Friday)
- Table Tennis - A great way to get some exercise, this active group really gets the balls flying. The RSC has four tournament-quality tables; paddles and balls may be checked out from the staff. The group generally plays twice a week; however, depending on RSC programming, table tennis may be unavailable on some dates. Tuesday/Thursday, 1:30-3:30 pm
- Tennis - This group of tennis lovers plays all year-round. The group is always looking for new players to share in their affinity of tennis. All levels of players are welcome. The group plays at Reservoir Park. Monday/Wednesday, 9:00 am-1:-00 pm
- Trail Walking - Walk with friends along the Sammamish River Trail or at other selected sites. Each walk averages about three miles, or go as far as you like. This is an informal, unsupervised activity that meets inside the RSC.
Tuesday/Friday, 9:30-10:30 am.
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Special Events
Throughout the year, the RSC offers many special events. Watch the RSC News for detailed information on:
- Special Lunches celebrating - Lunar New Year, Springtime, Thanksgiving, Winter Holidays
- Afternoon Delight Concert Series
- A Candlelight Dinner Dance in December
- Holiday Craft Market in December as part of Redmond Lights
- Annual BBQ and Concert Lunches in the summer
- Trash or Treasures Antique/Collectible Appraisals in the spirit of 'Antiques Roadshow'
- First Friday Coffee Chats
- Whiskers, Wings, & Wagging Tails Pet Fair
- Walkin’ Redmond 5 K walking events each quarter
- Joint Teen Center/Senior Center activities such as the Minute-to-Win-It Challenge
Diversity Programs
In an effort to better meet the need of our community the RSC offers programs to encourage participation from all populations.
Seniors from India - on the second Thursday of every month join seniors from India for an informative and interesting program, and a catered lunch of vegetarian Indian food; co-Sponsored by the Indian Association of Western Washington
Seniors from China - every Friday morning seniors from China have an opportunity to participate in social, recreational, educational, and cultural activities; co-sponsored with Chinese Information and Services Center
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Classes - Fee Based
Classes where an instructor is paid to teach a specific skill make up the bulk of our fee-based programs. These classes are run in sessions of four, six, or eight weeks, or by the number of opportunities to participate each month. The fee is based on the instructor’s salary, plus supply costs and a small administrative fee. Every attempt is made to keep costs low and affordable for participants on fixed incomes. Class offerings vary each session. Complete details on all fee-based classes are found in the Parks and Recreation Brochure and the RSC News.
Classes are offered in the areas of:
- Arts & Crafts
- Computers
- Dance
- Fitness
- Hobbies & Interests
- Life-Long Learning
- Music
- Yoga & T’ai Chi Chuan
Click here to register on-line
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Interesting in Teaching a Class?
The RSC is always looking to expand and improve the classes that we offer. We are interested in skilled, qualified instructors in all topic areas. If you, or someone you know, is available and interested in teaching at the RSC, please contact the Program Coordinator for information on making a course proposal.
Trips
The RSC currently offers day trips, usually on Tuesdays and a variety of special interest trips, typically on Wednesdays. Transportation is on the RSC’s bus and the trip is led by our driver. Destinations vary each quarter, with more indoor activities in the winter and more outdoor activities in the summer. We attempt to offer at least one trip in each of the following categories each quarter:
- Culture and the arts, such as an art museum or a play.
- Gaming at local casinos or on horse races.
- Nature and wildlife; with our many zoos and gardens, we have great choices.
- Scenic drives to many of the beautiful areas of our state such as Mt. Rainier.
- Shopping and sightseeing.
- Current attractions, such as the fairs and other events.
Complete details for all trips are found in the RSC News.
How Much Walking Will There Be?
The amount of walking involved in each trip can be a major factor in your decision to participate. Terrain, as well as distance, can make a difference in how much you enjoy the experience. The following rating system was developed to help you choose trips that are a good match for your walking abilities.
Minimal walking, smooth and level surfaces (e.g. across paved parking lot) 
Minimal walking, rough yet level surfaces (e.g. across gravel parking lot) 
Moderate walking, variable level surfaces 
Lots of walking, smooth surfaces, some hills and/or stairs* 
Mostly walking, rough surfaces, hills and/or stairs*
In short, the more shoes you see next to a trip, the more rigorous the walking.
*Keep in mind that trips which indicate rigorous walking may have options for those who have mobility difficulties. Check with staff to see what accommodations might be available. With prior notification, the RSC will make every effort to provide reasonable, appropriate accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
Please click here to see Registration Policies and Procedures.
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