Location, Hours, and How to Get There

The Andover Senior Center is located at 30 Bartlet Street in Andover, Massachusetts. The building sits near downtown Andover and is accessible by car or public transit. Parking is available on-site, which matters if you drive yourself or rely on a family member for transportation.

Hours of operation are typically Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., though you should call ahead to confirm current hours, as they can shift seasonally or due to staffing changes. The phone number is (978) 623-8321. Staff can answer questions about specific programs, class schedules, and whether you need to register in advance.

If you use public transportation, the MVRTA (Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority) serves Andover. You can check routes and schedules on their website or call 1-800-556-3722. Some seniors also use the Andover Council on Aging's transportation services for trips to the center itself — ask about this when you call.

Key Takeaways

  • The Andover Senior Center is at 30 Bartlet Street and open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., though you should confirm hours by calling (978) 623-8321.
  • Most programs do not require membership fees, but some classes or trips may charge a small per-session or per-trip cost.
  • You do not need to be a resident of Andover to use the center, though some programs may prioritize town residents or charge slightly more for non-residents.
  • The center offers fitness classes, arts and crafts, educational workshops, social events, and information about local services like meal programs and health screenings.
  • Transportation to and from the center may be available through the Andover Council on Aging — ask about this when you first contact them.

Programs and Activities Available

The Andover Senior Center runs a mix of fitness, social, and educational programs throughout the week. Common offerings include exercise classes (such as yoga, tai chi, or water aerobics), arts and crafts workshops, book clubs, card games, and trivia nights. Many of these are drop-in, meaning you can show up without signing up in advance, though some classes do require registration.

The center also hosts health-related events, such as blood pressure screenings, flu shot clinics, and talks on topics like medication management or fall prevention. These are often free or very low-cost. Additionally, the center serves as a hub for information about other services — staff can point you toward meal programs, housing resources, and healthcare options in the area.

Special events and day trips are organized seasonally. These might include outings to local restaurants, museums, or seasonal festivals. Trip costs vary depending on the destination and whether transportation is included. Call or visit in person to ask about the current month's schedule.

Costs and Registration

Most drop-in activities at the Andover Senior Center are free. Some classes, particularly fitness or arts instruction, may charge a small fee per session or per course — typically ranging from $5 to $25 per class, depending on the instructor and length. Day trips usually cost more and may include transportation, admission, and sometimes a meal.

There is no membership fee to use the center's facilities or attend most events. You may be asked to fill out a brief form with your name and contact information when you first visit, but this is for the center's records, not a paid membership.

If cost is a barrier to participation, mention this when you call or visit. Some programs have sliding-scale fees or scholarships, and staff can sometimes suggest lower-cost alternatives or free events happening that week.

Who Can Use the Center

The Andover Senior Center primarily serves adults age 55 and older. Some programs may be open to younger spouses or caregivers if they are attending with a senior, but this varies by activity. Call ahead if you are unsure whether a specific program is open to you.

You do not have to be an Andover resident to use the center, though some towns do give priority to their own residents for certain programs or charge a small non-resident fee. Andover's policy on this can change, so ask when you call. If you live in a nearby town, it is worth checking whether your own town's senior center might also be an option.

How to get your free guide

The easiest first step is to call (978) 623-8321 during business hours and ask what programs are happening this week or this month. Staff can tell you which activities are drop-in and which require registration. They can also answer questions about transportation, costs, and whether a particular program might be a good fit for you.

You can also visit the center in person at 30 Bartlet Street. Walking in and looking around is a low-pressure way to get a feel for the space and meet staff. Many people find this more comfortable than calling.

If you are new to the area or unsure what you are looking for, tell staff that. They are used to helping people find activities that match their interests and abilities. There is no rush to commit to anything — many people start by attending one drop-in event and then decide what to do next.

Transportation and Accessibility

The Andover Senior Center building is wheelchair accessible, with accessible parking and restrooms. If you have mobility concerns or other accessibility needs, mention them when you call so staff can let you know what accommodations are available or suggest programs that might work better for you.

The Andover Council on Aging may offer transportation to and from the center for seniors who cannot drive or use public transit. This service is sometimes free or low-cost, depending on your income. Call (978) 623-8321 to ask whether this is available and how to request it.

If you use a cane, walker, or wheelchair, the center staff can tell you which areas of the building are easiest to navigate and which programs might be most comfortable for you. Do not hesitate to ask — accessibility is part of their job.

Connecting to Other Services

Beyond activities and classes, the Andover Senior Center serves as a gateway to other services for older adults. Staff can provide information about meal programs (such as congregate meals at the center itself or Meals on Wheels delivery), housing options, healthcare resources, and financial or legal information programs.

The center may also host visiting professionals — such as social workers, financial advisors, or healthcare providers — who can answer questions or provide brief consultations. Ask what services are available when you call.

If you need help with something the center does not directly offer, staff often know where to send you. Building this connection early can save you time later if you need to find resources quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a member to attend programs?

No. The Andover Senior Center is open to anyone age 55 and older. Most programs are free or very low-cost, and there is no membership fee. You may fill out a brief form with your contact information when you first visit, but this is just for the center's records.

What if I have never been to a senior center before?

Many people feel nervous about walking into a new place. Call first and ask what a typical day looks like, or visit during a drop-in time when you can observe without committing to anything. Staff are used to welcoming newcomers and can introduce you to others or suggest a program that might feel comfortable.

Can I bring a family member or friend?

This depends on the program. Most social events and classes welcome guests, especially if they are caregivers or spouses. Some health-related programs or support groups may be for seniors only. Ask when you call or arrive — staff can let you know what works for each activity.

Is there a meal program at the center?

Many senior centers serve lunch, though you should call (978) 623-8321 to confirm whether the Andover Senior Center does and what the cost is. If meals are available, there may be a small charge, and you might need to register in advance so staff know how many people to prepare for.

What if I cannot afford the cost of a class or trip?

Tell staff when you call or visit. Some programs have sliding-scale fees, scholarships, or free alternatives. The center may also know about other funding sources or programs that could help. There is no shame in asking — senior centers expect this question.