A community center is a place for miscellaneous social gatherings, events, games, and recreational activities. It is generally open, as opposed to a private club, although it can belong to a closed residential community or to a religious group. Community centers are generally all-purpose gathering centers, and are not primarily athletic. They are typically intended as amenities, and are distinguished from exhibition centers or conference spaces with a commercial purpose.

The center provides a general social amenity for its community. A closed residential community or religious group can have such a center despite the usual openness of the use.

It is not primarily an athletic facility or a commercial conference or exhibition venue. Games and recreation can accompany its broader gathering purpose.