Sarasota, Florida, One of the Best Places to Retire!

Sarasota is located on the southwestern coast of Florida. It’s south of the Tampa Bay Area and north of Fort Myers. Sarasota has a host of urban advantages and the kind of small-town feel that you’ll fall in love with the moment you arrive!

Should you retire there? Maybe!

What Makes Sarasota, Florida So Great?

Walkability combined with a wide variety of businesses to visit equals zero boredom for seniors and retirees in Sarasota! Clean air, sparkling-white sandy beaches, and sun have made this town center for the good life. In fact, Forbes named Sarasota one of the best places for business and careers. And, Money Magazine recognized it as the nation’s best small city! They also say it’s one of the best places to retire and has the best healthcare.

Additionally, Sarasota’s vibrant recreational and cultural scene offers activities for every taste and budget. It’s a diverse area with big-city amenities and small-town ease of living. The top-rated schools and motivated workforce also contribute to why Sarasota is home to some of the most successful companies in the country.

Things For Seniors & Retirees to Do in Sarasota

Sarasota has a lot of outdoor activities both on the water and on land. Residents enjoy year-round fishing, sailing, swimming, kayaking, and boating. Indoor activities range from museums and galleries to shows and even the opera. What else is there to do? Here are some of the best things for seniors and retirees to do in Sarasota!

Sarasota Farmers Market

The Sarasota Farmers Market, located at Main & Lemon downtown, was established in 1979. The Market continues a tradition of serving the community with local produce, plants, prepared foods, and artisans year-round. The Market is open every Saturday from 7 am to 1 pm (rain or shine!) and currently has over 70 vendors. That’s 5,000 square feet of produce and plants!

Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Set along Sarasota’s beautiful bayfront, the landmark Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall has been entertaining audiences with music, dance, theater, and comedy for over 35 years.

Bobby Jones Golf Club

Bobby Jones Golf Club is a 45-hole municipal facility named for the legendary Robert Tyre Jones, Jr. Jones personally dedicated the club in 1927. The course features a practice range, chipping and putting greens, a pro shop, tennis courts, and tournaments and leagues. Mulligan’s Grille can be found on-site, offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, and full bar service.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Sarasota Jungle Gardens is the area’s only Zoological garden. It features 10 acres of lush tropical vegetation, winding jungle trails, and entertainment. Also, there are educational bird and reptile shows throughout the day.

55-Plus Retirement Communities in Sarasota, Florida

Grand Villa

Grand Villa at Sarasota retirement community offers 1 and 2-bedroom apartments with emergency call systems, walk-in closets, full kitchens, and access to a private screened lanai from both the living room and the master bedroom. Residents can select from four spacious floor plans, each featuring high-end finishes and upgrades like those found in custom homes.

Amenities include a cyber cafe’, art room, a beautiful heated pool, and a fitness center. And, residents even have access to personal trainers! The Grand Villa is just minutes away from beaches and all the culture, dining, and entertainment Sarasota has to offer.

Sarasota Bay Club

Sarasota Bay Club provides luxury retirement living offering the very best of everything! Residents will enjoy first-class amenities and services, including award-winning dining set in an exclusive resort-style campus overlooking Sarasota Bay and Longboat Key. Sarasota Bay Club offers exquisite condominium residences with a wide selection of floor plans, each with its own gorgeous view. Healthcare and lifestyle choices include retirement services, rental communities, life care, assisted living, nursing, and rehab.

Glenridge

Glenridge rises magnificently against the Sarasota sky on the beautiful west coast of Florida in a pristine 90-acre setting. Independent living features single-family club homes and low-rises, with floor plans up to 2,488 square feet. Amenities include outdoor recreation, personal gardening areas, lakes and fountains, a spectacular 60,000 sq. ft. village commons, a performing arts center, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and 2 tennis courts. Also featured are on-site dining, housekeeping, linen services, transportation, and a membership opportunity with the prestigious Tournament Players Club at Prestancia (TPC), a 36-hole private golf club.

Looking For More Senior Resources?

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Need help with retirement planning? Then check out Bob Carlson’s Retirement Watch!