As the age of retirement creeps ever-closer, you might be asking yourself where you should relocate to in order to settle down and enjoy all of that well-deserved time off from work. Retirement should be easy and relaxing, not headache inducing because you can’t figure out where to go.
There are plenty of places all over the United States alone, that are perfect getaways for retirees. Kick back and enjoy the rest of your days in any of these scenic, wonderful and vastly entertaining locations. The following are some of the top places to retire for seniors.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg is home to the Smokey Mountains, Dollywood and plenty of outdoor recreation. Find yourself a nice, little cabin in the woods and enjoy everything that the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg areas have to offer. Indulge in the best food and entertainment at Dolly Partin’s renowned Dixie Stampede, or simply stroll the Gatlinburg strip, participating in the various events and trials for tourists the area has to offer. View the mesmerizing mountains atop the lifts at Ober Gatlinburg, or get a closer look by adventuring through any of the various forest trails and nature preserves that have made this location one of the top places to retire for seniors. If you love the outdoors, Gatlinburg is the place for you, but don’t be frightened by their abundance of wildlife, including bears!
Middlesboro, Kentucky
Moving a little north from Gatlinburg, Middlesboro rests on the border of three states: Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia. Another favorite of the outdoorsmen, Middlesboro, Kentucky was built and established in the remains of a meteorite that crashed to Earth hundreds of years ago. Found by Danial Boone, the area consists of a plethora of national parks and outdoor attractions, including Chained-Rock in nearby Pineville, Kentucky, which is a massive natural formation held on the mountainside by merely a length of sturdy chain. Many music festivals and annual events come to Middlesboro, including the AMP Levitt music series, the local “Fall Festival,” and the Mountain Laural Festival. Don’t forget to try out Middlesboro’s local cuisine as well, such as Conley’s Drive-In, one of the last remaining 1950’s style drive-in eateries left in the country. All of this and more makes Middlesboro one of the top places to retire for seniors.
Panama City, Florida
Who doesn’t love the beach? Imagine spending your retirement days lounging on the coast, with a drink in hand, sunbathing and relaxing in year-round summer weather. That’s what you have to look forward to in Panama City, Florida, which is among the top places to retire for seniors. While the only downside might be an annual influx of Spring-breakers, the area makes up for it by being one of the most beautiful and peaceful beach locations in the state of Florida.
Panama City isn’t quite a large city but isn’t a desolate beach either. You’ll find the best of both worlds in Panama City, as the area offers plenty to do, besides simply going to the beach. There are countless restaurants and local attractions throughout Panama City, including renowned hibachi grills, burger joints, amusement parks, malls, and shopping centers. Get to know the area and enjoy its many amenities, but don’t leave your house without a margarita. According to Jimmy Buffett, it’s mandatory!
Colorado Springs, Colorado
While a bit chillier than a beach location like Panama City, Colorado Springs, Colorado has been a long-time favorite for retired veterans. In fact, the town is comprised primarily of military families, however, there is still plenty of allure for any walk of life. Enjoy the scenic Rocky Mountains and the rolling plains surrounding this quaint Colorado town. The Red Rock amphitheater is a short drive away, in Denver, Colorado, as are the ski-resorts of Aspen Colorado. Staying in Colorado Springs keeps you away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities. Colorado Springs is notoriously dog-friendly, so be sure to take Rover out to some of the town’s best dog-parks and nature runs. The area is full of local cafes, coffee shops, and natural history museums as well, solidifying Colorado Springs as one of the top places to retire for seniors.
New Albany, Indiana
Many might not expect the state of Indiana to offer any of the top places to retire for seniors, but New Albany, however, makes the mark. Located just west of Louisville, Kentucky, all of the splendor and attractions of big-city life are a short commute away. The Horseshoe Casino is also not far away and is a local hot spot for decadent fun. Likewise, Indianapolis is about an hour’s drive away, so there are plenty of larger areas to take advantage of while living in New Albany. Give Indiana a shot as one of the top places to retire for seniors.