Situated along the I-4 corridor between Orlando and Tampa, Lakeland, FL, boasts a central and convenient location not found in many other small cities in the state. Aptly named for the 38 lakes in and around it, Lakeland also boasts natural beauty and recreational opportunities that are unique even in a state with as much coastline and natural areas as Florida. Home to more than 100,000 individuals, and almost 24,000 older adults, Lakeland also has a reputation as an affordable, peaceful, convenient, and highly desirable retirement location.
What to Expect
Area
Lakeland is a small city of about 100,000 in Polk County, Florida. It sits about 45 minutes from Tampa and less than an hour from Orlando. This city has no direct ocean access, but it DOES have abundant water access, thanks to 38 lakes that give it both its name and an enviable array of stunning natural beauty and gorgeous wildlife. This outdoorsy culture alongside easy access to all of the amenities of big city life, make Lakeland one of the most sought-after retirement locations in the state. A large retirement population also means that if you choose to live your work-free years here, you have many opportunities to forge rewarding relationships with others like you.
Weather
Lakeland enjoys the sunny, warm weather year-round that Florida is famous for. With an average temperature of 83 degrees and 240 days of sunshine every year, you won’t be shoveling snow or navigating icy roads. You should prepare for hot and humid summers, where average temperatures can get up into the 90s, but with air conditioning in almost every building, and warm winters in the future, you can also enjoy the change from bitter northern cold snaps.
Safety
Retirement should include a sense of safety every day and life in a location known for peacefulness and a low crime rate. Lakeland delivers both. The city’s crime rate is lower than the national average, and its violent crime rate is slightly lower than Florida’s average. The outer edges of the city tend to be the safest. Check out our Colonial Village and Laky Bonny communities for retirement housing options located in some of Lakeland’s safer neighborhoods.
Practical Living
Airport
Because of Lakeland’s proximity to Orlando and to Tampa, retirees have access to both Orlando International Airport and Tampa International Airport. A short drive of less than an hour will give you access to any part of the country, and allow loved ones to fly in from anywhere to enjoy your company surrounded by perfect Florida living.
Getting Around
The best way to get around Lakeland is to drive, but you can also grab public transportation via Citrus Connection, the county’s public transit system. With services for the disabled, wheelchair-friendly buses, and even bike-friendly buses so you can store your bike as you ride, this public transit system provides easy transportation throughout the county for anyone, all for reasonable prices. That makes it simple to get to major shopping, healthcare, or entertainment locations even if you do not own a car.
Shopping
Lakeland may be near all the shopping you could desire in the big cities, but you can find some pretty unique and enjoyable shopping experiences right in town, as well. Try, for example, Lakeland Square Mall, where you can shop name brands like American Eagle or H&M. Make sure to check out the upscale Lakeside Village, too, where boutiques, tasty dining, salons, spas, and a wide range of retail stores sit amidst abundant greenery and a soothing atmosphere.
Doctors/hospitals
You can also access high-quality healthcare in Lakeland. The city is home to Lakeland Regional Health Hospital, as well as a plethora of other healthcare providers. In Lakeland, you can find any of the following options:
Urgent care
Primary care
Senior care
Internal medicine
Dentists
Some of these providers, such as St. Luke’s Regional Healthcare Clinic in Lakeland provide a range of services in one location and focus on convenient services such as same-day appointments.
Banks
Finances are often a concern in retirement, but managing them is simple when you live in Lakeland. The city is home to multiple financial institutions, from credit unions to more traditional banks. Make deposits and withdrawals; open and close accounts, manage your credit, take out loans, and more, all without leaving your retirement hometown.
Mail
One of life’s tasks is handling the mail. Complete all of your postal errands right in Lakeland, where a post office, UPS stores, and Fedex drop offs are all a short drive from your home. Purchase shipping materials; drop off packages, pick up your mail, and stay in touch with your loved ones easily without traveling out of town. If you choose the right retirement community, such as one of our Lakeland-area communities, you may be able to complete some of your postal errands right within the community.
Things to Do
Beaches
Lakeland does not have direct access to the beach itself, but it does sit less than two hours from beaches on both the east and west coast of the state. Choose beaches near Orlando or Tampa for beautiful white sand, stunning water, and the opportunity to enjoy your favorite water activities, from fishing to swimming, boating to sunbathing.
Minor League Baseball
The Detroit Tigers maintain a Minor League team in Lakeland, called the Lakeland Flying Tigers. Grab tickets and sit down at the Joker Marchant Stadium to enjoy a game (or two, or three). The best part? There is rarely as much traffic, or expense, associated with enjoying a Minor League team as a Major League one, which can make it very simple to enjoy a little baseball in your hometown whenever you desire.
Lakes.
Lakeland’s name comes from the 38 lakes that dot the city and surrounding area. These beautiful watery areas are home to many lakeside parks and preserves for recreation and relaxation. The best part? You can find trails that suit any ability level, from paved walking trails to more challenging hikes so you can enjoy nature at your pace during your retirement.
One of the area’s must-see natural areas are the Se7en Wetlands. The wetlands’ trails provide a place to walk while you enjoy abundant wildlife or even go on a scavenger hunt in search of many of the wetlands’ beautiful plants and animals.
Each lake and natural area has is own rules about the recreation you pursue, but you can find a place to do all of the following:
Boating
Fishing
Swimming
Picnicking
Biking
And more
Polk Theatre
The Polk Theatre building itself, constructed in the late 1920s, pays homage to Italian architecture and serves as a cultural icon with a rich history. Inside, you can discover even more to admire, through its numerous films, popular Performing Arts Series, performances of the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra, ballet performances, and more.
Whether you visit for the films and performing arts it has to offer, choose to tour the beautifully restored building, or take advantage of the theatre’s virtual cinema program, the Polk Theatre will almost certainly be a cornerstone in your enjoyment of your Lakeland retirement.
Polk Museum of Art
As one of the top 10 art museums in Florida, the Polk Museum of Art is a must-see attraction in Lakeland. Located at South Florida College, this museum will feed your desire for arts and culture with permanent collections that span everything from European art to decorative American arts and Asian art. The best part? This museum is FREE so it will fit right in with any retirement budget and allow you to enjoy as much art as you desire during your Florida retirement.
Frank Lloyd Wright
The world’s largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture exists at Florida Southern College’s historic district in Lakeland. Named a National Historic Landmark, these buildings display the architect’s distinctive style and are available for you to tour. Don’t forget to stop y the college’s collection of photographs, furniture, and drawing from Frank Lloyd Wright as well. It is often supplemented by traveling exhibits and there is frequently something new to admire and explore here.
Circle B Bar Reserve
The Circle B Bar Reserve is a former ranch turned protected wetland. Best known for its jaw-dropping array of wildlife and birds, it provides you with an unmatched opportunity to soak up the most beautiful nature the Lakeland area has to offer, and provides incredible bird watching opportunities. Don’t forget to stop by the Polk County Nature Discovery Center to learn more about the ranch and wildlife it protects.
Find a Home
Bedrock Communities Living
With a median home price of $335,000, Lakeland’s booming housing market may feel a little out of reach for the average retiree. The good news is that Lakeland is still one of the best places to retire because attainable manufactured homes are available in any of our three Lakeland communities: Colonial Village, Lake Bonny, and Citrus Center.
Features
Each of these communities provides features that make your retirement easier and more funEnjoy the following features:
Lakeside location (Lake Bonny)
A short drive from shops, dining, entertainment, beaches, and big cities
Beautiful mobile homes for an affordable price
An active and friendly 55+ community
Amenities
In addition, our Lakeland communities provide many amenities designed to make community life convenient and rewarding. Discover the following amenities:
Clubhouse
Library (Colonial Village, Lake Bonny)
Laundry
Shuffleboard Courts
Billiards
Fishing Pier (Lake Bonny)
Picnic tables and grills (Citrus Center)
Social activities
Dog park (Lake Bonny)
And more
Choose our Lakeland communities if you want attainable, beautiful Florida living for seniors. Our friendly communities in one of Florida’s most desirable locations are designed to create a retirement you will love. Contact us today to learn more!
With 189 official beaches and 360 miles of coastline, Florida is THE place in the nation for getting some waterside relaxation. Since you won’t ever have time to visit all of those beaches, even if you retire to a sunny Florida community, we have put together a list of the 20 best beaches in Central Florida for you to explore. Discover the best the east and west Florida coasts have to offer in sand, sun, and surf.
Beaches Near Orlando
The city of Orlando does not have its own access to the beach, but it DOES sit 2 hours or less from many of the state’s most gorgeous beaches. Not only do these seaside locations offer you stunning views, endless sunbathing opportunities, and any water activity you can imagine, but they also give you the opportunity to soak up history, entertaining, dining, and shopping.
1. Cocoa Beach
Cocoa Beach is just an hour from Orlando and is famous for surf and space (as in outer). Located along the Space Coast, you can view launches from Cape Canaveral and explore historical attractions such as the Air Force Space and Missile Museum. Alternatively, you can catch the beach’s incredible surfs and even take surfing lessons if you feel up to adding a new hobby to your retirement.
2. Ormond Beach
If you want a quieter beach experience, you should explore Ormond Beach, which is just north of Orlando on the east coast of Florida. Defined by its beautiful dunes, this less refined beach offers coarse sand, stunning views, and easy access to the restaurant-infused Granada Boulevard.
3. New Smyrna Beach
Located just over an hour from Orlando, and within driving distance of our Country Squire community, New Smyrna Beach sits on central Florida’s east coast and offers many opportunities for surfing, and sun, alongside sparkling white beaches. While parking is a little sparse on the south end of the beach’s 13 miles of coastline, but provides incredible access to some of Florida’s most beautiful views.
Beaches On East Coast
With two coasts’ worth of beaches, Florida has stunning seaside locations no matter where you choose to retire. When it comes to the east coast, here are some of the area’s most appealing beaches to explore.
4. Flagler Beach
Quieter than some of Florida’s bigger and better known beaches, Flagler Beach boasts golden sand and fewer crowds, as well as a quaint feel. Walk into town to enjoy a number of shops and restaurants, or fish off the beach’s charming pier.
5. Vero Beach
Situated on Florida’s Treasure Coast about 2 hours from Orlando, Vero Beach is a quiet beach where the occasional exciting treasure washes ashore from one of the area’s numerous wrecks. Enjoy kayaking, sunbathing, or swimming, and choose from both upscale and more laid back dining to fuel your beach adventures.
6. Sebastian Inlet State Park
If you love to fish, then you will love Sebastian Inlet State Park. This natural area nestles along the barrier island on the east coast of central Florida and offers the best saltwater fishing in the state. Add onto the fun here with kayaking, surfing, and more for an unforgettable beach getaway that is within driving distance of areas like our Crescent View community.
Beaches On West Coast
Florida’s west coast has as many opportunities to enjoy beach fun as does its east coast. WIth Tampa as one of the area’ biggest cities, you can find many of the state’s west coast beaches within driving distance of that city. Here is a look at some of the area’s most appealing west coast sandstrips.
7. Clearwater Beach
Less than an hour from Tampa and just two hours from Orlando, Clearwater Beach is also one of the most highly ranked beaches in the entire nation. One of its most outstanding features is its pure white, powdery soft sand. The white sand stretches into a stunning view of the water, which, because of its location in the Gulf of Mexico, is peaceful and perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or taking a beachside stroll. A short walk will also get you to some of the area’s top dining and shopping options so you can enjoy a full day of entertainment and fun. A short drive from our New Ranch community, this beach is ideal for enjoy the best in Florida seaside attractions.
8. Ben T. Davis Beach
As Tampa’s most popular beach, Ben T. Davis Beach offers the powdery white sand that Florida is famous for, alongside picnic shelters, volleyball courts, and a walking/biking trail. Enjoy breathtaking sunset views, and don’t forget to hop in the water for refreshing swimming in warm Florida sun.
9. Treasure Island
Way more fun (And definitely safer) than the Treasure Island in the famous novel, Florida’s Treasure Island is a Tampa gem. This 3-mile stretch of white sandy beach is bustling with restaurants, hotels, bars, shops, boats, and more (And drinking is allowed on the beach). Especially perfect for kite flying and within walking distance of the village of St. John, this beach is a fun, active, and very populated area.
10. Fred Howard Park
Enjoy the beach, and nature preserve, just one mile from Tarpon Springs. Here you can enjoy Sponge Docks, Greek restaurants, and entertainment. Visit the beach for glimpses of gorgeous wildlife, along with access to picnic areas, playgrounds, and other amenities.
11. Indian Rocks Beach
For a quiet beach experience similar to St. Pete and Clearwater Beach but without the crowds, explore Indian Rocks Beach. This secluded area offers few amenities but a rich array of rentals, skimboarding opportunities, surf lessons, restaurants, and bars.
Beaches For The Family
When it is time to hit the beach with kids, grandkids, nieces, or nephews, you will want to check out these central Florida gems. Packed with activities for all ages, they can keep your whole crew entertained for hours, or days, on end.
12. Canaveral National Seashore
New Smyrna Beach connects directly to another of central Florida’s best beaches: Canaveral National Seashore. This beach’s 24 miles of coastline provide breathtaking ocean views, along with some seriously impressive family fun. Take a short drive to Cape Canaveral. Watch rocket launches. Explore natural wildlife like manatees and sea turtles. As a protected barrier island, this area overflows with 14 species of endangered or threatened animals, while still offering recreational opportunities such as kayaking, horseback riding, and swimming.
13. Daytona Beach
While Daytona Beach has a reputation as a spring break party spot, you don’t have to worry about encountering wild 20-somethings every day of the year. You should be aware that Daytona is a busy beach, so you won’t spend much of your time relaxing in the peace and quiet. What you will find is 23-miles of sparkling beach, turquoise water, and the famous Daytona Boardwalk packed with activities and dining to enjoy.
14. Sand Key Park
Sand Key Park boasts powdery white sand alongside a wealth of amenities, including easy parking, picnic shelters, restrooms, and affordable cabana rentals. Add in a playground for the kids, a boardwalk, a nature trail, and a quieter atmosphere, and you have a great spot for a family getaway. As an added bonus, this beach serves as a home for sea turtle nests, which you can take a peek at if you stop by the beach at the right time of year.
15. Fort De Soto Park
This family-friendly beach getaway on the west coast of Florida has both the stunning natural areas of a preserve and the bustling seaside vibe of the state’s bigger beaches. Enjoy the 1,000-acre natural park teeming with wildlife and go camping in a wild natural area. Or, enjoy a quiet lagoon, 7-mile walking and biking trails, kayaking, fishing (with no licenses required) and even a dog park for your furry friend.
Beaches For Seniors
Older adults should take advantage of any of the gorgeous beaches available in Florida, but some beaches offer certain advantages, such as a quieter feel, and more convenient amenities that make them appealing to anyone enjoying their retirement years.
16. Melbourne Beach
Named one of the best beaches for couples, Melbourne Beach has romantic vibes for you and your loved one to enjoy, as well as affordable restaurants and shopping. Expect to see stingrays and manatees, as well as crystal clear water and a pier that can fulfill your dreams of fishing in the ocean.
17. Honeymoon Island State Park
Even if you aren’t on your honeymoon, this beautiful beach provides a romantic getaway for you and your loved one. And, even if you are flying solo, you can still soak up this beach’s 4 miles of white sand, nature trails, bird observation areas, the Rotary Nature Center, and amenities such as restaurants, kayak rentals, and covered pavilions. This is a true Florida getaway.
18. Caladesi Island State Park
Seniors looking for a quiet area to enjoy the best in Florida beaches may want to check out Caladesi Island State Park. With the whitest sand and bluest water anywhere in the nation, this beach promises endless shell hunting opportunities in the middle of exquisite natural beauty. Do be aware, this nature preserve is only accessible by boat or ferry and has few amenities, but for enjoying wild, secluded Florida nature, it is unmatched in the state.
19. St. Pete Beach
Renowned as one of the world’s best beaches, St. Pete Beach offers a much different beach experience for seniors than does Caladesi Island State Park. This beach is packed, not just with white sand and sparkling water, but hotels, resorts, restaurants, bars, shops, and amenities of every kind. Explore the beach’s endless activities, and enjoy a laid back environment that focuses on fun, relaxation, and great food and drink.
20. Anna Maria Island
Situated on Florida’s west coast near St. Petersburg and Sarasota, Anna Maria Island is overflowing with fun. From numerous upscale golf courses to more traditional beach activities, such as pier, nature tours, turtle viewing, swimming, boating, sunbathing, and pure white sand, this beach has something for everyone. Don’t forget to check out some of its unique attractions, including a maritime museum, the Desoto Super Speedway, and the Wildlife Education & Rehabilitation Center, Inc.
Living in Florida promises endless beach fun, and living in one of our 55+ communities promises endless access to some of the state’s most desirable areas. If living in the sun and enjoying the seaside is on your list of favorite activities, hop on over to Florida, where you have your pick of oceanside entertainment, all year long.
Riviera Beach, Florida, is a small city along the beautiful Atlantic Ocean. Defined by its proximity to the water, small size, and retirement-friendly cost of living, this city is perfect for retirees who want to enjoy the Florida beaches in their work-free years without fighting the Florida crowds. Founded in 1922 and originally named Oak Lawn, the city was eventually renamed Riviera after the French Riviera. This grand name reflects the city’s pride in its natural surroundings and its desire to provide a relaxed and enjoyable life to every resident.
What to expect of Riviera Beach, Florida
Area
Riviera’s population of 37,604 resides within Palm Beach County and less than 15 minutes from West Palm Beach. Riviera Beach is also minutes from many other smaller cities across the eastern coast of Florida, such as Lake Park and Juno Beach. While small, the city is growing steadily, and is now 15.46 percent larger than it was 10 years ago. With several retirement communities located within the city limits, including Bedrock’s Ocean Tide community, the city provides the services and comfortable living that retirees expect and deserve from their work-free years.
Weather
Riviera Beach enjoys a tropical rainforest climate that is defined primarily by warm, dry winters and hot, wet summers. Expect daily thunderstorms in the summer months, and a scarcity of frost. Riviera Beach does not get snow, and you will not have to shovel, bundle up, or drive in winter weather. With 232 days of sunshine, the city enjoys much more sunlight than the national average and has lots of warm, lazy days to enhance your retirement experience.
Safety
The only aspect of Riviera Beach that may make retirees question whether it is one of the best places to retire in Florida is its crime rate. The city as a whole has a crime rate that is greater than 94 percent of U.S. cities. The city has a crime rate of 11.4 per 1,000 residents for violent crimes and 31.3 per every 1,000 residents for property crimes. However, the eastern part of the city, close to Singer Island is generally considered safe, and this is where our Ocean Tide community resides. As a result, retirees can still enjoy a peaceful and secure retirement near one of Florida’s most beautiful areas.
Practical Living around Riviera Beach
Airport
Riviera Beach does not have an airport within the city limits, but Palm Beach International Airport is less than 20 minutes away. All major airlines fly into and out of this airport, making it simple to pick up friends and family or fly in and out of Riviera Beach yourself.
Getting Around
In general, the most convenient way to get around Riviera Beach is by car. The West Palm Beach area has a walkability score of just 40 percent, so while there may be a few walkable areas, most shops, dining, and entertainment will require a vehicle.
However, you can also access a variety of public transit options through the Palm Tran system. You can find a passenger bus system that will take you to specific points throughout the West Palm Beach area, including Riviera Beach. In addition, if you cannot drive yourself, you can use Palm Tran Connection, a para-transit system that provides door-to-door service for essential activities such as healthcare and employment, and shopping. You will need to reserve these trips in advance, but they can provide a convenient way to get around if you are unable to transport yourself via a car.
Other means of transportation? While not as convenient, you can also get around the city and the area in the following ways:
The diversity of transportation options in the area make it simple to get where you need to go, regardless of whether you have a car or not.
Shopping
Riviera Beach is home to a multitude of shops and stores where you can get everything from beachwear (An essential for a beachside retirement) to groceries stores (e.g. Public) to medication (e.g. Walgreens). If you want even more options, consider stopping by West Palm Beach for big-city stores and unique niche shops.
Doctors/hospitals
Riviera Beach is also home to a wide array of healthcare facilities. These include these highly-rated locations:
Integrated Healthcare Systems
Kindred Hospital the Palm Beaches
Northeast Health Center (Riviera Beach)
Discover urgent care, primary care, home care, ICUs, specialized care (e.g. Transplant care, lung care, etc.), and more, all within Riviera Beach. The abundance of healthcare options right outside your door should put your mind at ease and help you to embrace Riviera Beach Florida living for seniors.
Banks
Banks abound in Riviera Beach, and in the surrounding area. You will mostly find major names in finance in Riviera, including Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and TD Bank. As a result, you can save, obtain loans, withdraw cash, write checks, and otherwise keep your retirement funding in order without needing to leave the city.
Mail
Conducting all of your postal business can be accomplished locally if you choose to retire in Riviera Beach. The city has its own post office, Fed Ex locations, and UPS center. If you live in a retirement community like Ocean Tide, you may also be able to complete some basic postal tasks within your community.
Things to Do in Riviera Beach
Beaches
Thanks to its location on the ocean, Riviera Beach provides access to many of the most beautiful and sought-after beaches in Palm Beach County. The closest is Riviera Municipal Beach, which sits within the city limits. However, you can also drive just a few minutes to reach any of these other waterfront locations where swimming, sunbathing, and even boating are possible:
Boynton Beach
Palm Beach
Juno Beach (Which is dog friendly)
Jupiter Beach Park (Which has an off-leash area for your dog)
Ocean Reef Park
Beach Parks
Alongside a number of the beaches in the Riviera Beach area are stunning nature parks where you can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including the following:
Saltwater fishing
Walking
Camping
Sunbathing
Playgrounds
Picnicking
Educational activities
And more
Ready to enjoy Florida’s natural beauty alongside some of your favorite beach activities? Check out these parks near your Riviera Beach home:
Peanut Island Park
Ocean Reef Park
John D. MacArthur Beach State Park and Nature Center
Golf
Florida is known for its endless array of golf courses anywhere you live, and Riviera Beach is no exception. Discover no fewer than 10 golf courses close to or within the city. One of the best is Lone Pines Golf Course, an executive course (Shorter than a typical golf course) that provides a fun, relaxing way to play golf in a beautiful location.
Scuba Diving
Riviera Beach and the surrounding area is considered one of the state’s best places for scuba diving. The area is full of beautiful reefs and exciting wrecks to explore, and plenty of opportunities to grab scuba diving lessons so you can take up a new and exciting hobby, or continue a hobby you already love.
Find a Home in Riviera Beach, Fl
Bedrock Communities Living
With a median home price of $549,500, Riviera Beach housing is fairly expensive. The god news is that at our Ocean Tide community, you can accent beautiful, quality homes for a fraction of that cost. That makes Florida living attainable on a budget, even in one of the best places to retire in Florida.
Features
Our Ocean Tide community provides features that create an active and rewarding retirement for community members:
Beachfront community
Minutes from Singer Island and Palm Beach Shores
Minutes from South Florida’s most popular beaches, lakes, and parks
Beautiful mobile homes for an affordable price
An active and friendly 55+ community
Amenities
In addition, our Ocean tide community offers a wide array of amenities to enhance life within the community:
Clubhouse
Extensive social activities
Shuffleboard courts
Billiards
Laundry
Petanque courts
Consider our Ocean Tide community for beautiful, safe, and beachside living in Riviera Beach. You deserve a retirement that fulfills all your expectations, and our community can give it to you. Contact us today to learn more!
Stately and historic, Floral City has earned both its nickname “Old Florida,” and its reputation as a peaceful place to retire in Florida. While once larger than Miami (Thanks to the presence of phosphate mining), Floral City is now a small town of just over 5,000 residents. Here, rural living and a neighborly atmosphere go hand-in-hand with history and natural beauty. This is a small town that takes pride in its history and its offerings, and it is a place where you can enjoy a quiet and fulfilling retirement surrounded by the best that Florida has to offer.
What to Expect
Area
Floral City is technically a census-designated place (CDP) located 70 miles north of Tampa and an hour west of Orlando in Citrus County. The nearest city, Inverness, which also serves as the county seat, is not much bigger than Floral City, and the area is known more for its gorgeous state park and untouched natural areas than for its big-city amenities. The area is also known as a retirement-friendly haven, where 55 percent of residents are above the age of 45 and the cost of living is 18 percent lower than the state average. With a proud history, endless outdoor activities, and a close knit, neighborly feel, Floral City is a beautiful location to enjoy the best Florida living for seniors.
Weather
Floral City’s climate is both rainier than the national average and sunnier than the national average. With 52 inches of rain per year, and 247 sunny days, the city enjoys a warm, humid climate that nurtures an abundance of vegetation. Average summer highs are 92 degrees, while the winter lows rarely get below 45 degrees. That makes for a warm, but very livable locale, ideal for retirees who are tired of shoveling snow, driving on ice, or dealing with the cold.
Safety
Floral City meets the national safety averages comfortably, with a safety rating that is the same as 50 percent of all other similarly-sized cities in the nation. The western part of the area is the safest, but there is no neighborhood or areas within Floral City or its environs that is truly dangerous, which makes this small city exceptionally safe for retirees looking for a quiet and secure environment to enjoy their work-free years.
Practical Living
Airport
Floral City’s rural location means you will need to travel just over an hour to the nearest major airport: Tampa International Airport. Located about 70 miles away, highways like I589, I75, and I275 provide a fairly efficient pathway to the airport. Just make sure you budget time and parking money to get there and back. There are also a number of paid airport shuttle services you can take for more convenient access to the airport.
Getting Around
Floral City is best navigated with a car, due to its rural location and the fact that attractions, shopping, dining, and services are generally spread out, or only available 10 miles away in Inverness. Public transportation is sparse. However, you can also hire a ride through the multiple services available in the county.
Shopping
Floral City has a few shops within its town limits, such as the Red Brick Place consignment store and chain stores such as Publix, Dollar General, and Sam’s Club. However, you can access even more options in nearby Inverness, where a trip of just a few minutes gives you access to antique stores, outlet stores, craft stores, and more.
Doctors/hospitals
There are no hospitals within the limits of Floral City, but Citrus Memorial in Inverness is just a short drive away and accepts Medicare. For more day-to-day healthcare concerns, Access Healthcare Physicians, LLC, provides access to general physicians right in Floral City.
Banks
Despite its rural location, Floral City has a diverse array of banking options available right in town, including ATMs, banks, and financial consultants. As a result, Floral City makes it easy to manage every aspect of your retirement finances without ever leaving town.
Mail
Taking care of your mail is also simple in Floral City, thanks to the presence of a United States Post Office within town. In addition, the city houses a UPS store and a Fedex location. Purchasing supplies, buying stamps, and mailing packages is all very convenient within the downtown area of this small city.
Things to Do
Beaches
One of the greatest advantages of Florida living for seniors is that you are never far from the beach. Floral City sits about 1 hour 45 minutes from famous Clearwater Beach. That puts swimming, sunbathing, boating, fishing, and more within reach and makes the beach a fun and accessible day trip.
Withlacoochee State Forest
Floral City sits just 10 minutes from the third largest state forest in Florida: Withlacoochee State Forest. This sprawling natural preserve is bisected by the Withlacoochee River, which wanders through 13 mile of the forest. Here you can walk the many trails, soak in the stunning wildlife and natural beauty, and enjoy birding and horseback riding in this most beautiful Florida gem.
Tsala Apopka Lake
Even closer to Floral City is beautiful Tsala Apopka Lake, which is actually a chain of lakes that form the Cove of Withlacoochee River. With an open water surface area of more than 19,000 acres, this beautiful natural area is ideal for any number of water-based activities. Here you can enjoy fishing off more than 20 miles of shoreline, swim, and boat. Our tranquil Singing Forest community sits just 2 miles from the lake’s shore for easy access to all of its beauty and recreational activities.
Biking
Floral City is also a wonderful place to ride bikes. Several trails run through or near the city, including the well-known Withlacoochee State Trail. Enjoy the weather, nature, birds, and other bike enthusiasts on these trails, which are ideally located for easy access from Floral City.
Find a Home
Bedrock Communities Living
With a median home price of $230,000, Floral City is neither the most expensive nor the most affordable place to live in Florida. However, regardless of your retirement finances, Floral City is one of the best places to retire in Florida because our Singing Forest community offers quality manufactured homes for a fraction of the cost of housing in the area. That makes Florida living attainable on any budget.
Features
Our Singing Forest community provides features that make it easy to enjoy Florida retirement. Enjoy the following features:
Beautiful, mature trees
Abundant birds
Pond and lighted fountain
A short drive from shops, dining, entertainment, beaches, and big cities
Beautiful mobile homes for an affordable price
An active and friendly 55+ community
Amenities
In addition, our Singing Forest community has many amenities that make it easy to enjoy life within the community. Discover the appeal of amenities such as the following:
Gazebo and grilling area
Social activities
Clubhouse
Shuffleboard courts
Billiards
And more
An active and rewarding retirement is within reach when you choose sunny Florida living at Singing Forest. Beautiful, affordable homes, a strong community, a beautiful area, and many activities make this one of the best places to retire in Florida. Contact us today to learn more!
A small city in the much larger Lakeland-Winter Haven area, Davenport is one of the best places to retire in Florida because of its attraction-rich, out–of-the-way location. Nestled within Central Florida’s natural beauty, it sits within driving distance of some of the country’s most desirable locations (e.g. Walt Disney World) and is one of the most convenient, and fastest-growing, areas within the I-4. If you want to enjoy the best of Florida living during your golden years, Davenport is the place to choose.
What to Expect
Area
Davenport is a small city of about 9,000 that is located about an hour’s drive from Orlando and Tampa and just 30 minutes from famous Kissimmee. While tiny in comparison to these bigger cities, Davenport uses its small size to its advantage. This is a place where you can enjoy the best of small town living without giving up access to the amenities available in these larger cities. If you are willing to drive for just a few minutes, you can enjoy a close-knit community AND indulge in everything that makes retirement worthwhile, from fine dining to upscale shopping, hot air balloon flights to golf. Davenport is beautiful Florida living at its best.
Weather
Davenport enjoys glorious weather all year round. Nearby Winter Haven earned its name because of its near-perfect weather, and Davenport shares that same warmth and sunshine. January, the coldest month of the year, enjoys highs around 70, while the area’s lows rarely get below the mid-40s. Even summers are bearable, with temperatures in the low 90s and humidity rarely getting above 80 percent. Retirement here will be devoid of snow, cold, and dangerous winter driving.
Safety
Settle into Davenport in the confidence that this small city enjoys the same sense of safety and security that you would expect from any other small town. The city earns a B- safety rating from CrimeGrade, while the vast majority of its neighborhoods get an A or A+ rating for their low crime rates. Just avoid the southeastern and westernmost neighborhoods in the city for the safest locations for your retirement. Instead, settle into our Emerald Lake community and feel extra secure: We are located in one of the city’s safest areas.
Practical Living
Airport
Davenport does not have an airport of its own, thanks to its small size. However, getting in and out of the city to enjoy far flung visits and vacation is still convenient, thanks to the Orlando (MC) International Airport, Tampa International Airport (TPA), and Orlando Sanford Airport (SFB). And, while driving your own car to and from the airport is likely to be the most economical approach, you can also hire a car, grab a taxi, or take the 407 bus to Kissimmee and then grab a taxi to the Orlando Airport. Florida living for seniors is always better when you can easily get in and out of your community to enjoy all of the adventures your retirement holds.
Getting Around
Davenport is a small city, but is not particularly walkable. As such, this city is best traversed by car. Typically, traffic is manageable, although you can expect to encounter some busyness in the winter months when tourists pass through on their way to the amusement parks nearby.
You can also enjoy transportation in Davenport, since the city has a bus station operated by Florida Shuttle Transportation. This company provides shared and private transportation to 40 locations throughout Florida, making travel even further afar easier without a car.
Shopping
Davenport may not be walkable, but it has organized many of its shopping plazas to be very pedestrian-friendly. This feature will come in handy if you enjoy shopping, since you will have dozens of stores from which to choose.
Live minutes from essentials, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, home improvement stores, and clothing stores. Or, enjoy proximity to no fewer than 3 malls within Davenport and along I-4. In addition, Davenport’s proximity to Tampa and Orlando put all of the shopping you could desire within an hour’s drive or less.
Doctors/Hospitals
You can, of course, find first-class healthcare in Orlando and Tampa, which should put your mind at ease, no matter what health concerns you have as you go into retirement. However, Davenport also offers comprehensive healthcare right in town, primarily in the form of AdventHealth Heart of Florida. This Christian-based medical center offers a variety of healthcare options and providers, including the following:
Weight care
Emergency care
Cancer care
Heart care
Diabetes care
Home health care
And more
In addition to AdventHealth Heart of Florida, you can also access a variety of smaller doctors and healthcare practices for routine care and a more personal feel.
Banks
Banking is also convenient in Davenport. The city is home to a wide variety of financial institutions, including big names such as Wells Fargo and SunTrust. However, if you prefer to bank more locally, you can also access smaller institutions, such as MidFlorida Credit Union. These institutions make it easy to manage all of your finances without leaving the Davenport area.
Mail
You can also stay in Davenport to run all of your post office errands. From mailing letters to buying stamps to mailing packages, you can conveniently complete all of your tasks in one location just minutes from your home. In some communities, such as our Emerald Lake community, you can even do some of your postal errands without leaving your neighborhood.
Things to Do
Beaches
Davenport is a true Florida retreat with a beach less than a mile from town. Playalinda Beach is a highly rated beach with a boardwalk that you can enjoy every day if you wish, thanks to its proximity to almost every location in Davenport.
If you want to enjoy the most famous Florida beaches, you will need to travel a little bit. Most of the biggest and best-known beaches, such as Clearwater Beach and Daytona Beach, are all about an hour and a half away, still close enough for a day trip or weekend getaway. It is time to retire to a place that has the best Florida living for seniors, including all the swimming, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing you could desire.
Hot Air Balloon Rides
Retirement should be all about adventure and exploration, which Davenport provides in the form of hot air balloon rides out of nearby Orlando. These rides last several hours and take you over the entire Orlando and Davenport areas, ending with a champagne toast for an unforgettable and elegant experience. Booking flights is easy, and the rides, while exhilarating, are also very safe.
True Blue Winery
Nestled in historic Davenport is the perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon of wine tasting and eating: True Blue Winery. Their homemade wines are award-winning and feature a blueberry wine crafted from the winery’s own bushes.
In addition to incredible wine, you can also expect to find pick-your-own blueberries beginning at the end of March, dinner show entertainment, and a mouth-watering bistro. If you choose to retire to one of the best places for Florida living, you may find yourself a regular at this Davenport staple.
Golf
If 18 holes is your idea of the perfect retirement activity, then you are in luck. Davenport is home to multiple golf clubs. Enjoy carefully manicured courses, beautiful scenery, endless amenities, and a luxury golfing experience.
Dining
There is plenty of delicious dining to be done in Davenport. Indulge in Italian, grab pizza, enjoy sweet treats and desserts, and choose from an array of food types, from Chinese to American. Davenport offers access to chain restaurants, such as Cracker Barrel, as well as delicious local places, such as Sh-Booms Ice Cream and Sweets. Florida living for seniors includes enough food options to keep your taste buds dancing for years to come.
Find a Home
Bedrock Communities Living
Davenport’s median home price sits at $359K, which is outside the budget of many retirees. The good news, however, is that our Emerald Lake community is designed for retirement affordability, with manufactured homes well below the area’s median home price. The best in Florida living fits into your budget!
Features
Our Emerald Lake community is designed to create a relaxing, and rewarding, retirement experience. That is why we offer all of the following features:
A peaceful community on Lake Emerald
A short drive to shopping, dining, and attractions
Beautiful mobile homes for an affordable price
Pet-friendly policies
An active and friendly 55+ community
Amenities
Our Emerald Lake community also boasts many amenities right within our community. Enjoy a peaceful, and enjoyable, retirement surrounded by friendly neighbors and beautiful nature. Find all of the following at Emerald Lake:
Extensive social activities
Clubhouse with activities
Pool
Recreational facilities
The best Florida living for seniors is right here at Emerald Lake in Davenport. A quiet community, exciting amenities, and all the activities you can think of allow you to craft retirement on your terms. Contact us today to learn more!
Lakeland, Florida, is a beautiful oasis of more than 100,000 residents that sits along the I-4 corridor between Tampa and Orlando. While its central location provides easy access to all of these big cities’ attractions, Lakeland itself has dozens of activities from which you can choose.
Many of these activities are ideal for the city’s almost 24,000 older adults, which makes retiring here an attractive, and adventurous, choice. When you move to any of Bedrock’s three Lakeland 55+ communities, check out these 7 big attractions for seniors in Lakeland, Florida.
Visit any of Lakeland’s 38 lakes.
Lakeland gets its name from the nearly 4 dozen lakes scattered throughout the city. The sheer number of natural locations has given rise to numerous lakeside parks, preserves, and spaces for recreation and rest. Perhaps the most famous are the Se7en Wetlands, where you can walk the established trails and capture stunning photos of the abundant wildlife.
What else can you do lakeside? It depends upon the lake you choose, but you can find a place to do all of the following during your Lakeland, FL, retirement:
Boating
Fishing
Swimming
Picnicking
Biking
And more
Thanks to the huge diversity of lakes and trails, these natural areas are ideal for individuals of any ability level. From paved walking trails to challenging hikes, you can find the adventure and outdoor activity you desire right by Lakeland’s lakes.
Stop by the Polk Theatre.
The Polk Theatre offers numerous films, a popular Performing Arts Series, and a rich history that makes the building itself a vintage attraction. Fully restored in 1999, the theatre shows classic films, hosts performances of the Lakeland Symphony Orchestra, hosts ballet performances, and more.
Stop by to take in all the arts and culture you desire, and tour the beautiful building, impeccably restored to preserve this building’s stunning history and architecture. If you want to enjoy good films from the comfort of home, you can even take advantage of the theatre’s virtual cinema program.
Check out the Frank Lloyd Wright collection.
If architecture is a passion of yours, then you may want to stop by Lakeland’s Frank Lloyd Wright collection. Located at Florida Southern College, this is the world’s largest collection of buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The college’s historic district, as a result, has been named a National Historic Landmark.
In addition, the college houses a large collection of the famous architect’s photographs, furniture, drawings, and more. Stop by whenever you like: You will often find traveling exhibits on display here as well.
Catch a Minor League baseball game.
If sports are more your thing, you can purchase tickets to the Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland. The home of the Detroit Tigers’ Minor League team, the Lakeland Flying Tigers, it promises hours of baseball-themed fun.
Because this is a Minor League team, you can catch all the excitement of baseball with less cost and less traffic than attending an MLB game in, say, Tampa. And, because the stadium is so close, chances are you can catch a game whenever the mood strikes.
Go birdwatching at Circle B Bar Reserve.
Do not be deceived: Despite its name, Circle B Bar Reserve is NOT an active ranch. The former ranch has been converted into an extensive protected wetland. If you love birds and wildlife, this is the place for you to enjoy your retirement.
If you want to learn more about the area and the wildlife in it, you can stop by the Polk County Nature Discovery Center. This center is open to the public and has some fascinating displays about the Ranch and surrounding area. Who said you couldn’t learn something new after you retire?
Visit the Polk Museum of Art.
As one of the top 10 art museums in Florida, the Polk Museum of Art has endless displays to amaze and inspire you. If you want your retirement in Lakeland, Florida, to be full of arts and culture, then this is the place to go.
Located at South Florida College, this museum boasts permanent collections across many artistic periods, including Asian, European, and Decorative American Arts. Entry is completely free, so you can afford to soak in all of the beautiful art and art education you can handle for as long as you live in Lakeland.
Eat at Lakeland’s many restaurants.
One of the best attractions for seniors in Lakeland, Florida, is the sheer number of mouth-watering restaurants you can enjoy. The city boasts endless dining options, including the following famous eateries:
Nineteen61
Harry’s Seafood Bar and Grille
Black and Brew Coffeehouse
Cafe Zuppina
And so much more
No matter what your preferred culinary taste, you can find it in Lakeland. Delve into spicy Mexican. Enjoy rich seafood. Feast on Chinese, barbecue, pizza, and more. There is a restaurant for any taste, and any budget. When you live in Lakeland, you are sure to eat well.
If these Lakeland-area attractions appeal to you, then you may want to consider moving to one of Bedrock’s Lakeland communities. Rich in amenities, connections, and beautiful homes, we make Florida living attainable for seniors. Contact us today to learn more about how Bedrock can help you enjoy your golden years in Lakeland.
“The Natural Oasis of Florida” is a peaceful, beautiful, and well-located city that is perfect for retirees looking to enjoy Florida living. Incorporated in 1970, Seminole has grown quickly, offering access to classic Florida attractions, such as beaches and sunshine, without the inconveniences that often go along with bigger cities. If you want one of the best places to retire in Florida, you can hardly go wrong with Seminole. Its friendly, welcoming people, quieter lifestyle, and stunning surroundings make it an ideal place for a work-free life.
What to expect
Area
Seminole is a small city of 18,852 in Pinellas County, Florida. Located just 30 minutes from St. Petersburg and Clearwater, and just 45 minutes from Tampa, this oceanside city puts every Florida amenity within reach. Its multiple retirement communities, including Bedrock’s Porpoise community, create an environment that makes Florida living for seniors easy and fun. The city’s residents have an average age of 52, which makes it a great place to forge new friendships with other retirees, and its low cost of living and beautiful location make it both affordable and desirable for retirees from all walks of life.
Weather
While Seminole receives more rain per year than the national average, the city is known more for the glorious Florida weather that attracts retirees in droves. With an average summer temperature of 91 and a comfortable winter low of 51 degrees, this city experiences none of the winter cold and snow that can dampen your retirement living elsewhere. Add in 241 days of sunshine a year, and you have a cheery city where the weather allows for year-round adventures.
Safety
Seminole is one of the best places to retire in Florida, in part because of its high level of safety. Ranking safer than 53 percent of the cities in Florida, Seminole experiences a crime rate that is 15 percent lower than the national average and 35 percent lower than the national average when it comes to violent crime. While the northern part of the city has the lowest crime rates, nearly every neighborhood has a reputation for safety and security.
Practical Living
Airport
Seminole sits less than 30 minutes from St. Pete – Clearwater International Airport, and 40 minutes from Tampa International Airport. These major airports have flights from all major airline carriers, which makes it simple to find convenient flights in and out of your retirement home.
Getting Around
The best way to get around Seminole is by car, but the city has a higher-than-average walkability score that does mean you can take a stroll around certain areas of the city. If you cannot or do not want to use a car, you can also take advantage of the PTSA public transit system, which services all of Pinellas County. This system can help you get to the most important areas of the city, allowing you to reach major shopping, entertainment, or healthcare locations without using a car.
Shopping
Seminole may be a small city, but it does have a number of shopping options, including a small mall and the store-rich Seminole Towne Center. You can grab essentials, such as medication and groceries, within the city limits, and explore everything from home furnishings to hair salons right within your community. With major cities just a short drive away, you can also find any item you desire in a convenient and fun location.
Doctors/hospitals
While there are no hospitals in Seminole itself, you can access any of the hospitals and medical centers in nearby Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater. In addition, Seminole is home to a number of medical centers and doctor offices. Find any of the following healthcare options near your Seminole home:
Urgent care
Primary care
Senior care
Internal medicine
Dentists
When you choose Seminole to retire, you enjoy Florida living for seniors that includes access to reliable and diverse healthcare, right outside your door.
Banks
Managing your retirement finances is easy in Seminole, due to the presence of numerous financial institutions. Choose from credit unions, major institutions such as Wells Fargo and Chase Bank, and more local options such as Suncoast Credit Union. These banks can help you obtain loans, withdraw cash, write checks, build up savings, and complete all of your financial transactions without leaving Seminole.
Mail
Conducting all of your postal errands is also simple in Seminole. The city houses post offices, UPS stores, and FedEx locations where you can purchase shipping materials, drop off packages, pick up mail, and more. If you live in a retirement community such as Porpoise, you can also do some of your postal errands without ever leaving the community.
Things to Do
Beaches
One of the greatest attractions in Seminole is its location by the ocean. The beach is just a few minutes away, often only 5-10 minutes, depending upon where you live in the city. These beaches have beautiful white sand, great views, and much smaller crowds than the larger beaches, such as the one in Clearwater. However, if you want to enjoy fishing, sunbathing, coating, and more by a bigger beach, Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and more are just a short drive away.
Pinewood Cultural Park
Enjoy the Seminole area’s beautiful natural attractions in one location at Pinewood Cultural Park. Located in Largo less than 10 minutes from Seminole, the park has multiple attractions including the following:
These attractions promise endless opportunities for relaxation and recreation practically outside your front door when you choose to live in Seminole and in Bedrock’s Porpoise community.
Nature Parks
Pinewood Cultural Park may be the best-known park in the area, but there are other nature parks in and around Seminole for you to enjoy. Try the 350-acre Walsingham Park with its many trails and Lake Seminole Park, with its opportunities for hiking, boating, fishing, and swimming. The Sunken Gardens provide a century’s worth of botanical beauty.
And of course, each of these parks provide the opportunity to see bountiful wildlife and incredible natural beauty.
Arts and Culture
Seminole may be a small city, but it provides access to multiple arts and cultural attractions. Visit the following to feed your desire for a rich and well-rounded retirement:
Dali Museum featuring Salvador Dali’s surreal work
Mahaffey Theater with its variety of shows, from drama to comedy
Morean Arts Center in St. Petersburg
If you want even more to do, the big cities near Seminole, such as Clearwater and St. Petersburg, offer an endless array of activities for families, individuals, retirees, and more. Satisfy any hobby or pursuit with just a short drive for a rich and rewarding retirement.
Find a Home
Bedrock Communities Living
With a median home price of $339,000, Seminole housing is a little bit pricey. Before you decide that Seminole is not one of the best places to retire in Florida because of its home price, however, embrace the lower cost of housing in our Porpoise retirement home community. Our beautiful, quality mobile homes make Florida living attainable regardless of your retirement budget.
Features
Our Porpoise community provides features that make your retirement the rewarding experience you deserve after a lifetime of work. Enjoy the following features:
Lakeside location
A short drive from shops, dining, entertainment, beaches, and big cities
Beautiful mobile homes for an affordable price
An active and friendly 55+ community
Amenities
In addition, our Porpoise community has many amenities available to make life within the community as satisfying as the attractions available in the wider Seminole area. Move here and find the following amenities:
Homes with a deck
Social activities
And more
If you want some of the best Florida living for seniors, you need to consider Bedrock’s’ Porpoise community. The beauty, affordability, and friendliness of this area, and of our community, is meant to make your retirement wonderful. Contact us today to learn more!
The dozens of retirement communities dotting its landscape are proof that Winter Haven is one of the best places to retire in Florida. Its central location between two major Florida cities, incredible natural beauty, the 50 lakes that give it the nickname Chain of Lakes City, and endless dining, shopping, entertainment, and outdoor activities make this small city a true haven, not just for snowbirds but also for retirees looking for the best Florida living for seniors.
What to Expect
Area
Winter Haven is a small city of about 45,000 that is located almost exactly 50 miles from both Orlando and Tampa. Its central location makes it perfect for retirees, because it offers peaceful lakeside living within reach of big-city appeal. Add in a low-cost of living and some world-renowned attractions, and there is a reason this city has grown more than 30 percent over the last 10 years.
Weather
Winter Haven originally earned its name because of its pleasant year-round climate that does make it a true retreat from the harsher winters of more northern states. If you can handle a little bit of mugginess in the middle of the year, you can enjoy balmy temperatures that make living in this city, and state, a truly enjoyable experience.
The city enjoys an average January high of 73 degrees, but summers do not get much hotter than the rest of the state, with average highs topping out in the low 90s. Add in an impressive 242 days of sunshine and no snow, and Winter Haven truly lives up to its name. Retire here, and you can say goodbye to winter driving, snow shoveling, and bitter cold days.
Safety
During retirement, you want to fewinel secure so you can enjoy all of the amenities and recreation available in your chosen city. Winter Haven, despite having a slightly higher crime rate than average, still only experiences a crime rate of 4.16 crimes per 1,000 residents. The city also experiences a lower crime rate than average in areas such as motor vehicle theft and burglary.
Life in Winter Haven is particularly safe in the eastern and southwestern parts of the city, which is where Bedrock Communities’ Cypress Harbor 55+ community is located. Here, you can live in security and confidence for a truly peaceful retirement.
Practical Living
Airport
Winter Haven has a general aviation airport, which may be of interest if you wish to do your own flying during your retirement. If you are looking for air transportation in and out of Winter Haven, however, you have multiple options available in the major cities surrounding the city.
The closest major airport to the city is Orlando International Airport (MC), which is less than 40 miles and about an hour’s drive from Winter Haven. Other airports a little further away include Tampa International Airport (TPA) and Orlando Sanford Airport (SFB).
Depending upon your time and budget, you can make your way to these airports by car, bus, or even shuttle. That makes getting into and out of your retirement retreat, and welcoming guests into your home, simple and relatively fast.
Getting Around
Because Winter Haven possesses a suburban atmosphere, you should plan to bring your own vehicle to help you get around. However, there are some areas of the city that are intentionally walkable.
In particular, the newly revitalized downtown area is designed to be pedestrian-friendly and give you easy access to its numerous restaurants and shops. In addition, some communities, such as our Cypress Harbor community, allow you to walk safely and conveniently to visit neighbors and access amenities.
Winter Haven also possesses its own bus transit system, called Winter Haven Area Transit, which operates 9 buses. An additional 4 buses operate from the Polk County Citrus Connection transit system, so you can get to important areas of the city without needing to take a car.
Shopping
The many stores in Winter Haven cluster primarily in the downtown area, where you can find numerous specialty and gift shops, such as antique shops, a Lego store, and vintage stores. In addition, you can do all of your major grocery and retail shopping right in the city, where box stores such as Walmart are also plentiful.
Doctors/hospitals
The nearby big cities of Orlando and Tampa make access to big-name hospitals and cutting-edge healthcare a matter of a short drive out of Winter Haven. However, Winter Haven itself also offer numerous healthcare options, including the following:
Home health care
Women and children healthcare
AdventHealth Centra
Rehabilitation center
Nursing homes
Surgery facilities
And more
The abundance of medical care options in Winter Haven make it easy and convenient to get good healthcare, regardless of your specific medical needs.
Banks
Completing your banking errands is convenient in Winter Haven, thanks to the presence of numerous financial institutions. From credit unions to banks, lenders, and regional institutions, your preferred bank is probably nearby. That makes doing everything from withdrawing cash to getting a loan easy to do locally so you can successfully manage your retirement finances.
Mail
All of your postal needs can also be fulfilled in Winter Haven. The city has a post office, as well as several UPS stores and FedEx locations. If you choose to live in a retirement community, such as Cypress Harbor, you can also complete some of your post office transactions right within your community.
Things to Do
Beaches
Winter Haven could hardly call itself a Florida city if it did not have access to beaches. The city’s renowned chain of 50 lakes makes numerous beaches a reality right within the city limits. Try any of the following:
Winter Haven Park
Max Beach
Lake Shipp Park
Lake Roy Beach
Lakefront Beach
In addition, you can access some of Florida’s most beautiful and famous ocean beaches, such as Clearwater Beach, within a drive of about an hour and a half. That makes sunbathing, fishing, kayaking, sailing, swimming, and more an integral part of a truly enjoyable Florida retirement.
LEGOLAND
While Legos may not be a central part of your retirement, it is one of the most famous attractions in Winter Haven. Built on the site of the former renowned Cypress Gardens, LEGOLAND provides endless entertainment for kids from 2-12. That means that your retirement home could become a destination for grandkids who want to explore the wonders of Lego with you.
Vintage Explorations
Vintage and antiques are abundant in Winter Haven, so if antiquing is your thing, you may want to enjoy Florida living for seniors right here. The city is part of Florida’s Antique Loop, where numerous antique shops provide endless opportunities to explore, learn about, and purchase parts of the past.
In addition, Winter Haven is home to the world’s largest collection of vintage aircraft. Housed at The Fantasy of Flight in the Central Florida Air Museum, this collection actively restores these aircraft and is always willing to give you a tour.
Outdoor Fun
The great outdoors are right at your fingertips when you live in Winter Haven. The height of places to retire in Florida, this city provides 13 miles of biking trails, numerous parks, and of course, endless lakeside activities to enjoy within the city limits.
Arts and Culture
If you prefer shows and art, you can still enjoy Winter Haven. The area is home to many theatres, shows, and art displays. Fulfill your arts and culture cravings at any of the following locations:
Gram Parson’s Derry Down
Theatre Winter Haven – One of the nation’s best community theatres.
Ritz Theatre
Water Activities
Winter Haven makes the most of its many lakes. Here you can kayak, canoe, swim, fish, and more in any of the area’s beautiful lakes. In addition, Winter Haven puts on some pretty amazing water-based fun, including the following:
Pontoon boat cruises
Waterski team performances
Paddleboard tours
And more
Find a Home
Bedrock Communities Living
Winter Haven’s median home price of about $241,000, the area might not be the friendliest to retirement budgets. The good news, however, is that Bedrock Communities’ Cypress Harbor offers attainable and quality mobile home options for far less than the average home price in the city. That means you can enjoy the best in Florida living while staying within your budget.
Features
Our Cypress Harbor community is built with your retirement needs in mind. The goal is to give you a home that matches your lifestyle and your taste. Join our community, and discover all of the following features:
A short drive from shops, dining, entertainment, beaches, and big cities
Beautiful mobile homes for an affordable price
Pet-friendly policies
An active and friendly 55+ community
Amenities
Our Cypress Harbor community also boasts many amenities right within our community. These amenities give you the chance to relax, have fun, and connect with your neighbors in a relaxed environment. Find all of the following in Cypress Harbor:
Shuffleboard court
Clubhouse
Lake access
Fire pit
If you are looking for great Florida living for seniors, look no further than Winter Haven. Our beautiful community and great homes make the perfect location to enjoy everything Winter Haven has to offer you. Contact us today to learn more!
The city of Ocala was founded in 1849, but its history goes all the way back to the Native American village of Ocala, which existed on the same site and contributed to the rich history that permeates today’s modern city. Also known today as the official Horse Capital of the World, a beautiful countryside and an incredible equestrian industry exist alongside a bustling urban center.
As a destination of retirees and the growing center of Marion County, Ocala offers you an array of entertainment, dining, shopping, and relaxation options within a city that overflows with history and beauty. If you are considering a move to this exciting city, here is everything you need to know to enjoy the retirement you desire.
What to expect
Area
Ocala is a medium-sized city of about 63,000 that serves as the county seat of Marion County. Centrally located less than 2 hours from Orlando, Jacksonville, and Daytona Beach, Ocala is a highly desirable retirement location for those looking for a quieter place to live that offers easy access to the amenities of larger cities. In 2020, U.S. News and World Report named the city the 6th best place to retire in the entire country, thanks to its low-cost housing and high-quality healthcare.
Weather
Ocala enjoys the beautiful Florida weather that draws 150,000 seniors to the state every single year. This means hot summers with average highs in the 90s and winters where the temperature rarely, if ever, dips below the 40s. While the city receives somewhat more rain than the U.S. average (53 inches per year instead of 38), it also enjoys 233 days of sunshine a year and so little snow that even snow flurries occur only once every few years. Warmth, sunshine, and little snow make for a retirement that is relaxing all year round.
Safety
Ocala is exceptionally safe, not just compared to other Florida cities but also compared to cities throughout the nation. In fact, according to the U.S. News and World Report, Ocala is the 4th-safest place to live in the entire United States, thanks to its low murder and property crime rates. While some neighborhoods in the city are safer than others, retirees can relocate here with the confidence that they will enjoy a safe environment that can make their retirement years feel secure.
Practical Living
Airport
Ocala has its own airport, the Ocala International Airport, but this location does not provide passenger flights to or from the city. Instead, residents use one of 3 airports within a 2-hour radius: Jacksonville International Airport, Orlando International Airport, and Tampa International Airport. All three of these airports provide numerous options from all of the major airlines for getting into and out of the area. To get to the airport, you can use a bus, a shuttle (The Shuttleliner to Orlando International Airport), or your own transportation, all of which are relatively affordable options for making your flight on time.
Getting Around
The best way to get around Ocala is by car. Thanks to the smaller population of Ocala compared to the larger surrounding urban areas, and thanks to the dominant equestrian industry which cuts down on commuters, traffic tends to be very manageable around the area. That means you can enjoy stress-free driving throughout the majority of the day.
If you need assistance getting around Ocala, however, Ocala-operated SunTran offers 7 public transit routes throughout Ocala and from Ocala to nearby Silver Springs. SunTran offers affordable cash fares, discounts for seniors, those with disabilities, and veterans, and low-cost monthly passes to make getting to specific areas of Ocala easier, even if you do not want to drive.
Shopping
If you love to shop, then Ocala is one of the best places to retire in Florida. The city is home to a number of shopping centers and malls, including Paddock Mall, known for its variety of shops and clean atmosphere, the more upscale Shady Oaks Shopping Center, and Ocala Spring Shopping Center. These areas offer everything from department stores to specialty shops, food courts to restaurants, to meet all of your shopping needs. In addition, Ocala is home to numerous grocery stores, clothing stores, and bargain stores where you can complete all of your errands and shop within a budget of any size.
Doctors/hospitals
Quality healthcare is one of the reasons Ocala earned a high ranking for livability from the U.S. News & World Report in 2020. One of the drivers of this quality medical care is AdventHealth Ocala, which holds a B ranking from a national patient safety ranking report. Also part of the backbone of Ocala healthcare is Ocala Health, a system that includes both Ocala Regional Medical Center and West Marion Community Hospital. They provide freestanding ERs, a comprehensive stroke center, a Level II Trauma Center, and award-winning services across areas such as orthopedics cardiology, neurology, and more. That makes Ocala a place to retire in confidence that all of your healthcare needs will be met, regardless of their complexity.
Banks
Ocala is home to many banks and financial institutions. You can choose from among regional organizations, such as MIDFLORIDA Credit Union and big names such as Wells Fargo and BB&T. You can use these places to conduct all of your financial business and manage your retirement resources without having to travel to larger urban areas.
Mail
Multiple UPS stores, FedEx shipping sites, and post offices make Ocala a place where you can accomplish all of your postal errands conveniently and quickly. If you choose a retirement community such as Bedrock’s Dogwood Acres, you may even be able to do some of your mailing right within the community.
Things to Do
Nature Parks
Despite its urban center, Ocala is also a mecca of outdoor beauty and activities. For example, you can visit nearby Silver Springs, which is a state park which offers 350 acres of beautiful natural land and water. Boat tours, kayaking, hiking, and even dining opportunities abound in this beautiful and sought-after area. In addition, the area is home to many parks, trails, and more where you can hike, bike, and enjoy all that nature has to offer.
Beaches
Great Florida living for seniors has to include beach access, and Ocala does not disappoint. The city sits just an hour and a half from Daytona Beach and 2 hours from the renowned Clearwater Beach. If you want to enjoy a smaller beach closer to home, you can visit the lake beaches at Hampton Beach or Eaton’s Beach. Visiting the local beaches allows you to enjoy all of the swimming, sunbathing, and fishing you desire without dealing with the crowds and traffic that accompany the bigger and more famous beaches.
Equestrian Culture
Ocala is officially nicknamed the Horse Capital of the World for a reason. The area is known for its 400 thoroughbred farms, training centers, and equestrian operations that make it THE location for racehorse training and development. Even if you do not own your own horses, you can satisfy your love of horses within the area with farm tours, horseback riding, and lessons.
In addition, Ocala is known for its equestrian events, primary of which is the Horses In The Sun (H.I.T.S.), a hunter-jumper circuit that puts on horse shows annually between January and March. These horse shows give you the opportunity to enjoy incredible displays of equestrian finesse and performance throughout a large portion of the year.
Museums
Ocala is home to a number of unique museums that go beyond the standard museums available in most major cities. For example, the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention, which is focused on generating ideas, innovation, and creativity among visitors. The Silver River Museum and Environmental Education Center focuses on educating visitors about the natural area, Native American history, and local animals. If you seek a little more excitement in your museum visits, you can also check out the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing and International Drag Racing Hall of Fame.
Find a Home
Bedrock Communities Living
With a median home price of $209,000, Ocala housing is not exorbitant but could be burdensome for retirement Florida living. If, however, you choose Bedrock Communities’ Dogwood Acres community, you can enjoy beautiful, quality mobile homes for an affordable price far below that of the average home price in the area.
Features
Our Dogwood Acres community is designed to fit your lifestyle and your taste. When you move here, you can enjoy retirement living in Florida that includes all of the following features:
A short drive from shops, dining, entertainment, beaches, and big cities
In addition, our Dogwood Acres provides numerous amenities intended to make life within the community busier and more rewarding. Move here and find the following amenities:
Shuffleboard court
Clubhouse with activities
Swimming Pool
Boat/RV storage
The best Florida living for seniors is right here at Bedrock Communities’ Dogwood Acres community. Take advantage of the safety, history, beauty, and affordability of Ocala here at Bedrock. Contact us today to learn more!
