Just Cakes Oak Creek

Top Retiree Destinations in Arizona   by Lisa Andree

Arizona has long been a favorite destination for retirees, and that trend continues. Thanks to dropping home prices and an aging population of active baby boomers, the Grand Canyon State is very appealing. Whether you seek a home in an amenity-filled planned retirement community, or a sprawling ranch property, AZ has so much to offer. Many just come to sample its mouthwatering blend of Tex Mex, and Nouveau Native American cuisine! See if one of these AZ cities appeals to you!

Flagstaff- Included on the US News and World Report 2012 list, "The 10 Best Places to Retire", this city gets high marks for its great weather. Although Flagstaff's climate is mild and dry, residents enjoy four seasons, including ample snowfall during the winter months. Retired snowbirds can enjoy many of their favorite alpine sports or learn new ones, at area resorts, like the AZ Snowbowl. Golf and tennis enthusiasts also enjoy the sunny days that Flagstaff receives for 78% of the year!

Known as the City of 7 Wonders, Flagstaff is located in northern AZ on the southwestern edge of the Colorado Plateau near the largest Ponderosa Pine forest in the US. The areas that surround Flagstaff represent the epitome of the term, "nature's playground". Hikers, mountain bikers, climbers, photographers and picnickers alike all enjoy the spectacular offerings of places like Humpreys Peak, Mount Eden, San Francisco and Kachina Peaks.

The city's low crime rate makes it easy to enjoy all the action in Flagstaff's downtown district. The historic Orpheum Theater is a major venue for a variety of productions. Heritage Square is another favorite gathering spot for festivals and free concerts. Year round activities including ballet, film, music, theater, and happenings at Lowell Observatory ensure that there's always something to do. Thanks to the presence of Northern AZ University and Coconino Community College, retires can also enjoy collegiate sports or pursue a new interest in the classroom. Learn more at flagstaffarizona.org

Sedona- The natural brilliance of the stunning Red Rocks, a massive series of sandstone formations, provides an awe-inspiring backdrop for the city of Sedona. Set in northern AZ, in the upper region of the Sonoran Desert, the city is also known as, "AZ's Little Hollywood". In the golden age of the western, Sedona was a favorite film location. Today it is possible to trek on foot, mountain bike or horseback through the same trails and canyons as those Hollywood cowboys.

For retirees, Sedona has all of the cultural, shopping, and dining offerings of a big city. In the peaceful setting of Red Rock Country, they are easier to savor at a much more relaxed pace. There are many annual festivals and special events, such as the Sedona Jazz on the Rocks and the city's International Film Festival. World-class spas, tennis, and golf resorts are just more feathers in Sedona's cap.

Trips to local wineries, fishing at Oak Creek Canyon, or getting in touch with your spiritual side are other favorite Sedona diversions. In the last 30 years, the city has become a mecca for New Agers, young and old. The interest is due to the suspected presence of spiritual vortices that are said to be concentrated throughout Bell Rock, Airport Mesa, Cathedral Rock, and Boyton Canyon. There is a large community of metaphysical and spiritual practitioners in the area and residents can take advantage of retreats, classes, and energy healing workshops. If Sedona sounds like the perfect spot to spend your Golden Years, learn more at visitsedona.com

Prescott- Perhaps this AZ city is one of the state's best-kept secrets, which is why it may be an ideal retirement destination. The word may be getting out, however, since it was named in 2012 by True West magazine as the "#1 True Western Town of the Year". Situated in the lovely Bradshaw Mountains of central AZ, Prescott has received numerous accolades for its efforts to preserve both its Native American and western roots. Also known as AZ's Christmas City, it has 809 buildings on the National Historic Register. History buffs love meandering through its impressive Victorian neighborhoods and downtown area along the former Whiskey Row.

The centerpiece of Prescott's historic district is the Yavapai Courthouse Plaza. Built in the gothic cathedral style, it is like an oasis on a grassy plot, surrounded by an abundance of trees, including over 100 American elms. Annually, it is home to over 130 special events, festivals, and concerts.

Like most all of the Grand Canyon State, Prescott is blessed with four mild seasons. Plenty of trails, parks, athletic facilities, and four nearby golf courses make pursuing an active lifestyle here a piece of cake. The presence of three beautiful lakes, Watson, Willow, and Goldwater, will also enable you to get in a little hydrotherapy! Perhaps you've always wanted to see if you have a green thumb? The Karma Farms community garden program offered through Prescott College will allow you to do just that! Get more details on what it's like to live and play in Prescott at cityofprescott.net

About the Author

Lisa Andree is a marketing professional who helps real estate and mortgage companies promote their brands and products such as AZ mortgage loans online.
Bigfoot Trap Applegate Lake southern Oregon June 2009