October 16, 2024
Sun City, Arizona, is noted for being a vibrant community that offers an active lifestyle for seniors, but its sunny weather may keep residents indoors more during the hottest months. As summer’s heat fades, the fall brings much-anticipated cooler temperatures that encourage seniors to enjoy being outdoors again. Autumn is an ideal time for planning day trips to explore nearby attractions. Whether you prefer scenic parks or cultural hotspots, pack up the car and get ready for your next adventure at one of these remarkable destinations.
Explore these stunning locations, most of which are only about a half-hour away, and kick off the season with a memorable day trip.
Seniors wanting to spend time surrounded by nature may enjoy a day trip to Lake Pleasant Regional Park, about 30 minutes away from Sun City. The park offers stunning views of the lake and desert landscapes. Although water levels tend to be low in the fall because the lake is a reservoir for the Central Arizona Project waterway system, visiting seniors can still enjoy limited shoreline access for activities like fishing. The lake is stocked with 12 species of fish.
Cooler temperatures make a leisurely stroll along one of the park trails inviting. Trails range from a half mile to just under 4.5 miles, with moderate difficulty. Birdwatching is also popular here, and spotting other local wildlife is always possible. Seniors may also enjoy visiting the Discovery Center, which houses interpretive, museum-like exhibits of local historical artifacts.
Located in Clarkdale, less than 2 hours from Sun City, the Arizona Botanical Garden has beautiful display gardens for seniors who enjoy diverse plant life. Because it’s a retail nursery specializing in cacti, succulents and low-water plants, visitors can take home something new to brighten their spaces. The garden has easy-to-navigate walking trails with benches scattered throughout that allow seniors to take in the vibrant fall colors and enjoy a peaceful day outdoors.
Seniors interested in art, culture and history should add the Heard Museum to their day trip list. Located just 30 minutes away in Phoenix, this museum specializes in Indigenous art and culture. Take a complimentary public group tour led by one of the museum’s knowledgeable docents for a captivating journey through the many exhibits and collections. Visitors can also choose a self-guided tour for in-depth exploration at their leisure. Outdoor sculptures within the gardens add a peaceful ambiance that ensures an engaging experience for everyone.
Located about 35 minutes away, downtown Scottsdale offers a unique collection of art galleries, world-class museums, public art installations and historic sites from the late 1880s for a full day of sightseeing. Visiting seniors will also find botanical gardens, an aquarium, wine-tasting rooms and numerous shops and restaurants nestled within the walkable neighborhoods for even more to do during their day trip.
Seniors can explore on their own or choose a guided tour with professional guides who know all the best places to enjoy outdoor activities in Scottsdale. For those interested in DIY tours, you can stroll through galleries, boutiques and unique Southwestern shops before enjoying a meal at one of the quaint outdoor cafes. All the while, you get a glimpse into the city’s rich history throughout its famous Old Town area.
The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix showcases the unique beauty of desert plants, with thousands of species of flowers, trees and cacti from around the world on over 55 acres. Special exhibits and seasonal events offer additional opportunities to engage with nature. Seniors can also explore one of the botanical garden's many nature trails to fully embrace the peaceful atmosphere and take in the breathtaking desert landscape.
Watch out for wildlife on the Sonoran Desert Nature Trail as you make your way up to the top to enjoy beautiful mountain vistas. The Harriet K. Maxwell Desert Wildflower Trail offers a meandering stroll through brightly colored blooms, or you can choose the Center for Desert Living Trail with its shady spots perfect for relaxing while enjoying vegetable beds and fragrant herbs.
Day trips are ideal fall activities for seniors. Ensure yours is memorable with a bit of preparation and help with planning. Seniors who aren’t entirely comfortable exploring on their own can take advantage of guided tours and transportation services available in many areas. Guided tours ensure a stress-free experience with the bonus of insightful information about your day trip destination. Additionally, transportation services make it easy to relax and enjoy the journey without the hassle of driving.
If you need help planning a day trip, contact your destination’s visitor center, where staff members are always happy to share details on local attractions. The Greater Phoenix Visitor Center has a virtual visitor center with an easy-to-use trip planner and a trip planner app that seniors can download to their phones. Alternatively, you can speak to a visitor services specialist by phone or email.
Plan a day trip to Royal Oaks, a Life Plan Community offering Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care and Supported Living. Our residents enjoy numerous social activities and outings to sporting events, dinner theaters, cultural venues and many other exciting places. We’re always happy to help with day trip planning, whether for an individual or a group of residents seeking adventure. Call us at (623) 208-6621 to schedule a tour, learn more about everything we offer and find the best living destination for your retirement.
