When people look for a place for retirement in Minnesota, most want a combination of nature and access to activities. With lots of time to explore, retirees can enjoy nature walks and arts festivals. Strong community spirit and healthy lifestyle opportunities lead many to choose the following great spots for retirement.
1. Duluth
Duluth sits by the shores of Lake Superior, and retirees in Minnesota enjoy the many activities that come with lakeside living. The city is also home to several colleges and universities, including the University of Minnesota at Duluth, the College of St. Scholastica, Lake Superior Community College, and Fond du Lac Community College. Excellent health care services are available, including those at UMD. Duluth also offers some unique hobby opportunities, such as hunting for agate, which can be found along the lake shores. The city is home to the annual John Beargrease sled dog race, and retirees can enjoy visits to the local zoo and aquarium.
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2. Grand Marais
Grand Marais is noted for its art colony, which offers classes in many genres, such as ceramics, painting, and mixed media. Retirees can express their inner selves here, through participation in community theater productions, or with the North Shore Music Association. The arts organizations have many opportunities for volunteering, and many retirees enjoy being involved in these community treasures. Others will love the boating and fishing on Lake Superior, especially lovers of salmon and trout.
3. Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids sits on the Mississippi River and should not be mistaken for the city in Michigan with the same name. Grand Rapids is small-town living at its finest. Friendly residents welcome newcomers to share in its wealth of activities. Outdoor activities include hiking, biking, and snowmobiling through lush forests. Golfers love the local course, and skiers head to the slopes at Mount Itasca Winter Sports Complex. The arts are alive in Grand Rapids! Judy Garland’s childhood home is now a museum, and the Myles Reif Performing Arts Center hosts ballet and music events. The cost of living here is about equal to the national average.
4. Northfield
Northfield is a short drive from Minneapolis and St. Paul, but it provides comfortable small town living. Many retirees appreciate the outdoor activities in the area, the historically significant structures in downtown, and the quaint feel of the local boutiques and coffee shops. Northfield Hospital serves as an urgent care center, and it offers specialized cancer-care services. Those requiring assisted living residency or who enjoy the community of living near other seniors will be happy that Northfield is home to senior living communities, which offer fitness rooms, libraries and a concierge service.
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