There are active adults seeking the perfect backdrop for this exciting new chapter of life. And there is Phoenix, with a name that literally symbolizes rebirth and optimism for the future. Clearly a match made in retirement heaven.

But seriously, when it comes to the pros of independent living in Phoenix, its name is only the tip of the iceberg. For starters, 300 days of sunshine and warm temps pretty much guarantee the only ice you will see is in your happy hour cocktail.

If the spectacular weather doesn’t have you immediately calling the mover, consider Arizona’s senior-loving tax structure. There is no tax on social security income, and no gift, estate, or inheritance taxes. Tax rates on other income are relatively low.

To recap: Gorgeous sunshine to lift your spirits, and tax breaks to maximize your financial resources. Are you packing yet?

Throw in relief from seasonal allergies and Arizona’s top notch healthcare system, and Phoenix has your mental, physical, and financial health covered.

Forget the retirement porch. With all that health and wellbeing, you’ll want to be up and running. And Phoenix is ready for you. There are so many fabulous senior activities in Phoenix, your only problem will be finding enough time in the day to do it all.

Check out this list of fun things to do in Phoenix for active adults. And get ready to soar.

Hit the Links

Giving Florida a run for its money, Arizona is a strong number two for what Golf.com called “golfiness.” With over 400 public courses – 70 of them ranked - Phoenix is a haven for golfers of all levels. In Phoenix the T-shirt says, “I only play golf on days that end in Y.”

Desert Botanical Garden

Designated a Phoenix Point of Pride, the Desert Botanical Garden was founded by the Arizona Cactus and Native Flora Society in 1937 to conserve and protect the fragile desert environment. The 140-acre garden, located in Papago Park is now home to more than 50,000 plants from all over the world. Enjoy walking trails with interactive exhibits along the way and regularly scheduled events like concerts and cooking series. The even better news: Seniors 60 and older receive discounted admission.

Parks and Recreation Areas

Phoenix is an outdoor wonderland with parks and recreation areas galore. A few of the most popular:

  • Camelback Mountain Echo Canyon Recreation Area is a local landmark and hiking destination. Of the two main trails, The Echo Canyon Trail and the Cholla trail, the former is the more challenging. The views from both trails are spectacular.
  • Tempe Beach Park and Town Lake in downtown Tempe, a popular urban escape, is a great place for hiking, biking, picnicking or paddle boating.
  • South Mountain Park is one of the largest urban parks in North America and boasts 51 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding.

Japanese Friendship Garden

Get your Zen on at the Japanese Friendship Garden. Built in partnership with Phoenix’s Sister City, Himeji, this bastion of beauty and tranquility in the heart of Phoenix welcomes visitors and residents pursuing enrichment of the mind, body and spirit. The mission is to combine an inspirational surrounding with educational and artistic programs and events that will celebrate the rich culture and history of Japan and strengthen the relationship between our two countries.

For those hot summer days when soaring temperatures may make outdoor activities unappealing, there are plenty of cool indoor choices - literally and figuratively.

Taliesin West

Frank Lloyd Wright’s beloved winter home was meticulously designed to integrate into its desert surroundings. Nestled in the desert foothills of the McDowell Mountains in Scottsdale, Taliesin West is also the site of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation and the School of Architecture at Taliesin. It is recognized as both a UNESCO world heritage site and a National Historic Landmark.

The Phoenix Art Musuem

Active adults in Phoenix never tire of the Phoenix Art Museum. This gem, the largest art museum in the Southwest, features a permanent collection of over 19,000 works of art. In addition, the museum presents a variety of public programs, including tours, lectures, films and special events for visitors of all ages.

The Heard Museum

Dedicated to the showcasing and advancement of Native American Art, the Heard Museum sets the standard for collaborating with Indigenous artists and tribal communities, It is internationally recognized for the quality of its collections, world-class exhibitions, educational programming, and festivals.

Musical Instrument Museum

For music buffs, the Musical Instrument Museum offers a unique opportunity to study an international collection of musical instruments and performance videos. Spend a few hours there for an enriching, enlightening interactive experience that fosters an appreciation of the world’s diverse cultures through their musical history.

Book a tour at Overture Kierland or Overture Arcadia, Overture’s premier active adult communities in the Phoenix area. Your enthusiastic welcome will be as warm and wonderful as the weather.

Once you’ve seen an environment specially tailored to enhance your active adult lifestyle, you’ll only have one question: What am I waiting for?