If you’re considering moving into a retirement community but are worried that it will mean fewer opportunities to have your grandkids over for a visit, then you’ll be glad to learn that an independent living community like Southgate at Shrewsbury likely offers far more activities and entertainment for kids of all ages than you have now. In fact, many of our residents find that their grandkids want to visit more often once they move in, in order to take advantage of all the amenities and enjoy the friendly atmosphere.
Things to do at Southgate at Shrewsbury
Here at Southgate at Shrewsbury, we are committed to providing the very best that independent living has to offer. That means providing a variety of amenities, activities and entertaining programs every month of the year. With so much variety, your grandchildren are bound to find a few favorites among the many options for activities and entertainment offered right here on the Southgate campus—no matter their ages or interests.
For starters, plenty of fun and games can be had in our aptly named Game Room. It features billiards, foosball and ping-pong tables that let you test your skills against your favorite competitors! You can even show your grandkids that ‘this old dog does have new tricks’ with a strategic game of checkers or cards. (Whether you let them win or not!) If your grandkids are more active, you can score big with a rousing round of bowling at our four-lane candlepin bowling alley. Or, make a big splash they won’t soon forget with a dip in Southgate at Shrewbury’s indoor swimming pool.
The warmer months are an especially great time to take advantage of all that this independent living retirement community offers outdoors. Take time to explore the Southgate Park walking paths. Then, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the green after an eventful game of bocce in our outdoor bocce court.
There are also ice cream social parties on Sundays at Southgate at Shrewsbury’s very own ice cream parlor. And don’t forget about our summer concert series featuring live music on the lawn of Southgate Park every Tuesday evening. The concert series is one of the most beloved events we hold all year, and perfect for family get togethers.
Since Southgate at Shrewsbury is considered senior living at its finest, there’s no excuse for the grandchildren not to have the best time visiting with their grandparents.
Create Your Own Adventure, Off-Campus
Just because there’s plenty to keep young ones busy at your independent living residence doesn’t mean you have to find something to do on-campus. As we head into summer, you might want to make plans with the family to visit area attractions and recreational opportunities outside of Southgate.
The EcoTarium, located in nearby Worcester, MA, is a unique museum exploring science and nature with ever-changing exhibits and activities. Experience both indoor and outdoor exhibits showcasing various flora and fauna, the latter of which currently includes wildcats, bald eagles and animals living in freshwater habitats. Explore the marvels of nature at specially designed play areas where you and your grandchildren can build, dig, climb and more! Then, end the day with a relaxing ride aboard the Explorer Express, a 12-minute open air passenger train ride, or take a scenic walk down the EcoTarium’s many wooded trails. Pricing is cost-effective at just $14 for seniors aged 65+ as well a for children aged 2-18 (adult tickets are $18).
Northboro’s Tougas Family Farm is another local option teeming with outdoor activities the whole family will enjoy, with healthy perks to boot! This family-owned farm boasts U-Pick schedules for produce through the summer and fall seasons, from the beginning of June to the end of November. (Pricing is based on season and produce harvested.) Stop in at the beginning of June for pick-your-own strawberries, and then cherries as we head into July. And be sure to come back mid-to-late summer for blueberries, peaches and raspberries! Tougas Family Farm also has a playground and a mini petting zoo, and you’re invited to stay and enjoy a picnic-style lunch from fresh baked goodies sold at the Farm Store and Snack Shack.
If you’re looking for a place where you can enjoy an equal blend of relaxation and play, nearby Lake Quinsigamond offers two public areas to soak up the sun—Regatta Point and Lake Park. Both are open for the summer season starting June 1, and parking is $8 per day, per vehicle. Whether you’re interested in swimming, sailing, canoeing, picnicking or fishing, both parks areas provide numerous recreational opportunities. You can even play tennis!
So, if you’re considering moving to our independent living community, you now know that you don’t have to worry that you’ll have less time for family togetherness. And if you’d like to see the amenities and activities mentioned in this blog first hand, please give us a call to schedule a tour!