For some older adults, retirement means relocating south to be near ocean waters and sandy beaches. However, as the Boomer generation ages, they are reinventing what it means to choose an ideal retirement destination. For many Boomers, retiring doesn’t mean packing up and heading south; instead, an ideal retirement means staying near big city amenities and enjoying the diversity of four seasons. If you are looking to retire in the Chicagoland area, Park Ridge offers the convenience and neighborhood atmosphere you’ll love.
Perfect Location
Nestled in the bustling northwest suburbs, Park Ridge gives residents easy access to everything Chicago offers but without the extra hassle that can come with living in a large metropolis. Consistently ranked as one of the best suburbs in Illinois, Park Ridge is just a Metra ride or a 30-minute drive to the heart of Chicago, where you can take advantage of live theater, outstanding dining, and exceptional medical systems.
But living in Park Ridge isn’t all about Chicago. In fact, with a population just under 40,000 people, Park Ridge offers residents a neighborhood feel without being too large to confidently navigate. You’re also close to other northwest suburbs that can connect you with outstanding experiences and medical care.
Plenty to Explore Outdoors
Living in northern Illinois means you’ll enjoy all four seasons during your retirement years. No matter whether you love being outdoors in the cool fall temperatures or prefer the warm midwest winters, you can explore your favorite outdoor spots in all seasons to see how nature changes and is beautiful throughout the year. The Forest Preserves of Cook County maintains miles of trails as well as rivers, streams, and ponds to explore. You can also take advantage of the park district’s Wildwood Nature Building, which offers programs and workshops in addition to its five acres of wilderness to explore year-round.
Prefer to enjoy the outdoors with golf clubs in your hand? The Park Ridge Country Club has a beautiful course, and there are other courses and driving ranges within a 15-minute drive to enjoy as well.
Dining and Shopping Galore
When you call Park Ridge your home, you have shops and restaurants right at your fingertips. You’ll quickly find your favorite spot for pizza and Italian beef sandwiches (both Chicagoland favorites), as well as your go-to stores for new earrings or golf shoes.
Don’t forget to branch out from local Park Ridge shops and restaurants. You can also venture into surrounding suburbs or head into the heart of the city, where you can always find something new.
Senior Services Abound
Park Ridge is a suburb for all ages, but senior residents do enjoy support and resources designed just for them. There is a well-established Meals on Wheels presence in the community, with friendly volunteers who drop off hot meals daily to interested seniors.
Park Ridge and the surrounding suburbs offer a plethora of senior services professionals and organizations. You can take advantage of senior services provided through the Advocate Health Care system as well as through community staple Center of Concern.
You can find new friends by taking advantage of any of the senior programming offered at local senior centers or through the park district. There are also active groups of seniors throughout the community, including the MaineStreamers, a social group that is free to join.
Senior Living Solutions
Finally, Park Ridge offers residents a variety of senior living options for those who need a little extra assistance as well as for those looking for an active lifestyle without the hassle of owning a home. At The Summit, we offer three options right in one building: independent living, assisted living, and dementia care. Our residents are a part of The Summit community as well as the greater Park Ridge community, enjoying the services and perks that come along with both.
Learn more about how to find the best senior living community right here in the Chicagoland suburbs by downloading our free resource, Finding a Safe and Comfortable Senior Living Community.
