Nestled at the base of the spectacular Santa Rita Mountains, Green Valley is one of the most beautiful—and well-connected—Arizona retirement destinations. While other active adult communities around the country offer their own amenities and activities, most of the age-restricted communities in Green Valley share their numerous recreation centers in a shared organization known as Green Valley Recreation.

Location

Green Valley is located in Southern Arizona’s lovely Santa Cruz Valley, just 25 miles south of Tucson. Like other Arizona hot spots, Green Valley typically enjoys 300 days of sunshine each year. Yet its high desert elevation of 2,900 feet helps Green Valley stay cooler than Phoenix or Tucson. In June and July, daytime temperatures can reach 100 degrees, but much of the year offers comfortable weather in the mid to high 80s. Winters are mild, with average temperatures around 65 degrees.

Attractions

The Green Valley area is home to many interesting attractions. The Asarco Mineral Discovery Center is a fascinating place to learn about local geology, explore the cactus garden, have a picnic, or browse the gift shop for Southwestern arts and crafts made by local artisans. Amateur spelunkers will love the tours at Colossal Cave and Kartchner Caverns State Park, while fantastic scenery can be found along the Anza Trail or at Arivaca Lake.

Amenities

For active adults, Green Valley Recreation provides plenty of amenities and activities while also encouraging residents to mingle with neighbors from other communities. This non-profit organization has a membership base of over 12,500 households and operates 13 different recreation centers with sports facilities, hobby shops, social clubs, and countless activities. There are swimming pools, golf courses, scenic lakes, miles of walking and biking trails, and much more.

Green Valley Recreation also features many arts and entertainment options. There are frequently scheduled classes, lectures, concerts, dances, exhibitions and special events covering a wide range of topics and interests. For those who enjoy participating in the performing arts, Green Valley Recreation offers administrative support including helping entertainers find performance opportunities.

Communities

There are many active adult communities which function as part of Green Valley Recreation. Some of the more popular communities include Canoa Ranch, Las Campanas, Traditions at Desert Creek, Sunrise Pointe, Legends at Santa Rita Springs, and The Links at Santa Rita Springs. There are also some age-restricted communities in Green Valley which are not affiliated with Green Valley Recreation, such as Quail Creek by Robson Communities.

Active adults who choose to settle in Arizona can look beyond Phoenix and Tucson to see what the Green Valley area has to offer. With beautiful scenery, a desirable climate and a vast array of recreational opportunities, it may just be your ideal retirement destination.