Why You Should Choose Independent Living in Essex, CT

Essex is a unique and charming town that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, you’ll find a variety of ways to expand your interests, pursue your passions, and have a lot of fun. 

In fact, many independent living residents at Essex Meadows spend just as much time exploring the surrounding area as they do enjoying our community. Read this list of our top 6 senior activities in Essex, and find out why so many people choose to retire in this picturesque and welcoming town. 

Work on your golf swing at Essex Indoor Golf Course

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, the Essex Indoor Golf Course is the perfect place to tee off and have some fun. With high-tech simulators that replicate some of the world’s most challenging courses, you can work on your game without worrying about the elements. And if you get hungry, the on-site restaurant serves up delicious food and drinks to keep you fueled up for your next round. 

On days when you don’t feel like leaving home, you can still putt a round or two on the executive golf course at Essex Meadows. If golfing isn’t your outdoor sport of choice, you can also play croquet, get fresh air on one of our hiking trails, tend to your space in the community garden, or bring the fun inside to our games and billiards room.

Get inspired at Cooper & Smith Gallery

Cooper & Smith Gallery is an eclectic art space that’s full of character and inspiration. As you step through the door, you’re immediately greeted by a vibrant collection of paintings, sculptures, and mixed media pieces that are sure to captivate your imagination. What makes this gallery so special is that it showcases emerging artists alongside established masters. From bold and colorful abstracts to intricate and thought-provoking installations, there’s something for every art lover to admire.

Essex Meadows can also provide you with picture-perfect views. Our community sits on 104 beautiful acres that feature gardens, walking paths, hiking trails, and manicured lawns that are as refreshing as they are inspirational. We also neighbor The Preserve, a coastal forest with walking trails that wind through 1,000 acres of towering trees and wetlands, which can offer you a unique and powerful way to connect with nature. Throughout The Preserve and in our own Front Meadow, a treasure trove of wildflowers of an astonishing variety attract migratory birds, bees, and sightseers. Our carefully controlled meadows feature nearly 80 distinct wildflowers, including native New England plants as well as transplants from different parts of the country, and even some invasive species from abroad. From wild Aster and Violet to Daisies and Roses, the sheer variety of blooms is awe-inspiring. Whether you’re an avid hiker, ornithologist, botanist, or simply a lover of nature’s beauty, The Preserve is worth exploring again and again.

Soak up sun on the coastline

Essex is perfect for older adults searching for an active lifestyle near the water. The Connecticut Shore is only 20 minutes away, where you’ll find a plethora of beaches, including Harvey’s Beach, Hammonasset Beach, and Rocky Neck State Park Bathing Beach. If you’re looking for fun in the sun closer to home, cast your line at Clark’s Pond, which is only 9 minutes away from our senior living community. 

When you can’t get to the coast, you can take a dip in the saltwater pool and relax in the whirlpool at Essex Meadows. Residents have access to a variety of engaging ways to stay physically active and work on their wellness, including a fully equipped fitness center, personalized fitness plans, and group exercise classes.

Step back in time at the Essex Historical Society

The Essex Historical Society is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning more about the town’s rich history. Tour several historic properties, including the Pratt House, Ivoryton Playhouse, and Museum of Essex History. Each property features exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that are fun for the whole family. You can also find abundant volunteer opportunities. Use your organizational skills for record-keeping, passion for knitting to demonstrate the antique loom, and green thumb to help maintain the beautiful gardens. 

You can also find abundant opportunities to apply your talents and skills as an independent living resident at Essex Meadows. Join a resident club, create one of your own, sit on a resident committee, or volunteer for local charities to improve the community of Essex. 

Bring your musical talents to the Essex Community Concert Band

Retirement is a wonderful time to reignite your passion for playing an instrument, and there’s no better way to toot your own horn than in the Essex Community Concert Band. No matter your age or skill, you’re welcome to join the band every Wednesday night at St. Paul’s Anglican Church. Bring your own instrument, and they’ll provide the music. Joining the community band is also a great way to meet new people and make friends with fellow musicians. 

Even if you don’t play an instrument, you can still march to the beat of your own drum in independent living. Residents at our community have abundant opportunities to pursue their passions and expand their interests through a variety of amenities: an art room, community garden, lifelong learning courses, cultural outings, on-campus speakers, lecture series, and many more.

Enjoy a fresh catch at Dockside Seafood Bar and Grill

Whether you’re looking for a romantic waterfront dinner or a casual lunch with friends, Dockside Seafood & Grill at Dauntless is a superb choice. The relaxed atmosphere and stunning views make it a perfect place to enjoy delightful cuisine and soak up the beauty of Essex. Serving delicacies made from the freshest catches, this riverside restaurant features menu items including clam chowder, peel and eat jumbo shrimp, sea scallops, swordfish steak, and more.  

Though Dockside Dauntless is open seasonally, you won’t have to wait much longer. They’ll be opening their doors for service for lunch and dinner on April 20. You’ll never have to wait for something delicious to eat at Essex Meadows. Our culinary team uses the freshest local ingredients whenever possible to create menu items for our multiple dining venues. Enjoy culinary creations and familiar classics like consommé du jour, honey glazed duck, and baked cod with white wine.

The Lifestyle You’ve Been Searching for Is at Essex Meadows

Whether you want to work out in our fitness center, get social at one of our many events, or relax at home, each day is yours to design at our Essex, CT, independent living community. Contact our Sales Counselors online or R.S.V.P. to one of our events to meet friendly residents and learn more about our lifestyle.