If you’re ready to retire to a warmer climate with year-round outdoor activities, scenic parks, festivals, and unique shops, the charming city of Wilton Manors in Florida could be your answer.
Experiencing the Island City of Wilton Manors, Florida
Located in Broward County, neighboring downtown Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors is an active community that thrives on arts and entertainment, numerous parks and recreational facilities, and a welcoming, inclusive feel.
Commonly known as the Island City, Wilton Manors is surrounded by water and spans two square miles between the North and South Forks of the Middle River.
There are many options to live well in Wilton Manors and nearby Oakland Park – this blog will explore destinations, festivals, the arts, and learning opportunities in the area.
Nature Destinations in Wilton Manors
The waterways throughout Wilton Manors provide urban habitats for native birds, plants, animals, and trees, including black and red mangroves.
From Colohatchee Park to Richardson Historic Park & Nature Preserve, there are plenty of spots to immerse yourself in nature. You’ll find trails, an elevated boardwalk, observation piers, picnic tables, and more in the parks and preserves in Wilton Manors.
Exploring the Arts in Wilton Manors
Discover art in Wilton Manors through a special art and design guide and map. Over two dozen murals, sculptures, and design architecture are featured in the guide, which leads you through the Wilton Manors Arts & Entertainment District. Click here to view the In Plain Sight Art Map.
Another way to see the extensive talents of Wilton Manors’ artists is to check out the galleries, studios, and shops along Wilton Drive. From paintings and ceramics to sculptures and jewelry, you’ll be amazed at the variety of eclectic, independent artists.
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Celebrating Diversity with Festivals in Wilton Manors and Oakland Park
To celebrate its long history of diversity and support of the LGBTQ+ community, Wilton Manors is home to several vibrant festivals and events each year.
The Stonewall Parade & Street Festival, held every June in Wilton Manors, is perhaps the most well-known festival. It’s a free event for all ages, including a parade, live entertainment, food trucks, street vendors, and more. The event encompasses Wilton Drive and Northeast 6th Avenue and typically draws large crowds of approximately 50,000 people.
Other celebrations and special events in Wilton Manors include the Holiday Concert & Lighting Ceremony, Movies on the Drive in Hagen Park, Spring Fest, and Veterans Day Ceremony.
Nearby Oakland Park also hosts Oktoberfest to celebrate fall, beer, and German culture. The two-day festival provides fun for all ages and features traditional music, dancing, and authentic German food and beer.
Learning Opportunities in Wilton Manors and Fort Lauderdale
Located just outside Wilton Manors in Fort Lauderdale, make time to visit the Stonewall National Museum Archives & Library and The World AIDS Museum and Educational Center.
The Stonewall National Museum, Archives, & Library was founded in 1972 to recognize the fight for LGBTQIA+ liberation. The non-profit organization is one of the largest gay archives and libraries in the United States. The museum hosts public programs throughout the year, including author presentations, panels, films, and collaborative events.
According to its website, the World AIDS Museum and Educational Center focuses its mission on “promoting dialogue that eliminates HIV/AIDS stigma through education, artistic expression, and cultural programming.” Founded in 2011 and opened to the public in 2014, the museum and educational center offers guided tours, an art gallery, multimedia, and artifacts.
Combining Traditional and Quirky Styles in South Florida
Wilton Manors offers a blend of colorful storefronts and traditional buildings. Driving through the small city, you’ll notice quaint, brightly painted shops, restaurants, and businesses. You’ll also see larger buildings with two-story porticos and plantation-style shutters, like the Association of Realtors and Independence Hall, our beautiful senior living community.
If you’re interested in moving to a senior living community, visit Independence Hall and Williamsburg Landing on Northeast 26th Street in Wilton Manors, Florida. We’re near the serene, scenic Middle River and less than a mile from lively Wilton Drive.
Life at Golden Bell Senior Living
Ultimately, you want to ensure your loved one is safe and their daily needs are met. It’s important to prioritize their overall well-being so they experience a high quality of life while maintaining meaningful relationships with others.
Senior living communities like Golden Bell provide the comforts of home with the added benefits of supportive care, engaging activities, and a maintenance-free lifestyle. With your daily needs met, your loved one will live more independently and have opportunities to meet friends, discover new interests, and live each day to the fullest.
Golden Bell Senior Living offers a full continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, and respite care. Residents have personalized care plans, are treated like family, and are greeted by name in a warm, welcoming environment.
Amenities and activities include:
- Beautiful accommodations
- Landscaped grounds and gardens
- Community outings
- Recreation and social activities
- Chef-prepared meals
- Scheduled transportation
- Beauty and barber shop
- Housekeeping and maintenance services
Please contact us to learn more about our communities or set up a tour. We’d love to hear from you and are happy to help answer any questions you have about senior living. For more information about choosing senior living, download our complimentary Family Decision Toolkit.
