You’ll enjoy beautiful warm weather in scenic parks, beaches, and nature preserves nearly everywhere in South Florida. It’s easy to immerse yourself in nature year-round in Wilton Manors and nearby Fort Lauderdale.
Spending time outdoors is good for your health. Research has shown that being outside, particularly for adults over 65, can improve your health and quality of life. Being outdoors can help boost your mood, provide opportunities for social connection, and foster a sense of purpose.
Learn our top 10 favorite places to spend time outdoors in this blog curated by Golden Bell Senior Living.
Top 10 Parks, Nature Preserves, Beaches, and More in Wilton Manors and Fort Lauderdale
Independence Hall and Williamsburg Landing residents enjoy picturesque outdoor surroundings and activities at their Golden Bell Senior Living communities. However, they also appreciate being a short drive from several nature preserves and parks in Wilton Manors and Fort Lauderdale.
1. Richardson Historic Park and Nature Preserve | 1937 Wilton Dr, Wilton Manors
There is much to see and do at the 5.4-acre Richardson Historic Park and Nature Preserve. Guests can take a stroll on the river boardwalk, launch a kayak from the boat dock, observe nature from the observation pier, or walk on the trails to view the natural wildlife and habitats.
2. Donn Eisele Park | 701 NW 29th St, Wilton Manors
Located on the Middle River in Wilton Manors, Donn Eisele Park is a quiet place to enjoy nature under the pavilion or on a short, paved walkway leading to the river.
3. Colohatchee Park | 1975 NE 15th Ave, Wilton Manors
Enjoy an accessible, paved walking trail through this 8.5-acre park, or take advantage of the scenic elevated walkway through the wetland areas of the Middle River. Pack a lunch for a picnic under the pavilion or take in a few exercises at the outdoor fitness zone while immersed in the 7-acre mangrove preserve.
Related: Learn how to stay fit during retirement in Wilton Manors, Florida >>
4. Island City Park Preserve | 823 NE 28th St, Wilton Manors
Island City Park Preserve features a walking trail and an elevated walkway with beautiful views of the Middle River. Visitors can also take advantage of the fishing pier and kayak launch.
5. M.E. DePalma Park | NE 7th Ave and NE 20th Dr, Wilton Manors
This 10-acre public garden attracts birds and butterflies with over 100 native plants and wildflowers. The park is registered with the National Wildlife Federation as a Wildlife Habitat, one of more than 200 properties in Wilton Manors with this designation.
6. Middle River Waterways | North and South Forks of the Middle River
The Middle River surrounds Wilton Manors, so many people refer to the community as the Island City. The waterways are habitats for birds, mammals, and aquatic life. Endangered species, like wood storks and manatees, can often be spotted in the waterways. Wilton Manors was designated a Certified National Wildlife Habitat in 2006, making it the 17th city in the country with the special honor.
Related: Live well during retirement in Wilton Manors, Florida >>
7. Fort Lauderdale Beaches | Fort Lauderdale
Nearby Fort Lauderdale Beach provides a scenic opportunity for beach walks and watersport activities. Other noteworthy beaches include Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Washingtonia, Las Olas, and Sebastian Street.
8. Bill Keith Preserve | 1720 SW 17th St, Fort Lauderdale
The Bill Keith Preserve covers 4.5 acres in Fort Lauderdale and offers visitors a boardwalk, observation deck, nature trail, and park benches to enjoy the scenery. There’s also a canoe and kayak landing and a pavilion with picnic tables.
9. Hugh Taylor Birch State Park | 3109 E Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale
Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, an urban oasis between the ocean and intercoastal waterway, is located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. You can take advantage of the shade-covered walking trail, ocean views, fishing, and even access to the beach. Visitors frequently see manatees, yellow-crowned night herons, gopher tortoises, and Atala butterflies. Guided walking tours are available throughout the month.
Related: Enjoy popular annual festivals and special events in Wilton Manors and Fort Lauderdale >>
10. Fort Lauderdale Country Club Golf Course | 415 Country Club Circle, Fort Lauderdale
Fort Lauderdale Country Club is a membership-only country club featuring two 18-hole golf courses. The golf courses are situated on the border between Fort Lauderdale and Plantation, about five miles from the beaches. Fort Lauderdale Country Club is the oldest private country club in Broward County and offers a few different membership options.
Connecting with Nature at Independence Hall and Williamsburg Landing in Wilton Manors
Residents at Golden Bell’s Independence Hall and Williamsburg Landing can choose to spend much of their free time outdoors, including walking by the gardens and relaxing in the gazebos or on the dock of the scenic Middle River.
When ready to explore the city’s nature preserves and other hidden gems, we can take a picnic lunch to Colohatchee Park or grab our fishing gear to see what we can catch at Island City Park Preserve.
Life at Golden Bell Senior Living
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.
