With a long list of parks, nature reserves, sandy beaches, and outdoor recreation spots to choose from, residents at The Social at Savannah know that some of the best things to do in Savannah, GA are all natural! But the outdoor fun starts on community grounds, whether you’re breaking a sweat at our on-site exercise classes or on our pickleball courts, strolling with friends on our nearby walking trails, or enjoying an invigorating yoga class!
Feeling adventurous? Residents can take our chauffeured transportation options for a day trip to explore the city’s natural beauty.
Experiencing the outdoors and spending time in nature offers a host of physical, mental, and emotional benefits that are essential for aging well. Here’s how engaging with Mother Nature can enhance your or your loved one’s quality of life in retirement.
Improved Physical Health
Studies show that spending at least two hours a week in nature is associated with better overall health, including lower blood pressure, improved cardiovascular health, and increased mobility, which can prevent falls. Plus, residents who enjoy soaking up the sun on our spacious patios absorb more Vitamin D, which helps with healthy immune and nervous system functioning.
Better Mental Health
The benefits of the great outdoors, like exposure to fresh air and natural light, can help reduce depression, anxiety, and stress levels, and increase mindfulness and emotional wellness. In fact, studies have shown that people who move to greener urban areas experience notable improvement in their mental health.
Increased Socialization
Outdoor activities also offer the chance for social interaction, which is proven to enhance emotional well-being, physical fitness, and cognitive health in older adults. At The Social at Savannah, our team members are trained to encourage residents to stay active and participate in outdoor activities, whether it’s a game of bridge on the patio, a few hours at gardening club, or a peaceful walk on our nearby trails.
Cognitive Benefits
Time spent in green spaces also improves focus, memory, and problem-solving skills, scientists have found, which can improve seniors’ cognitive function and lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Residents at The Social at Savannah will find a wealth of outdoor opportunities in the surrounding city. Read on for a list of the best parks, beaches, nature preserves, and outdoor recreation spots for residents to explore in their retirement.
Parks and Green Spaces in Savannah
Forsyth Park
Established in 1841, Savannah’s Forsyth Park is even older than New York City’s Central Park. Here, you can wander through 30 acres of pathways shadowed by live oaks and Spanish moss, or just enjoy a book while admiring the park’s historic fountain.
Emmet Park
Located along the Savannah River, Emmet Park offers walking paths, beautiful views, and historic charm. Named after Irish patriot Robert Emmet, the park is also home to military history, including the Chatham Artillery Monument, Vietnam War Monument, and more.
Outdoor Recreation in Savannah
Golf Courses
Enjoy fresh air and practice your swing at one of Savannah’s public or private golf courses! The courses closest to our community include the Henderson Golf Club, the Hunter Golf Course, and the Crosswinds Golf Club. For more options, explore this list of the best places to golf in Savannah.
Pickleball Courts
Want to learn how to play one of the fastest growing sports in the U.S.? In addition to on-site courts, our community is in proximity to multiple sports clubs and local pickle ball courts, including venues at Lake Mayer Park, the Jenkins Athletic Club, and more.
Savannah’s Beaches and Nature Preserves
Tybee Island
Tybee Island is home to some of the best beaches in Savannah, GA. One of Georgia’s barrier islands, Tybee has been a popular vacation spot since the 1800s and is perfect for a peaceful walk on the beach.
Skidaway Island State Park
Visitors to Skidaway Island State Park can traverse hiking trails through forests and salt marshes teeming with wildlife. Interested in senior living nearby? Our second Savannah community, Thrive on Skidaway, is located on the island!
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge
Birdwatchers and nature lovers can check out the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1927 as a sanctuary for migratory birds. Visitors can try walking or biking across this impressive nature preserve, which spans over 30,000 acres of wildlife habitat across Georgia and South Carolina.
Experience joy, vitality, and the wonders of nature at The Social at Savannah, a Thrive senior living community offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care options in the heart of Savannah, Georgia.
Download a brochure to learn more, speak to an advisor, or schedule a tour. Looking for a more out of the way retreat? Check out our other Savannah community, Thrive on Skidaway, located on nearby Skidaway Island.