Why Wellen Park is One of the Best Places to Retire in FL

If you’re searching for the best place to retire in Florida, Wellen Park must be on your radar! Just a short drive from Sarasota—which US News recently ranked as the #4 city to retire in the U.S.— Wellen Park offers everything retirees are looking for: top-tier healthcare, a focus on well-being, and a variety of home options tailored to active adult living.

Keep reading for four reasons why our community is a standout choice for those looking to embrace their next chapter!

1. Wellen Well-Being

Living well in Wellen Park is at the heart of all that we do—making it one of the best places to retire in Florida.

Meet new people (or gather with friends) at any of Downtown Wellen’s community events. Check out your Wellen Park neighborhood’s social calendar to introduce yourself to neighbors (some neighborhoods even have full-time lifestyle directors!). Take on our 30+ mile trail system for a peaceful morning walk or an evening bike ride. If you love the water, the nearby Gulf Coast beaches offer a beautiful escape—just a short drive away. On days when you’re feeling adventurous, explore nearby golf courses, museums, and other cultural attractions to round out your active lifestyle or switch up your day-to-day routine. When it’s time to unwind or indulge, head to downtown Wellen Park for charming restaurants, unique shops, and cozy cafes—all just a short stroll away. You will also love being so close to CoolToday Park—home to the Atlanta Braves’ spring training stadium and a year-round calendar of events.

Wellen Park seamlessly blends relaxation, recreation, and well-being, making it the ideal place for those looking to live their best retirement, no matter what that looks like to you.

2. Healthcare

With both top-tier hospitals nearby and essential services on-site, Wellen Park ensures that residents can enjoy peace of mind, knowing they have immediate access to a full range of healthcare services right within their community.

Just a short drive away in Sarasota, Sarasota Memorial Hospital provides exceptional care. Recognized for its high-quality services, this local hospital is consistently ranked among the top in the nation. In 2024, it was honored for 24 high-performing specialties and is the only hospital in the Suncoast region to make the U.S. News & World Report‘s list of “50 Best Hospitals.” Money Magazine also ranked Sarasota Memorial Hospital among the top 10 hospitals in the country based on quality, safety, and patient satisfaction. Veterans will also appreciate the convenience of the Sarasota VA Clinic just 20 miles from home.

Closer to home, Wellen Park is designed with health and wellness in mind. The HCA Florida Wellen Park Emergency Center is under construction in Wellen Park—giving residents convenient access to emergency care. For more routine needs, there’s an urgent care center, dentistry services at West Villages Dental Care in Marketplace, and a variety of other healthcare options, like Agility Physical Therapy, Seymour Smiles Orthodontics, and Florida Lakes Vein Center, all within the community.

3. Home Options

Looking to downsize to a low-maintenance villa or need extra space for family gatherings? No matter the reason, there’s a perfect floorplan waiting for you at Wellen Park.

Homes in Wellen Park are built for families of all shapes and sizes, offering spaces that can adapt to the needs of each generation. Imagine a parent settling into a private suite at the far end of the house, with its own bathroom and living area, or a private upstairs bonus area for adult children returning home after college.

Families can also enjoy shared moments in wide-open living spaces, while still finding personal corners for downtime—whether it’s a cozy nook for grandparents to unwind with a book or a quiet retreat for teens to relax after school. With many options available like a converted garage, an extra bedroom with a private entrance, or a spacious suite on the first floor, these homes offer the perfect setting for multiple generations to live under one roof, all with their own space to thrive.

4. Neighborhood Options

Whether you are looking for a home in a neighborhood with residents of all ages and life stages, or you’d prefer a dedicated active-adult neighborhood, Wellen Park offers a range of vibrant, thoughtfully-designed neighborhoods that cater to various needs and preferences.

At Brightmore, the first age-qualified neighborhood in Wellen Park, you’ll find stylish single-family homes and paired villas, each thoughtfully crafted by Mattamy Homes. Imagine waking up in a spacious, sunlit home with modern finishes and access to a state-of-the-art, 11-acre amenity campus with a full-time Lifestyle Director! This neighborhood is perfect for those seeking an active environment with like-minded neighbors.

Just down the road, Soléa at Wellen Park is a neighborhood of new 55+ apartments that offers the flexibility of a rental and the luxuriousness of resort-style living. The active lifestyle here means you can take part in social events, wellness programs, and more—all in a vibrant, welcoming community.

For those looking for more comprehensive care, Grand Living at Wellen Park offers luxury independent and assisted living with spacious, well-appointed apartments. Enjoy chef-driven dining experiences, where each meal is crafted with care, and a full calendar of enriching activities that keep you engaged and connected. Whether you’re attending a live performance or unwinding in the beautifully landscaped courtyard, this community is designed to make every day feel fulfilling and inspiring.

Whatever your vision for retirement, Wellen Park offers homes that adapt to your needs—giving you the freedom to enjoy life your way. From flexible home options to a focus on health, well-being, and community, Wellen Park truly stands out as one of the best places to retire in Florida. With everything you need at your fingertips, it’s the perfect place to start your next chapter.

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