Minnesota's Best Small Town For Retirement
Aging is a natural process, and for those fortunate enough to reach their later years, retirement planning is an essential consideration. Often referred to as the Golden Years, this phase can offer unparalleled freedom and leisure. Traditionally, states like Florida and Arizona have been favored for retirement due to their warm climates and senior-oriented infrastructure. However, alternative destinations are emerging as attractive options due to their unique characteristics. Grand Marais, Minnesota, is one such example. This exquisite town is renowned for its breathtaking natural surroundings and tight-knit community, presenting a serene alternative for those seeking a quieter, cooler retirement setting. Intrigued? Continue reading to discover why Grand Marais might just be the ideal place to spend your retirement years.
Location and Natural Surroundings
Grand Marais, strategically positioned on the northeastern shoreline of Lake Superior, offers expansive views of the lake's vast, shimmering surface. The waterfront is especially captivating during sunrise when the light dances across the water, and at sunset, it provides a tranquil setting ideal for evening strolls along Artist’s Point, a nearby natural jetty.
Directly to the north of Grand Marais is the entry to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a vast expanse of over one million acres that contains a network of over 1,200 lakes and streams. This area is a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts interested in canoeing across the interconnected waterways or setting up isolated campsites on remote lakeshores, accessible only by water.
The surrounding terrain is dominated by dense boreal forests, which are home to wildlife such as the North American moose and the gray wolf. These forests are accessible via the Superior Hiking Trail, a long-distance path that offers extensive hiking opportunities through areas rich in wildlife and scenic vistas. Additionally, the nearby Sawtooth Mountains provide gentle peaks and valleys, perfect for leisurely hikes or challenging climbs, with popular spots like Eagle Mountain Trail leading hikers to the highest point in Minnesota.
In winter, the landscape around Grand Marais transforms, with local areas like the Pincushion Mountain Trails offering groomed paths for cross-country skiing. These trails are meticulously maintained, providing excellent conditions for skiing through quiet, snow-laden forests. The frozen surface of Lake Superior and surrounding smaller lakes also becomes a hub for ice fishing enthusiasts, who drill through the ice to catch walleye and northern pike.
Living Costs and Amenities
Grand Marais offers a housing market that is notably accessible for retirees, with the average home price around $400,000. This price point is significantly lower than many urban areas, providing a more economical option for those looking to maximize their retirement savings. Homes here range from cozy lakeside cottages to larger, forest-centered homes, all offering the peace and natural beauty characteristic of the region.
The town is also well-equipped with senior living facilities designed to cater to a spectrum of senior needs. Facilities like the Sawtooth Mountain Senior Living offer various levels of care, including independent living units, assisted living options, and more intensive care services. These facilities often provide additional amenities such as organized social activities, transportation services, and on-site medical care.
Healthcare needs are efficiently served by the Cook County North Shore Hospital and Care Center, a facility noted for its comprehensive medical services that range from emergency care to long-term health management.
Furthermore, Grand Marais’s low crime rate is significantly lower than the national clearance, and contributes greatly to the sense of security that residents experience.
Historical and Natural Landmarks
A prominent feature of the town's landscape is the Grand Marais Lighthouse, an iconic structure that has guided ships navigating the treacherous waters of Lake Superior since the early 1900s. Positioned on the outermost jetty of the harbor, the lighthouse is a popular subject for photographers and a symbol of the town's enduring relationship with the lake.
Another significant landmark is the Chippewa City Church, which stands as a testament to the area's rich indigenous and settler history. Built in 1895, this small, wooden structure was once the spiritual center for the local Ojibwe community and now functions as a museum that showcases artifacts and stories from a pivotal era in regional history.
For those drawn to the natural world, Judge C.R. Magney State Park is an essential destination. The park is renowned for the Devil's Kettle waterfall, where half of the Brule River plunges into a pothole and mysteriously disappears. The exact whereabouts of the water remain unknown, adding an element of mystery to this stunning natural phenomenon.
Things to Do
In Grand Marais, a standout attraction is the North House Folk School, a unique educational institution located right on the harbor. Here, retirees can learn traditional northern crafts taught by skilled artisans. The school offers a diverse curriculum that includes boat building, weaving, and woodworking, among other crafts, promoting both mental stimulation and physical activity in a community-oriented setting.
The town also boasts a thriving arts scene, exemplified by the Sivertson Gallery. This gallery showcases a wide range of artworks, from local landscape paintings to intricate indigenous crafts, providing insight into the cultural fabric of the region. Art lovers can enjoy browsing and perhaps acquiring unique pieces that resonate with the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Grand Marais.
For those who appreciate good food, the Angry Trout Cafe is a must-visit. This charming lakeside restaurant serves dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering a taste of the regional cuisine in a picturesque setting overlooking Lake Superior.
Additionally, the Grand Marais Art Colony enriches the local cultural landscape. This community space allows retirees to engage in artistic pursuits, offering classes and workshops in various mediums, including painting, ceramics, and printmaking. It's a place where both novice and experienced artists can find inspiration, develop their skills, and connect with other art enthusiasts in a supportive environment.
The Verdict
With its robust amenities and services tailored to senior living, Grand Marais not only promises a comfortable and secure retirement but also offers a vibrant community that celebrates the outdoors, the arts, and lifelong learning. Whether it's exploring its natural wonders, indulging in local cuisine, or fostering creative pursuits, Grand Marais represents a refreshing departure from conventional retirement locales and a hearty welcome to a fulfilling, adventurous third act of life.
