Retirement Communities in the Rio Grande Valley Texas
Retirement living for Senior Citizens in the Valley is a chance to enjoy the slower pace of life but also remain active throughout the winter months. An abundance of retirement communities either with homes, mobiles, or RV lots can be found in the Rio Grande Valley. Why do so many senior citizens flock to the Valley that they are affectionately known and adopted as Winter Texans? Weather, friendly people, activities and a variety of RV and mobile home parks for every budget and preference bring the Seniors to the Valley year after year.
The weather here is sunny and pleasant with temperatures generally in the 70 and 80 during the winter months. Winter Texans are greatly received by the local people for the economic infusion as well as the volunteer spirit of the people.
The Valley comprises three large cities: Brownville, Harlingen, and McAllen along with several smaller communities of Alamo, San Juan, Pharr, Mission, and Weslaco. Each of these cities has mobile home parks and RV resorts. These communities are located within a few miles of Mexico border towns of Matamoras, Progresso, and Reynosa. The small town of Progresso draws many Winter Texans for shopping and medical needs. Many seniors purchase their medication in Mexico at much cheaper rates and also visit the dentists. Progresso’s restaurants offer delicious Mexican foods and music. The people are friendly and welcoming.
Not only can one travel to Mexico, but most of the Valley is less than an hour away from South Padre Island. Swimming and fishing are two attractions. Some retirement parks feature fishing expeditions for its residents.
The Valley is noted for its fine birding opportunities. Santa Anna Wildlife Refuge, Bentsen Park, and Laguna Madre offer ample opportunities to view birds who migrate south during the winter. One can also see the native birds such as the Mockingbird and the Green Jay.
Good shopping is available at several malls and specialty stores located in the Valley cities.
Restaurants feature a variety of fares: American, Chinese, and Mexican. Most offer Senior discounts.
Siesta Retirement Village
2712 S. International Blvd. #294
Weslaco, TX 78596
956-969-3764
One of the finest mobile home parks in this area is Siesta Retirement Village in Weslaco, TX. One of the reasons it is unique is that the residents of SRV own the park. It is also one of the least expensive parks in the area. At this time, there is no debt and the amenities are well-maintained. The residents actively participate in every aspect of running the park which has contributed to the “community” that the Village has become.
The 300+ mobile homes in this park are well maintained. Seniors not only buy the mobile but also own the land. Although some mobiles can be purchased and the land rented, most residents prefer to own the land. There are rental units available for three-six months so those who prefer to rent.
Some amenities are a lovely swimming pool surrounded by blooming flowers. Hot Tub and showers are available as well. There is a shuffle board court, too. Seniors can participate in horseshoes, aerobic and water exercises, bowling and bean bag toss, golf, and ping pong. The recreation hall serves as the hub of the community. Dinners, pot-lucks, games, bingo, dances, and musical jams are held at various times during the week. The park also offers crafts and boasts having its own kiln for ceramics. Each year there is a craft show of the ceramics, art projects, paper tole, wood carving, and sewing projects.
Some special events and dinners are held each year including a shrimp boil, luau, dinner theatre, Valentine’s and New Yea’s Eve Dances. On Sundays, the seniors can participate in Sunday Services at the park or in one of the local churches in town. The park also participates in the Senior Winter Olympics and shuffleboard tournaments with other senior retirement communities.
Alamo Country Club
Tower Road
Box 184
Alamo, TX 78516
Alamo Country Club is a beautiful place to live. There is twenty -four hour security guard service. Many residents are Winter Texans but there are numerous seniors who live here permanently. Most of the residences are homes although there are a few mobile homes in the older section. The homes are situated on a 9 hole private golf course. The Club employs a manager, golf pro, and maintenance people to help keep the facilities maintained. Not only is there a golf course, but there is a putting green and a driving range to assist the golfer in improving his or her game. Ladies, men’s and mixed tournaments are held at various times during the season.
The large swimming pool is perfect for the water exercise classes held daily and there is also a hot tub. There are tennis courts for those who enjoy that sport and shuffleboard courts.
There are various activities for the residents such as the dances, musical entertainment events, card and game night, dinner theatre featuring the seniors, painting classes, computer classes, and Bible study.
Tip O’ Texas RV Resort
101 E. Sioux Road
Pharr, TX 78577
956-787-9959
Tip O’ Texas RV Resort is located in the sub tropical climate of Pharr, TX. It is about twelve miles form Mexico and a short driving distance from the beaches of Padre Island or fishing in the Gulf of Mexico.
This resort boasts paved roads with 2 heated pools, 2 spas, 2 lit tennis courts, and shuffleboard courts. There are card rooms, sewing rooms, a library, and the 8000 square foot main hall has a stage and a full kitchen. The park has planned events for the seniors and is near shopping malls and other local entertainment such as movies theatres and restaurants.
You can stay from just one day to a full year at this RV Resort.
Trophy Gardens RV Resort
800 FM 495
Alamo, TX 78516
956-787-7717
Trophy Gardens located in Alamo, has a perimeter security fence with paved RV lots and off street parking. There are individual patio areas. There is a pool, spa, exercise and pool room, ceramics areas with its own kiln, a 9 hole par three golf course free to residents, a 20,000 square foot dance and recreational complex. There are 651 RV spaces and 68 mobile homes lots. Rentals are available for one day or up to a year. Seniors can participate in variety of planned activities including the Winter Olympics, games, and sports.
The Rio Grande Valley has many RV and Mobile homes parks in addition to over 55 communities with lovely brick homes. This is a popular area for Winter Texans as they are affectionately known. Many seniors from the Mid West come to the valley every year to enjoy the sub-tropical weather and the activities. Each over 55 Community offers a variety of activities. Most have pools and spas. The main Recreational hall is used for classes such as crafts, wood carving, computer, and sewing. Dances and musical jams featuring the seniors are well-liked activities. There is so much to do at the parks that you can be kept busy every day.
The Valley area itself has many great restaurants, movies theatres, museums and shopping centers. Birding in the Valley is known for its opportunities to see a wide array of different birds. Pier fishing and deep sea fishing are available at the Island.
Come to the Valley and enjoy all it offers. You’ll find friendly communities and enjoyable activities. Retirement here is fun!
