Tall trees

[VTrunner]

Hello, My wife and I are looking at a few houses in the Village of Tall Trees. I'm 66 and she is 58 and we are familiar with the demographics that a lot of younger people are buying in the south but we love the Sumter area. Our only concern is the Rec Centers and what they offer. If anyone could offer up an honest opinion of the rec centers in that area we would appreciate it.
I know there is turnover in the villages and the ages change but my wife would like to do water aerobics and some fitness classes in the rec centers.
We also heard that the high school sometimes used the pool in that area? Thanks for any honest opinions.

[oldtimes]

Check the calendar and see what is offered. Event Calendar- Find Things To Do in The Villages(R) (https://www.thevillages.com/calendar/)
Personally I think this is the best area, especially for convenience, but that is just my opinion.

[JMintzer]

Hello, My wife and I are looking at a few houses in the Village of Tall Trees. I'm 66 and she is 58 and we are familiar with the demographics that a lot of younger people are buying in the south but we love the Sumter area. Our only concern is the Rec Centers and what they offer. If anyone could offer up an honest opinion of the rec centers in that area we would appreciate it.
I know there is turnover in the villages and the ages change but my wife would like to do water aerobics and some fitness classes in the rec centers.
We also heard that the high school sometimes used the pool in that area? Thanks for any honest opinions.

I don't know much about that particular neighborhood, but the new HS has their own Olympic sized pool...

[Decadeofdave]

Laurel Manor is across street.
Nice workout room there.

[tophcfa]

Hello, My wife and I are looking at a few houses in the Village of Tall Trees. I'm 66 and she is 58 and we are familiar with the demographics that a lot of younger people are buying in the south but we love the Sumter area. Our only concern is the Rec Centers and what they offer. If anyone could offer up an honest opinion of the rec centers in that area we would appreciate it.
I know there is turnover in the villages and the ages change but my wife would like to do water aerobics and some fitness classes in the rec centers.
We also heard that the high school sometimes used the pool in that area? Thanks for any honest opinions.

The high school FINALLY has their own pool at the new complex and no longer uses the residents sports pool at Laurel Manor. That being said, I fear the time allocated to the high school might be given to the middle school that uses the old high school campus, which would totally suck for lap swimmers living in that vicinity who have been cheated out of an amenity they pay for every month for seemingly forever. As far a regional rec centers in the area, the options are much greater per capital of local Villages residents in that area than in the newer sections south of 44. Laurel Manor, Lake Miona, Seabreeze, Colony Cottage, La Hacienda, and Mulberry are all within a half hour golf cart ride. Savannah Center is also very close, but their pool is not a true regulation length sports pool if lap swimming is your thing. It’s a wonderful area to live, with WAY MORE golfing options, both Championship and Executive, and a close ride to both LSL and SS and lots and lots of golf cart accessible shopping. Also, the bond balance on homes in that area is either low or paid off. Hope that helps.

[Bogie Shooter]

The high school FINALLY has their own pool at the new complex and no longer uses the residents sports pool at Laurel Manor. That being said, I fear the time allocated to the high school might be given to the middle school that uses the old high school campus, which would totally suck for lap swimmers living in that vicinity who have been cheated out of an amenity they pay for every month for seemingly forever. As far a regional rec centers in the area, the options are much greater per capital of local Villages residents in that area than in the newer sections south of 44. Laurel Manor, Lake Miona, Seabreeze, Colony Cottage, La Hacienda, and Mulberry are all within a half hour golf cart ride. Savannah Center is also very close, but their pool is not a true regulation length sports pool if lap swimming is your thing. It’s a wonderful area to live, with WAY MORE golfing options, both Championship and Executive, and a close ride to both LSL and SS and lots and lots of golf cart accessible shopping. Also, the bond balance on homes in that area is either low or paid off. Hope that helps.

Not a swimmer, just wondering how many hours per day were allotted to the high school?

[graciegirl]

Hello, My wife and I are looking at a few houses in the Village of Tall Trees. I'm 66 and she is 58 and we are familiar with the demographics that a lot of younger people are buying in the south but we love the Sumter area. Our only concern is the Rec Centers and what they offer. If anyone could offer up an honest opinion of the rec centers in that area we would appreciate it.
I know there is turnover in the villages and the ages change but my wife would like to do water aerobics and some fitness classes in the rec centers.
We also heard that the high school sometimes used the pool in that area? Thanks for any honest opinions.

Laurel Manor is the closest Regional Rec Center to Tall Trees. It does have water aerobics several times a week and sometimes the high school does use that pool as well, but not often. My daughter and I have enjoyed going to Laurel Manor for 12 years and our Ceramic Class and Craft Class does have mostly older than sixty year old people, who by the way are quite fun and funny and full of great life. There are fitness classes at Laurel Manor and it has a fitness center there as well. You will find a lot of older people all throughout the Villages. Most of us love them.

[Two Bills]

LM. is a great Rec Center, with many activities.
My wife used to line dance there as well.
The sofas in the public area are very comfortable also, I used to sit and read while she danced.
Only advice, is wear a sweater if just sitting around, the AC is powerful.

[tophcfa]

Not a swimmer, just wondering how many hours per day were allotted to the high school?

Basically they took up all late afternoon/evening lap swimming time Monday through Friday. Since lap swimming time is typically either early morning or late afternoon/evening, it wasn’t good for the residents that don’t swim at the crack of dawn. Unfortunately for lap swimmers, the time slots from mid morning through late afternoon are given to group activities such as water aerobics, volleyball, water yoga, etc…. Weekends are the exception, where some pools offer mid day lap swimming.

[Blueblaze]

Sounds like the concern is really, will you like hanging out with neighbors old enough to be your parents.

We moved to Woodbury (almost to Hwy42) when I was 66 and wife 64. Most of our friends now are in their 80's, and we've discovered that one of the benefits of buying on the Northside (beyond saving a pile of money and not suffering traffic jams during snowbird season) is that the easiest way to feel young is to hang out with old folks! Not only that, but we are perpetually amazed at how young our 80-something friends seem -- nothing like our folks (my 87-year-old mom is the only one still around and she needs a wheelchair to get around her assisted living center). It makes me wonder if just having something interesting to do everyday is the secret to making it to your 90's.

Not sure why you'd care about the high school using the pool, though. The sports pools are scheduled for various classes and stuff all the time, so If you just want to swim laps, you're going to have to check the schedule, anyway. There certainly won't be any high school kids in your aerobics class.

[KAM+6]

Hello, I sent you a private message.

[tophcfa]

Sounds like the concern is really, will you like hanging out with neighbors old enough to be your parents.

One certainty about a 55+ retirement community is rapid turnover. We bought our home north of 466 a little over 8 years ago. When we bought we were among the younger folks in the neighborhood. Since we purchased, easily over half of our neighborhood has turned over and become significantly younger. We are still just south of Medicare eligibility and are now about the average age in our neighborhood. In a few more short years of turnover, the areas north of 466 just might have a younger population that some of the first Villages built south of 44.

[gatorbill1]

Great area - real convenient to everything

[Glowfromminnesota]

I use The Village app. Wake up and type Zumba or aerobics and off I go. It provides directions, mileage, etc., to the Rec Centers. This time of year you need to get to most classes early as they get crowded. I am trying to find my way around and to see what works for me and/or my favorites. Instructors are all volunteers.

[aldeana]

area? Thanks for any honest opinions.[/QUOTE]

I highly recommend checking the Rec News which comes with the paper every Thursday or you can get a free copy at any rec center. It not only lists all the activities going on all over The Villages, but also provides a list of the clubs and interest groups with their contact info. It is also available online at districtgov.org

[nn0wheremann]

One certainty about a 55+ retirement community is rapid turnover. We bought our home north of 466 a little over 8 years ago. When we bought we were among the younger folks in the neighborhood. Since we purchased, easily over half of our neighborhood has turned over and become significantly younger. We are still just south of Medicare eligibility and are now about the average age in our neighborhood. In a few more short years of turnover, the areas north of 466 just might have a younger population that some of the first Villages built south of 44.
Agreed. Bought in Springdale 7 years ago at age 65. We have seen neighbors grow older, move out and younger folks move in. Now in early 70s we are in the middle aged cohort. It still is like going to college, but now we are juniors instead of freshmen.

[ColtsFan]

Tall Trees is a great location. Many businesses and restaurants near. You will find out that once you move here, you will enjoy going to many Rec Centers----not just the one near you. There are so many great Rec Centers not far from there. Don't think that only younger retirees are moving to the new side----the last two houses on our street were both purchases pre-owned by younger retirees in their early 60's. We love having so many golf courses, Rec Centers, family pools, etc. near us. You will not be far from Spanish Springs Town Square, Lake Sumter, or Brownwood---unlike the new side. Welcome to The Villages.

[llaran]

Tall trees was built 2004/5 about 450 homes,
Most were built to order. Ladies club meets at Plimico and book club meets at Bridge Port. Neighborhood softball team plays on Saturday morning

[Flyers999]

Tall Trees is a great location. Many businesses and restaurants near. You will find out that once you move here, you will enjoy going to many Rec Centers----not just the one near you. There are so many great Rec Centers not far from there. Don't think that only younger retirees are moving to the new side----the last two houses on our street were both purchases pre-owned by younger retirees in their early 60's. We love having so many golf courses, Rec Centers, family pools, etc. near us. You will not be far from Spanish Springs Town Square, Lake Sumter, or Brownwood---unlike the new side. Welcome to The Villages.

Embarrassment of riches.

[Defined]

Age is irrelevant you will see, it’s about like interests. Tall Trees is a great location. Close to 2 squares lots of shops and restaurants and of course many Rec Centers. There’s are great water aerobics classes at Laurel Manor and LK Miona. The Winifred pool ladies do their own classes and have been welcoming when we show up. As far as activities you just try what you like throughout the villages it’s all available to you regardless of location… it’s about finding your place with classes you like and people you blend with and that’s not always in your immediate area. Enjoy exploring and finding your passions .

[mrf0151]

If you are golfers, then you will love this area. I just looked at the list of Executive and Championship golf courses in proximity to Tall Trees. There are 20 Executive and 10 Championship course within a 20 minute radius by golf cart. Sumter landing is 12 minutes and Spanish Spring is 17 by golf cart. Along 466 you really want for nothing with all the restaurants, grocery stores, banks, gas stations, library, doctors, dentists, on and on.
18 years here now and NO regrets.

[PugMom]

Laurel Manor is the closest Regional Rec Center to Tall Trees. It does have water aerobics several times a week and sometimes the high school does use that pool as well, but not often. My daughter and I have enjoyed going to Laurel Manor for 12 years and our Ceramic Class and Craft Class does have mostly older than sixty year old people, who by the way are quite fun and funny and full of great life. There are fitness classes at Laurel Manor and it has a fitness center there as well. You will find a lot of older people all throughout the Villages. Most of us love them.

very good to see you again, Lady 😊

[RON S]

Hello, My wife and I are looking at a few houses in the Village of Tall Trees. I'm 66 and she is 58 and we are familiar with the demographics that a lot of younger people are buying in the south but we love the Sumter area. Our only concern is the Rec Centers and what they offer. If anyone could offer up an honest opinion of the rec centers in that area we would appreciate it.
I know there is turnover in the villages and the ages change but my wife would like to do water aerobics and some fitness classes in the rec centers.
We also heard that the high school sometimes used the pool in that area? Thanks for any honest opinions.
I think that is a great area

[msilagy]

If you can get hold of a Thursday publication of all the rec centers it will tell you everything that is offered inside and outside the center every day of the week. These activities rarely change week by week so you will get a good idea of all the activities in every one all thruout the villages.

[TerryCamlin]

My husband and I moved into Gilchrist West at 58 and 60. Our neighbors are older but we find them a lot of fun to hang out with. I love Tall Tree's I looked at a home there for my girlfriend once and thought it was great but she backed out of the deal because she was not ready to sell her home in MD. The location is perfect for shopping and Recreation. You will not find that down South. Also you will not find TREES. It is very barren and will be for many years to come. Personally I like the diversity of our neighborhood. Once you join clubs and find what suits you, you will make friends that have similar interests. I recommend you go forward and buy the home in Tall Trees. Go to the homes on both sides & behind you and introduce yourself as a precaution to ensure they are owner occupied. The only downfall and it is prevalent down south there are a lot of rentals and many landlords unfortunately do not care who they rent to. I am a landlord but I do care and I have a lot of rules especially about age over 55, no pets, no children. Good luck!!!

[Lottoguy]

They have water aerobics at the Savannah pool. Tall Trees is a great location!

[Villagesgal]

In my opinion best area in the Villages. Laurel Manor has lots of things going on she would enjoy. Lap swimming and lots of water aerobics at Laurel Manor, Mulberry, Savanah, all within less than 30 minutes by golf cart. I moved here at 46 and hubby was 52 and had no problem finding friends under 60 and was always made to feel welcome. If she's at all outgoing, she will love it here.

[haysus7]

Hello, My wife and I are looking at a few houses in the Village of Tall Trees. I'm 66 and she is 58 and we are familiar with the demographics that a lot of younger people are buying in the south but we love the Sumter area. Our only concern is the Rec Centers and what they offer. If anyone could offer up an honest opinion of the rec centers in that area we would appreciate it.
I know there is turnover in the villages and the ages change but my wife would like to do water aerobics and some fitness classes in the rec centers.
We also heard that the high school sometimes used the pool in that area? Thanks for any honest opinions.

No worries. You will find your tribe. Tall Trees is great and you drive so you will find everything fine

[sallyg]

Each area offers just about the same activities/facilities. As I recall, the high school used Mulberry sports pool, but it's easy to check. If you can, rent before you buy. We bought in Orange Blossom and five years later moved south of 44. We found advantages and disadvantages to both areas. Also, you might find the model house you think you'd like turns out to have drawbacks. There are so many options it can be a hard choice. Best of luck.

[2newyorkers]

Welcome to Tall Trees. I sent a PM.

[shaw8700@outlook.com]

We’re going to rent a home for 1-2 months prior to buying. That way we can look around and decide which area is best. I’m so excited!

[Skelly]

If I was your age I would go further South in the Villages. Most people are new and they are looking to make friends.

[Michael 61]

One certainty about a 55+ retirement community is rapid turnover. We bought our home north of 466 a little over 8 years ago. When we bought we were among the younger folks in the neighborhood. Since we purchased, easily over half of our neighborhood has turned over and become significantly younger. We are still just south of Medicare eligibility and are now about the average age in our neighborhood. In a few more short years of turnover, the areas north of 466 just might have a younger population that some of the first Villages built south of 44.

I also believe that ten years from now, north of 466 will look very different, being “gentrified” with much younger residents - I could see Spanish Springs getting a make-over to become the young, hip town square.

[shirleyjerez]

they are all very good. the school has their own pools. i have been here 22 yrs I go to a lot of diff rec centers. no. complaints. never heard of any. There are always a few that co
plain about anything . that you just ignor. sumpter county is great . Also taxes are cheaper

[Papa_lecki]

We’re going to rent a home for 1-2 months prior to buying. That way we can look around and decide which area is best. I’m so excited!

I love the Tall Trees area. We also thought we NEEDED to be around the LSL area; so that’s where we looked to buy.
We decided to rent between 466A and 44; ended up buying in that area.
You need to spend time in various areas to see where you really want to be.

[Nell57]

Go for it. I’ve taken water aerobic classes at Savannah, Laurel Manor, Miona and SeaBreeze.
All on Buena Vista….all easily accessible from Tall Trees

[Almanurse1]

Laurel Manor is a wonderful rec center. As are all the others in this area. They offer all you’ve mentioned and more. Tall Trees is almost across the street from LM. The high school swim team has been known to practice there for upcoming competitions (totally supervised by coaches) but I don’t know if they will anymore, since the HS has moved to another location way south of here. We are located in Ashland very near Tall Trees and wouldn’t want to live anywhere else in TV.

[VApeople]

If you and your wife like to go for walks together without having to deal with golf carts, there is no place to do it in Tall trees. In fact there is no place to do it north of Route 44.

If you like to walk together, it is better to live south of Route 44 or at least live near to Route 44 so you can easily drive to the beautiful walking/biking trails south of 44.

My wife and I live in Osceola Hills and we like to walk together. Last week we drove down to DeLuna for a great walk. A couple days ago we went for a nice walk around the lakes in Lake Denham. Today we went to Hawkins, parked at the postal station, and took a beautiful walk around the marsh area.

[Bogie Shooter]

Funny, I go thru Tall Trees all the time on my way to Southern Trace and see a lot of folks walking. ?

[VApeople]

Funny, I go thru Tall Trees all the time on my way to Southern Trace and see a lot of folks walking. ?

Are they walking on the sidewalk where they are about a foot from the golf carts whizzing by?

A walk on a sidewalk does not meet our standards. We only find walking/biking trails acceptable.

[tophcfa]

If you and your wife like to go for walks together without having to deal with golf carts, there is no place to do it in Tall trees. In fact there is no place to do it north of Route 44.

Absolutely untrue! The Black Lake Trail that starts at the Lake Miona Recreation Center, the Trail at the Sharon Rose Wiechens Preserve, and the Springdale Fitness Trail near The Nancy Lopez Championship golf course are all golf cart free walking trails.

[VApeople]

The Black Lake Trail that starts at the Lake Miona Recreation Center.

Yes, a beautiful 200-yard walking trail.

the Trail at the Sharon Rose Wiechens Preserve,


Another beautiful 100-yard trail. Be sure to carry supplies and a drink.

[Bogie Shooter]

Are they walking on the sidewalk where they are about a foot from the golf carts whizzing by?

A walk on a sidewalk does not meet our standards. We only find walking/biking trails acceptable.
There are streets while walking you might see a golf cart once in a while or not.
I understand your desire for where you want to walk. Others feel comfortable walking in their neighborhoods.

[GoPacers]

Yes, a beautiful 200-yard walking trail.



Another beautiful 100-yard trail. Be sure to carry supplies and a drink.

Hard to take your comments seriously when you're exaggerating for no reason other than to disparage.

Just state you like south of 44 better. Your life, your opinion.

[VApeople]

Just state you like south of 44 better. Your life, your opinion.

Actually, we live north of 44 in Osceola Hills. We often go down south to enjoy the amenities unavailable anywhere else in The Villages.

[tophcfa]

Yes, a beautiful 200-yard walking trail.



Another beautiful 100-yard trail. Be sure to carry supplies and a drink.

Black Lake trail is a 1.5 mile round trip walk, not 200 yards.

The Sharon Rose Wiechens Preserve trail is a .7 mile loop, not 100 yards.

[Nanettek3]

Hi, I don’t think you would regret moving into Tall Trees at all. It is a very convenient location with a lot of options for sports, super markets, shopping, restaurants, the squares and entertainment. We live just north of there in Springdale. Water Aerobics are offered at Savannah Center, Laurel Manor and Mulberry. They also offer water volleyball, Splish splash, lap swim and more. I personally really like the Deep Water Aerobics at Mulberry!! The south side does not have many, if any deep water pools. Lots of other activities offered at these centers and First Responders Rec center too. Savannah center is an entertainment venue that brings in a lot of acts , which the southern people need to travel for. Polo Fields have other events too. I think you’ll be surprised how many young people live up here. Either way Welcome to The Villages!

[coffeebean]

There are streets while walking you might see a golf cart once in a while or not.
I understand your desire for where you want to walk. Others feel comfortable walking in their neighborhoods.

Absolutely agree with this. I like to look at the landscaping and such. I walk different ways so don’t see the same landscape all the time. The neighborhood streets are very quiet, especially the cauldesacs.

[coffeebean]

Black Lake trail is a 1.5 mile round trip walk, not 200 yards.

The Sharon Rose Wiechens Preserve trail is a .7 mile loop, not 100 yards.
Walk each one of them twice and go twice as far.

[VApeople]

Black Lake trail is a 1.5 mile round trip walk, not 200 yards.

We had walked that path a few months ago but I did not recall it being that long. I recall being very pleased that dogs, even on a leash, are forbidden on that trail.