With lots of on-site amenities, like exercise programs and enriching activities, LifeStream at Youngtown offers plenty of ways to stay busy. Still, it's nice to get out and explore Youngtown and the surrounding areas when you want a change of scenery. Youngtown itself is quite small, but nearby communities keep residents close to lots of other options. Try these activities the next time you want to explore the area.
Youngtown offers a variety of groups and activities to keep you active, with many of them being hosted at the Youngtown Clubhouse. You can join the Friends of the Library group if you enjoy reading and want to get more involved with the public library. The Craft Corner group is a place for adults to work on various crafts together. The town also organizes a few classes that could interest seniors. Options include a woodcarving class and an oil and watercolor painting class. These options let you try new hobbies or participate in things you enjoy regularly.
Heading to a farmers market gets you out of the house to enjoy the sights and sounds that come along with these often weekly gatherings. Plus, you can pick out the freshest local produce, baked goods and other items to enjoy when you get back home. Many farmers markets also offer live entertainment and prepared food, so you can enjoy a bite to eat while you take in the entertainment. Some options include:
Feel more connected to Youngtown and the surrounding areas by exploring the history of the area. Visiting historical sites and museums helps you uncover interesting facts about the past. One option is the Litchfield Park Historical Society and Museum, which covers the history of several west valley towns, including Youngtown. Admission is free, and the museum is small, so it's easy to navigate for a quick trip.
The Heard Museum takes a little longer drive, but it has a large collection of artifacts related to Native Americans in Arizona. The museum is wheelchair-accessible, and it offers senior discounts.
The Historic Sahuaro Ranch in Glendale lets you step into history with a well-preserved historic ranch on 17 acres. You can take guided tours of the ranch to see a variety of historic buildings, a barnyard, a rose garden and orchards. Tours of the main house are free.
Another option for stepping into the past is the Pioneer Living History Museum in Phoenix. This 90-acre open-air museum features a pioneer village with multiple historic buildings, including a log cabin, dress shop and blacksmith shop. Costumed volunteers make the experience immersive.
The West Valley Genealogical Society offers a large genealogical library where you can trace your family's heritage. You can access the library to research and record information about your family. The society also hosts classes, seminars and research trips to support locals who want to learn more about genealogy.
Spend some time taking in artwork with nearby options like the West Valley Art Museum in Peoria. It has a permanent collection of over 1,600 items from more than 60 countries. In addition to paintings, the museum features ethnic dress collections, and there's a section of artwork from artists who live in Arizona.
If you want another option to see art, consider a trip to the Phoenix Art Museum. The collection comes from around the world and from many centuries. The museum offers senior discounts. It's handicap-accessible, and the museum offers complimentary wheelchairs you can borrow.
Youngtown has several parks that let you enjoy time outdoors. Maricopa Lake Park lets you enjoy water views or fish in the lake. Caliche Cactus Garden features stunning plants for your enjoyment. If you have a canine companion, consider regular trips to Citizen's Dog Park.
If you want to venture beyond Youngtown, you have lots of nearby options. Estrella Mountain Regional Park is a great spot for hiking, stargazing, fishing, camping and more. White Tank Mountain Regional Park features large rock formations across the hilly terrain, which offers trails, wildflowers and wildlife for you to see. These options make it easier to get in your steps while taking in beautiful scenery.
A short trip to Litchfield Park lands you at the Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium and Safari Park for a day of animal fun. This activity can be a great activity to do with your grandchildren when they visit. With more than 600 species, Wildlife World Zoo has the largest collection of exotic and endangered animals in Arizona. You can get a senior discount on Tuesdays, or you can buy a membership if you plan to visit the zoo frequently. For additional fees, you can enjoy additional activities and rides, including a log flume, train, sky ride, carousel and zip line.
