The Magic of Green Valley, AZ

Green Valley Arizona was started way back in the 1960’s, before I-19 was built, when two brothers dreamed of a retirement community in the Sonoran desert. Through the help of a land grant the town was born. Villa condos were the first to be built followed by townhouses and single family homes. About half of our residents are snowbirds that come during the winter months while the other half reside here full-time. Most people that have spent time in Green Valley would agree that it is addictive. The question is why.

People make Green Valley special. Since everyone is from somewhere else, we all have something in common. Winter visitors come and go so friendships are renewed each year. It gets almost difficult to see everyone while they’re here because we only have so many days in a few short winter months.

Activities add to the magic of Green Valley. We have eight golf courses, thirteen recreation centers complete with tennis courts, swimming pools, hot tubs, weight rooms, exercise rooms, and more. On any day you’ll see dozens of people taking walks and riding bicycles. There are social clubs, such as the Colorado club and the Minnesota club, that meet during the winter months for pot-luck dinners, entertainment, and activities. We also have clubs for woodworking, lapidary, ceramics, chess, cards, and others. If you find yourself bored in Green Valley, it’s probably your own fault.

Volunteer opportunities abound. Green Valley is in unincorporated Pima County so we’re not an official city. We’re governed by a council of volunteers that are elected by the residents and interface with county officials. We also have Green Valley Recreation that oversees our rec centers and operates mostly through volunteers. Almost all of the homes belong to Homeowner’s Associations which are also run by volunteers. Many of us never had time to volunteer when we were chasing careers and raising families. Now we can invest a few hours each month and really make a difference.

While activities and opportunities are important, the magic of Green Valley still comes back to the people. We have such a variety of backgrounds, skills, and interests. People are here because they want to be here. They come to Green Valley for the weather and the activities. As always, friendships lead to people looking out for each other. The net result is a wonderful place to live.

My advice is to visit Green Valley at your own risk. You’ll probably find that you want to come back again next year. You’ll probably want to stay a little longer each time. Many of us realize that life is very short, friendships matter, and being in a happy place just feels good. Ah, the magic of Green Valley. It truly is addictive.