A Day in the Life: 12 Things To Do for Seniors in Anoka, Minnesota

Anoka, Minnesota, is a charming city located just north of Minneapolis along the Rum River. With its historic downtown, ample parks and recreation, and a variety of local shops and eateries, Anoka has much to offer senior residents and visitors. Here are twelve great things to do near our Walker Methodist locations in Anoka for older adults and their families.

Outdoors

Rum River Dam, via Anoka Municipal Utility

EXPLORE THE RUM RIVER

0.2 miles from Walker Methodist Plaza Gardens and CityView

0.3 miles from Walker Methodist River

Take a stroll along the Riverwalk. This paved path follows the Rum River through the heart of the city, making it easy for seniors of all mobility levels to enjoy the fresh air and scenic river views. Stop at Akin Riverside Park for benches and lovely landscaping.

ANOKA NATURE PRESERVE

3.3 miles from Walker Methodist Plaza Gardens and CityView

3.4 miles from Walker Methodist River

The Anoka Nature Preserve is an extensive wildlife refuge featuring 200+ acres of forests, ponds, and wetlands. Enjoy spotting birds and wildlife along the walking trails and boardwalks, perfect for short hikes!

Arts & Entertainment

Anoka — The Halloween Capital of the World, via CBS Minnesota

LYRIC ARTS MAIN STREET STAGE

0.4 miles from Walker Methodist Plaza Gardens and CityView

0.4 miles from Walker Methodist River

See a show at Lyric Arts Main Street Stage. This local theater company performs comedies, dramas, and musicals in an intimate black box theater in downtown Anoka. Locals love the high-quality productions in this accessible venue.

ANOKA COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

0.3 miles from Walker Methodist Plaza Gardens and CityView

0.4 miles from Walker Methodist River

Visit the Anoka County Historical Society to learn about local history through exhibits, programs, and a research library. You could spend hours learning about our amazing community!

ANOKA HALLOWEEN CELEBRATIONS

Get into the Halloween spirit at Anoka’s Halloween events! The city earned its nickname as the “Halloween Capital of the World” thanks to its giant pumpkins,  festivals, costume contests, parades, and more, celebrating the spooky holiday each October.

Dining

A taste of the menu at Billy’s Bar & Grill, via Billy’s Bar & Grill

BILLY’S BAR & GRILL

0.2 miles from Walker Methodist Plaza Gardens and CityView

0.3 miles from Walker Methodist River

Have lunch on the patio at Billy’s Bar & Grill. This lively sports bar with pub-style food has a popular outdoor patio and a great atmosphere for everyone. The lunch menu features burgers, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers. It’s one of the top restaurants in Anoka for casual fare.

SPARKY’S CAFE

0.1 miles from Walker Methodist Plaza Gardens and CityView

0.2 miles from Walker Methodist River

If you’re a breakfast person, you have to check out Sparky’s Cafe! This popular breakfast and lunch joint is known for its giant portions of omelets, pancakes, and other classics. The cozy retro diner ambiance is perfect for starting the day.

TWO SCOOPS

427 ft. from Walker Methodist Plaza Gardens and CityView

0.2 miles from Walker Methodist River

Enjoy ice cream at Two Scoops Ice Cream Shoppe. This beloved ice cream parlor uses high-quality, fresh ingredients to create homemade super-premium ice cream. It’s a crowd favorite at Walker Methodist and the perfect spot to treat yourself to a tasty dessert or snack!

Sports & Recreation

Green Haven Golf Course, via Green Haven Golf Course

PICKLEBALL AT GEORGE ENLOE PARK

2.5 miles from Walker Methodist Plaza Gardens and CityView

2.6 miles from Walker Methodist River

Play pickleball at George Enloe Park. This scenic park offers several dedicated pickleball courts perfect for beginners and experienced pros looking for some active fun. It’s one of the best free things to do in Anoka for seniors!

GREEN HAVEN GOLF COURSE

1.2 miles from Walker Methodist Plaza Gardens and CityView

0.9 miles from Walker Methodist River

Tee off at Green Haven Golf Course! This public 18-hole course offers affordable golf, perfect for seniors, with flat terrain and scenic views. Rent a cart or bring your own clubs to enjoy a relaxing day on the greens.

Shopping

A view of the shops in downtown Anoka, via Discover Anoka

MAIN STREET SHOPS

1.0 miles from Walker Methodist Plaza Gardens and CityView

0.7 miles from Walker Methodist River

Shop Shop small on Main Street! Historic downtown Anoka offers a variety of unique, locally-owned boutiques, antique stores, gift shops, and art galleries for leisurely browsing and treasures to be found.

FARMERS MARKET ON THE RUM

0.3 miles from Walker Methodist Plaza Gardens and CityView

0.4 miles from Walker Methodist River

Find fresh produce at Anoka’s Farmers Market on the Rum. Running June through September, this lively open-air market is set up on Wednesday afternoons in the municipal parking lot. It’s a great spot for seasonal fruits and vegetables, baked goods, honey, crafts, and even live music.

Anoka Senior Living at Walker Methodist

Anoka provides a welcoming small-town feel with natural beauty and a range of fun activities for seniors. The diverse attractions on this list offer engaging ways to stay active and connected in this charming Minnesota city. Enjoy making new memories as you explore all that Anoka has in store.

For those looking for senior living options nearby, Walker Methodist offers a variety of senior communities in Anoka, including Plaza Gardens, Plaza CityView, and River. Our beautiful campuses have amenities and events tailored for older adults with living options like independent living, assisted living, and memory care.