Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Sioux Falls, a best place to live for the second year in a row, is a nature lover’s delight. Its namesake Falls Park is one of the top 25 urban parks in the country, but the city’s outdoor offerings extend well beyond that site: There are 30 miles of bike trails along the Big Sioux River and 80 parks within the city. 

The Big Sioux Recreation Area is a tranquil spot for a family picnic or camping adventure in the summer, while Great Bear Recreation Park is ideal for skiing and snowboarding in winter. Good Earth State Park, where you can learn about the area’s Native American history, and Palisades State Park, with its striking quartzite formations, are both just a short drive away.

There’s much to explore in Sioux Falls’ cultural scene as well, with concerts during the summer and SculptureWalk, self-described as “the largest annual exhibit of public sculptures in the world.”

If all the access to nature and green spaces isn’t proof enough, the city promises that it’s committed to healthy living habits. Newsweek ranked Sanford USD Medical Center as one of the world’s best hospitals, and Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center has been recognized as one of the best hospitals in America.

It’s one of the many reasons why Sioux Falls is great for retirees, who have access to education and community in the city. The University of South Dakota offers programs for people of all ages through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, and Active Generations provides fitness facilities, coloring clubs, and music therapy for seniors.