Nearing my 50's and Single (Memphis, Knoxville: transfer, theatre, school)

[Putty]

Hi, I am posting on both the TN, and KY boards on this!!!

I am nearing 50, and single and looking for a great place to settle down and eventually retire in........I can transfer just about anywhere thru my job, so I am in need of a great little or big community that can offer what I need.

Wondering if there is anyplace that comes to mind of anyone in TN!!

I am looking for bicycling/walking opportunities mainly in a nonhilly city. I love old architecture, and riverfronts....... Lively downtowns, and lots of coffeeshops and bookstores to visit. People watching is a MUST DO....lol.

Since I am single, I am looking for things to do that are clean and fun, not a bar person.....!!! Would like an area with lots of oppurtinities and good friendly people.....

Any city or town come to mind? THANKS

[klosk]

Portland, Oregon area, has lots of coffee shops, a nice downtown and a river runs through it. Lots to do, you must travel the Columbia Secenic Hwy. Lot of hiking trails and waterfalls to enjoy. I would move there in a second but it it alittle too pricey for us.

[Putty]

I agree, I don't think I can afford Portland either, this is why I am posting on the TN and KY board!

[inave]

I think OR would be just what you are looking for. There is an organization here (can't remember the initials) that sponsors courses and seminars of various topics of interest for people over 50. There is also a theatre, an orchestra, a ballet company and a symphony. Several times during the summer months, the orchestra gives free concerts in the park. There's a fireworks display sponsored by the city on the 4th of July and a Christmas parade this coming Saturday. My husband and I are people watchers, too, and hang out at Books a Million or Panera's when the weather is nice. Oak Ridge has numerous parks plus there's a walking path along the Clinch River in adjoining Clinton. And that's not including what Knoxville has to offer.

DH and I moved here earlier this year from (whispered very sheepishly) Mississippi and we have enjoyed every minute of living here. The mountains are within an hour's easy and very scenic drive, as is Dollywood and the outlet malls. I can't think of anything anyone would want that isn't offered in the Knoxville metropolitan area. My only regret about moving here is that we didn't do it sooner.

Good luck! Email me if you want more info.

[mbmouse]

I was also going to recommend Oak Ridge when I was reading your post. Another city that came to mind in Chattanooga, not sure about how hilly walking would be, maybe someone else can answer that one.

[hiknapster]

I vote for Chattanooga, too.

Incredible biking and hiking paths. Outdoor cafes. Nestled in the mountains.

Google Chattanooga. That's what you are looking for.

[maggiekate]

Originally Posted by hiknapster

I vote for Chattanooga, too.

Incredible biking and hiking paths. Outdoor cafes. Nestled in the mountains.

Google Chattanooga. That's what you are looking for.

I also would vote for Chattanoga, or soddy daisy, since being on a budget
is a pain. How well I know. you can check sperling they have lots of info

[JMT]

I love Chattanooga! It's a beautiful city on a beautiful river surrounded by mountains. Outdoor Magazine listed Chattanooga as one of the top 10 cities in the country for outdoor sports. It's got a mild climate and a very pedestrian-friendly and bike-friendly downtown.

[LauraC]

Originally Posted by inave

I think OR would be just what you are looking for. There is an organization here (can't remember the initials) that sponsors courses and seminars of various topics of interest for people over 50. There is also a theatre, an orchestra, a ballet company and a symphony. Several times during the summer months, the orchestra gives free concerts in the park. There's a fireworks display sponsored by the city on the 4th of July and a Christmas parade this coming Saturday. My husband and I are people watchers, too, and hang out at Books a Million or Panera's when the weather is nice. Oak Ridge has numerous parks plus there's a walking path along the Clinch River in adjoining Clinton. And that's not including what Knoxville has to offer.

DH and I moved here earlier this year from (whispered very sheepishly) Mississippi and we have enjoyed every minute of living here. The mountains are within an hour's easy and very scenic drive, as is Dollywood and the outlet malls. I can't think of anything anyone would want that isn't offered in the Knoxville metropolitan area. My only regret about moving here is that we didn't do it sooner.

Good luck! Email me if you want more info.

I see DH on the various City-Data forums and want to ask "Why do all of these people live with a Designated Hitter?" What does DH stand for outside of baseball?

The school you are trying to think of is ORICL. I didn't suggest Oak Ridge because it doesn't really have a lively downtown area as the poster said he was looking for even if it has all of the other things.

[Putty]

DH is Dear Husband in computer lingo

Thank You everyone for answering my message..........I have been to a bunch of cities in TN, for some reason I never made it to Chattanooga, Memphis, or Nashville, but been to most of the eastern cities... I have been to Knoxville once, and that was about 25yrs ago.

I don't know why I don't remember Oak Ridge area.......!!!

Well, I am glad u guys suggested Chattanooga also because I can do a 3- day weekend trip and check it out.

Thanks so much!!!.......Seems to me I have heard alot of bad things about that area