Sabine Place Blog

Fun Summer Activities for Seniors in Orange, TX

Written by Sabine Place | Jun 23, 2025 4:00:00 AM

There's nothing quite like summer in Orange, TX. The thriving city, known for its unique Cajun flair, offers abundant experiences from June through September.

Are you a senior in Orange with an empty summer calendar? Are you searching for fun summer activities beyond sitting indoors? If so, you're in luck.

In this article, we will dive into some of the key seasonal senior events during summer in Orange, TX. From social events for older adults to memory care-friendly summer activities, there is no shortage of things to do.

Tour the Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center

Have you ever wanted to escape the hot summer temperatures and experience the serenity of an oasis? If so, the Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center should be at the top of your list of activities in Orange.

The oasis spans over 250 acres and runs along the waterways of Adams Bayou, fostering a unique collection of floral attractions for visitors to enjoy.

Additionally, the Shangri La aims to educate East Texans. It offers educational resources in its nature center, showcasing ecosystems common in the area.

The Shangri La is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and is closed on Mondays. From March through September, it also has Wellness Wednesdays, when the garden is open for extended hours.

A standout feature of the Shangri La is its affordability. The admission is free, although they do take donations in lieu of standard admission. These funds specifically support environmental education programs.

The Shangri La is a fantastic opportunity for seniors to explore the community and get some low-impact exercise. Walking along trails filled with beautiful scenery can boost your mental health, and the size of the Gardens means you can easily get your steps in.

Visit the Stark Museum of Art

Since Texas is rich in Western culture, it is no surprise that it houses significant collections of Western art, and the Stark Museum of Art is no exception. The museum houses one of the largest collections of Western art in the United States.

The museum is located in the heart of downtown Orange, making it a convenient and accessible location for seniors in assisted living programs. Some of the art forms showcased at the museum include:

  • Painting
  • Sculpture
  • Print
  • Rare books
  • Pottery
  • Jewelry

The Stark Museum also features distinguished artists such as:

  • Frederic Remington
  • Charles Marion Russell
  • John James Audubon
  • Georgia O'Keeffe

The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Wednesday through Saturday, and closed on all major holidays. It is also free of charge.

If you cannot access the museum collections in person, the website features virtual tours, allowing you to view many of the pieces of art from the comfort of your own home.

Take in the Beauty of the First Presbyterian Church

Do you enjoy stunning architecture? You might be surprised to discover beautifully designed buildings right in Orange, TX.

Founded in 1878, the First Presbyterian Church is still active today, with tours available by appointment to avoid interfering with church functions. The tours are free of charge.

The church features architectural marvels such as stained glass windows and the Lutcher Memorial Building, which boasts the honor of being the first air-conditioned public building located west of the Mississippi River.

If you wish to attend church at First Presbyterian, the congregation aims to foster a dynamic and welcoming environment for both new and old members. It offers a dynamic service at 10:00 AM every Sunday.

Connect With Nature at Blue Elbow Swamp

The Tony Houseman Wildlife Management Area, known as the Blue Elbow Swamp, is a wetland preserve adjacent to the Sabine River. At 3,300 acres, the area is massive, boasting a wide variety of Texas wildlife.

One of the key features of Blue Elbow Swamp is that it is ADA-accessible. The 600-foot boardwalk leads directly to the center of the swamp and is accessible for wheelchairs and mobility aids. People of all ages and abilities can experience the natural beauty.

You may spot some wildlife while visiting the swamp, including:

  • Alligators
  • Great blue herons
  • Cattle egrets
  • Venomous snakes
  • Wood storks
  • Red-shouldered hawks

For an interactive experience at Blue Elbow Swamp, visit the Texas Travel Information Center. For outdoor enthusiasts, this area offers ideal spots for fishing and hunting.

Tour the W.H. Stark House

Experience the wonders of Victorian architecture at the W.H. Stark House. The original owners amassed a large collection of unique objects and later became involved with philanthropy.

The house, built in the late nineteenth century, hails from the Queen Anne Victorian architectural style. Its massive 14,000 square foot structure features many of the same furnishings that were present in the 1920s, transporting visitors back in time.

In addition to its beauty, the W.H. Stark House also holds significant accolades, including its designation as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark and a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

Stroll Along the Riverfront Boardwalk

For active aging summer fun that doesn't require rigorous exercise, consider walking along the City of Orange Riverfront Boardwalk. It runs directly along the Sabine River in downtown Orange, making it easily accessible.

The boardwalk is 12 feet wide, perfect for walking solo or in a group with your family and friends. The area features a pavilion and a two-acre green space, ideal for enjoying long summer days.

Try These Fun Summer Activities in Orange, TX

If you're a senior living in Orange, TX, there is no shortage of fun summer activities to experience during the warmest months of the year. You will have plenty to do with your friends and family for a summer filled with joy and entertainment.

At Sabine Place Assisted Living, we prioritize the well-being of our residents all year long. We offer assisted living and a host of amenities to provide you with the best quality of life in your golden years, such as our activity room and lounges.

Are you looking for a new community to call home during this upcoming summer season? Reach out to us today, or come meet us in person at our thriving campus in Orange, TX.