Taylor Ridge in Cottage Grove, WI

Pros

• It is a nice place for seniors; many residents live there.
• It is a very nice place.
• It is quiet, friendly, in a good location with nice communal spaces.
• The common areas are always clean, and the residents seem happy and friendly.
• The staff are friendly and organize many activities for the residents.
• The apartments are clean and functional.

Cons

• They should not rent here if they are 55 or older.
• Residents do not have freedom to socialize with anyone.
• Some individuals will tell on residents.
• Areas are taped off.
• Residents are no longer allowed to leave their apartments.
• The place is causing a lot of depression.
• Residents cannot do as they please here.
• They consider moving their dad to a place where his life is not dictated.
• They are not getting any of the amenities.
• There are no community rooms and no socializing allowed.
• Management and maintenance is lacking.

Review

Taylor Ridge is best suited for independent seniors who want clean, affordable, low-maintenance apartment living in a quiet, organized setting. The location is solid, and the property emphasizes orderly common areas and predictable routines. For residents who value a straightforward, no-frills environment over resort-style amenities, this community delivers reliability: apartments are modest but functional, upkeep is clear, and the vibe skews calm rather than bustling. It's a practical choice for someone who prefers a contained, easy-to-manage living space and does not require high levels of social programming or everyday sprawling activity.

Those who may want to consider alternatives are seniors who place a premium on social freedom, frequent interactions, and readily accessible communal amenities. Several reviews flag a restrictive social atmosphere and rules that feel controlling, including limitations on moving freely through shared spaces. For a family member who values independence with optional social engagement and a more open policy framework, a community that prioritizes residents' autonomy and offers abundant common areas and scheduled activities would be a better fit. Also, if dependable maintenance and consistently responsive management are non-negotiable, it's worth exploring options with a documented track record of proactive service.

The strongest positives at Taylor Ridge - quiet surroundings, friendly residents, and a convenient setting - underscore why the community can work for the right resident. Multiple observers describe the environment as peaceful and safe, with clean common spaces and a sense of conviviality among neighbors. The apartments may not boast luxury finishes, but they are clean, functional, and suitable for daily living. Staff presence is noted as approachable and capable in some accounts, and there is an ongoing effort to organize group activities that foster social engagement without overwhelming residents. For someone who prioritizes stability and predictable billing, these elements create real value in daily life.

However, the cons are substantial and cannot be downplayed. The most significant drawback is the sense of social restriction: residents report being kept within their apartments and communities with limited opportunity to socialize, plus areas being taped off or absent from open access. There is a perception that residents' freedom to move about and interact is curtailed, and this has real implications for mood and overall satisfaction. Add to this a few comments about management and maintenance not meeting expectations - ranging from delayed responses to perceived gaps in upkeep - and the picture becomes more mixed. In short, the safety of the environment is acknowledged, but the price paid in social isolation and uneven maintenance support weighs heavily.

On balance, Taylor Ridge delivers on quiet, budget-conscious independence in a well-located Cottage Grove setting, with clean facilities and some sense of community. The key question for decision-makers is whether the value of a calm, predictable, self-directed living arrangement outweighs the loss of social variety and the sense of restriction some residents describe. For families prioritizing routine, affordability, and minimal caregiving needs, Taylor Ridge can be a practical pick. For those seeking robust social programming, flexible living rules, or a more vibrant resident life, alternatives should be pursued vigorously, with careful attention to management responsiveness, maintenance reliability, and the availability of meaningful social opportunities before making a commitment.

This part of Cottage Grove, Wisconsin boasts a variety of conveniences and amenities, making it an attractive option for seniors looking to settle down in a peaceful community. With a selection of restaurants nearby such as Black Bear Inn and McDonald's, dining options are easily accessible. Additionally, pharmacies like Hometown Pharmacy-Cott and Door Creek Pharmacy are within close proximity for any medication needs. For medical care, there are several physicians' offices in the area including Cottage Grove Eye Care and UW Health Cottage Grove Clinic. Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby parks such as Ravenwood Park and Door Creek Park for leisurely strolls or outdoor activities. Places of worship like Hope Lutheran Church provide spiritual fulfillment, while transportation services from Crown Lift Trucks and U-Haul offer convenient travel options. Cafes like Starbucks and Panera Bread offer cozy spots for socializing with neighbors, and Flix Brewhouse provides entertainment for movie enthusiasts. Overall, this part of Cottage Grove offers a blend of practical amenities and recreational opportunities for older individuals seeking a comfortable living environment.

Restaurants

• Black Bear Inn (0.2 miles)
• McDonald's (0.2 miles)
• 1855 Saloon & Grill (0.9 miles)
• Culver's (1.2 miles)
• Oakstone (1.3 miles)
• Don Maguey Mexican Restaurant (1.4 miles)
• Cottage Cafe (5.1 miles)

Pharmacies

• Hometown Pharmacy-Cott (0.2 miles)
• Door Creek Pharmacy (0.2 miles)
• Hometown Pharmacy (0.4 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (0.7 miles)
• Metro Market Pharmacy (3.6 miles)
• Metro Market (3.6 miles)
• Walgreens (5 miles)

Physicians

• Cottage Grove Eye Care (0.3 miles)
• UW Health Cottage Grove Clinic (0.9 miles)
• Johnson Health Tech North America (1.3 miles)
• TLC Laser Eye Centers (5.2 miles)
• Luskin Allan T Md Dean Health System East Clinic Madison (5.3 miles)
• Accuear Professional Hearing & Audiology Clinics (5.7 miles)
• UW Health East Clinic (5.8 miles)

Parks

• Ravenwood Park (1 miles)
• Door Creek Park (2.6 miles)
• Paradise Park (4.9 miles)
• Kingston Onyx Park (5.1 miles)
• Secret Places Park (5.4 miles)
• Owl's Creek Park (5.7 miles)
• Sunny Valley Park (5.9 miles)

Places of Worship

• Hope Lutheran Church (3.3 miles)
• Eastside Evangelical Lutheran (6 miles)
• McFarland United Church of Christ (6.4 miles)
• Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary Catholic Church (6.7 miles)

Transportation

• Crown Lift Trucks (5.3 miles)
• U-Haul (7 miles)

Cafes

• Starbucks (5.5 miles)
• Panera Bread (5.7 miles)
• Starbucks (6 miles)
• Mcfarland House Ca (6.7 miles)

Theaters

• Flix Brewhouse (5.6 miles)