Overall sentiment across the reviews is predominantly positive, with the strongest and most frequent praise focusing on staff, apartment size, cleanliness, and community atmosphere. Many reviewers describe the staff as friendly, caring, accommodating, and reliable — several note long-tenured employees and specific staff who went “above and beyond” during move-in or to meet resident needs. Maintenance responsiveness and helpful billing/administrative support are commonly cited, and multiple reviewers feel staff act like family and create a warm, home-like environment.
Facilities and apartments receive consistent positive feedback. The building’s historic charm and bright, spacious apartments are repeatedly mentioned: reviewers highlight very large studios, generous walk-in closets, walk-in showers, full kitchens, and a variety of one- and two-bedroom floorplans. Cleanliness is frequently praised, sometimes described as above expectations, and ongoing refurbishments are underway to update the older building. Outdoor amenities such as a garden, courtyard and on-site dog park are valued, as is the pet-friendly policy (including reports of no extra pet fees). Secure access, covered garage parking, elevator access, and an on-site dining room and cafeteria are additional practical benefits residents appreciate.
Dining, activities, and social life are important themes. The dining room and meals are liked by many residents — some reviews call the food “very good” and praise the cafeteria vibe — though a subset of reviewers report meal quality has declined or is inconsistent over time. Social programming and communal spaces are strengths: community rooms with puzzles/books, holiday parties, church services, and resident gatherings foster social engagement, and some reviewers credit the community with improving formerly isolated residents’ social lives. The on-site gym and availability of personal training by an occupational therapist are notable features for residents seeking to remain active and age in place.
Accessibility, transportation, and safety show mixed feedback. The location is convenient to shops, parks, and public transportation, which many residents appreciate. However, accessibility for those with mobility limitations is uneven: a bus with a wheelchair lift is reportedly “in process,” and multiple reviewers raise concerns about limited wheelchair-accessible transportation, difficulty crossing busy streets nearby, and practical challenges for people using both a cane and a walker. Some reviewers explicitly praise the community’s support for residents with disabilities, while others caution that transportation and certain accessibility details should be confirmed prior to moving.
Cost, management consistency, and a few negative experiences are notable caveats. While some reviewers describe the pricing as very reasonable and a good value for the size and services, others report high rent (one reviewer cited $3,200/month) and say the cost can be steep for studios. Several reviews point to inconsistent front desk experiences — from very welcoming to rude or unprofessional — and a small number recount communication or staff performance problems. There are also isolated reports of arrival/sign-in difficulties and an admonition to be cautious about certain “free moves” tactics and move-in logistics. A few practical complaints include occasional air-conditioning failures, the absence of a pool, and the sense that an older building requires ongoing attention.
Bottom line: Tower Grove Manor is generally described as a clean, well-staffed, community-oriented senior living option with unusually large apartments in a beautiful historic building. It is a strong fit for people who value warm, helpful staff, roomy units with in-unit kitchens and bathrooms, pet-friendliness, on-site fitness and dining, and an active social environment with opportunities to age in place. Prospective residents should confirm current pricing, unit square footage, and specific accessibility/transportation arrangements, and may want to ask about front desk procedures and recent dining quality to address the few recurring concerns noted by reviewers.
