A Place to Call Home
At Every Stage of Life
By Aisha Taylor
Marcia and David Cromer have lived in Beachwood since 2001. They were initially attracted to the city because of the beauty of the neighborhoods and the location.
“I’ve always traveled through the community and noticed how well the properties were maintained. The proximity to my family was also pretty key. My parents were older, and I wanted to be very close to where they were. Living in Beachwood allowed us to be 10 minutes away if my parents needed anything,” Marcia says.
Although the location brought her to Beachwood, she stayed because of the community. Marcia says, “I love the community. I love the benefits of living here. I like that my property value has increased over the years. Everyone, from the onset, was just very friendly.”
A Good Fit
Beachwood is more than just a place to live, it’s a community. The city of Beachwood has a summer block party program to help residents build connections and community with their neighbors. Marcia has attended a number of the block parties over the years. One of her favorite party memories was when a symphony performed for residents.
“I really appreciated the efforts of the city to reach out to people during the pandemic. We weren’t really seeing each other much. It was really nice to sit outside in our lawn chairs and listen to the symphony play.”
The city’s community center is another asset she takes advantage of, attending drawing classes since 2017, and participating in Zumba, art shows and other special events. “There’s always something going on at the community center,” Marcia says.
There are several hidden benefits that the city offers in addition to encouraging an active senior community, she adds.
“I really love the free shred days where you can take your confidential documents to the city for shredding. They even have an old medication drop-off at the police station. These are things people take for granted. If you haven’t lived in Beachwood your adult life, then you know that a lot of these opportunities aren’t available to other communities. I like seeing my tax dollars at work, and I think the taxes are reasonable for what you get.”
Safety is something that many people cite as another benefit to living in Beachwood, and it’s something that the city leadership prioritizes. Marcia appreciates the work that the police department does and said that, “Anything you need, they are there. I just can’t commend them enough.”
Living in Beachwood
What makes Beachwood so attractive is its ability to cater to a diverse range of needs—it’s a place where everyone can find their niche. The city’s reputation for exceptional schools, safe neighborhoods, and prime location contributes to the stability and desirability of the housing market.
There are a variety of housing styles, from single-family homes to condos, townhouses, apartments, and senior-specific housing. With tree-lined streets and well-maintained properties, the diverse architectural offerings ensure a robust real estate market and competitive property values. Beachwood offers a tranquil and secure environment where residents can enjoy peace of mind. With well-maintained neighborhoods and a vigilant community, safety is prioritized, ensuring a sense of security for all who call Beachwood home.
The city provides many services at no extra charge. These include services that residents in other cities typically pay for themselves—things like sidewalk repair and snow removal, senior transportation, and rubbish and recycling removal. One of the newest services is the Rust Belt Riders Composting Program. This program is free for all residents and is designed to minimize waste and promote sustainability in the city.
Community Life
RW and Connie Strong moved to Beachwood in 1979 because of the schools. They raised three children who graduated from Beachwood High School—the classes of 1985, 1987 and 1988. Two of their children moved back to Beachwood to raise their children, which means RW and Connie Strong have four grandchildren who graduated from Beachwood Schools, as well.
Connie says, “I wasn’t a senior when we first moved to Beachwood. But now I am navigating through senior life. Beachwood Community Center is a place where seniors can come together to support, encourage and enjoy one another. It’s like a family. I love the programs. There is so much to do, and there is always something that keeps us updated with various life changes and keeps us involved. I don’t think there’s anything I have to leave Beachwood to get for seniors.”
Beachwood is dedicated to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle among its residents. With numerous parks, recreational facilities and outdoor spaces, there’s no shortage of opportunities for residents to embrace wellness and enjoy the outdoors. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through the park, a workout session utilizing the outdoor exercise equipment, or a family outing to the Beachwood Family Aquatic Center, there’s something for everyone to do.
Community Services Director Derek Schroeder says, “I see the community center as the hub of what’s going on in the city. We try to spoil the seniors. We appreciate what they’ve done here in Beachwood. We want them to have positive experiences. We want them to get out of the house and come socialize.”
To support that goal, the Community Services Department has a director dedicated to older adult programming. Activities include different card games and Mahjong, a tile game. The city hosts a monthly luncheon where older adults can eat lunch while enjoying a program.
There are a number of different programs around the different arts including music, painting classes and storytelling. There are even technology classes and programs on how to get a book published. Beachwood also offers movies, trips, and concerts for older adults. A big community event is National Night Out, an event that happens all over the country to celebrate the police department and its role in the community.
The community center offers a full circle of activities to keep active, physically and mentally. Schroeder says, “One lady here is 99 years old, and she comes to her exercise class three times a week.
Sally and Bud Rich, both 91, have lived in Beachwood since 1986. Sally says, “All the senior adult programs are wonderful. I take Silver Sneakers classes at the community center, which doesn’t cost me any money because of our health insurance and it’s a terrific class.”
Beachwood also offers self-defense classes, balance seminars, and programs on improving mental health. This will be the first full summer with six new pickleball courts, which include teams, leagues, tournaments, lessons and open play.
When planning programs, Beachwood looks for ways to make programs accessible for participants with mobility challenges.
Sally says, “I’ve taken a tour of the Cleveland Metroparks that explained the Metroparks and what was growing. They took participants around on a cart throughout the tour.” The accommodation was helpful because her husband is unable to walk.
Beachwood offers a senior van service that operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The van provides door-to-door service within 10 miles of the city. Free for residents, last year the van provided around 1,000 rides to places such as doctor’s offices, grocery stores, community events and other activities.
Schroeder says, “We have a great team of drivers here. We pick up some people weekly, while others we pick up multiple times a week. It’s very appreciated by these seniors and the family members of the seniors that utilize the service. It’s great that we’re able to offer that.”
Schroeder also encourages residents to provide suggestions if they have ideas for programming. For those who are more entrepreneurial in Beachwood, whether full-time, part-time, or on the side, the city is home to the active Beachwood Chamber of Commerce, which also hosts the Women of Beachwood Chamber of Commerce Coffee Hour.
- Beachwood Library
In addition to the programming through the community center, the Beachwood Public Library is a wonderful resource. Tracy Strobel, Cuyahoga County Library CEO, says “Beachwood is such a library-loving community. It’s one of the busiest branches. Seniors love to come to the branch. We have a lot of senior-focused programming and just about every program offered there fills up with grateful and curious seniors who love to learn and to continue their lifelong learning and also to mingle with each other. It’s a great source of community there.”
There are a variety of programs across diverse interests including the arts, music and history. There are also author events, book discussions, and even cooking classes. Beachwood Library also provides space for other community groups that serve residents and seniors.
Beachwood Library Manager Amia Wheatley says, “We try to make sure we’ve got programming that’s relevant to the times in addition to regular library services. We also do a lot of outreach. We have a table at the Beachwood Fall Fest and sometimes other city events. We also do a lot of outreach to the Maltz Museum. We try to be here for the community.”
- Location
One of the benefits of Beachwood, in addition to housing, is its location. Beachwood is centrally located so it’s easy to get to many other locations. Positioned east of Cleveland, Beachwood offers easy access to major highways, making it ideal for commuters and travelers. It’s also only 30 minutes from Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. Premier shopping—including Beachwood Place—dining, parks, and The Maltz Museum and other cultural attractions further enrich the area.
- Beachwood Parks
Beachwood City Park East and West are located between Shaker Boulevard. There are miles of trails for bicycling, walking, running and skating. The park also has a pavilion and bathroom. The outdoor Fitness Park at Beachwood City Park East is open year-round to everyone at no cost.
Derek Schroeder says, “Some people ride from one side of the city to the other. They ride to the library, then from the library over to our recreation hub, which is the pool and the playground. Beachwood is small enough that you can get to things without having to drive, which is great. Residents have some of the most amazing amenities in their backyards.”
Beachwood Family Aquatics Center
Schroeder says that Beachwood Pool is “one of the most unique pools in northeast Ohio. So that is always going to be the place to be in the summer.”
Water aerobics is offered at the pool, and the pool is also the location of concerts every Tuesday night throughout the summer. At the end of the summer, the pool season ends with the dogs coming in to swim.
Community Garden
The Community Garden has 86 garden plots centrally located near the pool, playground, and tennis and pickleball courts. The garden is a great place to meet other residents while enjoying the process of tending the plants and enjoying the fruit (and vegetables) of your labor.
Dog Park
Not forgetting the furry companions, Barkwood provides a space for dogs to roam and play, fostering a sense of community among pet owners. With an astroturf surface, and key-fob entry system, Barkwood is a popular amenity among Beachwood’s dog owners.
A Message from the Mayor
Mayor Justin Berns describes the essence of Beachwood’s neighborhoods:
“Our neighborhoods in Beachwood are more than just streets and houses, they’re vibrant communities where neighbors become friends and families flourish. What sets us apart is our commitment to creating environments where safety, inclusivity and a strong sense of belonging thrive. From our top-rated schools to our diverse cultural offerings, Beachwood neighborhoods epitomize community and connections, making it an exceptional place to call home.”
With its blend of quality housing, top-tier schools, safety, convenience, and community spirit, Beachwood stands as a highly desirable place to live for individuals and families alike.
5. Places
Maltz Museum
Rooted in the Jewish value of respect for all humanity, the Maltz Museum’s mission is to build bridges of tolerance and understanding by sharing Jewish heritage through the lens of the American experience. It is dedicated to exploring diverse stories of courage from history and today, with a commitment to education and learning so that there can be a more inclusive tomorrow.
Mandel JCC
The Mandel JCC of Cleveland offers several programs, including swimming classes, arts and culture classes, and events for all people in the community.
Shopping
Beachwood Place
Upscale shopping mall with a variety of restaurants and stores including Saks Fifth Avenue, Zara, Nordstrom, Dillard’s, H&M and more.
LaPlace Shopping Center
Upscale shopping mall with a variety of restaurants and shops.
The Container Store
A shelving and storage company providing manufacturing home storage and organization solutions to help people get organized.
Cleveland Consignment Shoppe
Upscale, luxury consignment shop for clothing, handbags, jewelry, sunglasses, accessories and shoes. If you’re looking to sell your luxury items, Cleveland Consignment Shoppe takes pieces from luxury designers, contemporary labels and boutique lines.
clevelandconsignmentshoppe.com
Dining
Mitchell’s Ice Cream
Located in LaPlace with both indoor and outdoor seating, each ice cream batch is hand-crafted in their Ohio City Kitchen.
Nervous Dog Coffee Bar
Coffee bar with high-quality coffee and espressos roasted locally, twice a week. Also serving local pastries and desserts which include gluten-free, kosher, or vegan options.
Cedar Creek Grille
Featuring world-class burgers, simply grilled fresh fish, and USDA Choice and Prime Steak. All dishes are made fresh, in-house, with locally-sourced ingredients.
Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse
Chef-Inspired menu featuring a variation of legendary Aged Boutique Cut Steaks, Market Fresh Seafood, And Chef-Crafted Seasonal Features.
Heck’s
Heck’s is a place to dine, lounge, and meet up with friends. It’s best known for gourmet burgers, but it also has a wide variety of seasonal and locally sourced menu items.
Ho Wah
Chinese restaurant offering a classic lineup of noodles and stir-fries.
Tres Potrillos Mexican Restaurant
Authentic Mexican food, prepared with fresh ingredients.
Hello Bistro
A restaurant located in LaPlace Shopping center that specializes in burgers and salads.
Winking Lizard
This is a locally owned restaurant best known for its wings, pizza, and house-smoked ribs. It’s also a place where people can go to watch sports and cheer on their favorite Cleveland team.
Located Minutes From Beachwood
Pinecrest
Mixed-use district, located off the Harvard Road exit of I-271 in Orange Village. Pinecrest has apparel, home and specialty stores, chef-driven restaurants and entertainment venues. Or play a game of bowling or bocce at Pinstripes Bowling or check out a movie at Silverspot Cinema.
The Van Aken District
Features unique retail, delicious restaurants, and family-friendly entertainment. Located in Shaker Heights. This is a walkable, vibrant one-stop-shop to live, work and play.
Eton Chagrin Boulevard
Located in Woodmere, this luxury fashion district contains a fusion of exclusive boutiques, fine dining, and renowned national brands and local specialty boutiques.
Legacy Village
You’ll find traditional retail shopping along with unique boutique-style shops and service-oriented businesses like salons, a grocery and a pharmacy. Legacy Village also hosts a summer concert series, Food Truck Mondays, cooking demonstrations, and much more. You will also enjoy a variety of family dinner and fine dining options.
Nursing Homes
Beachwood Pointe Care Center
A 120-bed rehabilitation and skilled-nursing facility that offers a variety of services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and social services. They also have a secured memory care unit for residents with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.
Daughters of Miriam Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation (formerly Montefiore)
Offers skilled nursing care, assisted living, and independent living in a beautiful campus setting.
(216) 360-9080.
King David Healthcare Center (formerly Menorah Park)
The mission at King David Center is to enhance the quality of life of residents by creating a lively, safe, and inclusive community that promotes independence, wellness and continuous learning. Their nursing home provides skilled nursing care for seniors who require significant assistance with daily activities.
(216) 831-6500
Senior Independent Living
Rose Senior Living Beachwood
This community offers independent living with the option to add on assisted living services as needed. They have a variety of amenities, including a fitness center, library and on-site dining.
beachwood.roseseniorliving.com
Myers Apartments (formerly R.H. Myers)
Myers Apartments is an independent and catered senior-living apartment community. This welcoming community enhances independent living by offering a wide range of services and amenities so adults may enjoy life to the fullest as they age.
kingdavidnursing.org/independent-living
Beachwood Commons by New Perspective
Beachwood Commons offers independent living with the option to add assisted living services as needed.
npseniorliving.com/communities/beachwood-commons/
Assisted Living
The Villas at King David Assisted Living (formerly Stone Gardens)
The Villas at King David Assisted Living is an assisted living residence on King David Campus (formerly Menorah Park). It is designed with profound respect for the fact that people who may need assistance with daily activities as they age, still have high standards of residential living, still value their independence, still relish their privacy, and still retain their individuality.
(216) 292-0070
Wiggins Place
Wiggins Place is an award-winning assisted living community set on a six-acre wooded lot, complete with beautiful views and tranquil gardens, situated on the campus of King David Healthcare Center (formerly Menorah Park). This community has many choices in activities, fine dining and supportive living services.
menorahpark.org. (216) 831-2881
Medical Facilities
King David Aquatic & Therapy Center (Formerly Peter B. Lewis Aquatic and Therapy Center)
On the campus of King David Healthcare Center (formerly Menorah Park) in Beachwood, it provides treatment for a variety of physical ailments affecting clients by using aquatic therapy to strengthen and revitalize their bodies.
(216) 595-7345
MetroHealth System – Beachwood Health Center
This comprehensive health center offers various services, including primary care, dermatology, Express Care (urgent care), lab services, a pharmacy, physical therapy and breast imaging.
metrohealth.org/locations/beachwood
UH Beachwood Medical Center
This state-of-the-art facility specializes in orthopedics, urology, spine, and pain management. It also provides outpatient laboratory services and advanced diagnostics.
uhhospitals.org/locations/uh-beachwood-medical-center
Cleveland Clinic Beachwood Family Health and Surgery Center
This facility offers a variety of services including family medicine, internal medicine, OB-GYN, pediatrics, urgent care, and surgical specialties. It also boasts radiology, mammography, and lab services.
University Hospitals Ahuja Medical Center
Provides Beachwood and the surrounding communities with personalized and convenient access to nationally recognized healthcare, delivered by leading experts in primary, specialty and emergency care.
uhhospitals.org/locations/uh-ahuja-medical-center
