SOLON COMMUNITY FOCUS
By Denise Koeth
Many who are seeking a vibrant, welcoming community in Northeast Ohio are drawn to Solon — and once they arrive, it’s easy to see why the award-winning city is a desirable place to call home.
Just 20 miles southeast of downtown Cleveland, Solon blends small-town charm with big-city convenience. The city is no stranger to accolades, consistently appearing on “Best Places to Live” lists, including Niche.com’s Top 3 for the Cleveland area in 2023. Solon City Schools is ranked #174 nationally and 4th best in Ohio, according to the U.S. News & World Report 2025-26 rankings.
While Solon is widely recognized for its excellence across the board, what truly stands out for older residents is the city’s focus on lifelong learning, wellness and community connection. From robust programming at the Solon Senior Center to abundant volunteer and cultural opportunities, residents find countless ways to stay active, engaged and socially connected.
Add in beautifully maintained parks, a flourishing arts scene, diverse dining and exceptional city services, and it’s clear why Solon continues to be a community where quality of life thrives. Whether you’re looking to settle in or simply enjoy a day exploring, Solon offers experiences worth savoring. Explore some of the city’s standout amenities and experiences below.
Programming & Services for Older Adults
Solon’s Department of Senior Services (solonohio.gov) is the anchor for older adults seeking community, connection and a vibrant lifestyle. Solon Senior Center offers an impressive range of opportunities to support wellness, independence and social engagement. Membership is free for city residents, while nonresidents can join for a modest fee. Many older adults get a fitness membership at no cost through Medicare programs.
Known for its health and fitness programs, activities such as cards, bingo, movies, classes and clubs make it easy for people to socialize. The center’s affordable café-style lunch makes it easy to spend the day, meet new friends, or simply stop in for a meal and conversation. Grandparents bring their grandchildren along when babysitting, adding an intergenerational energy.
Solon’s senior center programs extend into the community. Day trips to Amish Country, wineries and cultural attractions are always in demand. Volunteer opportunities at both the center and throughout the city are numerous. For those needing additional support, the department provides transportation, social work consultations, support groups and more.
Arts & Learning
Taking center stage is the Solon Center for the Arts (solonohio.gov), housed in the renovated Old City Hall, originally built in 1899. The center offers music, theater and dance, visual arts workshops, concerts, community theater and more.
The Solon Branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library (cuyahogalibrary.org) is another hub for lifelong learning and engagement. The library hosts guest speakers, authors, tech workshops and cultural events. Its Solon Innovation Center, in collaboration with Swagelok, provides free access to design software, plus a waterjet cutter, a 3D printer, sewing and embroidery machines and other tools.
The Solon Historical Society & Museum (solonhistoricalsociety.org) offers a fascinating look into the community’s farming roots and early settlement. Rotating exhibits, seasonal lectures, guided walking tours and history programs help residents connect with the past.
Get Moving
The Solon Community Center (solonohio.gov) features a modern fitness facility, indoor track, aquatic center and multipurpose spaces. Group exercise classes, wellness workshops and recreational leagues promote health and camaraderie. The outdoor pool is a summer retreat with shaded areas and lap-swimming opportunities, while the indoor pool has year-round aquatic fitness classes.
From ballroom to Latin to Bollywood, Solon is also a true destination for dance. Local studios offer instruction tailored to adults of all skill levels, whether you’re looking for a fun new hobby, a way to stay active, or even preparation for social events. Cleveland Bollywood (clevelandbollywood.com) brings the color and energy of Indian dance to Solon, with classes ranging from beginner-friendly fitness sessions to advanced choreography. Newly-opened Northcoast Dancesport Academy (northcoastdancesportacademy.com) specializes in ballroom and Latin dance, offering both private and group lessons in a comfortable, supportive setting. At Studio en Avant Academy of Dance (studioenavant.com), adults can explore ballet and Chinese dance, with options for everyone from curious beginners to experienced dancers.
Another standout addition to Solon’s recreation scene is Ace Pickleball Club (acepickleballclub.com), a premier indoor facility dedicated to the sport that’s quickly become a national favorite among adults of all ages. The club offers professional-grade courts, lessons, leagues and open play opportunities, making it easy for newcomers to learn the game and for seasoned players to stay active and competitive.
Solon offers a variety of options for golf, appealing to both casual players and enthusiasts alike. The city-owned Grantwood Golf Course (solonohio.gov) is a community favorite. Hawthorne Golf Estates (hawthornegolfestates.com), a new addition to the area, combines luxury living with golf. X-Golf Solon (playxgolf.com/locations/solon) has indoor golf simulators.
Outdoor Spaces
The crown jewel of Solon’s green spaces, Solon Community Park (solonohio.gov), is midway through a major transformation that includes 10 new pickleball courts, including two championship-level, ADA-compliant courts, as well as Sebastian’s Playground, an inclusive playspace. A Central Park area with walking paths, an open-air stage, and classroom space is slated for completion by summer 2026.
Timberlake Park, open April through October, features peaceful walking trails, picnic spots and a four-acre lake.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Solon’s seamless connection to the Cleveland Metroparks (clevelandmetroparks.com). Nearby South Chagrin Reservation provides hiking trails, bridle paths, picnic areas and the scenic Chagrin River.
Health, Wellness & Living
The city provides a wide range of wellness options for residents, from spa experiences and specialized medical care to vibrant senior living communities.
Spa Lavender (spalavendermassage.com) has a full menu of massages, facials and body treatments.
Timeless Medical (timelessrejuvemd.com), newly opened in Solon, specializes in advanced aesthetic and wellness treatments. From rejuvenating skincare and injectables to personalized health consultations, clients go there to look and feel their best.
For adults considering a lifestyle with added support and convenience, Vitalia Solon (vitaliasolon.com) offers an engaging senior living community focused on independence, comfort and social connection. It also has various levels of care to support residents as their needs change.
Solon Pointe (solonpointehc.com) has short-term rehabilitation and long-term skilled nursing care in a supportive setting. With a team of dedicated professionals, the community focuses on helping residents regain strength, improve mobility and maintain quality of life through its activities and comfortable accommodations.
Wine & Dine
Jim Alesci’s Place (alescis.com) has been a community favorite for generations, with Italian prepared foods, fresh baked treats, and carry out meals perfect for busy weeknights. Miles Farmers Market (milesfarmersmarket.com), has an extensive butcher shop, deli, cheese counter and produce selection, as well as prepared meals.
With bohemian décor and a Mediterranean inspired menu, the upscale Elle Restaurant + Lounge (ellecle.com) is a sophisticated destination for your next night out. Burntwood Tavern (burntwoodtavern.com) serves hearty dishes in a warm, rustic atmosphere, while Yours Truly (ytr.com) delivers comfort food favorites. Adventurous diners may gravitate toward Gogi En K BBQ (gogienkbbq.com), where authentic Korean flavors meet a lively interactive dining experience. First Watch (firstwatch.com) is a popular spot for a leisurely brunch. For a sweet treat, stop by Honey Hut Ice Cream (honeyhut.com) or Mitchell’s Ice Cream (mitchellshomemade.com) for a scoop (or two).
Swirl Wine Bar (swirlsolon.com), housed in a restored 19th-century Victorian home, is a refined yet relaxed destination to unwind. Its extensive wine list, paired with small plates made from scratch, makes it the ideal place for a leisurely evening.
Solon offers more than just great amenities and convenient access — it’s a city designed for living well at every stage of life.
