The annual Northeast Ohio Parent Choice Awards seeks to gather the opinions of local parents on everything family-friendly in the region. Our readers and online followers voted for their favorite businesses, attractions, family services and more.
Here are the winner and runners-up in the “best town to raise a family” category.
Click here to view winners and runners-up in all categories.
Winner: Solon
Solon is no stranger to “Best of” lists, with Solon City Schools consistently rated as one of the top public school districts in Ohio and the nation. In addition to top-notch schools, the city offers amenities for families of all ages and interests, from special events to kid-friendly activities — especially through its Recreation Department, the Solon Center for the Arts, and the Department of Senior Services. Add a plethora of shopping and dining options, plus playgrounds, parks and golf courses, and Solon offers ample family-friendly opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
solonohio.org
Runners-Up:
Cleveland
Located along the southern shore of Lake Erie, Cleveland is the second-largest city in Ohio. Downtown Cleveland features an array of activities to choose from: watch the Cleveland Guardians play at Progressive Field, listen to live music at the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, or get immersed in live theater at Playhouse Square, the largest performing arts center in the U.S. outside of New York City. Cleveland also is home to the iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, which documents the history of rock music and inducts new members every year.
clevelandohio.gov
Lakewood
The third-largest city in Cuyahoga County, Lakewood was established in 1889 and named for its lakefront location. Lakewood Park is one of the largest lakefront parks in Ohio and features a live concert stage, outdoor swimming pool, picnic pavilions, four-season public pavilion, kids’ playground, baseball, volleyball, and a skate park. The Lakewood Civic Auditorium, a 2,000-seat performing arts venue located on the campus of Lakewood High School, features the world’s largest free-standing ceramic sculpture, Early Settler, created by American industrial designer Viktor Schreckengost.
lakewoodoh.gov
Shaker Heights
Just eight miles from downtown Cleveland, Shaker Heights is known for its high-quality schools, walkable neighborhoods, beautiful parks, and vibrant commercial districts, including the popular Van Aken District. This vibrant urban hub, located in Downtown Shaker Heights, offers the best mix of retail, restaurants and entertainment – all in support of the local economy. Known for its extravagant houses, nature center and bike trails, Shaker Heights is equipped with everything you need to raise a family.
shakeronline.com
