Welcome to Shaker Heights
An upscale master-planned community with historical charm
Shakers Heights is a small city located eight miles from Cleveland, Ohio. It's known for its friendly neighbors, historical architecture, top-notch schools, and magnificent tree-lined parks and streets. Crucially, RTA Rapid Transit, the Greater Cleveland rail system, makes access to Cleveland a breeze.
Its proximity to Cleveland and suburban charm make Shaker Heights a premier destination for families and young professionals. Residents and healthcare workers enjoy proximity to the
University Hospitals and
Cleveland Clinic hospital systems. The community’s zoning codes across its nine neighborhoods maintain the area’s historic homes, unique character, and charm. Shaker Heights is also nationally recognized as the setting of Hulu’s suburban drama Little Fires Everywhere (based on the best-selling novel by Celeste Ng).
What to Love
- 75% of historic homes are on the National Register of Historic Places
- Quiet, suburban living
- Ethnically diverse population
- Mature trees along manicured lawns and backyards
- Easy access to Cleveland via car or RTA Rapid Transit
- Nine distinct neighborhoods with unique attractions and features
Local Lifestyle
Residents in Shaker Heights live an active lifestyle thanks to its vast green space, events, and amenities. For one, the town is plenty walkable, with suburban sidewalks perfect for dog walking. Wide open spaces are found along the community’s northern end and the Nature Center, the local’s favorite spot for outdoor activities like hiking, running, and bird watching. There are also many smaller parks and beloved community gathering spots like gardens. In the middle of town, residents flock to
Thornton Park, which features a public swimming pool, ice rink (weather permitting), sledding hill (same), and tennis and basketball courts.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
The Van Aken District is the vibrant urban heart of Shaker Heights. Located along Chagrin Blvd., the District blends high-end retail, great restaurants, and entertainment. Van Aken is technically a mall, a designation referring to the many boutiques and shops carrying lifestyle brands. But Van Aken also hosts live concerts, and the neighborhood has outdoor restaurants and bars to complement its nightlife.
Northstar Cafe and
Brassica are community staples serving organic New American and Mediterranean cuisine, respectively.
You'll love the dining scene in Shaker Heights. Head out to
Lox, Stock, and Brisket for a traditional Jewish meal. This deli infuses traditional Jewish culinary processes with modern twists to create a culinary experience you won’t soon forget.
Zanzibar Soul Fusion is a great place to dine with family and friends. Patrons' favorites include fried green tomatoes, jerk chicken, and waffles. For a leisurely weekend brunch, visit
Edwins Too, where you’ll be presented with a sprawling menu of chef-created entrees.
At
Shaker Square, you will find everything you need to satisfy your dining and shopping needs. The
North Union Farmers Market is perfect for purchasing fresh produce, local artisan goods, and fresh desserts. Nearby
Larchmere Boulevard is home to a variety of specialty shops, where you can find a gift for a friend, purchase an item for your wardrobe, or browse shelves for a new book.
Things to Do
There is something for everyone to do in Shaker Heights. Bikers and hikers will love this town, named a Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists because of its incredible neighborhood spots designed for runners, cyclists, and walkers. The
Median Field and Trail, the
Horseshoe Lake Park Trail, and the Lake to Lake Trail are just a few of the nature paths in Shaker Heights.
Green Lake (better known as Duck Pond) rounds out the area’s outdoor recreation offerings.
If you love golf,
Shaker Heights Country Club and
Canterbury Golf Club present opportunities for exclusive play. The course at Canterbury takes after Scottish links — hilly, demanding, fair — and has been recognized as one of the 100 best in the U.S. Likewise, members of Shaker Heights CC enjoy a family experience that extends beyond golf and includes a pool, tennis courts, and a golf simulator that’s useful in winter.
Science and nature enthusiasts flock to the
Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, whose education programs feature a wide range of topics for all ages. History buffs treasure the
Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage next door in Beachwood. The venue boasts seasonal and permanent exhibits teaching guests about Jewish history and culture.
Schools
The Shaker Heights City School District serves the community of Shaker Heights. Students may attend: