SOLON, Ohio — Solon is getting a new kind of green business this July: its very first cannabis dispensary.
The Botanist, located at 33113 Aurora Road, is preparing to open its doors pending final approval from the Ohio Division of Cannabis Control.
Kate Ols, executive vice president of revenue for The Botanist, said they are hopeful that approval will come this week.
Once open, the dispensary will serve both medical marijuana patients and adult-use customers.
The company also plans to launch a drive-thru soon after opening, giving shoppers a convenient and discreet way to pick up orders without leaving their car.
The dispensary’s opening comes as Solon officials consider new zoning regulations that would limit how close marijuana dispensaries and vape shops can be to each other.
The proposed changes aim to prevent over-concentration, promote public health and reduce youth exposure to cannabis and vape marketing.
A text amendment to the zoning code was set to be discussed at the June 24 Planning Commission meeting.
If approved, its would still require City Council approval before taking effect.
“The Botanist Solon is our first dispensary in the city, a thoughtfully repurposed space completely reimagined for today’s cannabis customer,” Ols said.
“This location also features one of Northeast Ohio’s first cannabis drive-throughs, launching shortly after opening, and is designed to serve both medical and adult-use guests with convenience, professionalism and care.”
City leaders have also weighed in on the arrival of Solon’s first cannabis dispensary.
“We are a large ‘business city’ and we welcome all of our nearly 900 businesses,” he said.
“This is a state-regulated business governed by Ohio Revised Code chapter 3780, entitled Adult Use Cannabis Control
“This Ohio Code section was enacted after Issue 2 passed (in) the State of Ohio, as well as the City of Solon, in 2023,” Kraus said.
The store will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. It sits just down the street from The District, Solon’s mixed-use development project expected to bring apartments, retail, office space and a hotel by 2026.
According to Ols, The Botanist chose Solon because the city offers a mix of strong community engagement and limited access to legal cannabis options.
“Solon is a thriving, highly engaged suburb with a population that values quality, service and convenience. It’s also underserved when it comes to safe, legal access to cannabis,” she said.
“We saw a clear opportunity to fill that gap with our experience-focused retail model.”
Customers visiting the store can expect a boutique-style atmosphere with a calm, professional vibe.
The Botanist is designed to be accessible to everyone, from seasoned cannabis users to those stepping into a dispensary for the first time.
“For first-time customers, we take the guesswork out of cannabis shopping by offering clear product classifications, staff recommendations and one-on-one support,” Ols said.
“For returning guests, we offer express checkout and online ordering options to keep visits quick and easy.”
The upcoming drive-thru is expected to make the experience even more convenient.
“Shoppers will place orders online and select the drive-thru at checkout, then arrive at a designated time for a quick in-car pickup with no need to leave their vehicle,” she said.
“It’s ideal for working professionals, parents, caregivers or anyone who values convenience, speed and privacy.”
The store’s menu includes a wide range of cannabis products including flower, vapes, tinctures, topicals and edibles.
Many items are locally sourced from Ohio cultivators and processors.
Staff members are trained to help guide customers to products that meet their wellness goals or recreational preferences.
Beyond offering new cannabis options, Ols said the dispensary is already having a positive economic impact in the area.
“The Botanist Solon has created new job opportunities for individuals passionate about cannabis and customer care,” she said.
“We’re proud to support career growth from within and invest in ongoing training so our staff can deliver the high level of service The Botanist is known for.”
The business has also transformed the appearance of the building on Aurora Road with updated landscaping, a modern exterior and a more welcoming facade.
“A significant portion of the excise tax on recreational sales goes directly back to the city for reinvestment in the community,” Ols said.
Whether customers are seeking relief, relaxation or just want to learn more, Ols said the store is ready to meet people where they are.
“We’re proud to bring safe, legal cannabis access to Solon for the first time,” she said.