A generator will only be useful as long as you have fuel. Solar would be a nice backup but being able to live without electricity is the best way to plan. Ask the Amish. ;-)
A windmill and solar panels are the easiest ways to get off the grid.
If you’ve got property next to a creek or river, you could try with a waterwheel... except that a waterwheel is illegal if place on federal property.
They have water (water-mill) type generators if you’re near water. Wind is a bit unreliable unless you live on a plain. As you mentioned solar, and if you happen to have gas, a Capstone generator can give you power (I used to work for them.). ‘Course one can always attach one to an exercise bike! :-)