This phase I trial is studying the side effects and best dose of 17-AAG when given together with sorafenib in treating patients with unresectable or metastatic solid tumors. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as 17-AAG, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Sorafenib may stop the growth of tumor cells by blocking some of the enzymes needed for cell growth and by blocking blood flow to the tumor. Giving 17-AAG together with sorafenib may kill more tumor cells.