Situated about 30 miles north of downtown Chicago, Lake Forest, Illinois is one of the North Shore’s most historic and distinguished communities. Known for its tree-lined streets, beautiful lakefront, and stately estates, Lake Forest offers timeless elegance and a deep sense of community.
Home to around 19,000 residents, the city combines small-town charm with access to exceptional schools, parks, and cultural attractions. From its architectural heritage to its active civic life, Lake Forest remains one of the most desirable places to live in the Midwest.
Lake Forest Neighborhoods
1. East Lake Forest / Lakefront District
Stretching from Sheridan Road to Lake Michigan, East Lake Forest is renowned for its historic mansions, tree-canopied streets, and access to Lake Forest Beach and Forest Park. The area includes some of the most architecturally significant homes in Illinois—many designed by famed architects like Howard Van Doren Shaw and David Adler.
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Vibe: Prestigious, historic, and peaceful
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Schools: Everett Elementary and Deer Path Middle, feeding into Lake Forest High School
2. Central Lake Forest / Downtown
Centered around Market Square, one of the nation’s first planned shopping districts, this area blends historic charm with modern amenities. Residents enjoy local restaurants, boutiques, and coffee shops like Hometown Coffee & Juice and The Deer Path Inn, all within walking distance of the Metra Station.
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Vibe: Walkable, elegant, and community-focused
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Schools: Sheridan Elementary, Deer Path Middle, Lake Forest High School
3. West Lake Forest
West Lake Forest offers larger lots, newer construction, and convenient access to I-94, Knollwood Country Club, and Everett Farms Park. This area is popular among families seeking more space while staying close to the heart of town.
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Vibe: Suburban, spacious, and family-friendly
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Schools: Everett Elementary, Deer Path Middle, Lake Forest High School
4. Conway Farms / Southwest Lake Forest
Home to the Conway Farms Golf Club, this newer development features luxury townhomes and custom single-family homes surrounded by open green space. Residents enjoy proximity to Conway Park’s business district and the Metra line to Chicago.
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Vibe: Modern, upscale, and convenient for commuters
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Schools: Everett Elementary, Deer Path Middle, Lake Forest High School
Schools and Education
Lake Forest is served by Lake Forest District 67 (K–8) and District 115 (high school).
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Elementary Schools: Everett, Sheridan, and Cherokee
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Middle School: Deer Path Middle School
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High School: Lake Forest High School (LFHS) — nationally recognized for academics, athletics, and arts
Private options include Lake Forest Academy, Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart, and Lake Forest Country Day School, all offering exceptional college-prep programs.
Lifestyle and Amenities
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Lake Forest Beach & Forest Park – Stunning lakefront with swimming and trails
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Market Square – Historic shopping and dining hub
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Deer Path Golf Course – Public 18-hole course
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Lake Forest College – Liberal-arts campus enriching local culture
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Gorton Community Center & CROYA – Active community and youth programs
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Lake Forest Open Lands – 1,000 acres of preserved nature for hiking and wildlife watching
Why People Love Lake Forest
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Top-rated public and private schools
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Historic architecture and timeless lakefront beauty
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Abundant parks, trails, and outdoor recreation
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Elegant downtown with boutiques and cafés
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Convenient Metra service to Chicago
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Strong sense of community and heritage
Explore Lake Forest Real Estate
From classic lakefront estates to family homes near Market Square and modern builds in Conway Farms, Lake Forest offers a rare blend of sophistication, history, and natural beauty.
Explore Lake Forest real estate with Sarah Jividen, your trusted North Shore Realtor backed by @properties. Let’s find your perfect Lake Forest home.
