Lake Forest Real Estate
A perfectly manicured, well-established polo paradise.
Widely known for its preservation of historic structures, classical landscaping, and unmatched natural beauty, the community of Lake Forest features bustling business districts, a central town square, one of Chicagoland’s best farmers’ markets, and a conveniently located Metra station leading downtown. Located just 30 miles north of downtown Chicago, locals find they have everything they could ever need within a stone's throw. A healthy variety of restaurants along Western Avenue, parks and preserves, and exclusive clubs are just a few cosmopolitan pleasures found within this perfectly manicured, well-established gem.
In the early years of the 20th century, country clubs became an important part of the social lives among locals. Annexation and further development of the surrounding communities in the 1950s led to a dramatic increase in population. Despite this growth which has continued into the 21st century, Lake Forest is most notably known for its vast green spaces, nature preserves, and extensive conservation efforts. Today, this well-manicured paradise is home to established neighborhoods, gorgeous estates, and affluent luxuries within the most basic aspects of everyday life.
What to Love
- Well-established, manicured neighborhood, rich in classical architecture
- Upscale shopping, dining, polo clubs, and golf courses
- Convenient Metra line provides transportation to central Chicago
Local Lifestyle
Lake Forest residents enjoy an elevated standard of living in even the most basic aspects of everyday life. Polo clubs, rounds of golf, shopping at upscale boutiques, and enjoying dinner at one of Western Avenue’s many locally-owned eateries are regular parts of life. Locals are fond of their beautiful year-round scenery, significant architecture, and a popular weekend farmers’ market, one of the best in the area. Named as one of the nation's best city-like suburbs, urban amenities and activities are appreciated, without sacrificing a quiet lifestyle along the shore of Lake Michigan.
Dining, Entertainment, and Shopping
The Deer Path Inn has set an unmatched standard for hospitality along Chicago’s North Shore. Since 1929, traditional English hospitality has been celebrated at this Lake Forest landmark. Arguably best-known for The English Room, one of Chicagoland's most celebrated fine dining establishments, The Deer Path Inn also hosts afternoon tea, serves an elevated bar menu at White Hart Pub, and is the perfect setting for both casual and more formal occasions.
Often named as the first planned shopping center in the United States, Market Square has served as the vibrant beating heart of Lake Forest since 1916. Upscale boutiques, locally run home goods stores, fresh produce, and a wide array of coffee shops, casual dining, and more formal restaurants can all be found in this walkable local gem.
The Lake Forest Wildlife Discovery Center, located on the historic Elawa Farm, is an extensive conservation site dedicated to the protection of 85 species of animals across 670 acres. Visitors can get up close and personal with crocodiles, birds of prey, and several other fascinating reptiles.
Things To Do
Throughout the year, the community of Lake Forest hosts community enrichment events in addition to several festive seasonal celebrations. Fireworks on the Fourth of July, the Memorial Day Parade, and the annual Lake Forest Day Parade and Carnival commemorating the end of summer are all highly anticipated gatherings, looked forward to by all. Enjoyed on a more regular basis, Deerpath Golf Course is an exceptional public course offering lessons, a driving range, weekly memberships, and on-site dining to locals. For quick trips out of town, downtown Chicago is a simple Metra ride away, while O'Hare International Airport is only twenty-five miles away.
Schools
Lake Forest locals cherish neighborhood schools and their high-performance standards. A few options include:
- Lake Forest School District No. 67, prekindergarten-8th grade; on average, the district boasts a low student-teacher ratio of 11:1
- Lake Forest High School, grades 9-12; LFHS offers 26 advanced placement classes, 50 honors courses, and is home to a highly successful athletic program,
- Lake Forest Academy, grades 9-12; this private boarding school was ranked as the second-best private school in the state by Niche.com
Contact Ali Lerner to learn more about real estate in Lake Forest and explore the homes for sale in the area!
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