Distance to Downtown Chicago:
31 miles

Average Drive Times:
40 minutes to Chicago Loop
30 minutes to O’Hare Airport
60 minutes to Midway Airport

Express Train Commute to Loop:
45 minutes

The lake front community of Lake Forest has a rich history tied to Chicago’s founding families. Established in 1857 as a college town serving Lake Forest and Barat Colleges, the city’s historical heritage, tranquil surroundings, and gracious quality of life have been carefully preserved through thoughtful growth. Spacious homes on large wooded lots, winding tree-lined streets, gas street lamps, bricked beach paths and historic Market Square all contribute to the area’s country appeal. The Gorton Community Center, hub of the city’s charity organizations and numerous senior programs, shows strong community support for charity and the arts. Lake Forest is able to provide all of today’s desirable amenities without losing sight of its small town values.

Transportation
Metra express rail service connects Lake Forest commuters with the Chicago Loop in just under 45 minutes. Bus and limousine service to O’Hare Airport is available. Drivers use I-94 immediately west of Lake Forest.

Schools
Lake Forest is home to outstanding public and private schools, two four-year colleges, and a graduate business school. Lake Forest High School averages a 24.5 composite ACT score with an 87% graduation rate.

Recreation
The Lake Forest Park and Recreation Departments support a full range of activities for residents of all ages. A dozen parks in the area totaling some 350 acres include first-rate boating, swimming, and sailing facilities at Beach Park. The Recreation Center facilities accommodate a wide variety of activities, from basketball, tennis and racquetball to sailing lessons. A beautiful wildlife preserve is also located in town. Many fine public and private facilities and country clubs are also close by.

Shopping
Market Square and the Lake Forest central business district provide many convenient shopping options. Northbrook Court, Old Orchard, and Hawthorn Center are major regional malls located in nearby communities.

Hospitals
Lake Forest Hospital, a 267-bed facility, including an 88-bed facility at Westmoreland Nursing Home, employs over 350 medical professionals. The emergency room is a level II trauma center. Specialties include cancer care, the Center for Breast Health, Pain Treatment Center, Sleep Disorders Lab, a level II nursery, the Dearhaven Child Care and Learning Center, and a state-of-the-art health and fitness center. Condell Memorial Hospital and Highland Park Hospital are among the alternatives to area residents.

Places of Worship
Fourteen major denominations are served in Lake Forest, represented through a number of congregations. Others are represented in nearby communities.