Lake Forest, Illinois
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Notable For
As mentioned previously, Lake Forest, like many of its neighboring cities, has sweeping prairies and nature preserves, providing its citizens the opportunity to explore and host numerous outdoor activities. The inner limits of the city itself are known for their picturesque and distinctive street plan, with rows of beautiful historic homes. The original plan of Lake Forest was to be a city surrounded by the beauty of nature, taking into account its natural ravines and bluffs. The community has many bike trails and good sidewalks, with the ability to bike to Lake Michigan if so desired.
Cost of Living
Considering its small town feel and exclusivity, the tax mill rate is significantly lower than its neighboring towns and cities. But with this in mind, Lake Forest still has a relatively high cost of living, more than double the average cost of living within the United States. The price of homes may contribute to this high cost of living.
Transportation
Lake Forest offers several modes of transportation, including buses and taxis. Perhaps one of the most significant modes is the train through two Metra train stations, located in East and West Lake Forest. It plays a significant role in the quality of life for its residents, especially those who work within Chicago city limits. Lake Forest has access to an interstate through the Tri-State Tollway (I-94). If using I-90 E, it only takes one hour and 14 minutes for someone to drive from Lake County to downtown Chicago. Driving to O’Hare International Airport is only a 30 minute drive.
Schools
Lake Forest schools are divided into two separate districts: District 67 and District 115. District 67 has two kindergarten through 4th grade schools, a single pre-k through 4th grade school, and one middle school. District 115 consists of Lake Forest public high school, which primarily serves the communities of Lake Forest and Lake Bluff. Lake Forest Academy and Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Hearts are two private high schools in the community. Academic ratings for the schools in this county according to Great Schools is eight or above. The high school especially has phenomenal college and career readiness, measuring far above the state average. Additionally, Lake Forest has one four-year coeducational private liberal arts college: Lake Forest College.
Attractions
Lake Forest’s Market Square attracts many visitors with its upscale shops, cafes, and dining options. The community’s pride is evident in the events and festivals they host, like the annual Art Fair that has been going on for 64 years. Lake Forest is also home to the Citadel Theatre and the Lake Forest Symphony. One of the most popular attractions of Lake Forest is the Wildlife Discovery Center. It houses an extensive venomous reptile exhibit, with a main room featuring bearded lizards, turtles and tortoises, snakes, and crocodilians. The facility also has an indoor and outdoor raptor center, showcasing several different types of owls and hawks.