About River Forest

River Forest is both a celebration of an historic past and a thriving future. From the Frank Lloyd Wright architectural sites and tree-lined streets where grand homes still carry a sense of Chicagoland’s past to a bustling business district, River Forest is quickly becoming a place for many to call home. For its 11,000 residents, it is one of the best kept secrets for community life.

Only River Forest residents know about the unique boutiques and restaurants which offer a distinctive shopping and dining experience. Specialty storefronts from confectioners to apparel shops tucked along cafes and eateries create a vibrant hub where small businesses flourish outside the bustle of the city. Yet for those working downtown, River Forest provides a quick and easy community either via Metra or expressway. It’s the perfect mix of urban accessibility with the peace and comfort of a bedroom suburb. And with all the happenings of Oak Park right next door, River Forest seems perfectly positioned as the ideal location for any resident looking for a taste of a little of everything that Chicagoland has to offer.

Families especially have become central to River Forest with high performing school districts as well as distinguished universities and traditional cultural institutions like St. Luke’s Parish. Generations of residents continue to make River Forest their home as college graduates return to start families where they grew up. A blend of generations throughout the community gives River Forest its distinctive vitality and spirit.

With so much to do, a busy life sometimes needs an oasis. With over ten parks and preserves, River Forest offers a relaxing sanctuary with jogging paths and recreational areas throughout town. This includes new communal garden projects that bring residents together to share each other’s company while they cultivate as a community.

With a proud heritage and a bright future, River Forest is simply the place to be.