River Forest Real Estate & Information

Known for its high quality of life, the Village of River Forest boasts excellent schools, friendly neighbors, and numerous recreational activities. Ideally located in the near-west Chicago suburbs, River Forest is a small village with many architecturally interesting vintage homes – some of them the work of famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Homes have large lots and are situated on lovely tree-lined streets. The population was approximately 11,128 in 2009. The Village’s easy commute into Downtown Chicago as well as its close proximity to Oak Park’s numerous entertainment options keeps River Forest real estate in high demand.

Shopping and Dining
Locals can’t get enough of the pies at River Pizza on Lake Street, and Grandma Sally’s Family Restaurant is known as the place to go for inexpensive American favorites. The charming River Forest Town Center is home to 80,000 square feet of retail shops, including a Whole Foods Market. Additional shopping and dining options, including high-fashion boutique shops and restaurants to fit every budget, can be found in neighboring Downtown Oak Park.

Parks and Recreation
River Front real estate provides numerous options for playing, learning, and fun. The Des Plaines River and Cook County Forest Preserve runs through the western edge of town providing excellent nature hiking trails and picnic spots. Children enjoy the chance to climb in an eagle’s nest and crawl into a fox’s den at the River Trail’s nature discovery area. Close up views of local wildlife are available at Trailside Museum. Keystone Park features two soccer fields, baseball, softball, t-ball, batting cages, lit tennis courts, a climbing wall, and a hill for sledding. A variety of neighborhood parks offer children’s playgrounds and open spaces for play and relaxation.

Living
Residents of River Forest are proud of the Village’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Vintage homes are lovingly preserved and showcased as part of the annual Frank Lloyd Wright Housewalk. The River Forest Public Library hosts events for residents of all ages, including: weekly story times, teen movie nights, lyric opera lectures, and the Foreign Film Forum. Annual festivals, such as the Clear Sky Festival, bring residents together in the spirit of fun and community.

Schools, Health, Transportation
The Village of River Forest is home to excellent elementary and middle schools, as well as two private colleges: Dominican University and Concordia University. The award-winning Oak Park and River Forest High School, located in adjacent Oak Park, serves both communities. Resurrection Health Care operates both a family practice center and a cancer care center in River Forest. Rush Park Hospital is on South Maple Avenue in Oak Park. Commuters can easily reach downtown Chicago via the Metra train’s Union Pacific/West Line or the Pace bus service.