Location: Lake Forest
Top Things to do in Lake Forest
Countries
The 5 Best Nature & Wildlife Areas in Lake Forest, Illinois (IL)
Lake Forest is a city located in Lake County, Illinois, United States. As of the 2010 census it had a population of 19,375. The city is along the shore of Lake Michigan, and is a part of the Chicago metropolitan area and the North Shore.
Restaurants in Lake Forest
1. Wildlife Discovery Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 45 reviews
Reviewed By illinoistravelere
This living natural history museum is following government guidelines and is closed until April 30. Check the Lake Forest Parks and Recreation page for updates. Meanwhile, after the closing on March 13, the Center used its Facebook page to offer a "meet the staff" series. Starting March 21, the curator, Rob Carmichael and other staff began an ongoing series of educational and entertaining videos with Facebook Live episodes. Colouring pages are also being posted. As someone who grew up with Marlin Perkins and Wild Kingdom, I am delighted by these family-friendly activities and encourage you to take advantage of them until the WDC re-opens. Parks and Rec has set up a virtual recreation center that is could be a model for other communities. Follow the links on their website for a well-chosen collection of resources under the categories of "Stay Active," "Keep Learning," "Be Informed," and "Feel Connected". See my earlier reviews (December 26, 2019; June 14, 2019; June 2, 2018; September 2, 2016: and October 14, 2013) for more details.
2. Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 29 reviews
Reviewed By illinoistravelere
See my earlier reviews (June 2, 2015; October 1, 2019; and April 13, 2020) for more details. Today I hiked the birding loop which really showcases everything the preserve has to offer --spectacular views of Lake Michigan, prairies, ravines, bluffs, a military cemetery, the Hawk Watch volunteer station (August to November), bridges, historical signage, trails, woodland, pebble beach, etc. It sounds like a lot, but it's very doable. It can all be seen in a two-mile hike. Don't leave the area without admiring the attractive 19th-century limestone buildings (officers' quarters, etc.) in the nearby "historic district". They have been repurposed into modern residences. Sixty four of those handsome buildings were designed by eminent architecture firm Holabird & Roche. They designed some of the world's first skyscrapers. By 1920 they were one of the largest architecture firms in the country. Their work on the Palmer House is world-renown. There is also a 54-acre parade ground. Before the fort was decommissioned in 1993, we would come for the inspiring and patriotic July 4th fireworks display.
3. Middlefork Savanna Forest Preserve
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
4. Mellody Farm Nature Preserve
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
