Around Town

Go to the beach or to the city

The school always puts on many events such as dances, DJ's, karaoke, pageants, drag shows, etc. There is always something to do and many alcohol and non-alcoholic options for students.

The good news is that although Lake Forest may lack student life, it is only an hour away from the bustling hub of Chicago. The schools proximity to the city offers numerous opportunities for social outings and most importantly internships. On campus, sports are a big deal, and most Foresters turn out to sports events. Most events on campus that involve drinking have now been abolished, so don't expect much partying here.

Many people here complain that there's nothing to do in Lake Forest, but that isn't exactly true. As background, Lake Forest is one of the wealthiest cities in Illinois. The town essentially closes down by 10pm, so most students will visit nearby Highwood for its nightlife. However, LF hosts multiple art fairs during the fall, as well as a weekly farmer's market in the square. Lake Forest's public beach on the shores of Lake Michigan is stunning and just a few blocks from the College. The city has hundreds of acres of restored prairie and forest, as well as an excellent park system. I personally think that just walking around the town and looking at the ravines and 19th century mansions that abound is interesting. Of course, Chicago and Evanston are readily accessible by the Metra for those who want to get off campus. For a larger campus social scene, many students go to Northwestern on the weekends, which is just a 25min train ride south from Lake Forest.

Although the town of Lake Forest doesn't offer much to do for fun, the Metra is a 10 minute walk from campus and can provide students a mode of transportation to visit Chicago, Evanston and the other towns nearby. There are various organizations to join on campus if leaving campus doesn't seem appealing- everything from art club to ultimate frisbee. There are also ACP's, or All Campus Parties, hosted in the Student center at least once a month. Sporting events are always happening as well if that's a more appealing option.

Lake Forest is 20 minutes north of Chicago, if there is no traffic and if you take the train it is 45 minutes. A lot of the students go into the city often to have fun. The Lake Forest beach is a 10 minute walk away and there are plenty of events, parties and games that the students go to as well.

Because Lake Forest is so close to the Lake Forest train stop, Chicago and all of its glory is only a train ride away. More locally however, there are many cute shops and restaurants a walk away from campus. In the surrounding towns there are also many options for entertainments which the provided shuttle from the school will bring you to.

Lake Forest town is full of cozy places to look around, odd shops and restaurants are abundant. The College also has a shuttle bus that heads to malls within a twenty mile distance. And of course there is the beach about a mile away, not a long walk with friends. :D

Go to social events--all campus parties, visit downtown Chicago, get involved in Sorority and Fraternity life.

The beach is a great place to hang out during the hotter months. The train station is a ten minute walk from campus and an amazing way to get into Chicago if for those without (or even with) a car. This school also has a lot of on campus activities. For instance, ACP's (all campus parties) are dances hosted by the school on a monthly to bi-monthly basis. Along with this, organizations are always throwing events. Hard to get bored on weekends even if your just staying on campus!