Discovering Forest Park: A City Boy's Tale of the Ultimate “Suburb”
A life-long city boy, Chicago has been my hometown since day one. Growing up on the Near West Side of the city, I literally have lived my entire life within a nine-mile radius of the home I was born in (with stints in Lakeview and the South Loop). You see, the city’s vibe runs through my veins. The edginess of a big city, the urban energy, the cultural diversities, the grit, the #49 Western bus, the access to world-class amenities, the 77 unique neighborhoods. I love it all!
And now, I blame my seven-year career as a real estate agent for making me move from my life-long playground to a neighboring village named Forest Park. And…I could not be more grateful! Don’t get it twisted. I love Chicago dearly, like I love my favorite sibling (yes, YOU too also have a fave sib). But as my career as a city agent began to flourish and expand into the suburbs of Chicago (i.e. Skokie, Evanston, Oak Lawn, Barrington, just to name a few), I gained an insider’s perspective to the uniqueness and richness that each neighboring town had to offer. And although I could appreciate the value that each of these suburbs displayed, nothing came close to what I valued most about Chicago. Enter Forest Park.
This town offers all of the cultural diversities and type of city vibe that I absolutely adore. FP is enriched with local history, which the residents lovingly honor and hold dearly, while embracing and celebrating the cultural richness and vibrancy of its newest community members.
Forest Park is centrally located - 9 miles to downtown Chicago and 9 miles to both Midway and O’Hare Airports. For a guy that spends most of my day in my car, the town’s location could not be more ideal for me.
The word “forest” in the town’s name is quickly made apparent when you drive down any street in the area. Picturesque tree-lined streets and lots of green spaces - everywhere you turn! To add to the town’s charm and appeal, you’ll find many local shops, restaurants, bars and cultural institutions - everything you need, all within walking distance.
Is this a pitch for you to consider Forest Park for your next home purchase? Heck, yes. I’d hate to keep all this good livin’ all to myself. Come by for a visit sometime. Drinks and a tour are on me. Cheers!
