10 Things Perfect for Older Adults to Do in Lake Forest

smiling group of seniors taking a picture

If you’re visiting Lake Forest, IL, one of Chicagoland’s premiere neighborhoods, you won’t want to miss these 10 destinations that are perfect for older adults.

Fun Things to Do in Lake Forest, IL

1. Citadel Theatre Company

The Citadel Theatre Company is the Lake Forest home of a professional theatre company where you can enjoy everything from beloved classics to exciting new works. Past productions include “Sentimental Journey: A Musical Tale of Love and War,” a true romantic history set against the backdrop of WWII, “The Roommate,” a dark comedy about a recently divorced woman in her mid-fifties, and “Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” a timeless musical.

2. Forest Park Beach

Forest Park Beach has just about everything you could need for a pleasant day at the lake. It’s broken into four beaches, including a 21+ beach that’s perfect for older adults. You can also walk along a stone footpath or launch a boat for a day out on the water.

The park is located at 220 E Deerpath Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045. Residents of Lake Forest with vehicle stickers can park in the lots, but non-resident parking is not allowed at the beach without a permit.

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3. Elawa Farm

Elawa Farm is a restored gentleman’s farm and garden dating back to the early 1900s. Built in 1917 for A. Watson Armour, a member of one of Chicago’s oldest and most distinguished families, the grounds today have been restored as an enduring and gorgeous example of estate farm architecture.

You can stroll the garden to take in both the landscaping and the architecture, or visit the market to purchase locally-grown produce.

4. Wildlife Discovery Center

Located at Elawa Farm is the Wildlife Discovery Center. It is a living natural history museum and instills in guests of all ages a passion for wildlife conservation and environmental stewardship.

The center is especially significant because it’s located along the Middlefork Savanna, a globally threatened ecosystem that provides shelter to a variety of plant and animal species. Programs at the center include adult education programs, group tours, and live animal exhibits.

5. Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve

If you love the outdoors, you’ll enjoy the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve, a shoreline preserve with plentiful opportunities to enjoy nature. It was originally a U.S. Army base until it closed in 1993, only to reopen as a public space.

At the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve, you can bike, fish, hike, cross-country ski, and go on self-guided trails and exhibits. There are both paved and unpaved trails for all hiking skill levels.

6. History Center of Lake Forest-Lake Bluff

Immerse yourself in local history at the History Center of Lake Forest-Lake Bluff. By touring the center, you can see what Lake Forest living has looked like for nearly two centuries.

A permanent exhibit features interactive displays highlighting significant people, places, and events that have shaped the area, while rotating exhibits give you a chance to take a closer look at specific topics. Admission to the museum is free. Learn more and plan your visit here.

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7. Market Square

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Lake Forest, IL, be sure to stop by Market Square. Past and present combine at one of the first planned shopping centers in the United States.

This unique shopping center in downtown Lake Forest is an excellent way to spend a free morning or afternoon. With both shops and restaurants, there’s something for everyone.

8. Popcorn Factory Store

In the Chicagoland area and looking for a unique stop? During your time in Lake Forest, stop by the Popcorn Factory Store!

The Popcorn Factory has been in business for 40 years and is known for its delicious popcorn-based snacks. If you visit the factory store, you can purchase the delicious gifts that are normally only available in catalogs.

9. Lake Forest Book Store

Though increased online competition and a changing market have forced many independent bookstores across the country to close, the Lake Forest Book Store is still going strong.

Get lost in the stories tucked away in the well-lit shelves of the book store and discover a new favorite. If you time your visit right, you may even be able to enjoy an author visit. You can view upcoming events here.

10. Deer Path Golf Course

Lake Forest is a golf enthusiast’s Eden. There are many courses that await you with favorable walkability, eminently puttable greens, and impeccable landscaping.

While most courses are private, you are welcome to visit Deer Path Golf Course, a public course.

Lake Forest Retirement Community

Another landmark of the Lake Forest area is Lake Forest Place, a luxury retirement living community. While you’re in town, you are welcome to visit us to see if the community is a good fit for you. Simply schedule a tour online and we’ll be in touch to finalize the details of your visit.