The best area to stay in River Forest is near Lake Street, particularly the area bordering Oak Park, as it provides the most convenient access to amenities and transport links.This central area offers a pleasant blend of residential comfort and accessibility. Lake Street itself is a main thoroughfare, connecting River Forest to its more bustling neighbour, Oak Park, where you'll find a wider array of restaurants and shops. You'll find a few local shops and eateries directly on or just off Lake Street within River Forest, and it's well-connected by public transport for exploring further afield.For travellers looking for a refined and convenient base, this area is ideal. It's well-served by public transport, including the Metra commuter rail and CTA Green Line, making day trips into downtown Chicago straightforward.