Forest Lake is one of the most beautiful Lakes in the north metro area featuring outstanding scenery and outdoor activities. The beauty surrounding Forest Lake and the many recreational activities available around the lake have made it one of the most attractive destinations to live in the north metro area. The lake itself covers an area of 2,251 acres and has a maximum depth of 37 feet. Forest Lake has an abundant supply of fish including bass, walleye, and northern providing excellent fishing and angling year round. Forest Lake is home to an abundance of outdoor activities as well as other amenities within the city of Forest Lake. Forest Lake offers the perfect mix of outdoor activities and city amenities, making it an attractive destination to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

The earliest inhabitants of the area surrounding Forest Lake were the Dakota and Ojibwe Indians, who lived in the area because of its abundant hunting and fishing resources. The area was an attractive place for pioneers to settle because of its beautiful scenery with rolling hills, thick forests, meadows, and marshes. In 1855, William Nettleton started a stage-coach line from St. Paul to Duluth, which helped bring people to Forest Lake. In 1867, Michael Marsh built a resort on the north shore of Forest Lake drawing many more people to the area. He also built a post office, mercantile store, and boat landing. The Marsh House Resort became a popular summer destination for the wealthy people of St. Paul and people around the world. The town of Forest Lake began to grow as many shops began to open in the town center. As the town began to grow, the popularity of the lake grew with it.

Forest Lake is surrounded by several parks offering a wide range of aquatic and recreational activities. Lakeside Park is located on the northeast shore of Forest Lake offering plenty of outdoor amenities and scenic views. Lakeside Park features a beach, benches, boat dock, lake access, gazebo, grill, open space, picnic tables and shelter, and playground equipment. Lakeside Park is an excellent place to enjoy the water and numerous activities on the lake.

Forest Lake is also surrounded by plenty of restaurants, shops, and other attractions in the city of Forest Lake. Forest Lake offers a great balance of outdoor activities and city attractions appealing to a wide range of people.

One popular restaurant situated on the shores of Forest Lake is Acqua of Forest Lake. Acqua of Forest Lake is an Italian inspired restaurant serving fresh high quality locally grown ingredients. Acqua of Forest Lake seeks to provide excellent service in a warm and welcoming environment. They strive to maintain a clean and comfortable atmosphere that all customers will enjoy.

Stellas on 97 is neighborhood grill and event center featuring great food and fun. Stellas features a wide range of food and drinks from Asian and European to American, offering a wide variety of flavors. Stellas also offers an elegant event center located on Castlewood Golf Course. Stellas looks to meet the needs of each event catering the perfect meal for each event.

Forest Lake is home to several events offering plenty of fun while bringing the community together. One popular event held on the lake is the annual 4th of July Fireworks. This event caps off a day of celebration with an excellent fireworks show over the beautiful Forest Lake.

Forest Lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery, excellent amenities, and outstanding people making it one of the most desirable and attractive places to live in the Twin Cities.