If you’re considering settling down in Ada and you’ve heard about Forest Hills, you’re not alone. This established neighborhood consistently draws families, young professionals, and retirees alike thanks to its blend of suburban comfort, green beauty, and an engaged community spirit. Here’s what it’s really like to call Forest Hills home—from the character of its streets and schools to its parks, local favorites, and unbeatable convenience.
A Welcoming Community Vibe
Forest Hills often feels less like a collection of houses and more like a connected village. Neighbors wave as they walk their dogs along Cascade Road or chat over coffee outside Forest Hills Foods. There’s a strong sense of belonging and pride—newcomers are often surprised by just how friendly and inclusive people are.
Community events are part of the fabric here: summer picnics in Ada Park, Saturday youth sports leagues, and seasonal gatherings like the Ada Parade. It's easy to get involved, whether that means joining a neighborhood association or cheering on a little league team under the lights at Forest Hills Central High.
Types of Housing: From Cozy Homes to Modern Builds
Forest Hills offers a mix of housing styles, which makes it attractive for a wide range of buyers and renters. Classic mid-century ranches line tree-canopied streets like Timbercrest Drive and Thornapple River Drive, with many lovingly updated for modern living. Drive into The Villas at Ada or the River Bluffs subdivision, and you’ll see recent builds with open floor plans, spacious lots, and premium finishes.
- Single-family homes dominate the area, with quiet cul-de-sacs and winding roads.
- Townhome and condo complexes, such as those near Cascade Road, provide low-maintenance options for active adults or busy professionals.
- Larger homes and estate lots can be found closer to the river and in newer developments, offering privacy and ample space—while never feeling isolated.
No matter the style, most homes benefit from mature trees, well-kept landscaping, and a careful neighborhood design that encourages both privacy and connection.
Walkability and Everyday Convenience
Forest Hills isn’t an urban neighborhood, but it stands out for its thoughtful walkability. Walking paths and bike trails wind through the heart of the community, making it easy (and safe) for kids to get to Forest Hills Meadows Park or for runners to hit the Ada/Cascade Trail.
Popular routes like Hall Street and Cascade Road lead to favorite local spots—think Ada Village’s boutiques, Gravel Bottom Craft Brewery, or the historic Ada Covered Bridge for weekend photos and picnics.
- Forest Hills Foods is centrally located, providing a hometown grocery with a surprisingly gourmet twist.
- Sidewalks connect neighborhoods to parks, schools, and small businesses, contributing to an active and healthy lifestyle.
- The Ada Farmer’s Market, held weekly near Bronson Street, is a seasonal highlight for fresh produce and local treats.
Top-Rated Schools and Family-Friendliness
The Forest Hills Public Schools district is a major draw—widely celebrated for its academic rigor, robust arts, and winning athletics. Families move here with confidence, knowing their kids will be zoned for standout schools like:
- Forest Hills Central High School
- Pine Ridge Elementary School
- Central Woodlands 5/6 Building
Children walk or bike to school safely, thanks to clearly marked crosswalks, crossing guards, and a supportive “walking school bus” tradition on key streets during warmer months.
Sports teams and extracurriculars are well-supported. You’ll find packed stands at high school games, talented student musicians in the Central Auditorium, and a community that shows up for every play, project, and competition.
Parks, Trails, and Green Spaces
Green space is a defining feature of Forest Hills, lending the whole neighborhood a refreshing, wooded feel. Ada Park, off Grand River Drive, is the central hub for families—offering tennis courts, playgrounds, soccer fields, and year-round events.
- The Ada Covered Bridge and adjoining trails connect to the Thornapple River, creating picturesque spots for fishing, kayaking, or evening strolls.
- Roselle Park features miles of boardwalks through wetlands, wildlife viewing platforms, and a huge sledding hill in winter.
- Cascade Peace Park, just minutes away, is beloved for its hiking trails, wildflowers, and panoramic river views.
These parks make Forest Hills ideal for outdoor lovers and anyone who wants green space right outside the front door.
Safety and Peace of Mind
Residents often cite safety as one of the top reasons for choosing Forest Hills. The area enjoys a strong relationship with local law enforcement and benefits from the Ada Township’s focus on community policing. Crime is low, and neighbors look out for one another—mail gets picked up, and homes checked on during vacations.
Many streets utilize neighborhood watch programs and have active online groups that help residents stay informed and look after each other.
Proximity to Downtown and Major Employers
Living in Forest Hills offers convenient access to both the quaint downtown Ada Village and the hustle of Grand Rapids. A quick drive down Fulton Street lands you in the heart of Ada’s growing shopping and dining scene. Forest Hills is also:
- 15–20 minutes by car to downtown Grand Rapids, with its lively arts, dining, and events.
- Close to major employers like Amway, Spectrum Health, and Steelcase headquarters.
- Near both the Gerald R. Ford International Airport and expressways, making travel and commutes straightforward.
This location means you get the quiet of suburbia with all the perks of city life and careers just a short drive away.
What Residents Love Most
Ask anyone in Forest Hills what they appreciate most, and you’ll hear some common themes:
- The balance of nature and convenience—you can walk along leafy trails in the morning and still grab a delicious dinner at Mudpenny by night.
- A true sense of community, where neighbors know each other, and everyone pitches in.
- Excellent schools and parks that make raising a family here a joy.
- Safe, beautiful streets perfect for evening strolls, Halloween parades, or summer bike rides.
Ultimately, Forest Hills offers the best of Ada: a friendly, close-knit community with natural beauty, stellar schools, and easy access to everything West Michigan has to offer.
If you’re looking for a neighborhood where community is more than just a word—and where every season brings new ways to connect—Forest Hills may just be the perfect place to call home.