A gentle, low-IQ man named Forrest, while waiting for a bus, recounts his past to various strangers who sit next to him on a bench. His storytelling reveals an extraordinary life. Born and raised in the Deep South, Forrest overcomes the challenges of his intellectual disability and the braces on his legs with the support of his devoted mother, who insists he is no different from anyone else. Forrest's life is marked by a series of inadvertent achievements; he excels as a football player in college, becomes a war hero in Vietnam, and meets historical figures such as Elvis Presley and several U.S. presidents. His childhood love, Jenny, weaves in and out of his life, influencing his journey.

The narrative unfolds through Forrest's peculiar perspective as his innate goodness and straightforward approach lead to a variety of adventures and successes. Despite his perceived limitations, Forrest proves an exceptional ability to influence and inspire those around him. His story is one of unwavering love, resilience, and the unforeseen impact a single individual can have. Simultaneously, the historical setting provides a backdrop to his personal tale, framing his experiences within the turbulent and transformative events of mid-20th century America. Forrest's unassuming participation in significant historical moments offers a refreshing, often comical, perspective on American culture and history.