Echo Park Lake
A reclaimed urban lake with lotus beds, swan pedal boats, fountains, and a skyline backdrop.
The call
Worth it if you are watching the budget and you only have one day.
Why
- 01
A pretty, laid-back neighborhood lake — pedal a swan boat among lotus blooms with the downtown skyline behind you, very local and very chill.
Our read - 02
It's a low-key hour, not a destination; the lotuses peak only in summer, and outside that it's simply a nice park stroll.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Go if
You are watching the budget
Echo Park Lake earns the spend, even on a tight budget.
You only have one day
Short trip or not, keep Echo Park Lake.
You are traveling with kids
With kids, Echo Park Lake is an easy yes.
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, Echo Park Lake is an easy yes.
Think twice if
You are planning for two
Echo Park Lake offers some romance, but not enough to make it the reason to go.
You want time outdoors
Echo Park Lake offers some nature & scenery, but not enough to make it the reason to go.
Plan it well
- Cost
- Free; pedal boats ~$11/hr
- Timing
- Summer for the lotus bloom; mornings or late afternoon for the light.
- Allow
- 1-2 hours
- Accessibility
- Flat, paved lakeside loop that's fully wheelchair and stroller friendly.
- Getting there
- Drive and find street parking, or take a Metro bus along Sunset.