Echo Park is a community in Los Angeles not far from downtown that is artistic and diverse. It’s where bohemians and other free spirits commiserate in gentrified coffee shops, hang out in cozy bars, or shop in eclectic boutiques. It also has an edgy side, with its share of homeless, and colorful characters. But one place everyone can go for relaxation and a touch of nature is Echo Park Lake.
Find more things to do and where to stay in Echo Park, here.
It’s a man-made reservoir that was built in 1870 to provide drinking water for the local residents. The lake has undergone massive cleaning and renovation in recent years and is now on the list of “things to do in LA” for those yearning for peace and serenity.
It is especially lovely on a gorgeous spring day. A walk around it is approximately 1 mile. You will see families of geese everywhere with gooselings in tow.
There are also plenty of pooches, so if you have a dog, it’s dog friendly.
The lake has a striking view of Downtown Los Angeles
On any given weekend, swarms of paddlers in adorable swan boats lazily float by taking in the scenery and the nearby skyscrapers.
Book a swan boat ride in Echo Park, here.
A famous landmark at the northern end of Echo Park Lake is the Angelus Temple where evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson held services at the first mega-church in Los Angeles. The building holds almost 9,000 people and was erected in 1923. It looks like a theater on the outside and is currently the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel.
Not far from the lake is Angelino Heights where you can take a tour of some of Los Angeles’s last-standing Victorian Homes.
The Echo Park Lake Lotus Festival
Echo Park Lake has an annual Lotus Festival that takes place in July so if you are there during the summer make sure to put it on your calendar.
It’s a celebration of Asian culture with a different country in focus each year. When I attended it was all about Thailand.
Parking is at a premium so if you can take an Uber, it may be worth it.
Festival vendors and ethnic food trucks and pop-ups are set up on the Northern end of the lake.
There is also a tented entertainment area for various ethnic dance groups and demonstrations of Asian culture.
Chinese Dragon Boats are launched by enthusiastic teams of rowers who navigate the lake dodging the swan boats.
The lake’s Japanese-style bridge gives the festival a serene atmosphere as it rises above the blooming lotus beds.
Community organizations, and voter registration volunteers are on hand as well as sellers of Asian and Hispanic jewelry, clothing, and art. There are continuing demonstrations and entertainment throughout the day.
It’s beautiful all year round
Los Angeles has several urban lakes throughout the city but Echo Park Lake is one of my favorites. I’m so glad it’s been revitalized for everyone to enjoy. Anyone who needs a respite while visiting L.A. will find peace and relaxation there and feel welcome.
Find the best events taking place in Los Angeles HERE
Do you have city lakes where you live? What’s your favorite one and what do you love about it? Please leave a comment below.
Echo Park has such a rich history in movies, TV, novels and songs. Great pictures, feel like I was there with you!
Thanks, Haralee. It’s so true about the movies. Glad my visuals captured your imagination. I love that.
What a beautiful, special place. On my next trip to LA (which I hope is soon) I’d love to go.
I hope you do. We could meet up, Laurie.
That beautiful lake reminds me of the one that I work next to in Orlando. Lake Eola. It comes complete with ducks, swans, swan boats, and many different kinds of festivals throughout the year. Sounds like a beautiful festival and I’m glad you didn’t get heatstroke!
I bet it’s gorgeous Jennifer. I’ve been to Orlando but not that lake. This lake is in the inner city but is a nice respite.
Thanks for this introduction to Echo Park. It’s nice to see the Canada geese living there! Is this the same Echo Park that was immortalized in that song back in the 1980’s? (Can’t remember who sang it, but it was catchy!)
Were you thinking of McArthur Park where the cake was melting in the dark, Doreen? Echo Park is not far from there.
I’ve been to LA several times but never visited Echo Park Lake. It sounds like there are many things to do there. Will have to check it out next time.
The lake is in an urban section of town but it’s fun Judy. If you come to LA, let me know and we can hang out.