Why I Love It
Seriously one of my favorite places to hang with friends. It is really conveniently located near vintage stores, inexpensive bakeries, vegan restaurants, the Echo Park Farmer’s Market. Only 30 minutes from downtown and right off of the 101, it is pretty easy to get to and offers cross-cultural experiences. From one end of the lake you have a great view of Downtown and its home to a variety of Lotuses and birds — it’s not touristy, just laid back and casual. If you forgot your picnic or don't have time to visit one of the savory restaurants nearby, check out Beacon Echo Park - located right on the water at Echo Park lake in the refurbished Victorian boat house, offers chef-like foods with local produce. Note: depending on what you purchase it can be a little expensive, cut cost and share!.
TIP
The paddle boats are fun and pretty inexpensive at $10/hr. An occasional homeless tent can be found on the far edge of the park, but other than that the park tends to be clean, safe and lively. Just off of the Lake, is a secret stair walk that takes you up and through the original neighborhoods of DTLA, including Angelino Heights, home of the most amazing Victorian homes in all of LA (check out Charles Fleming's book, The Secret Stairs of LA).
More Info: https://www.beaconechopark.com/.
