Beautifully Loud Echo Park

During my first time in Los Angeles last summer, I was quite content sashaying along Sunset Blvd. I was satisfied with the strips's Hispanic markets, and East LA's posh dog owners. One day, I took a turn down Park Ave, and encountered the stunning Echo Park. My eyes lustfully looked on as I walked slowly along the trails riddled with the tallest palm trees I've ever seen. I wanted to absorb, feel, and memorize every sight, smell, and sound. As I crawled along, I passed numerous couples, in different age brackets, laying down on blankets. I moved aside for the speedy children, maneuvered around a crazy, homeless man, and smiled at the ice cream vendor near the bridge. And when I moved away from the ice cream man, the smile remained. Echo Park made me instantly happy. I found a bench, overlooking Echo Park Lake and drank in the park's beauty. As the breeze danced on my bare arms, the nostalgia came with it. It was official; I missed Echo Park, even before I left it. Los Angeles has been solidified in my mind ever since.

To understand and get the most out of Echo Park's beauty, I would recommend any one gather a few friends, and head over there before noon to ensure grass blanket space. Instead of Starbucks' hangs or Netflix binging parties, an afternoon under palm trees and sun is a perfect backdrop to life. If you're riding solo like I was, bring a book, stereo, or journal to occupy your mind. People watching is also one of my favorite passtimes, and if you could discretely pull it off without seeming creepy, that is definitely a great way to spend your time.

Being alone is the only thing I would change about my experience at Echo Park. I would have brought a friend to lie out with me for hours, or use the small boats to go out on the lake. Surprisingly, not many people used the boats, which would have given beautiful sights and a fun experience. Even walking, or jogging around the park is desirable, because it allows you to fully experience what Los Angeles offers. Echo Park is the epitome of California, and I think back on my time there almost daily.