Echo Park

Wedged between the tidal wave of fully engulfed neighborhoods to its west and an unprecedented revival of downtown Los Angeles, Echo Park is in the midst of a rapid makeover—or more accurately put, gentrification. As of December 2015, Echo Park is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood where you'll find historic houses and low-income developments, 6 dollar designer coffee, dollar stores, hipsters, gangs, bike lanes and free 6-day parking on side-streets. It's where the Dodgers play in their stadium and quinceañeras adorn nearby Elysian Park. It's where some of your favorite hit songs from the 70's were written, and some of your favorite new shops and restaurants are—or will be.

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Elysian Park

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If you don’t live in the neighborhood, it might be a little tricky getting to the oldest and second largest park in Los Angeles, but it’s worth it. Hike the western loop which is about 2.4 miles with some mild points of elevation. It has many entry points, some through the residential neighborhood, and more obvious ones closer to Dodger’s Stadium. Lined with eucalyptus trees and surrounding forest, the park is a quick, magical escape from the congested city. You’ll meet many endearing pups along the trail, take in long views of the Golden State Freeway, LA River and San Gabriel Mountains, and possibly share a romantic moment on a hidden bench. At some point you’ll find a steep and plush grassy knoll, and there lies not just a breathtaking, unsuspecting view of Downtown Los Angeles, but also some surprising perspective.

Elysian Park
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Elysian Park
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Elysian Park
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Elysian Park
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Elysian Park
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Elysian Park
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Bar Bandini

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