Tell Me About: The Echo Park Swan Boat Night Ride

Image: Ramsey Isler, Wikimedia

What’s better than floating along the hidden gem of Los Angeles that’s Echo Park atop a swan-shaped pedal boat? Doing so at night, obviously! Welcome to what is unarguably one of the most romantic experiences of a lifetime.

Boats are a great way to both learn about an area and relax while doing so, and the Swan Boats at Echo are no exception. But, first; a brief history.

Originally built in the 1960s as a drinking water reservoir, the lake and surrounding area fell upon hard times until a $45 million renovation in 2013 breathed a new lease of life into it, transforming it back to its former glory. Today, it resides as a natural oasis in the heart of the city, and the pedal boats at Echo Park Lake remain one of the city's top activities.

Yes, you can glide on the lake that sits in the diverse and trendy neighborhood during the day - sun shining in the sky and water glistening - and, don’t get us wrong, there’s a certain beauty to exploring its signature lotus beds and fountain, lush greenery and Art Deco Lady of the Lake statue while doing so. But if you’re looking for a bit of romance with the other half in the City of Angels, you simply cannot beat doing so on a balmy summer’s eve while the sun goes down (and getting a touch of light exercise in as you pedal, too!).

From the twinkling LA city lights to the illuminated LED lights on the Echo Park Swan Pedal Boats, you can be sure that your after-dark experience will have more than just a little bit of sparkle. A light blanket - complete with a hot drink (and any other food you want to bring, too) - completes the selfie/smooch-worthy occasion. (We won’t tell, don’t worry!)

The LA skyline has never looked so good. So, are you coming along for the ride?

Echo Park pedal boat rentals by Wheel Fun Rentals: The finer details:

A life vest will always be provided
The trip duration is one hour
A find and seek trivia game is included where you’ll learn all about the history of the area