Watch CBS News

Best Places To Visit In Echo Park

Recently known as the Williamsburg of the West Coast, Echo Park is a highly dense and diverse neighborhood in Central Los Angeles. Whether you know Echo Park as the neighborhood where the Michael Jackson's Thriller video was filmed or where Dodger Stadium is located, there is something for everyone to explore and enjoy.
Milwaukee Brewers v Los Angeles Dodgers
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 17: Justin Turner #10 of the Los Angeles Dodgers is greeted by third base coach Chris Woodward #45 as he rounds third base after hitting a solo home run in the first inning at Dodger Stadium on June 17, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)

Dodger Stadium
1000 Vin Scully Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90012
www.dodgers.com

Aside from its rich history as the third oldest ballpark, the stadium is the one of four in the MLB with a symmetrical outfield. Echo Park has hosted Dodger Stadium since 1962. Whether you are there to watch a game, take a tour, or grab a famous Dodger Dog (yes, they have a vegetarian option), Dodger Stadium will have you entertained. Fun fact: Dodger Stadium sells the most hot dogs across all major league baseball parks.

echo park lake
(credit: Jon Bilous/shutterstock)

Echo Park Lake
751 Echo Park Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90026
www.laparks.org

After a two-year $45-million makeover, Echo Park Lake is definitely a family-friendly worthy destination. If you love rich history, see the Lady of the Lake statue in person. Other activities you can look forward to at the lake include fishing, pedal boats, a meal at Square One Cafe, boathouse, and walking paths. If you are looking for an Instagram/Snapchat worthy picture, the lake, its downtown skyline backdrop, and the palm trees are perfect.

2880px-House_at_1300_Carroll_Ave.,_Los_Angeles,_California
(credit: Wikipedia)

Carroll Avenue in Angeleno Heights
Carroll Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90026

Notable for its Victorian-era residences, Angeleno Heights is one of the oldest sub-neighborhoods of Los Angeles. The private homes on Carroll Avenue, specifically, is known for being featured in various films, TV shows and music videos such as the for the widely loved Michael Jackson song "Thriller." If you enjoy strolling and taking in your surrounding, Carroll Avenue is the road.

echoplex
(credit: Pressmaster/shutterstock)

The Echo & Exhoplex

If you're looking to enjoy live music from emerging underground indie bands and artists, the Echo and Echoplex will satisfy your music cravings for an affordable price. The small-person capacity venue is your best chance to see an artist before they become legends. Fun fact: you can order Two Boots pizza along with your drinks at The Echo. Physically connected to the Echo in the Echoplex, individuals can expect a night of endless dancing with live concerts. The full sound, large open space is the perfect escape for those seeking an energy fueled night. Either of the two sister venues is the spot for music-lovers!

Time Travel Mart

The Echo Park Time Travel Mart
1714 W. Sunset Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90026
(213) 413-3388
www.timetravelmart.com

Travel through time at Echo Park's Time Travel Mart!. From Robot Toupees to Primordial Soup in a Can, visit a different time period at your leisure while giving back. The market is the storefront for 826LA, a nonprofit writing education organization. In fact, through a secret back door, there is a classroom with free tutoring and creative writing for kids ages 6 to 18. And all the books offered at the store are written by the kids.

pins needles
(credit: Brian C./yelp)

Pins And Needles
1623 Allesandro St
Los Angeles, CA 90026
(323) 313-9449
www.pinsandneedlesla.com

With a collection of over 20 machines, Pins and Needles is a one of a kind pinball club. The hidden gem is located within Bedrock Studios, a giant band practice creative space, and is the perfect opportunity to impress your date (or friends and families). Need more convincing? It's also BYOB and each game is no more than 50 cents! Since space is run by a one women team, Molly Atkinson, be sure to check their website for hours.

Button Mash
(credit: John M./yelp)

Button Mash
1391 Sunset Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90026
(213) 250-9903
www.buttonmashla.com

Need another spot similar to Pins and Needles? Try Button Mash. This arcade is as much of a restaurant and bar, as it is a fun machine filled spaced. Button Mash serves Asian and American dishes while offering games at 50 cents or less. Button Mash couldn't be a better first date option- chat over a drink, move on over to a machine and wrap up with food.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.