Echo Park

Echo Park has 2.4 square miles of land in Los Angeles, California. It is northwest of downtown and southwest of Hollywood. The park was established in the 19th century to help preserve the land. It had many native plants and grasses at the time that conservationists felt were worth saving. There was a horse drawn streetcar line that would bring guests to the park on a dirt road now called Echo Park Avenue. The park was founded by Thomas Kelly who created carriages in the 19th century. Kelly spoke with some investors to get the land. A part of the land was used to create a reservoir and it was said the workers could hear their voices echo on the canyon walls, which is how the park got its name.

Echo Park has a long and historical history with famous residents of Los Angeles being in the park. Today the attractions include a Cuban Festival held annually. Another site is the Episcopal diocese Cathedral. Angelus Temple, Foursquare Gospel Church, Keystone Studios, and the Lotus Festival are also attractions at Echo Park. During the Lotus Festival there are dragon boat races to celebrate the American Chinese heritage that is very prolific in Los Angeles.