Despite all the exciting happenings in Downtown these days, many are unfamiliar with the culturally rich neighborhoods that surround us.

One of those more established neighborhoods is Echo Park, a mostly residential community developed over 100 years ago northwest of Downtown.

Centered along Sunset Boulevard generally east of Benton Way and west of Douglas, the neighborhood offers great shopping and dining for Downtowners looking for something more substantial than small plates or sushi.

From Barragan’s Mexican Restaurant (best margaritas in the city by some accounts) to Masa Bakery & Cafe, taco trucks and fruit vendors, Echo Park’s got it good — and cheap.

Echo Park’s iconic lake, fountain and palm trees frame a view of the Downtown skyline one would be hard-pressed to find anywhere else.

The moderately sized urban lake offers a number of refreshing recreational opportunities: a jogging and biking path, year-round festivals including the famous Lotus Festival and Fourth of July celebrations, bird-watching at the mid-lake bird sanctuary, and paddle boats.

Threatened with removal due to lack of funds, the boats were saved by some last-minute reshuffling of funds. Special thanks to Councilman and fellow blogger Eric Garcetti.

Chango Coffee House & Art Gallery is a small neighborhood hangout at the intersection of Echo Park Avenue, Morton Avenue and Delta Street, which has grown into a significant community gathering place.

Though art is plentiful in Echo Park, most of it won’t be found in galleries. Colorful murals adorn buildings and walls — some with permits and some without.

Echo Park is a close bus ride away (the #4 bus up Hill goes through the neighborhood via Cesar Chavez/Sunset), and next time you need to get away from Downtown’s shouting, honking, beeping, clanging and jackhammering, keep Echo Park in mind.

-Full Echo Park Photo Set (Flickr)