If you’re looking for a perfect Sunday in LA that blends nature, creativity, and a bit of adventure, we've got you covered. Whether you're a local or visiting, this itinerary will help you experience the cool, hidden side of Echo Park while making the most of your weekend. Let's dive into a unique day that kicks off with a kokedama class and ends with exploring secret spots in one of LA’s trendiest neighborhoods.
Start Your Sunday: 10 AM - Coffee & Breakfast at Clark Street
Every perfect Sunday begins with coffee, right? Head over to Clark Street Echo Park for a morning pick-me-up. Known for their house-made sourdough and delicious pastries, it’s the ideal spot to fuel up before your day of creativity. We recommend their breakfast sandwich (that sauce is killer), their breakfast burrito and literally ANY of their pastries, paired with an iced Americano—super refreshing on a warm LA morning.
After you've had your breakfast and soaked in the charming Echo Park vibes, you’re ready for something unique.
11 AM - Kokedama Class with LA Plant Club
Now that you're caffeinated, it’s time to get your hands a little dirty (in the best way). Join us at our LA Plant Club backyard studio not too far from Clark Street for a Kokedama class—a Japanese art form where plants grow in moss balls. It’s like bonsai, but cooler.
In this class, we will guide you through the steps of creating your very own kokedama. We’ll get a bit hands-on with soil, moss, and string as you design a beautiful, hanging plant sculpture. You’ll leave with two gorgeous, handmade pieces of living art to bring some greenery into your home (or to give as the ultimate gift). The best part? It’s a relaxing way to connect with nature while meeting other plant-loving folks in the community.
1 PM - Lunch at Piknik
After a creative morning at the kokedama class, it's time to treat yourself to a delicious lunch at Piknik, located right by Echo Park Lake, and walking distance from the class. Piknik is a cozy, chic spot perfect for grabbing a bite to-go and enjoying it al fresco, while watching the beautiful lake swans and ducks.
Their menu features fresh, Mediterranean-inspired dishes that are both light and flavorful, perfect for a sunny LA afternoon. We recommend trying the roasted Wagyu Beef toast or their cheese plate, which is filled with various cheeses, fruits and nuts—ideal for a lakeside picnic.
2:30 PM - Take a Walk Around Echo Park Lake
A Sunday in Echo Park wouldn’t be complete without a stroll around Echo Park Lake. Piknik is situated right on the lake, so this is a no brainer. You can also rent a swan pedal boat or just take in the lush greenery and stunning views of the downtown skyline. The park is also known for its lotus blooms, and if you're lucky, you’ll catch them in full bloom. Take a moment to snap some Instagram-worthy shots of the lake and its iconic swan boats.
3:30PM - Head to Stories Books & Cafe
Next up, make your way to Stories Books & Cafe, one of Echo Park’s coolest indie bookstores. This eclectic spot is a local favorite, perfect for book lovers and coffee enthusiasts alike. Whether you're browsing their curated selection of unique reads or enjoying an iced coffee on their outdoor patio, Stories offers a laid-back, artsy vibe that makes you want to linger for hours. It’s the ideal place to pick up an inspiring novel, dive into some poetry, or just sip a cappuccino while soaking up the creative energy of the neighborhood.
You can either relax here for a while, savoring the laid-back vibes with your book and coffee, or take a leisurely stroll down Sunset Boulevard. Along the way, you can stop by the local rock climbing studio - The Stronghold - for an energizing session or explore the quirky and fun Time Travel Mart—a hidden gem where time travelers shop for their essentials!
5PM - Sunset at Elysian Park’s Secret Swing
For the adventurous types, head up to Elysian Park to find its famous secret swing. The views from here are insane—think panoramic vistas of downtown LA, Dodger Stadium, and even the Hollywood sign in the distance. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, so you'll need to follow a small trail to find it, but once you're there, it’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the city. Trust us, this is one of those ‘I’m living my best LA life’ moments you won’t forget.
7 PM - Dinner at Bar Flores
To wrap up your perfect Sunday, head over to Bar Flores, a dreamy, floral-inspired cocktail bar that’s just a few steps from Echo Park’s main street. Their rooftop patio is the ideal spot for sipping a craft cocktail while enjoying the golden hour glow. For a laid-back dinner, grab their burger and grilled cheese. You’ll love the breezy, relaxed atmosphere—it's the perfect way to end your day.
Bonus: Late-Night Scoop at Wanderlust Creamery
Still up for more? End your night with something sweet. Swing by Wanderlust Creamery in nearby Silver Lake for an ice cream flavor inspired by travel. Their Ube Malted Crunch is a must-try, especially if you’re into unique flavors.
Wrapping Up Your Perfect Sunday
Whether you're a local or visiting LA, this Sunday itinerary offers a blend of hands-on creativity, food, nature, and secret spots that show off Echo Park’s coolest hidden gems. From a morning spent crafting kokedama to discovering quirky shops and unwinding with sunset views, this day will leave you feeling like you’ve truly experienced a special part of Los Angeles.