Cruise on the Open Water in the Heart of the City

Gliding slowly across the water and taking in the scenery, the ducks in Echo Lake may have started something.

Humans can get in on the action by renting paddle boats from the Echo Park Boat House. The glittery pink- and aqua-colored boats are equipped with sun umbrellas and available in two- and four-seaters, so you can take a small family--or just a hot date. Half- and one-hour rentals cost $5 and $8, respectively.

Prospective paddle boaters are given a glimpse of history while waiting in the sometimes long line. Decorating the walls of the boathouse are photos from an era long gone, when young flappers and their male suitors canoed through the pond’s lily pads.

So pack a lunch or a picnic and head for the water. Just be sure to steer clear of the geyser or you might get wet.

The Echo Park Boat House, located just off the 101 Freeway at 751 Echo Park Blvd., is open Saturdays and Sundays, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information, call (213) 847-8524.