Echo Park is a neighborhood that’s seen substantial change since its establishment as one of LA's first suburbs over 120 years ago. These days it’s not very suburban, boasting an eclectic mix of homes and shops and a reputation as a hotspot for artists and hipsters. But this dense, walkable neighborhood is not just for single young people—it’s also one of the most family-friendly neighborhoods in LA with abundant parks, unique attractions, and plenty of great food and coffee. Whether you want to catch a baseball game, eat some vegan treats, walk hidden stairs, or shop in the future (!), Echo Park is a great neighborhood to explore with kids.

There's light at the end of the pandemic tunnel, and that means walk-thru is the new drive-thru. Sugar Rush is a new immersive saccharine-sweet walking experience that’s a great activity for every age, from grown-ups to toddlers. My family had a chance to preview the experience last weekend, and since I knew my kids wouldn't get enough candy at Easter (ha!), we decided to check it out. Our verdict: this a fun, unique experience that gives little kids the chance to get out and run around in a whimsical, silly, and safe setting—but also has enough appeal for older kids who love taking cool selfies.

Read on to discover what larger-than-life sweets you'll encounter, how much actual candy is included, and why this is a treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Sure, biking, hiking, and other outdoor adventures are abundant in Southern California. But sometimes what parents of cooped up kids really need is an actual activity. One where you don't have to do a lot of organizing or planning, so you can sit back, relax, and keep the kids entertained. Preferably, this magical outing doesn't require a long drive and isn't wildly expensive. Echo Park Lake’s Swan Pedal Boats offer exactly that—a new and unique activity for the entire family to enjoy together where everyone can turn brains off, decompress, and just have a blast.

If this outing makes your family long for more wet and wild fun, check out all the spots in the city where kids can pedal and paddle on the water—from kayaks to water bikes to SUP boards and more.