24 Superb Things to Do around L.A. for the Summer of 2024
Christopher Reynolds, LA Times
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Contrary to popular belief in other corners of the United States, we do have seasons in Southern California, and it’s easy to tell them apart.
Summer is the one that always ends too soon.

So you need a plan. Here are 24 ideas to help squeeze maximum fun from the 94 days of summer in 2024. They are varied — outdoorsy and indoorsy, free and pricey, old and new. But they’re all in L.A. or within easy day-trip or weekend reach.
Paddle a Swan Boat in Echo Park Lake
On warm days, it’s hard to beat a ride on the swan boats at Echo Park. They’re powered by foot paddles, and the pedaling is easy because you’re in no hurry. Maybe you’ll want to do a circuit of the lake (really a man-made reservoir). Maybe you’ll sidle up to the towers of whitewater rising from the mid-lake fountain. Maybe you’ll wait until after dark (because the swans light up).
The boats are managed by Wheel Fun Rentals. Hours are 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily through Sept. 2. Rentals are $13 hourly per adult, $7.50 for those under age 18. Reservations required. The small boats can seat two adults and two children under age 10.
The large boats can seat up to five people. Hand-crank pedal boats also are available. Alas, the Boathouse Bistro, which had a city concession to sell food and drinks right next to the swan operation, shut down in late 2023. The city is seeking a new tenant for the space.
BTW: Although there’s a public lot at 1149 Echo Park Ave., it often fills and you may end up seeking street parking. Try Laguna Avenue, just east of Echo Park Avenue.