A New Echo Park Café Is Featuring the Iconic Swan Boats on Their Mug
When a local landmark starts showing up beyond the experience itself, you know it’s become something bigger.
That’s exactly what’s happening in Echo Park, where a newly opened café is celebrating one of the neighborhood’s most recognizable attractions: the iconic Echo Park Swan Boats. Café Ggiata officially opened its new Echo Park location with a grand opening on Monday, May 18, bringing its signature deli offerings and coffee program to the lakefront community. The opening adds another local gathering spot to the area and highlights how Echo Park continues to blend neighborhood favorites with experiences that make the area one of LA’s most vibrant destinations.
Recently featured on the café’s TikTok, their custom mug design includes an illustration inspired by the instantly recognizable swan boats that have become synonymous with a day at Echo Park Lake. It’s a fun detail—but also a reflection of something we’ve seen grow over the years: the swan boats have become part of the fabric of the neighborhood.
What started as a unique way to get out on the water has evolved into one of the most recognizable experiences in Los Angeles. Visitors come for the views, the fresh air, and the chance to slow down in the middle of the city. Locals bring friends and family. Couples make it part of date night. Content creators stop for the photos. And increasingly, a trip to Echo Park isn’t complete without spotting—or hopping aboard—the iconic white swans.
For Wheel Fun Rentals, creating memorable experiences has always been the goal. Seeing the swan boats become a recognizable visual symbol of Echo Park—and now even appearing on café merchandise—is a reminder of how recreation can become part of a place’s identity. The lake sits at the center of that experience, offering a place where people gather, explore, and make memories together. The swan boats have become one of those can’t-miss moments that visitors seek out and locals continue coming back for.
So whether you’re grabbing a coffee, taking a stroll around the lake, or making plans to get out on the water, one thing is clear: the swans have officially become part of the Echo Park story.
Ready to experience the iconic Echo Park Swan Boats for yourself? The swan boats operate daily—reservations are required and available online. Come ride, snap a photo, and see what makes this LA tradition one of the neighborhood’s favorite things to do.
What’s New on Philly’s Waterfront
by Molly Given
Spruce Street Harbor Park and Summerfest return with new waterfront attractions.
From glowing swan boats to roller skating by the river, Philadelphia’s waterfront is set for another summer of fun. Here’s what to expect this sunny season at Spruce Street Harbor Park and Independence Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest.
An urban oasis
Returning for its 13th season, Spruce Street will continue to transform the city’s waterfront into an urban oasis along the Delaware River. Free and open to the public daily beginning May 22, this seasonal destination features colorful hammocks, floating barges, ambient lights, and waterfront seating, plus free entertainment and programming every Thursday through Saturday.
This year, the Waterfront is also introducing an exciting lineup of new “on-the-water” experiences designed to bring guests even closer to the river. Visitors can pedal across the water aboard Chiliboats (aka aqua bikes), enjoy illuminated swan boat rides beneath the stars, or take in sweeping skyline views from new vantage points over the Delaware.
The Chiliboats are for solo use (though you can ride side by side with friends), while the recently upgraded swan boats now feature larger vessels that can accommodate up to five passengers. The boats have also added enhanced comfort seating and shaded canopies. Guests are encouraged to bring snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and even their dogs for the experience, or check out special after-dark Glow Night Rides via Wheel Fun Rentals.
“We’re extending the energy and excitement from land onto the water, creating new ways for people to experience and connect with the Waterfront,” says Joseph A. Forkin, president of the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation. “From swan boat rides under the stars and Surrey cycles along the trail, to fishing at Pier 68 or enjoying a cocktail aboard our floating double-decker barge, we’re making the Delaware River more accessible and engaging than ever before.”
Fishing, cruises and new experiences
New Surrey Cycle Rentals (operated by Wheel Fun Rentals) will feature multi-person pedal vehicles, and at Cherry Street Pier, “Fishing” Fridays during First Friday events will invite guests to cast a “fake” line and “engage with the waterfront in a playful, interactive way.”
Read the full article on MetroPhiladelphia.com >>
Dozen of Events to Enjoy on the Region’s Circuit Trails Network
by Mark Hostutler
Saturday, April 25 is Celebrate Trails Day, an annual, nationwide invitation to get outside and experience the trails that connect our communities. Led regionally by the Circuit Trails Coalition and nationally by Rails to Trails Conservancy, the day highlights the growing network of trails that make it easier to explore, commute, and connect.
Across Greater Philadelphia and southern New Jersey, the Circuit Trails network now includes more than 420 miles of multi-use trails. As part of Celebrate Trails Day, Circuit Trails Coalition members are hosting a wide variety of events, from community gatherings and group bike rides to a trailside creek clean-up and guided hikes. Whether you’re a frequent trail user or discovering the network for the first time, there are countless ways to get involved and explore what’s happening on the Circuit Trails.
While Celebrate Trails Day invites people to get outside and enjoy their local trails, it also highlights something bigger: trails don’t sustain themselves without ongoing public support.
“Trails are essential to our communities — providing safe routes for commuting, access to nature, and connections across neighborhoods, counties, and state lines,” said Justin Dennis, Chair of the Circuit Trails Coalition. “Celebrate Trails Day is not only a great reminder of how valuable this network is, but a reflection of years of sustained investment and community advocacy. To keep this momentum going, continued year-round engagement is essential, especially as we work towards our next goal of 550 miles by 2030.”
Residents can support the Circuit Trails beyond Celebrate Trails Day by contacting local elected officials to share why these trails matter and urge continued investment and maintenance across the region.
As the region gears up for Saturday, there’s no better time to experience the trails for yourself. Find an event on a Circuit Trail near you and see where you can join in on the fun!
Celebrate Trails Day Sunset Bike Ride
When: 6-8 PM
Where: Lloyd Hall, 1 Boathouse Row, Philadelphia 19130
Healing Through the Land is hosting a celebratory sunset bike ride along the Schuylkill Riverbank, beginning with a walk before an approximately one-hour ride toward Boathouse Row. Participants will travel in illuminated surrey bikes from Wheel Fun Rentals.
Read the full article on Vista.Today >>
Swan boat Rentals Returning to Humboldt Park Lagoon
Wheel Fun Rentals Brings Back Iconic Swan Boats to Humboldt Park Boathouse in Chicago
For Immediate Release:
April 23, 2026
Chicago, IL – The lagoon in Humboldt Pak just got a whole lot more fun… again! Wheel Fun Rentals is thrilled to announce the reopening of its location at the Humboldt Park Boathouse, offering visitors and locals a great way to enjoy all the park has to offer with its iconic Swan Pedal Boats and flagship 4-wheel Surrey cycles.
Nestled on Chicago’s West Side, Humboldt Park is celebrated for its historic charm, scenic lagoon, and vibrant community. With picturesque views and a peaceful setting, it’s an ideal escape for families, couples, and groups. The return of Swan Boats adds a nostalgic touch, blending the park’s rich history with new memories for today’s visitors. Swan Boat rentals will open on Saturday, April 25th with Surrey cycle rentals following in early May.
Wheel Fun Rentals at Humboldt Park will feature both the brand’s iconic Swan Pedal Boats and its signature multi-rider 4-wheel Surrey cycles, giving guests two fun-filled ways to explore by water and by land. Whether gliding across the lagoon in a whimsical swan boat or cruising the park’s scenic pathways with family and friends, visitors can enjoy an easygoing, laughter-filled outing perfect for all ages.
“We’re thrilled to bring the Swan Boats back to Humboldt Park,” said franchise owner Rodney Knight. “The community has been asking for their return, and it’s exciting to once again offer an activity that brings people together, gets them outside, and highlights the beauty of the park.” He added that the goal is to create a welcoming, family-friendly experience that reflects the spirit and pride of the surrounding neighborhood.
Rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis with Swan Boat rentals priced at $30 per hour. Each boat can accommodate up to 2 adults and 2 children under 10 years of age. Wheel Fun’s Surrey cycles are priced at $29 for a Single Surrey (seats up to 3 adults and 2 small children) and $39 for a Double Surrey (seats up to 6 adults and 2 small children). Group outings and special events will also be accommodated, making it an ideal destination for celebrations and community gatherings.
Wheel Fun Rentals has been a trusted, national leader in outdoor recreation for over 30 years, bringing unique, people-powered fun to parks and waterfronts nationwide. For more information on Wheel Fun Rentals at Humboldt Park, including rental details and hours of operation, visit wheelfunrentals.com/humboldt.
###
Media Contact: Rodney Knight • (320) 266-1164 • wheelfunrentals@msn.com
About Wheel Fun Rentals
Founded in 1987, Wheel Fun Rentals started with four wheel Surrey cycles, evolved into specialty bike rentals and bike tours, and now offers recreational rentals of all kinds from more than 100 outlets in 16 states. Specializing in unique bikes and tours, Wheel Fun Rentals has been offering clean, healthy family fun and affordable outdoor entertainment to nearly 3 million customers annually from city and state parks, resorts, and retail outlets through corporate locations and franchised territories. For more information about Wheel Fun Rentals please visit www.wheelfunrentals.com or call 805-650-7770. Follow Wheel Fun Rentals: @WheelFunRentalsOfficial and @WheelFunBend on Facebook, @WheelFunRentalsOfficial on Instagram, and @WheelFunRentals on Twitter.
Swan Boat Rentals Are Returning To The Humboldt Park Lagoon
A familiar bevy of swans have again landed at Humboldt Park’s lagoon.
They’re set to receive some tender loving care after being cooped up in storage for nearly a year, but the flock of swans will soon be ready to carry people out onto the lagoon after taking last season off.
Wheel Fun Rentals, a California-based company that had offered swan boat rentals at the lagoon in partnership with the Chicago Park District, is bringing back its popular rentals to Humboldt Park, Franchisee co-owner Rodney Knight confirmed.
Over the weekend and on Monday, company workers were seen getting the boats back out onto the lagoon, conducting necessary maintenance work before they’re ready to pedal. Some of the boats will receive new heads, a fresh wash and some new parts.
The company, offering the pedal boat and bike rentals, had operated out of the lagoon boathouse at 1301 N. Humboldt Park Drive since 2018. Business, however, had been slow since the pandemic, so the franchise owners decided to close the concession before the start of last summer, with no immediate plans to return.
But with a prospective all-day cafe set to open at the boathouse veranda this year, Wheel Fun Rentals’ franchise owners decided to return its boat and bike services to Humboldt Park, Knight said. He also admitted to missing the popular boat service business last summer, which factored into the decision to return.
“Especially if there is a restaurant there, it can bring energy to the park and we need to be there,” Knight said. “We ultimately decided that even if the restaurant did not open, we were going to be coming back.”
The swan boats — about 15 of them — will be open for business April 25, he said.
Read the full article at WLSam.com >>
Wheel Fun Rentals Introduces New Pedal-Assist Surrey Bikes at Shoreline Village in Long Beach
For Immediate Release:
April 16, 2026
Long Beach, CA – Wheel Fun Rentals is excited to introduce its new Pedal Assist E-Surrey cycles, now available exclusively at their Shoreline Village location in Long Beach. This new offering provides guests with an upgraded way to enjoy the brand’s signature group ride experience along the scenic Long Beach waterfront, blending classic pedal-powered fun with technology that makes the ride smoother and more comfortable for everyone.
Designed with ease and accessibility in mind, Pedal Assist E-Surreys feature a torque-assisted electric motor that enhances the pedaling experience but does not replace it. Riders still pedal together as a group, just like a traditional 4-Wheel Surrey cycle. The added motor support makes pedaling much easier, helping groups get moving more easily, maintain momentum, and enjoy a more relaxed, leisurely ride for a smoother ride from start to finish. The result is the same interactive, social, and active experience guests love, now with added comfort and accessibility for longer rides and full-capacity groups.
“Pedal-assist Surreys are all about making the experience more accessible and enjoyable for everyone,” said Mike Ullerick, Operations Director at Wheel Fun Rentals. “You still get the fun of riding together as a group, but with added support that makes longer rides and full-capacity bikes feel easier and more comfortable. The pedal-assist motor simply provides a little extra torque that makes the ride feel smoother and more manageable with less work.”
Perfect for families, groups of friends, date outings, and riders of all experience levels, Pedal-Assist E-Surreys are an ideal choice for guests looking to extend their ride distance or simply enjoy the waterfront at a more relaxed pace. The enhanced torque helps reduce fatigue while keeping the ride active, engaging, and social – staying true to the classic Wheel Fun Rentals experience.
Pedal Assist E-Surrey rentals are available exclusively at Wheel Fun Rentals at Shoreline Village in Long Beach. Pricing is $35 per hour for a Single Pedal Assist E-Surrey (seats up to 3 adults and 2 small children), and $45 per hour for a Double Pedal Assist E-Surrey (seats up to 6 adults and 2 small children). Advance online reservations are available. For more information and to book your Pedal Assist E-Surrey rental, visit wheelfunrentals.com/reserve-shoreline.
Wheel Fun Rentals has been a trusted leader in outdoor recreation for over 30 years, bringing unique, people-powered experiences to parks, waterfronts, and iconic destinations across the country. The introduction of Pedal Assist E-Surrey bikes at Shoreline Village reflects the company’s continued commitment to innovation, accessibility, and creating memorable outdoor adventures for guests of all ages.
For more information about Pedal Assist E-Surrey bike rentals at Shoreline Village, including availability, reservations, pricing, and hours of operation, visit wheelfunrentals.com/shoreline or call (805) 650-7770.
###
Media Contact: Sheena Walenta • (805) 650-7770 • marketing@wheelfunrentals.com
About Wheel Fun Rentals
Founded in 1987, Wheel Fun Rentals started with four wheel Surrey cycles, evolved into specialty bike rentals and bike tours, and now offers recreational rentals of all kinds from more than 100 outlets in 16 states. Specializing in unique bikes and tours, Wheel Fun Rentals has been offering clean, healthy family fun and affordable outdoor entertainment to nearly 3 million customers annually from city and state parks, resorts, and retail outlets through corporate locations and franchised territories. For more information about Wheel Fun Rentals please visit www.wheelfunrentals.com or call 805-650-7770. Follow Wheel Fun Rentals: @WheelFunRentalsOfficial and @WheelFunBend on Facebook, @WheelFunRentalsOfficial on Instagram, and @WheelFunRentals on Twitter.
Lakes Regional Park’s Iconic Miniature Train Takes Center Stage
by Jason Drew
FORT MYERS, Fla. —
Lakes Regional Park in Fort Myers
is a Southwest Florida staple — more than 300 acres of lakes, trails, gardens, wildlife, and family‑friendly activities that draw visitors year‑round. And this week, Good Morning Gulf Coast’s Jason Drew took “Gulfcoasting” to the tracks for a special look at one of the park’s most beloved attractions: the miniature train ride.
Jason hopped aboard with a group of dedicated volunteers and Barbara Manzo, president of the Lakes Park Enrichment Foundation, for a behind‑the‑scenes ride through the park’s winding pathways and scenic landscapes. The volunteers who operate the train — many of whom have been involved for years — help maintain the tracks, run the locomotives, and keep this unique experience alive for families across the region.
The train isn’t the only thing that makes Lakes Regional Park a standout. Visitors can explore miles of walking and biking trails, rent kayaks or swan boats, and cruise the park on surrey bikes. Kids can wander through the Children’s Garden, while local growers and artisans fill the grounds every Wednesday for the park’s popular Farmers Market.
The Community Gardens add another layer of charm, giving residents a place to grow vegetables, herbs, and flowers while connecting with neighbors.
Whether you’re paddling across the lake, strolling the boardwalk, pedaling through the trails, or enjoying the train ride that’s delighted generations, Lakes Regional Park remains one of Fort Myers’ most treasured outdoor escapes.
For more information about the park, visit its website at Lakes Park.
Read the full article on GulfCoastNewsNow.com >>
Echo Park Swan Boats Featured in LA Times Article
We’re excited to share that the iconic Swan Boats at Echo Park Lake were recently featured in an article by the Los Angeles Times!
In a recent story covering incoming Santa Ana winds across Southern California, a photo of visitors enjoying the Swan Boats was included as the lead image—highlighting the beauty and everyday joy found at Echo Park.
While the article focused on weather conditions and forecasted wind gusts, the image captured a calm and picturesque moment on the water, showcasing Swan Boats as a beloved Los Angeles experience.
Located just minutes from downtown, Echo Park Lake continues to be a go-to destination for both locals and visitors looking to relax, explore, and take in stunning skyline views. Being featured in such a prominent publication is a great reminder of how special this experience truly is.
Next time you’re in the area, come experience it for yourself! Whether you’re planning a casual outing or a picture-perfect day on the water, the Swan Boats at Echo Park are ready to make your day unforgettable. Reserve your swan boat rental today!
Read the full article on LAtimes.com >>
