Hidden Hermosa

Relax at Vista Hermosa Park in LA

12.08.2015

{MARCH 29, 2023 UPDATE: Due to the most recent storm, please be aware that there may be sudden trail closures and poor and hazardous conditions; check official websites before visiting, and exercise good judgement and caution.}

One of the best views of the downtown skyline is in the Historic Filipinotown of Echo Park. The 11-acre Vista Hermosa Park is just a mile from the heart of downtown, yet feels an oasis world away with a visitor center and tranquil rooftop garden. The reminder that you're in urban environs comes from the outstanding view you get of LA’s iconic skyline. Stroll the half-mile loop trail to get your fix of native flora, like live oaks and sycamores, in combination with urban scenery that’s just far enough removed to make you appreciate it without feeling consumed by it. Picnic in one of the many grassy meadows, check out the turtle sculptures, or try one of several free ranger-led programs at the peaceful grotto.

BEER BONUS: After drinking in the view, venture to downtown's Art District for a seasonal craft beer. Mumford Brewery, a new establishment serving styles to suit all taste buds, is a large, comfortable space that offers friendly vibes, board games, and tasty local brews. If you like dark ales, and the Lakers, you'll enjoy Kobe's namesake ale, Black Mamba. There's also the undeniably smooth LA Crema.

Vista Hermosa Park is on First Street west of the 110 (Harbor Freeway) between Beaudry and Glendale Blvd. (map). To get to Mumford Brewery, take 2nd St. east, turn right at San Pedro, left at Boyd St. and look for the mural-covered building on your right.

_

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. Greater by the Dozen

    This hike is anything but a dime a dozen. The all-new "Golden Gate Dozen Trail" links 12 National Park sites on a spectacular 13-mile journey across San Francisco's coastline.

    View
  2. Napa Valley Paddle kayaker and paddle boarder on the Napa Valley river

    Napa's Wild Side

    It’s wine country’s Amazon. The gentle Napa River is an ecological—and recreational—delight. And Napa Valley Paddle sets you up for maximum enjoyment of this experience.

    View

  3. A Thousand Steps to Paradise

    A picture is worth a thousand words, but is a gorgeous beach in Laguna worth a thousand steps? The answer is yes, though the question is moot, because it’s only 223 steep steps down to the 400-yard stretch of sand known as 1000 Steps Beach.

    View
  4. Hike Mount Tamalpais into Muir Woods

    Muir Woods Through the Backdoor

    A backdoor entrance into Muir Woods? Hike a tranquil trail that starts in Mount Tamalpais State Park and quietly leads into Muir Woods, letting you avoid the busyness of the main parking area.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Rancho Style

    Vicente Bluffs Reserve dazzles anytime, but during the golden hour it’s an absolute knockout. Majestic rocky bluffs, dreamy ocean views, and a picturesque lighthouse are just a few of the reasons.

    View

  2. Inn-spiration Point!

    For more than a century, people have been hiking or mountain biking to West Point Inn for good reason. Perched at 1,785 feet on the southern slope of Mount Tamalpais, the historic inn has sweeping views from the Marin Headlands to the San Francisco skyline.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

    The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.

    View
  4. Hike to the Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout in the Lakes Basin

    Lookout for This View!

    Sierra Buttes Lookout, at a lofty 8,591 feet, is a memory maker for its pucker-worthy stairway to the tower’s balcony. It's a 5-mile (round-trip) hike to reach it. And the reward? Epic!

    View