Lake Ella Park was such a fun surprise during our stop in Tallahassee! We were driving back to Tampa from Destin and wanted a place to stretch our legs. As lifelong Floridians who had somehow never visited Tallahassee, this was the perfect stop. The park is peaceful, walkable, and surrounded by cute local shops and a coffee café. We loved seeing people enjoying the park, relaxing on benches, and musicians playing nearby. The geese definitely stole the show! There are lots of geese and ducks, so be prepared for... plenty of goose poop. Watching a flock of geese cross the road was an experience all by itself. If you're passing through Tallahassee, Lake Ella Park is a great place to take a break, enjoy a stroll, and support a few local businesses. read more

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This is a nice park with the water and gazebo, but I couldn't find a playground that they apparently have. The geese are cool for kids to see but lots of droppings around and has a smell. Could be cleaner. Also saw some homeless folks. All in all it's a good park but could use some work. read more

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This is a place full of memories for me. There is a good Wikipedia article if you want to know the history of what was originally Bull Pond and was used to water cows back when this area would have been "out in the country". My memories start in the late '50s when there was an annual Fish-a-thon around the lake. Imagine a bunch of children with cane poles surrounding the lake and trying to catch the biggest fish. Watch out for that hook! Sealey Elementary School (now the Tallahassee Police Department) was right there on 7th Avenue and we walked home around the lake after school. Sometimes we had to alter our route due to the frequent flooding of the lake that occurred and the usual resulting fish kills from the runoff that caused the flooding. Somewhere along the way the City of Tallahassee realized that Lake Ella wasn't much of a lake anymore and did the work necessary to end the flooding and make Lake Ella the stormwater control project it needed to be. There is now a sidewalk all the way around the lake for those that want a brisk walk or a leisurely stroll. Benches along the way are available. There is a gazebo on a spit of land that juts out into the lake. Lots of curbside parking is available. There is an old oak tree with limbs parallel to the ground that many a child (and some adults) have climbed all over. There is a small playground there with that oak. The American Legion Hall is on the edge of the lake. Many a Tallahassean has kicked up their heels to a variety of bands on a Friday or Saturday night there. The former Motor Court is now the Cottages at Lake Ella and several of those stone cottages house businesses that offer food and refreshments. There is a farmers market on Wednesdays. The only negative, for some people, will be the ducks that have made themselves at home. There has been a love-hate relationship with the ducks for as long as I can remember. Some people love to feed them but they can become a pest when their numbers grow. read more

For my morning walk, I enjoyed a half loop around the lake where I saw flocks of ducks, residentially-challenged people and several others who were friendly and responded to my "good morning" greetings. This is a nice park and the path around it is smooth and easy. There was a nice breeze and I got a good 2k steps before breakfast. Delightful! [Review 14094 overall, 1416 of 2020, number 1155 in Florida.] read more

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A very scenic park in Tallahassee! If you want to exercise, leisurely walk or sit and ponder, Lake Ella is probably a good option. The park was overrun by ducks and Canadian geese. They are bold and will follow you. Of course with the number of bird life, you have to be careful where you walk cause there was bird dropping everywhere. What's also nice about the park is little shops: from coffee to snowballs, there is an array of things to occupy your time. Parking is free but limited. Definitely worth the visit. read more

3.5/5 if only I could make that selection! It's a nice spot - a large lake. The only con is the ducklings that overtake the pond - they are often fed bread and as a result, leave poop on the sidewalks. My fav. Are the cottages - it's a good spot to stop and get brittle, snow cones or fair traded jewelry from Quarter Moon Imports. On a Sat. Morning, they had a tiny market with 3 to 4 vendors selling falafel, aloe vera plants, homemade cookies, etc. Sometimes they even have food trucks on certain days! Of course, my friend and I had to stop by Black Dog Cafe for their Mocha & French Toast Latte! read more

Lake Ella Park - Parks Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

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This beautiful park is perfect for a quiet stroll or walking your dog while enjoying a cup of coffee or an ice cream cone purchased from one of the cottage shops surrounding the lake. read more

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Visited Tallahassee from the Pacific NW and stopped at this lil nature gem to kill time while we waited for a movie and to get our steps in. It was peaceful and the various birds were unfazed by our presence. Turtles can also be seen in the water. Just what we needed. read more

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A little escape in the city with an easy walking path. The place could use some TLC - it felt a little rough and run down (e.g., worn down and torn up greenery, people sleeping in the park). Few, if any, of the surrounding cottages seemed open. I imagine it's a more engaging place when they are. read more

Lake Ella Park - Parks Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

It's a park. It's free. Lots of people are having fun. You can run or walk or jog about the park circumnavigating the water rife with ducks and water foul of many variations. With little one in tow, we were worried about aggressive ducks but this was nonsense. What a wonderful free local resource. What a nice respite from the world around. read more

Lake Ella Park - Parks Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

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Lake Ella is one of my fondest childhood memories in Tallahassee. It's a landmark in Tallahassee that every out-of-towner needs to enjoy at least once. Surrounded by a plethora of cute local businesses, Lake Ella is a must-visit area to support small local businesses. From the Head Over Heels dancewear shop to Black Dog Cafe and Big Easy Snoballs, there's a little bit of everything to explore. I recently saw a wedding here - which I can't blame them, Lake Ella is beautiful. However, you can't reserve the area, and you can't close off the public from observing. The gazebo at the center of the lake is beautiful. Recently, with the release of Pokémon Go, people have been flocking to the lake to catch Pokémon and stock up on resources. Parking isn't easy, with most of your parking options being street or the small lots around the lake. There are quite a bit of homeless, especially in the evening. So be safe! When my sister and I were walking here at night, we tried to move with other groups and stay in the light. Even so, I love Lake Ella and hope you love it as hope as I do. read more

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The local favorite for just about anything thrives on its prime location. Over the years, it's cultivated a huge following and just about grows larger by the second. The park is surrounded by great, local businesses and hosts the cherished Food Truck Thursdays. Here you'll find scenic views of the small lake, ducks galore and people of all ages, including all walks of life. The latter, particularly, results in to say the least, very interesting doses of people watching. Lake Ella is as Tallahassee as it gets. read more

Lake Ella Park - Parks Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

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A favorite hangout spot in the heart of Midtown for a coffee and walk around the lake or a quick run with all the ducks! During the day, Lake Ella offers a variety of shops to visit, either for a quick bite at lunch or for a sweet treat in the afternoon (love Big Easy Snowballs!). If you come here with your dog, the population of ducks may drive your dog crazy, but they tend to leave the human visitors in peace. Come evening, you can enjoy a nice breeze, lightning bugs, a hot drink from Black Dog, and a romantic late-night walk. Also, try out Food Truck Thursdays here for a taste of local Tallahassee cuisine without the frills. Lake Ella has so much to see and experience, making it a continued favorite of mine. read more

Beautiful place downtown where you can walk. There's a coffee shop and several other small boutiques and stores to visit, then watch the ducks. read more

For what it is and where it is, Lake Ella Park is a gem. The "what it is" and "where it is" is not meant to be insulting. "What it is" refers to its being a smaller park among what I presume are several parks in Tallahassee, Florida. "Where it is" means that it is not in the center, near the governmental buildings of this state capital, nor near the large Florida State campus, but along Monroe Street, just south of the I-10 exits. Lake Ella is small. The lake makes up most of the park. What makes it really appealing is its beauty. It's the stuff paintings and drawings are made of. It may be off a busy thoroughfare but, once there, you're in another world. There are thick stands of trees, flowers, birds, ducks, and even some nodes with gazebos and such. Also, you will note that you are in the Panhandle, and the park's surroundings are slightly hilly, which also adds to its appeal. Who was this Ella? That is definitely an "older" name, and one that is more Southern, whereas Mabel was a generic, nationwide "older" name. Now, with all those names such as Abigail and Emma which are fit for "American Gothic" being recycled, Ella is probably on its way back as well. If crossing the Panhandle on I-10, and even if you don't need fuel or food in Tallahassee, I suggest visiting this picturesque park to ease your mind on this long drive. I'd recommend it to everyone. read more

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Baby alligators in Lake Ella? You bet! Spotted two of them lingering near the eastern shoreline, poking their little nostrils and bug eyes out of the water. Someone who knows the Tallahassee Parks and Recreation Department director called and was told that when gators reach 4 feet in length they are removed by the FWC. I enjoyed walking around the shoreline sidewalk which is dotted by tables and benches along with exercise stations and scenic views of the lake and surrounding neighborhood homes. The lake has several small businesses that border it like a bicycle shop, coffee cafe, trinket shops and more. The only question I have is how does such a land-locked body of water end up with alligators? Hmmmm.... LOL read more

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Stopped by on a Sunday, lots of ducks and people milling around. Lucked out as the weather was perfect. There are a few shops an alterations shop, shaved ice and a bike shop. The buildings look like they may have been vacation cottages 50 years ago. There were two food trucks when we stopped by. Would definitely stop by again. read more

Lake Ella Park - Parks Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

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Lake Ella is old-school Tallahassee that maintains prominent relevance today. With a .6 mile jogging/walking trail hugging the waterline, Lake Ella offers plenty to all sorts of interests. Mickey's, The Barber Shop, Black Dog and The Big Easy and Quarter Moon are places that we frequent - but we know that there are more great places to discover. Kids love climbing the tree and feeding the ducks (although the prominent sign discourages such feeding). Lake Ella is a great destination - an oasis in the heart of the city. It provides solace, activity, tranquility, and action - all depending on what you're seeking. read more

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Lake Ella is absolutely beautiful! Growing up near Tallahassee - then moving here for graduate school - I have fond memories of this lake. I came here a couple weeks ago while visiting the area, and my memories of the lake's beauty were still true. The blue skies... the birds... the fountains... the gazebo... it was all beautiful. Especially, when considering the fact that it was dumping snow in my current town of Pittsburgh. The lake is a great size to walk around, even with small children. I was with a friend and her two small children, so we only walked around once, but adults may want to walk/run around several times. The lake also has cute little shops close by along with a coffee shop located right off the path. read more

Lake Ella Park - Lake Ella Park on a beautiful January afternoon - Parks Near Me - Tallahassee, Florida

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NICE JAUNTER ROUND THE RIM (Warning: young adult visitors from Tampa Bay in for the weekend) I was fascinated by the little shops that border one of the lake's corners (especially Black Dog Café). Thankfully this picturesque little lake has a sidewalk (not the widest thing) that encircles the whole thing. The distance around is only 0.6 miles. LITTLE FEATURES TO ENJOY There's a land 'pier' that juts into the lake's center with a little pagoda for relaxing and taking in the 360-degree views. We enjoyed watching the ducks gathered there- these ducks looked like they were wearing fluffy wigs! Tables by the water also invite games of checkers or artists selling wares. Public bathrooms are also located near the picnic tables however my typically uncaring self couldn't even enter the stall- the toilet was so plugged up and the walls and floors just looked too grimy. A LITTLE MORE SHADY IN THE OTHER CORNER On the shady side with picnic tables, I noticed more and more 'shady folk' gathered there chillin'. I never felt threatened or anything, but I can see how that may be an issue to some visiting families. I'm not sure if it's always like that around the Lake. read more

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Oh, Lake Ella! I have fond memories about you. I used to come here to run when I lived just minutes away. I love this little park in the middle of the city. I always felt relaxed and recharged after coming here. It's a true oasis. It's a place for everyone. You can come here to run, jog, take a stroll, have a picnic, hang out, walk your dog, or just sit and chill. There are lots of huge trees around the lake with birds, geese, ducks, turtles everywhere making me feel close to the nature. I've come here countless times with different friends, then boyfriends, or just by myself. It has been over 6 years since I left Florida. Now I live in Texas (unfortunately) because of my job. I really miss this place and hope to be back for a visit soon! read more

I love this park at all hours of the day. I had my first date in Tallahassee one cold night after a movie. Normally I'd avoid parks after movies - sounds like a weak plot to a horror movie but there is great lighting and seating placed all around the lake. Then in the Spring the ducks come out and people bring their dogs, blankets,and picnic baskets to enjoy the great weather. Early mornings are the most peaceful time to go. Great clean and clear area to take a few laps around the park or to visit the many small vendors located near the lake. read more

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Lake Ella Park is a breath of fresh air on Monroe, not far north of the Florida Capitol. The park is very popular with the locals both for fitness, recreation, and picnicking activities and has the infrastructure for all three. The "lake" itself is small and not much to look it, but it has a fountain which provides something of a focal point and is nicely landscaped. The lake is ringed with a .6 mile paved path that is used by joggers, power walkers, and casual strollers. Lake Ella is also surrounded by a multitude of benches as well as a picnic area which includes covered pavilions and provides an opportunity for gatherings and cook-outs. The park has an abundance of Muscovy Ducks and almost as many signs warning you to stay away from the disease-ridden, aggressive creatures! The cherry on top of Lake Ella has to be the quaint shopping village located on one side of the lake. These shops appear to be independently owned and include a homemade ice cream shop, a candy store, a bike shop, a restaurant and others. Also on the lake is an American Legion post and a vintage Huey helicopter from the Vietnam War right off the trail. Tallahassee is a city of trees and sidewalks, but Lake Ella is a must-do if you will be in town for any length of time. It is an escape from the city IN the heart of the city. read more

I've always loved Lake Ella! The park is always clean even though the ducks assume you come out there to feed them. People please stop feeding them bread, their tummies can't digest it the way ours can. If anything bring nuts! read more

Absolutely Beautiful. Can get dangerous at night.

A pretty nice, small city park centered around a lake with a 0.6 mile jogging path and some grassy lawn space around it and many Muscovy ducks.. Seems to be a popular hangout with FSU types, great place to jog, walk, or just hang out and watch the ducks and people, study, or read.. Very cool atmosphere, bordered by a cool coffee shop called Black Dog and some cute little shops in stone cottages.. There is a gazebo and some picnic areas.. Great for a small city park with a true community atmosphere!! read more

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Great park with little shops and cafes along one side of it. It's definitely a nice place to go for a morning/afternoon walk. The part that bothers me is all the homeless (I think they're homeless?) people that flock the area. The first time I went with my GF, we were approached with some fabricated story, which ended with asking for money. Today I saw some man walking around the park flailing his arms around, and a bottle of liquor in one hand. It's unacceptable for such a nice park in my opinion. Granted, I wasn't raised in a city environment, because it appears that people tend to ignore them. Which I do as well. It's more annoying then anything. Overall, it's a great place. I'm a regular there and continue to plan on stopping by. read more

Serene yet bustling at the same time. Great for visitors and locals alike. The shops that ring the Lake on the west side and the houses on the east add to the ambiance. A plethora of Muscovy ducks will happily take your left overs and even the homeless keep to themselves. On a side note, 5 trips around Ellla equals a 5k run. read more

This park is really beautiful, but every time that I go, I wonder "what/who will bother me today?" The Canada geese are extremely aggressive (we've been chased several times), the Muscovy ducks are dirty and try to be aggressive, and there are always vagrants who harass walkers. The goose nests should be removed; Canada geese tend to take over a place once they nest there. Parking and traffic is also horrible here, especially on Food Truck days. If you're looking for a quieter, less hectic/dangerous experience, this isn't the park for you. read more

Words cannot explain all the memories that were made here! I love Lake Ella especially at night time after a good movie or dinner.

Lot of dogs as well as their owners that don't seem to be able to know how to control them. In the 15 minutes I was there, I saw two canine altercations. I'm sure Lake Ella can be lovely at times, with the surrounding quaint shops, the ducks, the trees, and the benches with lovely views of the lake but maybe with less people and less dogs. read more

Best place in Tallahassee to relax and enjoy a walk. They have added new romantic swings so couples and children can enjoy it. read more

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I stopped by here on a business trip to stretch my legs and run. It's a great park! The loop around the lake is about 0.6 mi. It was clean and there were a lots of ducks. There was also plenty of parking, which was nice. read more

Beautiful lake/park whether you're looking to have a nice relaxing walk or jog around the park or have a picnic. During the day there are a lot of people there and at night it's less crowded but still beautiful. The ducks here are adorable, they seem to just waddle on about their business in little groups . -Great for kids/families -inexpensive date idea -alternative to going to the gym(.6 miles per lap) *There is ample parking around the trail as well as 2 parking lots read more

Lake Ella is one of my go-to destinations to go outside in Tallahassee. Growing up in Tallahassee, I would climb the tree at the front of the park when I was little, just like many kids climb it today. I love waking around Lake Ella, and I also love going to the cottages and shops around it. The city just added swings around the circle. I love sitting on the swings, reading a book, sipping a coffee from Black Dog or eating a snowball from Big Easy Snowballs while looking at the ducks and the people. The events at Lake Ella are also so fun. Food Truck Thursday's, Growers Market Wednesday's, Second Saturday's, and Brunch Sunday's are all some of my favorite events in Tallahassee. Check them out and go take a walk! read more

I really did not like this park. It was dirty and nothing similar to the pictures I saw online. I stayed few minutes and left. The restroom horrible. Really disappointed. read more

Lake Ella is a charming little area of green space in the center of the city. The lake has fountains, and a little peninsula with a gazebo, and pretty views. It is 6/10 of a mile around, and is perfect for jogging little loops, picnics, wedding photos, feeding ducks, and sunbathing (and even drum circles). There are also a dozen or so unique boutique-style shops (including an independent coffee shop, and an ice cream parlor) in the little cottages on the Monroe side of the Lake. The area seems safe, is free of litter, and has a variety of water birds, turtles, and flowers. There's plenty of parking. It is also one of my favorite places in town to people watch. read more

Come to the farmer's market on Wednesday, listen to the soothing sounds of the musicians playing their instruments, sit outside and Black Dog cafe and buy some fresh produce or sign up for a CSA. Peaceful. read more

A pretty cool spot to view all the homeless people in Tallahassee. In just one outing alone I saw a man in a skirt, two people washing their clothing in the lake, the infamous hairy dude who plucks his hairs out with tweezer by the lakeside, and some leather bound girl walking barefooted in all the duck and dog poop. Also romantic. read more

It's average. Cascades puts it to shame. There's much nicer parks and greenways in Tallahassee. I give it a poor raiting due to the fact homeless people sleep on the benches through out the day and night. Also it's rather poorly lit at night unlike cascades. This park can be sketchy, but for the most part is safe. Once again though, there are way better alternatives. Go to Elinor Klapp up meridian, a greenway, cascades, tallahassee nursies, pretty much anywhere else. There's way better places to go on a walk, and they're probably way less crowded. read more