Lake Ella and Fred Drake Park
A tranquil urban oasis featuring a scenic lake, a charming gazebo, and abundant birdlife, perfect for walks and picnics.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter, less bird droppings
Lake Ella and Fred Drake Park
Best Time
Quieter, less bird droppings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil urban oasis featuring a scenic lake, a charming gazebo, and abundant birdlife, perfect for walks and picnics.
"A scenic park with a small loop around the lake, full of ducks and geese."
🚫 Don't Feed the Birds
Bread is unhealthy for ducks & geese. Opt for bird-safe food if you must feed them.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The loop is great for a stroll, so wear comfy shoes for your walk around the lake.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 2,365 reviews
Type
Park
Website
talgov.comHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Serene Lake Loop
Around Lake Ella
Enjoy a peaceful 360-degree walk around the lake, taking in the water views and gazebo.
Gazebo Charm
Center of Lake Ella
A picturesque gazebo sits in the middle of the lake, offering a lovely focal point.
Bird Watching
Lake Ella
Spot numerous ducks and Canadian geese; a delight for bird enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Mind the Geese & Ducks
Parking & Vibe Check
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚫 Don't Feed the Birds
Bread is unhealthy for ducks & geese. Opt for bird-safe food if you must feed them.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The loop is great for a stroll, so wear comfy shoes for your walk around the lake.
Lake ella
How safe is it to live near lake ella/the lake ella park if I will be walking a dog at night?
The scariest and most dangerous place in Tallahassee is Lake Ella
Yes I am ornithophobic. You should be too. Bruh these birds are fucking terrifying. I grabbed a coffee and an apple to gnaw on while enjoying a nice quiet lakefront view and I am currently now huddled in my car with a Canadian goose on the hood pecking at my windshield.
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tight. Be prepared to find street parking nearby if the lot is full.
📸 Gazebo Photo Op
The central gazebo is a perfect spot for scenic photos, especially at sunset.
People who have lived next to Lake Ella, what's that like? What do you like and dislike about it?
Used to. Ideal location in town. Walkable to many necessities if needed. Stumbling distance from midtown areas. Had stuff stolen out of an unlocked car once (my fault). Only a few run-ins with homeless folks. None that I would consider more than an annoyance, but I'm a guy.…
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 Don't Feed the Birds
Bread is unhealthy for ducks & geese. Opt for bird-safe food if you must feed them.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The loop is great for a stroll, so wear comfy shoes for your walk around the lake.
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tight. Be prepared to find street parking nearby if the lot is full.
📸 Gazebo Photo Op
The central gazebo is a perfect spot for scenic photos, especially at sunset.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lake Ella and Fred Drake Park is a pleasant spot for a walk or picnic, appreciated for its scenic lake and central gazebo. Visitors enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and birdwatching opportunities. However, some find the park could be cleaner due to bird droppings and occasionally feel uneasy about the presence of certain individuals.
"Nice place for taking a walk or relaxing. There’s a swing which is mostly free!
You can walk 360 around the lake, have a picnic or just time for yourself. Quiet, less crowded and mostly there is a parking space. There are picnic tables and a sort of mini island although not completely separated. Worth it if you stay near by or wouldn’t mind a drive."
Clement Amponsah
"This is a scenic park with a small loop around the lake. I agree with other reviews regarding bird droppings. There are a ton of ducks and Canadian geese, which i personally don't like. The sidewalks did have a lot of droppings. If you dont mind that, then this park is the place for you. I didn't find it super relaxing, as there were some "sketchy" looking people, so I felt like I needed to really pay attention to my surroundings. The coolest part was that a group of people were playing bagpipes and drums, so that was really awesome. There were a few gorgeous trees around the lake, and there are some cute little shops nearby. The parking area is quite small so you might need to park on the street. It's worth checking out and seeing what you think."
allison montgomery
"If you happen to be driving passing through town, stop and visit this park. The was a very beautiful gazebo located in the center of the park surrounded by a serene lake full of ducks and geese."
jasmine rodriguez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Ella and Fred Drake Park is located in Tallahassee, Florida. It's easily accessible by car, with a dedicated parking lot. If you're using GPS, 'Lake Ella, Tallahassee, FL' should guide you directly. Some visitors suggest street parking if the main lot is full.
While specific bus routes can change, checking the Tallahassee public transit website is recommended for the most up-to-date information on routes serving the area near Lake Ella.
To experience a more peaceful visit, aim for weekday mornings. Evenings can also be pleasant with a calming breeze, though they might attract more visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Lake Ella and Fred Drake Park is a public park and does not require an entrance fee. You can enjoy the walking paths and scenery free of charge.
As a public park, Lake Ella and Fred Drake Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to check local listings for any specific holiday hours or temporary closures.
While not explicitly stated in all reviews, many public parks in Tallahassee allow dogs on leashes. It's advisable to confirm local leash laws and park regulations before your visit.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a relaxing walk or jog around the lake's 360-degree loop, have a picnic, bird watch, or simply sit and enjoy the serene atmosphere. There's also a gazebo for photos.
Yes, there are picnic tables available around the park, making it a great spot for a casual meal outdoors. You can also find cute little shops nearby for snacks or a meal.
Kids often enjoy seeing the ducks and geese. While there isn't a dedicated playground mentioned in reviews, the open space and water views can be engaging. Be mindful of bird droppings.
The walking paths offer a scenic loop around the lake. However, be aware that bird droppings can accumulate, especially near the water.
Restroom availability is not consistently mentioned in reviews. It's recommended to check with local park authorities or be prepared with your own facilities if needed.
📸 📸 Photography
The gazebo in the center of the lake is a prime spot for photography. The reflections on the water and the surrounding trees also offer beautiful opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Absolutely! With its diverse bird population (ducks, geese) and scenic lake views, it's a great location for capturing nature shots. Early mornings often provide softer light.
Late afternoons and early mornings offer the best light for photography, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere. The gazebo is particularly stunning during sunset.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit