Downey

Tourist places in Downey, Downey Travel Info

Downey City Overview

Downey is a city located in southeast Los Angeles County, California. It is known as the birthplace of the Apollo space program and is home to the oldest operating McDonald's restaurant in the world. The city has a strong suburban feel with a rich history in aviation and aerospace.

Location and Climate

Downey is situated about 13 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles. It has a semi-arid Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city's location provides easy access to major freeways, making it a central hub in the LA area.

Best Time to Visit

Downey can be visited year-round due to its pleasant climate. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. Summer can be warm but is generally manageable. The city hosts various community events throughout the year.

Best Ways to Get Around

A car is the most efficient way to get around Downey and the sprawling Los Angeles metropolitan area. The city is served by Metro buses and the local DowneyLINK bus service. It is also close to the Metro C Line (Green Line) light rail.

Top 5 Things to Do

  1. Visit the Columbia Memorial Space Center: Learn about space exploration and Downey's aerospace history at this hands-on science learning center.
  2. See the Oldest McDonald's: Grab a burger at the world's oldest operating McDonald's, which still retains its original 1953 architecture and "Speedee" mascot.
  3. Shop at the Stonewood Center: Browse a wide selection of stores and dining options at this large regional shopping mall.
  4. Explore Wilderness Park: Enjoy the outdoors at this park featuring two lakes, walking paths, and picnic areas, a peaceful escape in the city.
  5. Visit the Downey History Center: Discover the local history of the city and the region through exhibits and archives.