For a long time, Downey, California, has held the mantle for two things— The oldest McDonald's restaurant still in operation and the birthplace of the Apollo space program. But is that all this incredible Southern California city has to offer? Most certainly not! Everything from visiting a museum, eating out at a fine dining restaurant, to spending a day with the family -- Downey has it all.
Read on for some of the best things to do in Downey, CA. Or, you can contact the Downey real estate specialists at First Team Real Estate.
Visit the Columbia Memorial Space Centre
The Columbia Memorial Space Centre is an interactive science center dedicated to space exploration and rocketry. The center has a full-size replica of a Saturn V rocket, a space shuttle flight simulator, and various exhibits that show how rockets work and how astronauts prepare for spaceflight. If you're interested in space travel, this is an enjoyable place to go, and they have lots of cool activities for kids.
Visit Wilderness Park
This beautiful park features short hiking trails, walk and jog paths, and green grassy areas for picnicking. Here, you can explore all sorts of different habitats, from wetlands to grasslands to chaparral. You will also get a chance to see many small wild animals like turtles, skunks, rabbits, and squirrels. Wilderness Park in Downey, CA is the perfect opportunity to get some fresh air and is a great spot to bring kids as well!
Lock & Key Social Drinkery
This bar is a must-visit and a favorite hangout spot for cocktail lovers and foodies. The bar offers an extensive menu of handcrafted cocktails, along with numerous happy hour specials on Wednesday through to Sunday. Lock & Key Social Drinkery – also commonly called LKSD – has a great ambiance, with a long bar, comfortable couches, and plenty of space to gather with friends. The drinks are creative, and the food offerings are delicious. If you're looking for things to do in Downey, CA, on a night out with friends, stop by Lock & Key Social Drinkery!
Golfing in Downey, California
Hit the links at one of Downey’s many premier golf courses. Popular courses include Los Amigos (great for hosting events, too), Rio Hondo Golf Club(touted for its pristine conditions), Bell Gardens, and even Golf ‘N’ Stuff for a family-friendly day with the kids.
Visit the Downey Theatre
This historic theatre is a hub for music and dance in Downey. Visitors can tour the theatre and see the building's original marquee and historical features. The Downey Theatre is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is designated a California Historical Landmark.
Downey International Food and Music Festival
Every September, the city of Downey hosts its beloved International Food and Music Festival. Visitors and residents gather to taste the best local grub that the city has to offer and enjoy live music. Everything from local restaurants, food trucks, craft beer, and wine gardens to DJs, face painters, live performances, and more take place.
Paramount Drive-In Theater
If you’re looking for a wonderful slice of nostalgia, look no further than the Paramount Drive-In Theater. The perfect entertainment for a nice, California evening, enjoy a new movie with concessions such as burgers, fries, soda, popcorn, and candy all from the comfort of your car.
All in all, Downey, CA, is a great city with lots of fun things to do. The city is clean, quiet, and calm, and if you're a first-time visitor, Downey is bound to steal your heart.
Interested in moving to Downey, CA? You can learn more about the city or browse Downey homes for sale. Or, contact the Downey real estate specialists at First Team Real Estate with all your Downey, California questions.
