Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Downey, CA

Downey is a city of approximately 110,000 inhabitants, strategically situated among the various municipalities of Los Angeles County.

This city is relatively equidistant from downtown Los Angeles to the north, Long Beach to the south, and the Pacific Ocean and Inland Empire to the west and east, respectively. Moreover, it’s an affordable location that offers convenient access to several key highways, making it an excellent base for exploring the myriad attractions of Southern California.

Below are 15 notable activities to engage in while visiting Downey, California.

1. Columbia Memorial Space Center

Southern California’s educational institutions, national laboratories, and aerospace corporations have historically contributed significantly to space exploration.

The Columbia Memorial Space Center, located on Columbia Way in Downey, is dedicated to commemorating the city’s remarkable history, particularly regarding the shuttle program.

The city was involved in the design and construction of parts for both the Apollo spacecraft and the Columbia Shuttle, the latter of which tragically exploded during launch decades ago, resulting in the loss of all seven crew members.

Visitors of all ages find the Columbia Memorial Space Center to be a meaningful, informative, and engaging experience.

2. Downey Theater

Local theaters often receive little attention from busy travelers focused on iconic California attractions such as beaches and national parks.

Downey Theater, situated on Firestone Boulevard close to downtown, has served as one of the city’s foremost live entertainment venues for many years.

The theater’s team consistently produces a variety of performances throughout the year, encompassing everything from classic dramas and children’s plays to contemporary works and musicals.

This venue predominantly features local talent, making attendance an excellent way to support the community while enjoying live entertainment.

3. Downey International Food Festival

Though summertime can often bring harsh weather, fall in Downey typically provides ideal conditions for outdoor events like fairs and festivals.

The Downey International Food Festival has become one of the city’s most anticipated annual gatherings for nearly a decade. In addition to an abundance of gourmet food prepared by local chefs, there is a wide selection of craft beer and wine, live entertainment, and family-centric activities.

While many attendees initially intend to stay for just a brief period, the vibrant atmosphere often results in extended visits, so reallocating time for this event is advisable.

4. Maui Sushi & Teriyaki

Southern California boasts an exceptionally diverse range of cultures and ethnicities. For culinary enthusiasts eager to explore international cuisines at authentic establishments, both LA and Downey provide outstanding options.

Although the idea of consuming raw fish wrapped in rice may be unappealing to some, sushi’s delicate yet appealing flavors often captivate even those hesitant to try it.

Maui Sushi & Teriyaki, located on Lakewood Boulevard in Downey, offers an extensive menu featuring a variety of Japanese dishes, including sushi, sashimi, rolls, and soups.

Previous diners have noted the generous portion sizes and attentive service at this establishment.

5. Paramount Drive-In Theater

During the mid-20th century, drive-in theaters were immensely popular; however, since the 1980s, their numbers have dwindled significantly.

Fortunately, the Paramount Drive-In, located in nearby Paramount, remains operational. It stands as a favored evening recreation option for local families and visitors wishing to relive a nostalgic cinematic experience.

As in past decades, attendees watch films from the convenience of their vehicles while enjoying traditional drive-in fare, such as burgers, fries, and cotton candy.

The drive-in is merely a five-minute drive southwest of Downey.

6. Rio Hondo Golf Club

For a significant portion of the year, Los Angeles County serves as a golfing haven, attracting players nationwide who prefer to avoid winter’s chilling conditions.

The Rio Hondo Golf Club, a municipal course managed by the city of Downey, is celebrated as one of the region’s hidden golfing gems.

Measuring just under 6,400 yards from the blue tees, the 18-hole, par-71 layout presents challenges appropriate for players of diverse skill levels.

The club provides qualified instructors and pre-round practice amenities for golfers.

7. Tropicana Bakery and Cuban Café

While Southern Florida is renowned for its Cuban population, numerous transplants from Cuba have also settled in Southern California over the years.

Tropicana Bakery and Cuban Café was established in the 1990s by an American of Cuban heritage, aiming to serve Cuban and Mexican cuisine to local working families.

Located on Paramount Boulevard in downtown, the restaurant is well-known for its authentic Cuban coffee, sandwiches, and baked goods.

The establishment features traditional music and decor, making it a fantastic option for travelers seeking value without compromising on quality.

8. Dia de los Muertos Art Festival

The Day of the Dead, known as Dia de los Muertos, is an annual celebration in Mexican culture where the living honor their deceased loved ones through various rituals and symbols that may seem unsettling to those unfamiliar with the observance.

Interestingly, this cherished event celebrates life itself, featuring a vibrant display of colorful art, delightful cuisine, engaging activities, and live entertainment.

The city has hosted its Dia de los Muertos Art Festival for eight years, organized collaboratively by local government entities and civic organizations, taking place outdoors in downtown Downey.

9. 3rd Street Coffee

For over twenty years, Downey’s 3rd Street Coffee has attracted a steady stream of both new and returning customers thanks to its excellent selection of food and handcrafted beverages.

3rd Street is not merely another café; it prides itself on hearty offerings, including popular chicken breast panini sandwiches that often sell out quickly.

Alongside classic coffee creations such as cappuccinos and mochas, the menu features Thai and boba teas, juices, and smoothies, cementing its status as a beloved local spot.

As suggested by its name, 3rd Street Coffee is located on 3rd Street in downtown Downey.

10. Disneyland California Adventure Park

Although technically located in Anaheim, Disneyland California Adventure Park is conveniently positioned approximately 25 minutes southeast of Downey, just off Interstate 5.

The park is recognized as one of Southern California’s leading vacation destinations, frequently serving as a primary venue for families traveling with young children.

Given the notorious traffic surrounding Downey and Los Angeles, coupled with the multitude of attractions available on-site, visitors can make the most of their time without becoming ensnared in congested roadways.

Spanning over 70 acres, the park offers numerous rides, shopping facilities, dining experiences, and live entertainment suitable for audiences of all ages.

11. Rodeo Drive

Few locations in the nation match the extreme concentration of wealth found in Southern California.

This region serves as a playground for various public figures, including movie stars, athletes, and technology innovators.

Rodeo Drive is among the most renowned shopping destinations in Los Angeles. While much of the merchandise in its upscale boutiques may be unaffordable for the average family, it remains an iconic Californian attraction worth visiting.

Located approximately 20 minutes northwest of Downey, Rodeo Drive stretches between Wilshire Boulevard and California Route 2, just south of Beverly Hills.

Visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras, as it is not uncommon to spot celebrities in this glamorous area.

12. The Getty Center

The Getty name is emblematic of considerable wealth and influence; John Paul Getty was once the richest person in America.

The Getty Center was inaugurated with resources from the family’s philanthropic foundation. It houses one of the nation’s most significant art collections, featuring masterpieces from renowned artists like Van Gogh and Cézanne.

The collection also includes contemporary works across various mediums, such as photography and sculpture. Perched on a hilltop, the facility offers visitors unparalleled views of LA’s skyline and prominent landmarks on clear days.

The drive northwest from Downey typically takes about 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

13. Venice Beach

Amidst the urban hustle and rugged landscape, Los Angeles is home to some of the country’s most picturesque beaches, many of which are a short drive from Downey.

With renowned spots such as Santa Monica, Hermosa, and Venice Beach all within reach, beach enthusiasts have ample opportunity to revel in the sun and surf during their Southern California visit.

Venice Beach is famously recognized for its eclectic, artistic, and unconventional atmosphere. The area is filled with numerous surf shops, eateries, and galleries, making it an enjoyable outing in the afternoons following a day spent at the beach.

Furthermore, the boardwalk serves as an exceptional location for people-watching, situated just 25 minutes west of Downey.

14. Honda Center

Situated on East Katella Avenue in Anaheim, approximately 25 kilometers southeast of Downey, the Honda Center represents one of the premier venues for sports and live entertainment in the Los Angeles area.

In recent years, it has been the host of numerous basketball competitions, NHL games, circus performances, and concerts by prominent artists.

Due to the popularity of events, tickets often sell out quickly; thus, checking the venue’s website for upcoming performances during your visit is advisable.

Nearby, a selection of popular restaurants and bars enhances the experience, providing an excellent opportunity for a delightful evening out.

15. La Brea Tar Pits

For thousands of years, before urban development enveloped the area, animals of various sizes were drawn to the La Brea tar pits, often leading to their unfortunate entrapment while seeking water.

While the era of prehistoric creatures has long since passed, their fossils can still be observed at the La Brea Tar Pits, with many specimens over a million years old.

The site also includes an informative museum housing a range of intriguing artifacts and fossilized remains. It is located in Los Angeles, approximately 20 kilometers east of downtown Downey.