Birthplace of the Apollo space program, Downey is a vibrant city in the south-east of Los Angeles. It was founded by and named after John Gately Downey, an Irish-born politician who went on to become the youngest ever governor of California.
Things to do in Downey
Learn about the people, events and industries that have shaped the city at the Downey Historical Society, a small museum overlooking Apollo Park. In addition to a children’s playground, a baseball diamond and a bocce court, there are barbecue and picnic facilities. If you prefer to eat out, there are plenty of fast-food eateries on the park’s southern boundary.
Science fans will find something to interest them at the Columbia Memorial Space Center, which is home to hands-on exhibits dedicated to exploring our universe. In its gallery spaces, you can discover what it’s like to work on the International Space Station and learn about the future of robotics. The centre is located on the former plant site where the Apollo command and service modules were built and is designated as a memorial to the crew of the Space Shuttle Columbia.
Grassy lawns surround the children’s play equipment at Dennis the Menace Park, a popular family destination north of Downey. Keen golfers can play a round at the Rio Hondo Golf Club, which boasts 18 holes and well-equipped practice facilities. The course lies just across the Rio Hondo from Bell Gardens John Anson Ford Park, where you’ll find a tranquil lake, leafy walking trails and sporting courts.
Getting around Downey
Downey is around 20 minutes’ drive from the centre of Los Angeles and 30 minutes from Los Angeles International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Metro services connect to the Lakewood Boulevard station and buses travel throughout Downey.