Rancho Los Amigos Adobe Museum
History buffs will be delighted by the Rancho Los Amigos Adobe Museum, housed inside the oldest standing home in all of Los Angeles County. This adobe home was built in 1834 by Manual Lugo, the grandson of one of California’s original Spanish soldiers who helped colonize the region. The Lugo family lived on this rancho for decades and played a pivotal role in transforming Downey from ranch land into an incorporated city. Today, the museum contains historic artifacts and photographs that provide an in-depth look at what life was like for early Spanish inhabitants and American settlers in Downey. Wander through the restored adobe home and discover items like antique furniture from the 1800s, traditional Mexican tin ware, and vintage Books. Don’t miss the exterior kitchen where home cooked meals were prepared over an open fireplace using cast iron pots and pans. Schedule a guided tour to truly step back in time and imagine what life on the rancho was once like.
7600 Quill Dr, Downey, CA 90242 (562) 940-7755
Columbia Memorial Space Center
Blast off into a day of space exploration and astronomy lessons at the Columbia Memorial Space Center. This hands-on museum is dedicated to teaching visitors all about the wonders of outer space through interactive exhibits and displays. Journey through the High Bay exhibit to see an actual Space Shuttle External Tank, climb aboard the shuttle simulator to see what it’s like to launch into space, and touch an authentic moon rock. The Space Center also has a Challenger Learning Center where students can participate in simulated space missions and work together to successfully complete their assignment. Don’t miss seeing one of the daily shows inside the center’s own planetarium, featuring stunning visualizations of planets, stars, and astronomical wonders. The Space Center brings the mysteries of the cosmos down to earth for visitors to discover.
12400 Columbia Way, Downey, CA 90242 (562) 231-1200
Rio Hondo Bike Path
Pedal your way through scenic Downey on the paved Rio Hondo Bike Path. This nearly 17-mile bikeway follows the Rio Hondo river channel, providing cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts with a flat, leisurely route to take in views of nature within LA County. The path starts in Azusa and passes through secluded wooded areas, across bridges overlooking the river below, and by sections of the old Zanja Madre irrigation canal built in the 1800s. There are several access points in Downey to hop on and off the bike path, including at Brookshire and Gardendale near the Columbia Space Center. Pack a picnic lunch and make an afternoon of cycling, bird watching, and enjoying the shade of willow trees along the Rio Hondo. It’s an oasis of greenery perfect for escaping the city grind.
Furman Park
Bring the whole family to Furman Park for a fun day enjoying Downey’s scenic outdoors. This public park contains acres of open space, recreational facilities, and even a manmade lake. Let the kids burn off some energy at the park’s playgrounds and splash pads. Adults can break a sweat at the exercise course or play a pickup game on one of the sports fields. Walk the 1.5 mile loop around Lake Gilmore and see if you can spot any local wildlife like ducks, heron, and bullfrogs. Have a picnic in one of the shaded areas and take in views of this hidden oasis in the middle of Downey. Furman Park offers city dwellers a variety of ways to appreciate the outdoors without traveling too far from home.
11419 Brookshire Ave, Downey, CA 90241 (562) 904-7238
Downey Museum of Art
Admire an impressive collection of fine art in various mediums at the Downey Museum of Art. The museum contains three large galleries housing permanent and temporary exhibits spanning styles from classical to modern. See beautiful works in painting, sculpture, photography, and more from renowned artists. Don’t miss the museum’s exquisite collection of glass art by local Downey artists featuring stunning pieces like Tiffany-style stained glass windows and ornate blown glass vases. The Downey Museum of Art also hosts jazz concerts, art classes, guest lectures, and family-fun days. Stop by this hidden cultural gem and discover Downey’s thriving creative community.
10419 Rives Ave, Downey, CA 90241 (562) 861-5611
Homestead Museum
Step back into Downey’s rural past at the Homestead Museum, also known as the Puente House. Built in 1865, this Victorian home lets you imagine what life was like when Downey was still part of sprawling ranch lands and burgeoning farms. The house still contains original features and furnishings that provide a glimpse into Victorian life, including an antique pump organ, ornate fireplace, and canopy beds. Stroll through the house’s lush gardens overflowing with fragrant citrus trees, roses, and other flora that would have surrounded homes at the turn of the century. Costumed docents provide guided tours that vividly bring the home’s history to life. The Homestead Museum recalls Downey’s transition from rancho to rural farmlands to booming suburb.
15415 Don Julian Rd, City of Industry, CA 91745 (626) 968-8492
Golden Park
Named for Downey residents and philanthropists Bob and Dolores Hope, Rancho San Antonio Golden Park spans nearly 27 acres within the city. This vast park contains facilities for active recreation like tennis and basketball courts, baseball diamonds, and soccer fields. Families appreciate the playground and splash pad area. There are also shaded picnic areas, walking paths, and a fishing lake stocked with trout and catfish. Have a larger gathering? Rent one of the park’s indoor banquet rooms or outdoor pavilions. Golden Park provides the ideal green space for community gatherings and events of all sizes.
9300 Holdren St, Downey, CA 90241 (562) 940-7757
Carpenter House
History and architecture buffs will appreciate a visit to the Carpenter House, another building offering a window into Downey’s past. Constructed in 1887, this Queen Anne Victorian home was the residence of the Carpenter family who moved to Downey as pioneers. The house maintains its original design inside and out, including decorative turrets, gables, and a wraparound porch. Antique furnishings fill the home like the ornate clawfoot tub and marble fireplace. Walking tours provide a glimpse into what prosperous family life in Downey was like at the turn of the century. Don’t miss seeing the historic camel barn, citrus packing house, and country store relocated to the grounds.
8404 Paramount Blvd, Downey, CA 90240 (562) 940-7755
Plan Your Trip With Charter Buses Downey
Exploring Downey’s hidden gems is easy and comfortable when you book group transportation with Charter Buses Downey. Let us handle all the logistics of getting your group around the city so you can focus on uncovering Downey’s fascinating history and natural beauty. Choose from a variety of charter bus sizes and amenities to meet your group’s needs. Keep everyone together as we transport you between unique museums, scenic parks, and historic attractions across Downey. On board amenities like WiFi, entertainment systems, power outlets, and comfortable reclining seats will ensure your group arrives relaxed and ready for a day of adventure. Contact Charter Buses Downey at (213) 354-7131 to book high quality, personalized transportation for your Downey group trip today!