
Things to know
Discover Downey.

The Original McDonald's
CultureVisit the oldest operating McDonald's in the world at the Downey Historic Site. This 1953 location is a pristine example of Googie architecture and a living museum of fast-food history, complete with vintage signage and classic menu items.

Downey Certified Farmers' Market
FoodHeld every Saturday, this vibrant market is a community hub for fresh, local produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts. It's the perfect place to taste the flavors of Southern California and support local farmers and vendors.

Furman Park
NatureA sprawling, beautifully maintained community park featuring sports fields, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a serene lake. It's the go-to spot for family outings, weekend soccer games, and peaceful afternoon strolls.
things to do
Things to Do in Downey
Downey offers a surprisingly rich mix of historical landmarks, family-friendly recreation, and local flavor that captures the essence of mid-century Southern California suburbia.
Tour the Downey History Center
HistoryHoused in the 1916 Carpenter House, this museum delves into the city's transformation from rancho to aerospace hub. Exhibits feature artifacts from the Apollo space program, which had major operations here.
Walk the Rio San Gabriel River Trail
NatureAccess this extensive paved trail system for biking, jogging, or a leisurely walk along the riverbed. It's a vital green corridor for recreation and spotting local wildlife right in the city's backyard.
Catch a Show at the Downey Theatre
CultureThis historic 1940s venue hosts a diverse calendar of performances, from Broadway touring shows and concerts to comedy acts and community theater productions in an elegant, intimate setting.
Dine on Downey Avenue
FoodStroll this main drag for a culinary tour featuring old-school steakhouses like Phil's, authentic Mexican at Guisados, and modern gastropubs. The street embodies Downey's evolving dining scene.
Browse Stonewood Center
ShoppingAs one of the first enclosed malls in the US, this modernized retail center remains a major shopping destination with department stores, popular brands, a cinema, and seasonal community events.
Play at Apollo Park
FamilyThis spacious park is a favorite for its large, imaginative playgrounds, splash pad for hot days, and plenty of open grass for games. It's a cornerstone for local family life and community gatherings.
neighborhoods
Neighborhoods to Explore
Downey's neighborhoods range from historic districts with storybook homes to quiet, tree-lined suburban streets, each contributing to the city's cohesive, community-focused character.
Downey Historic District
Historic CharmCentered around Brookshire Avenue, this area features beautifully preserved homes from the early 1900s, including Craftsman bungalows and Spanish Colonial Revivals. It's a peaceful, walkable slice of the city's origins.
North Downey
Suburban ClassicCharacterized by well-kept mid-century ranch homes on large lots, this area is family-central. It's close to top-rated schools, Furman Park, and offers a quintessential, quiet Southern California suburban experience.
Central Downey
Central & ConvenientThe bustling heart of the city, home to Downey High School, the Civic Center, and easy access to major shopping and dining on Firestone Boulevard. It's a mix of residential streets and commercial vitality.
South Downey
Established & QuietA primarily residential area known for its mature trees, larger properties, and proximity to the Rio San Gabriel trail. It offers a serene, established atmosphere while still being minutes from everything.
Browse by category
Every need, covered in Downey.
Beauty & Grooming
Trusted local salons and barbershops offering classic cuts and modern styles.
Shopping
A blend of major retail centers and charming, independent downtown boutiques.
Food & Dining
From legendary bakeries to authentic global eats in a classic suburban setting.
Home Services
Reliable, family-owned trades and services for maintaining your Downey home.
Health & Wellness
Stay active with abundant parks, community rec centers, and local fitness studios.
Professional
A hub for local legal, financial, and medical practices serving the community.
Featured near you
Businesses Downey loves.
Local stories
Articles about Downey.

Top-Rated Hair Salons & Spas in Los Angeles
Find LA's premier hair salons and luxury spas, where celebrity stylists, cutting-edge treatments, and holistic wellness define the city's beauty and relaxation standards.

Los Angeles Home Services Guide: Movers, Cleaners & Repairs
Your essential guide to finding reliable movers, house cleaners, handymen, and repair specialists across the vast and complex landscape of Los Angeles.

Best Gyms & Fitness Studios in Los Angeles
Discover LA's world-class fitness scene, from celebrity-frequented strength gyms and scenic outdoor boot camps to mindful yoga studios and cutting-edge boutique cycling.

Best Restaurants & Food Spots in Los Angeles
Explore the sprawling, diverse culinary landscape of Los Angeles, from world-class fine dining and iconic taco trucks to hidden neighborhood gems and global food halls.
Own a business in Downey?
Get found by local customers searching for services in Downey, CA. Join thousands of businesses already on Poyst.
- ✓Free business listing with photos & reviews
- ✓Appear in local search & city guides
- ✓Analytics dashboard to track visibility


