Best Hotels in Downey

Why Visit Downey, California?

Founded in 1873, Downey, CA was named after the youngest governor of California, John G. Downey, who was 34 at the start of his tenure. During his governance, Governor Downey realized the potential the citrus industry would have, and started importing different kinds of oranges into Southern California. Oranges have since become one of California's biggest cash crops. The city is located in the Gateway Cities section of Los Angeles County, just 13 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles.

Fun Fact: Did you know that Downey, CA is home to the longest-running McDonald's restaurant in the world? The McDonald's on Lakewood Boulevard in Downey was the 3rd ever branch to open, and has been running since Aug 18, 1953.

The Best Time to Visit Downey, California

Downey, CA experiences a semi-arid climate. The hottest and driest months fall between August and September, with highs averaging around 87°F. The coldest and wettest months fall between December and February, with lows averaging at 46°F.

Hotels in Downey, CA are most expensive between June and July. The cheapest month to visit Downey, CA is in December.

Getting Around Downey, California

Long Beach Airport (LGB) serves the city of Downey, just 9.5 miles away. The most convenient way to get to downtown Downey from Long Beach Airport (LGB) is by taxi. Taxis are widely available at the taxi stand, located outside the terminal, next to Parking Structure A. The journey takes between 15–18 minutes, and costs between US$50–US$65.

Driving is a popular way of getting to and around Downey, CA. Car rental offices are conveniently located in the Airport Ground Transportation Center, directly across the terminal. Alternatively, Trip.com offers a wide selection of cars to book, with free cancellation and no credit card fees. You can explore car rental options here.

The city of Downey provides its own local bus service, DowneyLINK, consisting of four loops, one serving each quadrant of the city. All routes begin and end at the Downey Depot Transportation Center, and runs from 06:30–18:30, Monday–Friday. Single ride fares cost US$0.50 per ride, with free transfers available upon request.

Things to Do in Downey, California

The 20,000 square-foot Columbia Memorial Space Center (CMSC) is a learning center dedicated to STEM-related subjects through world-class programs and interactive exhibits. The Space Center highlights Downey’s 70-year history of aerospace, from the Apollo capsules to the Space Shuttle Orbiters, as well as honoring the astronauts lost in the quest of space exploration. The CMSC is open from 10:00–17:00, daily, and admission costs US$5 per person.

Visit Apollo Park, located in the southwestern quadrant of the city, and home to the Downey Historical Society. The historic center is filled with photos, maps, and memorabilia dedicated to the city, including that of the Carpenter’s and the Apollo Space program. The Downey Historical Society’s historic center is open from 10:00–14:00, on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and on the 3rd Saturday of each month. Admission costs US$10 per adult, and US$5 per student.