A few of the companies we’ve worked with
Columbia Memorial Space Center
As the crown jewel of Downey’s rich aerospace legacy, the Columbia Memorial Space Center is a must-visit destination for school field trips, science clubs, and history enthusiasts. Located on the site of the former NASA Industrial Plant where the Apollo Command Modules and the Space Shuttles were designed and built, this hands-on learning center pays tribute to the crews of the Space Shuttle Columbia and the Challenger. The center features interactive exhibits, a robotics lab, and the Challenger Learning Center, offering immersive experiences that inspire the next generation of engineers and astronauts.
Transporting a large group of students or tour participants to the Space Center is seamless with Charter Bus Downey. We specialize in school trip transportation that prioritizes comfort and punctuality. Instead of coordinating a long line of parent carpools or relying on cramped traditional school buses, upgrade your educational outing with a private charter bus rental. Your students can watch educational space documentaries on the onboard TV monitors while en route, and teachers can utilize the PA system to give instructions before arrival. We will drop your group off right at the entrance at 12400 Columbia Way, Downey, CA 90242, ensuring you maximize your time exploring the cosmos.
The World’s Oldest Operating McDonald’s
For pop culture fans and history lovers, a trip to Downey isn’t complete without visiting the oldest operating McDonald’s in the world. Unlike the modern franchises you see on every corner, this location has maintained its original 1953 Googie architecture, complete with the iconic golden arches and the original mascot, Speedee, shining high above the building. It offers a glimpse into the past of fast-food history, featuring a museum with retro memorabilia, vintage uniforms, and classic menus. It is a fantastic stop for sightseeing tours or a unique lunch break for corporate groups looking for a bit of nostalgia.
Parking at this historic landmark can be incredibly tight due to its popularity and vintage lot design. By renting a minibus or charter bus with Charter Bus Downey, you avoid the headache of finding multiple parking spots for your group. Your driver can drop you off curbside so you can snap photos and grab a burger without the stress. After you’ve enjoyed your meal and toured the small museum, your air-conditioned bus will be waiting to whisk you away to your next destination. Visit this slice of Americana at 10207 Lakewood Blvd, Downey, CA 90240.
Downey Theatre
The Downey Theatre is the cultural heartbeat of the city, hosting a wide array of performances ranging from symphony concerts and ballets to musical theater and community events. With over 700 seats, it is a prime venue for large groups attending matinees or evening galas. Whether you are organizing a senior citizen outing to see a play or a school group attending a cultural performance, the Downey Theatre offers an enriching experience for all ages. The venue is also a hub for local art festivals and civic gatherings, making it a central point of interest in the city.
Arriving at a theater production with a large group requires precision timing. You don't want to be rushing to your seats after the curtain has gone up because you were circling the block looking for parking. With Charter Bus Downey, we provide door-to-door service that ensures you arrive with plenty of time to find your seats and settle in. For senior groups, our buses can be requested with ADA-accessible features to ensure every member of your party travels with dignity and comfort. After the applause dies down, your driver will be ready at the curb of 8435 Firestone Blvd, Downey, CA 90241 to take you home comfortably.
Porto's Bakery & Cafe
If there is one culinary destination that defines the local flavor of the area, it is Porto's Bakery & Cafe. Famous throughout Southern California, the Downey location is expansive and bustling, serving up legendary cheese rolls, potato balls, and exquisite cakes. It is an absolute essential stop for food tours, family reunions, or just a treat for your corporate team. The bakery is consistently rated as one of the best places to eat in the country, drawing massive crowds daily. It is the perfect spot to grab a box of pastries to share or sit down for a hearty Cuban sandwich.
Because Porto's is so popular, the parking lot is often chaotic and full. Don't let the stress of parking ruin your appetite! A private bus rental from Charter Bus Downey is the ultimate hack for visiting Porto's with a group. We can drop your group off at the entrance so you can get in line immediately. Plus, with the ample overhead storage and climate control on our buses, you have plenty of room to store boxes of leftovers or cakes to take home without them melting in a hot car. Head over to 8233 Firestone Blvd, Downey, CA 90241 for a taste of local perfection.
Wilderness Park
Escape the urban sprawl without leaving the city at Wilderness Park. This beautiful outdoor space features two fishing lakes, walking trails, and plenty of picnic areas, making it a favorite spot for youth groups, scout troops, and company picnics. It is a serene environment perfect for nature walks, duck feeding, and enjoying the California sunshine. The park offers a great opportunity for team-building exercises or educational nature tours for younger students.
When planning a day outdoors, you often have a lot of gear to transport—coolers, sports equipment, picnic blankets, and fishing rods. A standard car simply won't cut it. When you book a full-size charter bus with Charter Bus Downey, you gain access to massive undercarriage storage bays that can easily hold all your supplies. Your group can travel together in comfort, and you won't have to worry about coordinating a caravan of vehicles to the park. Enjoy a stress-free day in nature at 10999 Little Lake Rd, Downey, CA 90241.
Rio Hondo Golf Club
For corporate groups and golf enthusiasts, the Rio Hondo Golf Club offers a challenging yet accessible 18-hole course right in the heart of Downey. Known for its well-maintained greens and water features, it has been a staple of the community for decades. It is an excellent venue for charity tournaments, corporate networking events, or a relaxing day out with a wedding party before the big day. The club also features a clubhouse and banquet facilities for post-game dining and awards ceremonies.
Transporting golf clubs and gear for a large group can be a logistical nightmare in standard rideshares. Charter Bus Downey solves this with spacious luggage bays designed to handle oversized equipment like golf bags with ease. We can shuttle your corporate team from their hotel or office directly to the clubhouse, allowing them to network and mentally prepare for the game on the way. After 18 holes, everyone can relax in reclining seats and enjoy the ride to dinner or back to the hotel. Tee off at 10627 Old River School Rd, Downey, CA 90241.
Downey History Center
Dive deep into the local lore at the Downey History Center. Located within Apollo Park, this research center and museum offers a fascinating look at the agricultural and aerospace roots of the city. It is a fantastic resource for researchers, students, and anyone interested in how Downey transformed from dairy farms to the cradle of the space program. The center houses photographs, artifacts, and documents that paint a vivid picture of the region's evolution over the last century.
For educational groups and historical societies, a visit here is best experienced together. A minibus rental from Charter Bus Downey keeps your group cohesive, allowing tour guides or teachers to brief the group on the history they are about to see while en route. The drivers are familiar with the area and can navigate the streets around Apollo Park efficiently. Visit the center at 12540 Rives Ave, Downey, CA 90242 to connect with the past.
Stonewood Center
Sometimes, a group trip just needs a little retail therapy. The Stonewood Center is Downey’s premier shopping destination, featuring major department stores, popular retail chains, and a variety of dining options. It is a great stop for tour groups looking to do some shopping, student groups on a travel break, or families looking for a central meeting place. From fashion to food, Stonewood Center offers a comprehensive shopping experience in a convenient location.
Shopping trips with a large group are infinitely better with a charter bus. Instead of carrying heavy bags around all day or walking miles to a distant parking spot, your group can utilize the bus as a secure base of operations. Your driver can drop you off at a main entrance and pick you up when you are shopping. With the spacious storage available on our buses, there is plenty of room for all the shopping bags you accumulate. Head to 251 Stonewood St, Downey, CA 90241 for a day of fashion and fun.
Book Your Downey Charter Bus Rental Today
Ready to explore Downey with your group? Charter Bus Downey is here to make your transportation seamless, affordable, and comfortable. We have representatives available 24/7/365 to assist you with finding the best charter bus to meet your needs. If you’d like a free personalized quote for your next group trip to the Space Center, Porto's, or anywhere in Southern California, we’re ready to help and we’d love to earn your business! You can reach us by calling 424-492-2220. You can also use our online quote tool for instant online charter bus pricing in under 30-seconds. With just a few pieces of information, you can instantly see images and prices of available vehicles in the Downey area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Downey Group Travel Transportation
How far in advance should I book my charter bus in Downey?
We generally recommend booking your charter bus rental as soon as you have your date and itinerary finalized. Ideally, you should aim to book at least 3 to 6 months in advance. This is especially important if your trip falls during busy seasons like spring (for school field trips and proms) or major holidays. However, because Charter Bus Downey has access to a massive fleet, we can often accommodate last-minute requests. Call us 24/7 at 424-492-2220 to check availability for your specific dates.
Can we bring food and drinks on the bus?
Yes, in most cases, you are welcome to bring food and drinks on board! We understand that keeping a group fed and hydrated is important, especially on longer trips or during busy event days. However, we usually ask that you stick to non-messy snacks and drinks with lids to keep the bus clean for your comfort.
What happens if our trip goes overtime?
We understand that exploring Downey can sometimes take longer than expected—maybe the line at Porto's was long or the tour at the Space Center was too engaging to leave! Your charter bus quote is based on the itinerary you provide. If you exceed the contracted time, additional hourly charges may apply. We recommend building a little buffer time into your schedule when you book to account for traffic or extended stays at attractions. Our goal is to be flexible and ensure you aren't stressed about the clock.
Do I need to pay a deposit to reserve a bus?
Yes, a deposit is typically required to secure your reservation. When you call Charter Bus Downey to book your trip, our reservation agent will explain the payment structure clearly. The deposit ensures that your specific vehicle is taken off the market and reserved solely for your group. The remaining balance is usually due before the date of your trip. We offer transparent pricing with no additional fees, so you will know exactly what is due and when.
Do you service areas outside of Downey?
Absolutely! While we love our home city of Downey, Charter Bus Downey provides transportation services throughout Los Angeles County, Orange County, and the entire state of California. Whether you are heading into Downtown LA for a Lakers game, taking a trip to Disneyland in Anaheim, or planning a long-distance road trip to San Francisco or Las Vegas, we have the fleet and the drivers to get you there. Our service area covers all major destinations across the region, making us your one-stop shop for group travel.