Columbia Memorial Space Center: Downey's STEM Hub
Explore interactive STEM exhibits at the Columbia Memorial Space Center, a tribute to the Space Shuttle Columbia crew in Downey, CA.
The Columbia Memorial Space Center in Downey, CA, is a hands-on science museum and activity center dedicated to igniting passion in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Built on the site of the former NASA Downey facility, where Apollo Command/Service Modules and the Space Shuttle were conceived, it serves as the national memorial to the Space Shuttle Columbia and its crew.
A brief summary to Columbia Memorial Space Center
- 12400 Columbia Way, Downey, California, 90242, US
- +1562-231-1200
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the Space Center's calendar for special events, classes, and workshops for all ages.
- Take advantage of the free parking available in front of the Space Center and along Columbia Way.
- Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds, especially if visiting with young children.
- Visit the Space Center for FREE all year round with a Downey Student Membership. A one-time registration is required.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The Columbia Memorial Space Center is accessible via multiple Metro bus lines. Lines 120, 127, and 266 all stop near the center. The Metro Green Line also provides access via the Lakewood Boulevard station; from there, transfer to the DowneyLINK Southeast route, which stops at the Space Center. Metro Micro, Metro's on-demand rideshare service, serves some areas of Downey. Bus fares typically cost $1.75 per ride.
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Walking
If you are near the Downey Promenade or Kaiser Permanente's Downey Medical Center, the Columbia Memorial Space Center is within walking distance. Head east along Columbia Way to reach the Space Center. The walk is generally flat and well-paved.
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Driving
The Columbia Memorial Space Center is located at 12400 Columbia Way in Downey, CA. It's near the intersection of Lakewood Boulevard and Imperial Highway. Free parking is available in front of the Space Center and along Columbia Way. From the 605 Freeway, exit Imperial Highway and head west. From the 105 Freeway, exit Lakewood Boulevard and head north.
Discover more about Columbia Memorial Space Center
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