McDonald's Downey

McDonald's DowneyCan you believe this is the oldest McDonalds still standing today? Its such an incredible Googie gem, and I had so much fun capturing the golden arches in this print. Opened in 1953, this location still has the original Speedee mascot on site and even uses the original packaging, a rare reminder of McDonalds early days, long before the golden arches became a global symbol. Its a true slice of Americana, frozen in time.

but every time I came back there was a different car parked right in front

my friend and I were told to “blend in

By the time I’d fallen in love with LA and begun drawing its landmarks

I’m not sure if it’s just because I actually like the burgers or because it feels like a uniquely Californian experience that I can’t miss out on

For so many people

I went here before heading to a live taping of Jimmy Kimmel on Hollywood Boulevard

is exactly what a haunted hotel would say

Seeing it up close was an unforgettable moment

Opened in 1932

but I have to give a special shoutout to their margaritas

We spent the afternoon acting out fake behind-the-scenes chaos: I played the frazzled production assistant

What first drew me to Park Imperial South was its bold mid-century modern design