World's Oldest McDonald's in Downey, California

Opened in 1953, this McDonald's location in Downey, California is the 3rd McDonald's restaurant to be opened, the 2nd McDonald's restaurant to be franchised by Richard and Maurice McDonald before the involvement of Ray Kroc, and currently the world's oldest still operating McDonald's. On appearance alone it feels like a roadside attraction right out of a movie.  

This McDonald's location is particularly notable because the building still retains its original Googie architecture and design featuring double golden arches and walk-up ordering windows. This McDonald's also houses a small museum full of memorabilia in an attached seating area that was later added, and has its original sign featuring "Speedee" McDonald's original mascot. 

Fittingly, the historic Downey location is also the only McDonald's in the continental US that still serves the original deep fried apple pie. The modern version of the apple pie is baked at all the other locations so this variation does provide one more excuse to come and have a look and experience this really unique McDonald's throwback.

 

Studios Gates at Paramount Pictures in Hollywood

A few visuals of the Melrose Gate and Bronson Gate at Paramount Pictures in Hollywood.

 

Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas

A few visuals from the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas in Nevada. 

Pasadena City Hall in California

Completed in 1927, the Pasadena City Hall in Pasadena, California is a stunning piece of architecture. From its impressive dome to its ornately manicured courtyard, this impressive landmark is part of Pasadena's Civic Center District. In 1980 this entire district, including the Pasadena City Hall, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This location has long been popular with filmmakers, however there are two notable examples where the Pasadena City Hall stands out in my mind. One is where it featured prominently as a backdrop in Charlie Chaplin's The Great Dictator (1940) and the other is as the City Hall of Pawnee, Indiana in NBC's Parks and Recreation. Given how beautiful the building is, it's easy to see why it's still such a popular location.