Fly High with a Long Weekend in Palmdale

Discover the hidden gems of the Antelope Valley in Palmdale.

22 April 2023

Palmdale offers a range of activities for tourists, from scenic hikes in the nearby Angeles National Forest to admiring the historic aircraft at the Blackbird Airpark. Explore local cuisine at restaurants such as Rui's Shanghai Bistro or Farmer Boys before browsing the shops at the Antelope Valley Mall. Wrap up your day with a performance at the Palmdale Amphitheater or stargazing at the Palmdale observation deck.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Desert Dreams

  • Check into the TownePlace Suites Palmdale, a modern hotel with spacious rooms and a barbeque area perfect for an evening cookout
  • Visit the Joe Davies Heritage Airpark, an open-air museum featuring real military aircraft, including a B-52 bomber and F-117 stealth fighter
  • Take a hike through the nearby Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, where the rolling hills are covered in a sea of bright orange poppies during the springtime
  • Grab lunch at Charlie Brown Farms, a quirky roadside attraction known for its massive gift shop and delicious homemade pies
  • Drive to Devil's Punchbowl Natural Area, a breathtaking park with towering rock formations and hiking trails that wind through the canyons
  • End the day with dinner at Kinetic Brewery, where you can enjoy locally-made craft beers and a menu of hearty pub fare
Day 2

High-Flying Fun

  • Start the day with breakfast at Crazy Otto's Diner, a classic American diner that's been serving up hearty comfort food for over 30 years
  • Head to the Blackbird Airpark Museum, a hidden gem that showcases the history of Lockheed's legendary Blackbird spy plane and other aircraft
  • Take a thrilling helicopter tour over the Antelope Valley with High Desert Helicopter Tours, which offers bird's-eye views of the Mojave Desert and San Gabriel Mountains
  • Stop for lunch at Bravery Brewing, a relaxed tasting room with a rotating selection of craft beers and food trucks parked outside
  • Visit the nearby Shambala Preserve, a sanctuary for exotic animals run by actress Tippi Hedren, where you can take a guided tour and see lions, tigers, and other big cats up close
  • Finish off the trip with dinner at Giuseppe's, a family-run Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and mouth-watering pastas and pizzas.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Palmdale by plane is to fly into Bob Hope Airport in Burbank and take the Xpress Shuttle bus service to Palmdale.

Car

One of the easiest ways to get to Palmdale is by car, taking either the Antelope Valley Freeway (State Route 14) or Sierra Highway. The drive from Los Angeles takes about an hour, depending on traffic.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service to Palmdale. The nearest Amtrak station is in Lancaster, about 13 miles away. From there, you can take a taxi or a local bus to get to Palmdale.

Boat

There are no waterways that lead to Palmdale, so taking a boat is not an option.

Bus

Taking the Greyhound bus to Palmdale is a convenient option, with buses running regularly from Los Angeles and other nearby cities. The bus station in Palmdale is located at 39000 Clock Tower Plaza Drive.

More travel plans

A Romantic Day Trip to Palmdale's Hidden Gems

Palmdale, located in northern Los Angeles County, offers a uniquely romantic experience for travelers looking to escape the city. Visitors can enjoy scenic hikes in the nearby mountains or a relaxing day at the spa before taking in a beautiful sunset over the desert. With its vast open spaces and picturesque views, Palmdale is the perfect destination for a romantic retreat.

Palmdale on a Budget: 4 Days of Adventure

Palmdale, United States is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers wanting to experience the charm of Southern California without breaking the bank. The city offers affordable accommodation options and plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy, such as hiking in the nearby mountains, exploring local museums, or taking a stroll along the scenic Blvd. A trip to Palmdale offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and urban exploration without putting a dent in your wallet.

5 Days in Palmdale: Adventure on a Budget

Palmdale is a great option for budget travelers as it offers affordable accommodation options and plenty of free attractions to explore. Visitors can enjoy hiking in the beautiful natural landscapes of the Angeles National Forest, admiring the impressive aircraft displays at the Blackbird Airpark, or strolling through the Antelope Valley Indian Museum, which has free admission on certain days. Food and drink can also be cost-effective by taking advantage of happy hours or fast food chains.

A Thrilling 4-Day Getaway to Palmdale, USA

Palmdale in United States is a perfect blend of natural beauty, heritage attractions and modern amenities. Visit the iconic Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve for spectacular views of wildflowers in full bloom. Do not forget to explore the local dining scene and indulge in shopping at the Palmdale Amphitheater.