Discover Palmdale: A 2-Day Desert Adventure

Experience the charm of Palmdale without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Palmdale offers a variety of budget-friendly activities including hiking in the nearby Angeles National Forest, visiting the Palmdale Amphitheater for free summer concerts, and exploring the exhibits at the Palmdale Aerospace Academy. Budget-friendly accommodations include the Motel 6 Palmdale and the Days Inn by Wyndham Palmdale. Dining options include fast food chains like McDonald's and Taco Bell, as well as local favorites like Crazy Otto's Diner and Lee Esther's Creole and Cajun Cooking.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Desert Discovery

  • Start the day with breakfast at Crazy Otto's Diner, known for their massive pancakes and omelets.
  • Head to the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve to see a sea of orange flowers in the desert.
  • Visit the Palmdale Amphitheater for a concert or play.
  • Check out the Blackbird Airpark, featuring the famous Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird spy plane.
  • Grab dinner at Poncitlan Square, serving authentic Mexican dishes like birria and tacos al pastor.
Day 2

Outdoorsy Oasis

  • Enjoy breakfast at Sagebrush Cafe, a cozy spot with local art and live music performances.
  • Hike the trails of Devil's Punchbowl Natural Area, admiring the unique geological formations and panoramic views.
  • Go fishing or boating at Lake Palmdale, a serene spot for relaxation and recreation.
  • Learn about local history at the Palmdale Schoolhouse Museum, showcasing the town's pioneer days.
  • Sample craft beers and gourmet burgers at Bravery Brewing Company, a hip hangout with outdoor seating.
  • For affordable lodging, check out Motel 6 Palmdale or Red Roof Inn Palmdale/Lancaster. Both provide basic amenities and comfortable rooms at a reasonable price. Palmdale may be a small city, but there's plenty to see and do in its desert surroundings. Embrace the eclectic vibe and soak up the natural beauty while exploring the area.

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

Discover Palmdale: A 2-Day Desert Adventure

Palmdale offers a variety of budget-friendly activities including hiking in the nearby Angeles National Forest, visiting the Palmdale Amphitheater for free summer concerts, and exploring the exhibits at the Palmdale Aerospace Academy. Budget-friendly accommodations include the Motel 6 Palmdale and the Days Inn by Wyndham Palmdale. Dining options include fast food chains like McDonald's and Taco Bell, as well as local favorites like Crazy Otto's Diner and Lee Esther's Creole and Cajun Cooking.

Fly High with a Long Weekend in Palmdale

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.

Escape for a Serene Long Weekend in Palmdale

A romantic trip to Palmdale, United States offers a serene and scenic getaway for couples. Enjoy stunning sunsets and stargazing in its scenic desert landscape. The city also boasts of charming restaurants and local boutiques to explore.

3 days of adventure in Palmdale

Palmdale, located in the High Desert region of southern California, offers breathtaking natural landscapes and diverse cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the beautiful Angeles National Forest, hike the stunning Devil's Punchbowl Natural Area, and discover the rich aerospace history at the Blackbird Airpark. Palmdale also offers a range of shopping and dining options, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.