Palmdale on a Budget: 3 Days of Adventure!

Exploring Palmdale on a dime – breathtaking experiences without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Palmdale is a city located in the Antelope Valley region of California, known for its dry desert climate and scenic views of the San Gabriel Mountains. While on a limited budget, visitors can explore local landmarks such as the Palmdale Amphitheater and the Palmdale Playhouse, or enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby Angeles National Forest. Accommodations can be found at affordable motels and vacation rentals, and dining options include local favorites like In-N-Out Burger and La Cocina Bar & Grill.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Get Ready to Explore Palmdale!

  • Check into the Best Western Plus John Jay Inn & Suites, an affordable and comfortable accommodation option in Palmdale.
  • Drive to the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, which is only 25 minutes away from the hotel and experience the stunning beauty of the wildflowers.
  • Head to the Blackbird Airpark to check out the impressive collection of retired aircraft and aviation artifacts.
  • Grab a delicious burger at Jilberto's Taco Shop.
  • Catch a movie at Cinemark at Antelope Valley Mall before calling it a night.
Day 2

Discovering Natural Beauty in Palmdale

  • Start the day with breakfast at Crazy Otto's Diner, a local favorite.
  • Take a scenic drive to Devil's Punchbowl Natural Area, approximately 40 minutes away from Palmdale, to hike and explore nature.
  • Visit the Joe Davies Heritage Airpark to learn about aviation history and admire unique aircraft.
  • Grab dinner at Lemon Leaf Thai Restaurant for some authentic Thai flavors.
  • End the night at Pour d'Vino Wine Bar & Bistro with a glass of wine in a cozy atmosphere.
Day 3

Fun and Games in Palmdale

  • Enjoy breakfast at The Broken Bit Steakhouse, a staple in Palmdale for over 50 years.
  • Spend the morning at Mulligan Family Fun Center with mini-golf, go-karts, arcade games, and more.
  • Drive to the nearby Lake Palmdale for fishing and water activities.
  • Have lunch at Urth Caffé for some healthy and delicious options.
  • Explore the Palmdale Amphitheater, which hosts concerts and events throughout the year.
  • End the trip with dinner at Pad Thai Restaurant, serving up tasty Thai food at affordable prices.
  • Palmdale offers a range of experiences whether you want to be outdoors, learn about aviation history or have some fun and games. With affordable accommodation options, a diverse food scene, and easy access to natural beauty, Palmdale is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway.

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.

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.

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.

Palmdale Adventure: 4 Days of Fun for the Whole Family

Palmdale, located in the United States, offers an incredible family-friendly trip with a plethora of outdoor adventures. Explore the wonders of the Devil's Punchbowl Natural Area, where stunning rock formations and hiking trails await. Don't miss a visit to DryTown Water Park, where thrilling water slides and splash zones will provide endless fun for the whole family.