Discover Palmdale: A Budget-Friendly Day Trip

Experience Palmdale's beauty without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Palmdale is a great destination for those on a limited budget. The city is home to many affordable hotels and hostels, making it easy to find a place to stay. Visitors can enjoy hiking, exploring local parks, and taking advantage of the many free attractions the city has to offer.

Day trip plan

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  • Start your day at Crazy Otto's Diner for a delicious, hearty breakfast that won't break the bank.
  • Head to the Palmdale Amphitheater for a morning stroll, take in the fresh air, and appreciate the views of the San Gabriel Mountains.
  • Explore the Palmdale Playhouse where you can catch a show, check out art exhibits or attend a workshop.
  • Take a drive to Lake Palmdale where you can rent a kayak and paddle around while enjoying the scenic views.
  • Grab some lunch at Antelope Valley Mall's food court, packed with wallet-friendly options and indulge in a little shopping.
  • For dinner, visit the Rusty Pelican for some great American fare with the added bonus of their budget-friendly happy hour specials.
  • Palmdale might not be a super popular destination, but you can certainly make the most of your 1-day trip while on a tight budget. From scenic drives to cultural experiences, and affordable dining options, you'll leave with fond memories and a few bucks still left in your pocket.

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

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.

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.

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: The Ultimate 5-Day Family Adventure

Palmdale, located in the United States, offers a fantastic and family-friendly trip for all ages. The city boasts exciting outdoor activities like hiking and biking in the picturesque Antelope Valley and exploring the stunning Joshua Tree National Park nearby. Furthermore, families can enjoy a visit to the Blackbird Airpark to experience the thrill of aerospace history.