When it comes to the state of California, most people associate it with Los Angeles, Arnold Schwarzenegger and the beach. However, if you take a closer look you will find cities, such as Palmdale, that will entice and surprise you, in more ways then one. Palmdale is the largest desert city in the state of California and is located on the northeast reaches of Los Angeles County. It is separated from LA by the San Gabriel Mountain Range and is a family-oriented community with a high quality of life.
As Palmdale is located just an hour's drive from Los Angeles, it is easy for you to pick up your rental car from here and then head out to begin your holiday. Drive down State Highway 14 and the difference in the scenery will immediately take you back. Palmdale offers a unique desert landscape, with mountains in the distance acting as a pleasant backdrop to this charming city. There is so much to see and do here that it will be hard to limit your stay, but here are just a few ideas to get you started!
1. Devil's Punchbowl
Take a short drive, in your rental car, out to the Angeles National Park, which is located on the northern slopes of the San Gabriel Mountains. Along with the beautiful native flora here, you will also find a natural rock formation that has come to be known as the Devil's Punchbowl. This fantastic jumble of rocks is situated 1450 metres above sea level, but well worth the walk! It is so amazing that it is commonly regarded as the 'mini grand canyon'.
Take some time to trek along one of the many trails and tracks that will highlight the geologic features of the punchbowl as well as the San Andreas Fault lines. The national park is also home to some unique vegetation, which will make your experience here all that more enjoyable.
2. Antelope Valley Mall
As the main shopping precinct in the area of Palmdale, the Antelope Valley Mall is any shopping lover's dream. Covering a total of 1 million square feet, the mall is home to over 140 specialty stores, ensuring that all your needs and wants are taken care of. There is also a wide selection of cafes and restaurants that will tantalize your taste buds and keep you coming back for more. Whatever you need, you are sure to find it at the Antelope Valley Mall.
3. Little Rock Dam and Recreation Area
Looking for a top picnic spot in the area of Palmdale? Well you simply must take a drive out to the Little Rock Dam and Recreation Area as this is where you will find one. As the name suggests, this area is home to a dam, and a spectacular one at that. The pounding, rushing water resembles that of a powerful waterfall, making it the perfect backdrop for a family picnic day. It is also the perfect place for boating, swimming and fishing, yet be aware that permits may be required to take part in these activities within the area.
4. Palmdale Fall Festival
The Palmdale Fall Festival is the perfect source of entertainment for the whole family! It is known as 'California's Finest Family Festival' and features unique attractions and unparalleled entertainment. The festival falls over the course of two days and exhibits world-class activities, with over 100 crafts and fine arts vendors. Main attractions of the festival would have to be the aerospace expo, the Enchanted Fairy Garden and Oregon's Lair. The fun and adventure ready to be had here will keep you amused for hours and is sure to keep the kids distracted.
5. Antelope Valley Indian Museum
This historic feature of Palmdale is a unique folk art structure that is located within the heart of LA County. The museum houses many objects that were created by the American-Indian cultures of the Western Great Basin and therefore tells their stories and how they have evolved as a race. The museum, as a whole, illustrates 70 years of change and evolution in their culture and is the perfect place to visit to gain a deep understanding of Palmdale's origins and history.
A visit to Palmdale will take you back to the early beginnings of the great state of California. It will offer a pleasant change from the normally coast-oriented atmosphere of the state, allowing you to gain a taste of the other attractions that are on offer. Palmdale is the perfect destination for a driving holiday in a rental car as its close proximity to so many of the state's calling cards means that you can pick and choose from where you wish to begin your adventure.
Christine Barton
