Occupying about 100 acres in the midst of the city, the Prime Desert Woodland Preserve is a place to explore the plants, animals and environment of the region. It has three miles of trails, is open from 6 a.m. to sunset and offers guided nature walks by appointment. The preserve is a favorite spot for birdwatching or enjoying spectacular displays of spring flowers. Stop by the Elyze Clifford Interpretive Center, open on weekends or by appointment on weekdays, to learn more about the area.
Prime Desert Woodland Preserve
43201 35th St. W.
Lancaster, CA 93536
(661) 816-4466
cityoflancasterca.org/index.aspx?page=764
Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve Park, just 15 miles west of Lancaster, is operated by the state to preserve what the Park Service describes as its "most consistent poppy-bearing land." The high desert environment is home to other wildflowers, as well, and the season lasts from mid-February through mid-May. Explore the reserve's rolling hills on eight miles of hiking trails, some paved to accommodate wheelchairs. Watch a short video at the Jane S. Pinheiro Interpretive Center or enjoy the view from the nearby picnic area.
Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve Park
15101 Lancaster Road
Lancaster, CA 93536-9733
(661) 724-1180
parks.ca.gov/?page_id=627
The Performing Arts Center, owned and operated by the city of Lancaster, plays host to musical theater as well as a star-studded concert series featuring performers like the David Sanborn Trio and Judy Collins. The center's Arts for Youth program sponsors daytime performances of musical and theatrical shows for the community's schoolchildren, and the center offers masters classes for adults.
Lancaster Performing Arts Center
750 W. Lancaster Blvd.
Lancaster, CA 93534
(661) 723-5950
lpac.org
The Antelope Valley Fair & Alfalfa Festival in August is the fairgrounds' premiere event, but this facility stays busy all year-round with concerts and activities. The fair includes a concert series, arena events, exhibits and a livestock show. At other times of the year you can find a mixed martial arts exhibition, battling monster trucks and popular showcases for home decorating or wedding planning. The nearby Turf Club is home to off-track betting on thoroughbred, quarter horse and harness horse racing, transmitted by satellite from venues throughout Southern California. Visitors are welcomed at the fairgrounds' RV park, which offers full hook-ups and reasonable rates.
Antelope Valley Fairgrounds
2551 W. Ave. H
Lancaster, CA 93536
(661) 948-6060
avfair.com/index.asp
