Museums & History
Palmdale and the Antelope Valley offer many museums and historical sites that celebrate the culture that has shaped our tight-knit community for generations. Our region boasts plenty to see and do, from heritage sites to contemporary art spaces.
Museums in Palmdale, CA & the Antelope Valley
Palmdale’s air museums–Blackbird Airpark and Joe Davies Heritage Airpark– are a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts. These unique open-air museums tell the aerospace history of Palmdale, showcasing retired military and civilian aircraft like the famous SR-71 Blackbird and NASA's Space Shuttle Carrier! Visitors are free to roam and explore the grounds, or they can take guided tours with aviation experts who offer a glimpse into Palmdale's role in shaping the history of flight.
The Antelope Valley Rural Museum is the heart of our region's heritage. Nestled in Lancaster, this museum looks into the rural and agricultural history of the Antelope Valley. Through exhibits and events, this site uncovers the hard-working spirit of early California settlers and the farming communities they built.
If you're interested in learning more about the early cultures of our region, the Antelope Valley Indian Museum in Lancaster takes guests back to the days of the Kitanemuk tribe. The museum's collection features fascinating artifacts, artworks, and interpretive activities that celebrate the stories of our region’s native people.
Discover Art & Culture
The Museum of Art and History (MOAH) in Lancaster is one of our region's most cherished cultural institutions. This contemporary art space opened in 1986 and specializes in showcasing contemporary California artists alongside public programming and seasonal events. Enjoy guided tours, film screenings, concerts, artist talks, and more.
A short drive from the MOAH will take you to the Western Hotel Museum, a time machine back to the 19th-century lifestyles of the Antelope Valley. This historic hotel, built in 1886, pays tribute to our early days as a bustling California boom town. Nearby, you’ll also find the Elyze Clifford Interpretive Center and the MOAH: CEDAR.
Visit Palmdale Museums
In Palmdale and the Antelope Valley, every corner holds a story. Our museums, historical sites, and cultural institutions reflect our region’s spirit. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a historian, or a visitor looking to learn our local stories, our city welcomes you with open arms. We invite you to explore Palmdale and learn about this unique corner of California–a place unlike any other!