Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodlands State Park

• Founded in 1988, the Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodlands State Park is a preserve of native Joshua trees and junipers, which once permeated the Antelope Valley but have largely disappeared due to clearing for development. The park offers a picnic area and a short, self-guided nature trail through the woodland area. There is no elevation change along the trail. According to California State Parks, the park is open from sunrise to sunset.
  
  

Prime Desert Woodland Preserve

• The Prime Desert Woodland Preserve is located close to the urban center of Lancaster. It includes more than three miles of trails. According to the website for the city of Lancaster, the preserve was established "to provide visitors an opportunity to learn about the animals, plants and the region." The preserve encompasses about 100 acres. Hours vary depending on the season, but the trails are usually open from 6 a.m. until sunset. Admission is free.
  
  

Lancaster Museum/Art Gallery

• Lancaster is home to its own museum and art gallery, which houses a permanent collection of photographs, documents and artifacts related to the culture and history of the Antelope Valley. The museum also features changing exhibitions ranging from classical art to Egyptian mummies and dinosaur fossils. According to the website for the city of Lancaster, admission to the museum is free, although a $2 donation is suggested. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday.
  
  

Western Hotel Museum

• The Western Hotel Museum attracts children and adults with its Old West character and its permanent display of historical pieces. The museum itself is Lancaster's oldest standing building, built around 1888. Visitors can view artifacts from the old hotel, old photographs, mining equipment and stone tools used by Native Americans. According to the website for the city of Lancaster, admission to the museum is free. Showing hours are limited to the second and fourth Friday and Saturday of each month.