Things To Do
in Santa Clarita
Santa Clarita sits in the foothills north of Los Angeles, blending suburban charm with abundant outdoor spaces and family-friendly attractions. The valley is home to top spots like Six Flags Magic Mountain and scenic river corridors, plus historic districts such as Old Town Newhall. Valencia and Newhall offer a mix of shops, restaurants, and community events that create a relaxed, riverside-casual vibe.
Easy freeway access and a generally mild climate make it a comfortable base for exploring the greater Southern California region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and artisanal coffee. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Old Town Newhall, where you can admire the historic buildings and unique shops. Visit the William S. Hart Museum to learn about the life of the silent film star and explore the beautiful grounds.
Grab lunch at a cozy bistro before heading to the nearby Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society to delve deeper into the local history. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Placerita Canyon Nature Center, hiking through scenic trails and enjoying the beautiful California landscape. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you immerse yourself in nature.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for a delicious dinner featuring farm-to-table ingredients. After dining, catch a live performance at the Canyon Theatre Guild, where you can enjoy a variety of plays and musicals. Finish the evening with a leisurely walk along the Santa Clara River Trail, taking in the peaceful ambiance under the stars.
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before making your way to Six Flags Magic Mountain, one of the top amusement parks in the country. Arrive early to beat the crowds and take on the park's most thrilling roller coasters first. Enjoy the adrenaline rush as you experience some of the fastest and tallest rides in the world.
Spend your afternoon in the park enjoying various attractions, shows, and themed areas. Grab lunch from one of the many food stands offering a variety of options from burgers to international cuisines. Continue to make memories with friends or family as you explore the park’s array of entertainment and games.
As the park begins to light up for the evening, take the time to revisit your favorite rides while the lines are shorter. Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants within the park, where you can discuss the highlights of the day. End your visit by catching the spectacular nighttime light show, a perfect finale to a fun-filled day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🏨One-night hotel room (mid-range) | $120-180 |
| ☕Cappuccino at a cafe | $4-5 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🚗Gas (1 gallon) | $4-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Family-friendly attractions (theme park, outdoor spaces)
- Good road access to LA basin and beaches
- Can be tourist-heavy around Six Flags and Old Town Newhall
- Less nightlife compared to central LA
Places to Visit in Santa Clarita
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic clock tower and historic adobe architecture—great for architectural and golden-hour shots.
Scenic waterway with bridges and reflections, ideal for tranquil landscape and street photography.
Colorful signage and dramatic angles for dynamic, energetic photos.
Wide-water vistas and surrounding hills offer sweeping landscape opportunities.
Food in Santa Clarita
Santa Clarita Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Southern California staple: crispy fries topped with carne asada, pico de gallo, cheese, and crema.
Must-Try!
A hearty burrito featuring carne asada, french fries, cheese, and salsa—popular at local taquerias.
Lightly battered fish with cabbage, crema, and salsa on warm tortillas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Sunday market with fresh produce, street food, and crafts in the historic district.
Midweek market offering local produce, snacks, and handmade goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be polite and friendly; a light handshake is common and casual conversations are welcome.
Stand in lines patiently; allow others to exit before entering in crowded spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Clarita
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is standard; tips are customary for good service.
Most places accept credit/debit cards and mobile payments; cash is still widely accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated, and seek shade in canyon trails.
Pleasant temperatures with opportunities to photograph fall foliage and enjoy outdoor events.
Mild to cool days with occasional rain; layers are helpful and some trails can be slick after rain.
Blooming landscapes and comfortable hiking conditions; check for seasonal road closures after heavy rain.
Santa Clarita at Night
Hiking in Santa Clarita
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular scenic trail with valley views; moderate difficulty.
Shaded canyons with wildlife and a historic nature center.
Lakeside trails with water views and picnic spots.
Airports
How to reach Santa Clarita by plane.
Valley-area airport in Burbank with short drives to Santa Clarita; good for domestic flights.
Major international hub about 30-40 miles away; wider range of flights.
Smaller airport option in Long Beach; longer drive but lighter crowds.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Valencia and Newhall neighborhoods with schools and parks.
A vibrant presence with diverse cultural offerings and shops.
Growing diversity with a range of cuisines and businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Active leagues and fields across the valley.
Strong youth and adult leagues with multiple clubs.
Community centers host courts and leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Clarita.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local spots offer plant-based dishes and salads; ask for meatless options, cheese/dairy-free dressings, and veggie-focused bowls.