Santa Clarita CaliforniaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Santa Clarita, California.
1. Six Flags Magic Mountain
THRILL SEEKERS PARADISE
Six Flags Magic Mountain is a popular theme park featuring a vast array of intense roller coasters, including Twisted Colossus and Full Throttle. The park is tailored for adrenaline seekers, offering high-speed thrills and dynamic rides. Visitors can experience numerous Southern California attractions and unique adventures at this premier destination.
2. The Gentle Barn
ANIMAL SANCTUARY EXPERIENCE
The Gentle Barn is a compassionate farm sanctuary housing rescued animals including cows, horses, sheep, pigs, and alpacas. While smaller than some might expect, this intimate setting allows visitors to connect more deeply with the animals. The farm offers educational experiences about animal welfare and conservation.
3. Placerita Canyon Nature Center
NATURAL WILDLIFE EXPLORATION
Placerita Canyon Nature Center offers visitors a beautiful park environment with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can explore nature trails while learning about local flora and fauna. The center provides educational programs and exhibits about the natural history of the Santa Clarita region.
4. William S. Hart Museum & Ranch
SILENT FILM HISTORY
William S. Hart Museum & Ranch is housed in the former home and ranch of silent film cowboy star and director William S. Hart. The historic site showcases Hart's collection of Western art, Native American artifacts, and early Hollywood memorabilia. Visitors can tour the Spanish Colonial Revival mansion and explore the surrounding ranch property with scenic views.
5. Gibbon Conservation Center
PRIMATE CONSERVATION SITE
The Gibbon Conservation Center is dedicated to the preservation and study of these endangered small apes. Visitors can observe several species of gibbons in a natural setting while learning about conservation efforts. The center offers educational tours that highlight the importance of protecting these remarkable primates.
6. Canyon Theatre Guild
LOCAL PERFORMING ARTS
Canyon Theatre Guild presents quality theatrical performances for the Santa Clarita community. The theater offers a variety of productions ranging from classic plays to modern musicals throughout the year. With its intimate setting, the guild provides an immersive performing arts experience for audiences of all ages.
7. Pulchella Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Pulchella Winery offers visitors a refined wine tasting experience in the heart of Santa Clarita. The winery specializes in crafting small-batch, artisanal wines with distinctive flavors and characteristics. Guests can enjoy wine flights along with educational information about winemaking techniques and local viticulture.
8. Towsley Canyon Park
SCENIC HIKING DESTINATION
Towsley Canyon Park features beautiful hiking trails with panoramic views of the surrounding mountain landscape. The park's diverse terrain includes oak woodlands, chaparral, and riparian habitats supporting a variety of native wildlife. Hikers can enjoy several loop trail options ranging from easy strolls to more challenging climbs with significant elevation gain.
9. St. Francis Dam Historic Site
HISTORICAL DISASTER MONUMENT
The St. Francis Dam site commemorates one of the greatest historical tragedies in Santa Clarita's history, when the dam burst in 1926 causing hundreds of deaths. Guided tours take visitors to the ruins of the dam while explaining how it was built and why it ultimately failed. The site offers both historical education and an opportunity to experience the local plant and wildlife surrounding the ruins.
10. Central Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION HUB
Central Park in Santa Clarita features expansive green spaces set against a scenic foothills backdrop. The park includes numerous sports facilities such as softball diamonds, sports fields, basketball courts, and a disc golf course. Visitors can also enjoy traditional park amenities including playgrounds, picnic tables, and large open fields ideal for recreational activities.
11. Westfield Valencia Town Center
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Westfield Valencia Town Center is a two-story indoor shopping center located across Interstate 5 from Six Flags Magic Mountain. The mall features a diverse selection of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options for visitors. Its convenient location makes it an ideal stop for tourists and locals seeking shopping and dining experiences.
12. Gilchrist Farm
FAMILY-FRIENDLY AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Gilchrist Farm offers hands-on agricultural experiences for visitors of all ages in Santa Clarita. Children particularly enjoy the horseback riding opportunities and interactive petting areas with farm animals. The friendly and accommodating staff ensure a memorable visit for families seeking a rural experience.
13. Castaic Lake
OUTDOOR WATER RECREATION
Castaic Lake is a picturesque reservoir offering numerous water recreation activities near Santa Clarita. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and picnicking along its expansive shoreline. The surrounding natural landscape provides opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing in a serene setting.
14. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
SCIENTIFIC DISCOVERY CENTER
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County houses extensive collections spanning dinosaur fossils, gems, minerals, and diverse animal specimens. Interactive exhibits engage visitors while educating them about natural science and the region's ecological history. The museum's impressive architecture and gardens make it a standout cultural institution within driving distance of Santa Clarita.
15. Madame Tussauds Hollywood
CELEBRITY WAX MUSEUM
Madame Tussauds Hollywood features incredibly lifelike wax figures of famous celebrities, historical figures, and pop culture icons. Visitors can pose for photos with their favorite stars while enjoying the interactive and immersive exhibits. The museum's location in the heart of Hollywood makes it an exciting day trip option for Santa Clarita residents and visitors.