santa clarita places to visit

20 Best Things To Do in Santa Clarita, California

Santa Clarita may be a name that brings up thoughts of the popular Netflix series, or a place known for being the home of Six Flags Magic Mountain. It’s a place where the Westfield Mall is often the go-to hangout spot for locals. Although it may be known for those things, Santa Clarita, California is so much more than that!

Only a 50-minute ride from Los Angeles (on a good day), the city of Santa Clarita is a place full of hidden gems that you don’t want to miss out on. So, whether you’re in town enjoying the thrills of its famous theme park or looking for a place off the beaten path to enjoy nature and Western heritage, let’s dive into things to do in Santa Clarita during your visit!

CHECK OUT THE PUBLIC ART SCENE

Art is a significant part of the culture in Santa Clarita. While there are several local museums to check out, there are plenty of public art installations around town that don’t require a ticket to experience.

The entire city of Santa Clarita is an open-air museum with more than two dozen sculptures installed at City Hall, the Canyon Country Community Center, and other temporary pieces placed sporadically around town. There are also elaborate murals decorating the walls around every corner, bringing a splash of color to your city sightseeing.

HIKE THE PLACERITA CANYON NATURE CENTER

Discover the diverse flora and fauna on the numerous hiking trails extending from the Placerita Canyon Nature Center . Begin your journey in the center to learn about the local wildlife before setting out into nature on exciting trails through the San Gabriel Mountains.

Set off on popular routes like the Placerita Canyon Trail, East Walker Ranch Trail, San Francisquito Creek Trail, Santa Clara River Trail, and Heritage trails. Each is designed to get hikers of all skill levels out to enjoy the beautiful flora blooming in the Santa Clarita Valley.

While you’re in the area, try the nearby 1.3-mile Quigley Canyon Open Space Trail . It’s especially pretty when the wildflowers are blooming in the spring.

GRAB A PICNIC SPOT AT SANTA CLARITA CENTRAL PARK

Santa Clarita is dotted with stunning green spaces — it has a total of 35 parks. However, the centerpiece of the city, Santa Clarita Central Park , is one of the most beautiful. The sprawling park covers 105 acres, features numerous hiking trails and landmarks, and hosts seasonal events.

During the summer, it’s a popular hangout for the free concert series it hosts annually. However, you can work up an appetite year-round while walking or jogging the Central Park Trail. But don’t worry, you’ll have a delicious lunch waiting for you at the end to enjoy on the scenic picnic tables around the park.

EMBRACE THE CUTENESS AT THE GIBBON CONSERVATION CENTER

Cuteness alert! Between the “awws” from groups on tours of the facility to the sounds of happy gibbons playing with their families, the Gibbon Conservation Center is a place that’s sure to fill up your camera roll.

The Gibbon Conservation Center was established in 1976 for the preservation of the endangered species. It provides a place for the charming little apes to live, raise families, and over the years has blossomed into a population of 40 apes.

Tours of the center are educational to learn more about the different species of gibbons.

THEN SEE MORE ANIMALS AT THE GENTLE BARN

Don’t mind the smell when arriving at the Gentle Barn , it’s just farm animals being…well, farm animals! But this animal sanctuary is a much better place for the rescued animals that have a second chance at a happy life, and you get to see their joy firsthand during your visit.

Gentle Barn’s mission began in 1999 and now features three locations around the US. Tour the six acres of the Santa Clarita location to learn about the rough past of horses, pigs, cows, and 170 other animals living here.

BIKE, SKI, HIKE OR SKATE THE BCRD TRAIL SYSTEM

Here’s a secret about Southern California — the weather is always perfect! Whether visiting Santa Clarita during the summer, winter, or seasons in between, there’s always a place to step out for a breath of fresh air. The Blaine County Recreation District , or BCRD Trail System, is one of the best options for year-round outdoor fun.

During the summer, its trails are full of leisure hikers, bikers, riders trotting by on horseback, and kids on summer camp attempting to stay active when school’s out. During the winter, snow covers these high-elevation trails as winter sports enthusiasts leave trails of snowshoes and ski tracks through the Wood River Valley.

TRAIL RIDE WITH THE SANTA CLARITA VALLEY EQUESTRIAN CENTER

Saddle up, cowboy, because the Santa Clarita Valley Equestrian Center will give you the ride of a lifetime. Don’t forget to wear some tough jeans and sturdy shoes because horseback riding is much more engaging than the movies make it seem.

You’ll get a chance to live out your Wild West dreams by exploring the scenic trails winding through the San Francisquito Canyon on the back of your trusted steed. You’ll be a pro rider in no time, thanks to guides and trainers backed with more than five decades of experience showing you the ropes.

SPEND THE DAY AT SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN AND HURRICANE HARBOR

“Clack…clack…clack…scream!” Some of the world’s biggest and baddest roller coasters put your bravery (and stomachs) to the test at Six Flags Magic Mountain . This park is easily the most famous attraction in Santa Clarita. Although it’s the most expensive theme park in the Six Flags chain, it’s hardly enough to keep away the 3+ million visitors attending the park annually.

Experience the thrill of more than 20 roller coasters and 100+ other attractions. On hot days, make a splash in the water rides at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor .

SAMPLE THE GRAPES

Santa Clarita Valley is ripe with fertile soil used for producing the plumpest grapes in Southern California. We all can agree that wine is the best way to consume grapes!

There is an abundance of local wineries and tasting rooms showcasing the diversity of wine flavors cultivated in the Santa Clarita Valley. Indulge yourself with the tastes of the Cabernet Sauvignon from the Pulchella Winery, take a hayride tour of the 100-acre Agua Dulce Winery, which concludes with a curated barrel tasting experience, and savor each sip of award-winning wines in the tasting room of Reyes Winery on Main.

CATCH THE VIEWS FROM ATOP TOWSLEY CANYON

A certain peace comes over you while standing on the summit of Towsley Canyon , peering across the rugged landscape. An exciting hiking trail is the only thing standing between you and this serene feeling.

Start at Ed Davis Park. You have two primary hiking routes, each offering excellent canyon views. For most people, the shorter Canyon View Loop Trail at just two miles is more than enough. Hiking enthusiasts can tackle the longer, more challenging Towsley Canyon Loop Trail, ascending six miles through the canyon before reaching the final viewpoint.

Either trail is worth it, so try both if you have time!

TEE UP AT SAND CANYON COUNTRY CLUB

Four! Tee up at Sand Canyon Country Club , formerly known as Robinson Ranch Golf Club, to shoot for par on the professional-grade golf course. As one of the premier golf courses in Southern California, the facility is designed with 36 holes enjoyed by everyone from leisure golfers to PGA Tour pros.

The picturesque scenery attempts to distract you while keeping an eye on your ball as it soars over the grassy fairways towards the waving flag for a hole-in-one. Celebrate your game-winning putt with dinner at the Sycamore Bar and Grill within the golf course’s facilities.

TAKE A GUIDED TOUR OF ST FRANCIS DAM

Contrary to popular belief, California isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. Located just a short drive from Santa Clarita is the former site of St. Francis Dam . It’s an infamous dam that collapsed in 1928, causing a major flood in the Santa Clarita Valley and claiming the lives of more than 400 people.

Tour the ruins where remnants of the lost dam serve as a tombstone marking the site of the tragedy. Walk amidst the rubble while learning about the events forever remembered by Californians.

BRING YOUR BIKE TO TREK BIKE PARK SANTA CLARITA

Everybody loves their cars in Southern California, from the flashy exotics to tricked-out lowrider trucks. But some would say that the most fun can be had on just two wheels! Experience the thrill of the ride when you check out Trek Bike Park .

Bikers of all levels have seven acres of landscape to test out their latest BMX tricks, swifty maneuvers on a mountain bike, and young future riders getting their first run on the beginner course.

 And the best part is that the park is free to visit!

CANOE, SAIL OR FISH CASTAIC LAKE

Head north on the I-5 into the Sierra Pelona Mountains for a day at Castaic Lake . The Castaic Dam forms this peculiar V-shaped artificial lake. It’s preserved within the Castaic Lake State Recreation Area, where the waters are open to the public for boating and other water fun.

Activities are split between the two lakes that comprise Castaic Lake. Zip across the water surface of the upper lake reserved for motorized boats. Or cruise gently on the clear waters of the lower lake in a canoe, sailboat, or dingy.

SEE THE STARS AT OLD TOWN NEWHALL

The Walk of Western Stars commemorates the most influential celebrities in Western culture. Take a stroll down Main Street of Old Town Newhall to see stars paved into the sidewalk from iconic figures like John Wayne, Keith Urban, and Wilford Brimley.

Old Town Newhall is a familiar sight to most people thanks to many films and TV shows using it as a set location. However, in real life, it’s a multi-complex with entertainment venues, boutique shops, fine dining restaurants, and even wineries.

EXPLORE THE MELODY RANCH MUSEUM

Visiting the Melody Ranch Museum transports you into your favorite Western movies. Stand in the footsteps of famous TV gun draw fights and peer down the dirt road, where you can nearly see the tumbleweed blowing across the street.

The Melody Ranch Museum is a working movie studio lot complete with active sound stages and a museum. See where timeless classics like Gunsmoke , and the modern-day Deadwood are filmed. Dig through photo archives, books, and other exhibitions featuring Western film memorabilia spanning nearly a century!

THEN TIP YOUR COWBOY HAT AT THE WILLIAM S. HART MUSEUM

For the current generation, it’s hard to imagine a time when movie audio was not available. Silent films were all the craze, and William S. Hart was one of the biggest stars of his era. Rediscover this golden age of Western Films at the William S. Hart Museum .

Most of us were barely even a thought when “Two Gun Bill” had his reign as the lead actor in more than 70 films around the 1910-20s. Visitors have free admission to tour his former home to see his collection of Western Art and artifacts from Native American tribes.

STROLL THRU RANCHO CAMULOS MUSEUM

Experience the epitome of the Californio Ranch era lifestyle with tours of the Rancho Camulos Museum . Built in 1853, this Clara River Valley Ranch is now recognized as a National Historic Landmark, with docents leading tours around the expansive grounds. 

The ranch is an excellent example of Spanish-style architecture, from the church and schoolhouse to the Spanish-style adobe hacienda frequently used for weddings. You’ll learn about its history as the former residence of a California State Assembly member and how it remains a landmark site for California’s ranch heritage.

GO OFF-ROADING AT HUNGRY VALLEY SVRA

Rev up those engines and skirt out a cloud of dust at the Hungry Valley SVRA off-roading track . It’s the largest of its kind in California and has 130 miles of tracks full of bumps, turns, and full-speed straightaways.

Located in the Tejon Pass, Hungry Valley SVRA has tracks for all levels of riders. Choose your wheel preference — ATV, four-wheel drive vehicle, all-trainers, or motorcycle. There are nearby rentals to get you suited up and ready for a wild day on the dusty trails.

CHANNEL YOUR INNER TREKKIE AT VASQUEZ ROCKS NATURAL AREA

Peer out your window while driving down the Antelope Valley Freeway for a glimpse of the jagged Vasquez Rocks. The Vasquez Rocks Natural Area has made appearances in everything from Star Trek episodes, to inspiring the famous Lion King scene of Rafiki holding up Simba.

Whichever nostalgic scenes the unique rock formations bring back to you, you’ll enjoy hiking trails for up-close views of the 45-degree angled rocks, or horseback rides to trot routes like the PCT Trail.

MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO CALIFORNIA

• YOUR CALIFORNIA VACATION
• SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA: 29 Amazing Things To Do In Southern California
• SOLVANG: 14 Awesome Things To Do In Solvang, California
• HOLLYWOOD: 18 Amazingly Fun Things To Do In Hollywood, CA
• LAGUNA BEACH: 20 Best Things To Do In Laguna Beach, California

WHERE TO STAY IN SANTA CLARITA

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12 Best Things to Do in Santa Clarita, CA

Written by Brad Lane Updated Mar 1, 2023

Santa Clarita is a beautiful city in Southern California that reflects the best the region offers. It's approximately 30 miles north of Los Angeles, set amid the foothills of the surrounding Angeles National Forest. With this elevated terrain not far from the ocean, the city enjoys lovely weather throughout the year.

Santa Clarita is perhaps best known as home to Six Flags Magic Mountain . This "Thrill Capital of the World" is near the heart of Santa Clarita and attracts adrenaline seekers with several gravity-defying roller coasters. And while this esteemed theme park does entice visitors for a day trip, it's Santa Clarita's other cultural attractions that call for a longer stay.

Santa Clarita has a mix of history, Hollywood, and restaurants that help define the SoCal flavor. The city also lends access to an array of beautiful landscapes and open nature. All of these attributes and more lend to a well-rounded weekend getaway, where, chances are, the weather will be nice.

Find your next LA County getaway with these best things to do in Santa Clarita.

1. Six Flags Magic Mountain

2. stroll around old town newhall, 3. tour the william s. hart museum in william s. hart regional park, 4. enjoy the afternoon at central park, 5. window shop at the westfield valencia town center, 6. placerita canyon nature center, 7. hug a cow at the gentle barn, 8. take a desert adventure to vasquez rocks natural area, 9. tesoro adobe historic park, 10. see the apes at the gibbon conservation center, 11. explore santa clarita open spaces, 12. experience backstage hollywood at melody ranch motion pictures studio, santa clarita, ca - climate chart.

Six Flags Magic Mountain, also known as the " Thrill Capital of the World ," is right at Santa Clarita's backdoor. This number one attraction is less than a seven-mile drive from Old Town Newhall. The Santa Clarita Trolley takes visitors to the park from Old Town Newhall throughout the summer.

Magic Mountain is best known for its dense collection of thrill rides. Signature rides at the park induce g-force screams and an inverted sense of euphoria, with names like Twisted Colossus and CraZanity . Height requirements vary between roller coasters. Minimum heights are between 48-54 inches for the biggest thrill rides.

And it's not all gravity-defying attractions at Six Flags Magic Mountain. Like the Canyon Blaster and the Grand American Carousel , the park also has several family and kids' rides. Live events like comic book character meet-and-greets also take place throughout the park.

Between June and September, consider spending a second day at the adjacent Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles . This massive water park has over a dozen rides, ranging from fast-paced waterslides to aquatic children's playgrounds.

The park opens its gates at 10:30am, and closing time varies throughout the year.

Official site: https://www.sixflags.com/magicmountain

Old Town Newhall is the historic core of Santa Clarita, dating back to the 1800s and gold discoveries in the nearby Placerita Canyon. Over the last two decades, revitalization efforts have infused the historic streets with a charming collection of local shops and places to eat.

Old Town Newhall is a pedestrian-friendly area. The district primarily follows Main Street south from the impressive Old Town Newhall Library . Restaurants in this area offer SoCal specialties and earn accolades in the LA food scene. For one of the best breakfasts in the region, head to Egg Plantation on Walnut Street.

Old Town Newhall is also home to community events and reasons to gather. Head to the library parking lot for the Old Town Newhall Farmers Market every Saturday, rain or shine. The MAIN multi-use arts center is also in Old Town, offering everything from performances to workshops and the weekly Thursdays@Newhall series.

Official site: https://oldtownnewhall.com/

The silent-film superstar, William S. Hart, built his Spanish colonial revival-style mansion atop the hills of Newhall in 1927. Upon his death, he bequeathed the 265-acre ranch to the county of Los Angeles. And today, this impressive mansion is now a museum surrounded by a popular regional park.

The museum showcases much of William S. Hart's personal art collection and lavish decor. These aesthetics lean heavily on Western and Native American motifs. Free guided sightseeing tours are typically available throughout the year.

The ranch is well worth the visit without touring the mansion. The grounds are well-manicured and offer panoramic views, including a glance at the property's resident bison herd. And near the park entrance, working stables house a live collection of animals, including pigs and alpacas in public view.

The rest of the ranch, now known as William S. Hart Regional Park, is a beautiful public space, with picnic tables and hiking trails. This parkland is a great area for a leisurely moment in the day, including a packed lunch outside. The park entrance is at the southern end of Old Town Newhall .

Official site: https://hartmuseum.org/

Scenic foothills backdrop the expansive green space of Central Park in Santa Clarita. Much of the park is devoted to sports facilities, including softball diamonds, sports fields, and basketball courts. These facilities fill the parking lot with intramural sports and little leagues throughout the week.

Central Park is also home to traditional park facilities like playgrounds and picnic tables, and the large open fields are great for any lawn activities when not scheduled for use. A short disc golf course also makes its way along the park's edges.

Central Park is also popular for hiking and trail running. An approximately 3.2-mile cross-country trail spans the park's perimeter. High schools host cross-country meets on this course, and when not in use, the path is well-trodden by the public.

Westfield Valencia Town Center is a two-story indoor shopping center on the other side of Interstate 5 from Six Flags Magic Mountain. It's a beautiful shopping area with over 150 stores and restaurants. Several local boutiques and eateries also line the walkways alongside large department stores like JCPenney and Macy's.

The pedestrian walkways throughout are what make Westfield Valencia a shopping experience. Here, enjoy people-watching and landscaped surroundings, including an artificial pond teeming with turtles. This outdoor plaza is a lively place to visit in the evening, when the area lights up.

Westfield Valencia is also home to The Canyon – one of the city's most popular live music venues. This indoor stage attracts various shows and genres, including nationally touring musical acts and comedians. The Canyon also offers a dinner menu for a meal and a show.

Official site: https://www.westfield.com/valencia

Placerita Canyon is on the western slopes of the San Gabriel Mountains, just east of the city. It's the site of California's original gold discovery site , now known as the" Oak of the Golden Dream ." This 1842 discovery predated John Sutter's gold discovery by six years but didn't cause the same type of rush.

Placerita Canyon now comprises a state park that protects this culturally rich area. Visitors come to Placerita to learn about the gold discovery and other local histories and to explore the inviting canyon environment. Several signed walking trails span from the parking area, where the nature center hosts guided walks and family programs.

The hikes range from easy, wide paths to more challenging routes to the top of the Santa Clarita Divide. Several of the shorter trails are wheelchair and stroller accessible. Placerita Canyon is also home to a large picnic area next to a rambling creek that little kids love to explore.

The Gentle Barn is a non-profit educational space on the north edge of Santa Clarita. The six-acre property is home to over 100 rescued farm animals who live their life out as animal ambassadors. In turn, children and adults visit The Gentle Barn to connect deeper with the natural world.

One popular program at The Gentle Barn is Cow Hug Therapy . These stress-relieving, one-hour sessions feature cuddling with trained bovines. Other therapy programs include 10-month animal-assisted therapies and confidence-building literacy programs.

The Gentle Barn is also a popular place to visit for field trips and group tours. Check the official website for visiting hours and information on their timed entry passes.

Official site: https://www.gentlebarn.org/

Vasquez Rocks is a 932-acre LA County Park encompassing several high-desert rock formations. It's a beautiful place to hike and admire the landscape and is less than a 20-mile drive on the Antelope Valley Freeway from downtown.

The impressive skyward formations at Vasquez Rocks have a long geologic history dating back millions of years. More recently, the site has received Hollywood notoriety with appearances in a range of television shows and movies. Perhaps most notably, the jutting rocks have appeared in numerous Star Trek productions.

Beam your way to this natural area, and it is a blast. The most common activity is hiking around the otherworldly desert landscape. Developed trails navigate the area, including the country-spanning Pacific Crest Trail .

Visitors to Vasquez Rocks need to keep in mind the desert conditions. Temperatures regularly soar past 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, and rattlesnakes call the environment home. Plan for an early morning trip if visiting in the summer, and keep an eye out for any warming wildlife.

Official site: https://parks.lacounty.gov/vasquez-rocks-natural-area-and-nature-center/

The prolific western film actor Harry Carrey Sr. built Tesoro Adobe in the 1920s and 1930s. This Spanish-style house sat at the center of his 2,000-acre ranch and often hosted Hollywood elite while also serving as an outdoor movie studio.

Today, this bit of Old Hollywood has since been donated to the county and serves as a historical park. The house, Tesoro Adobe, sits at the park's center, now surrounded by several community tourist attractions. Besides touring the house museum, things to do at the park include walking the grounds and attending outdoor movie screenings.

The Gibbon Conservation Center is north of the city with a short drive. It's a non-profit facility that's driven to promote the health, safety, and habitat of gibbons, a small ape native to the lush forests of southeast Asia. The facility's primary purpose is to ensure the longevity of gibbons in the natural world through conservation efforts and public education.

Visitors to the Gibbon Conservation Center can take a guided tour to observe some resident apes. These one-hour tours include narration from a staff member or volunteer. There's never any physical interaction between tour members and the resident apes.

Currently, reservations are required to visit and take a guided tour. Check before visiting for the most updated operating hours.

Official site: https://www.gibboncenter.org/

Several open space parks and public lands surround Santa Clarita. These preserved land parcels are an essential habitat for wildlife and a buffer for urban development. They also provide hiking trails and nice respites from the busy streets of Los Angeles County.

A few notable open space parks include Whitney Canyon Park , close to Old Town Newhall, and Haskell Canyon Open Space , north of Central Park. However, these are only two in a growing collection, and there's much more to explore. Other places to visit like San Francisquito Canyon , near Six Flags Magic Mountain, offer trails accessible without a car.

Rules and regulations vary between open space parks. Generally, owners must keep dogs on a leash, and no smoking is allowed. A few open spaces traverse through areas impacted by the 2016 Sand Fire. Visitors need to tread lightly through these rebounding environments.

Official site: https://hikesantaclarita.com/

Melody Ranch Studio is a 22-acre Hollywood backlot tucked into Santa Clarita, near The Master's University . It's a fully functioning movie-producing set, home to recognizable western scenes since 1915, when it first opened. A few recent titles to shoot at Melody Ranch include the HBO drama, Deadwood, and the Oscar-winning film by Quentin Tarantino, Django Unchained.

Public entry to Melody Ranch is limited. Guests can schedule an appointment to tour the Melody Ranch Museum . Here, thousands of movie props offer an interesting look into the movie-making process. Museum visits also generally include a tour of the grounds.

Official site: http://melodyranchstudio.com/

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What travellers are saying

• Six Flags Magic Mountain
• The Gentle Barn
• Gibbon Conservation Center
• Pulchella Winery
• Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles
• Placerita Canyon Nature Center
• Scooter's Jungle
• St. Francis Dam-Ruins of Collapsed Dam
• Santa Clarita Woodlands Park
• William S. Hart Museum & Ranch

Home » Travel Guides » United States » California (CA) » 15 Best Things to Do in Santa Clarita (CA)

15 Best Things to Do in Santa Clarita (CA)

The city of Santa Clarita is located approximately 35 miles away from Los Angeles, so with that in mind it is easy to make the trip out here if you are in the area.

Many visitors to California overlook this city, which is a great shame as there is a huge amount to see and do here.

The scenery in and around Santa Clarita is some of the most stunning in the region and for that reason many Western movies were filmed here in day gone by.

You can see some of the original filming locations here to this day, or you can simply go trekking in the area and imagine the time when cowboys would have still roamed over this region.

As well as hiking and biking opportunities, you will also find an amazing range of indoor activities such as museums, wineries, and cultural spots like musical attractions, and if you like art then you will be delighted with the public art installations all over the city.

For younger visitors, there are play areas and indoor centers to choose from, or many of the trails and parks here have a huge range of activities that children can also enjoy.

1. St. Francis Dam

One of the greatest historical sites in Santa Clarita is the St. Francis Dam which dates from the 1920s and is best known for having burst in 1926. The dam caused hundreds of death as it razed several towns as its waters raged through the area unchecked, and now you can learn all about this history on a tour here.

Guides will take visitors out to the site of the dam, which is no longer in use and is mostly made up on ruins, and will fill you in on how it was built and why it failed.

The trek to the dam site is also an excellent opportunity to take in the local plant and wildlife.

2. Mountasia Family Fun Center

For anyone traveling with a family, the Mountasia Family Fun Center is not to be missed.

The center is dedicated to good old fashioned gaming, and to that end you will find classic amusement rides like bumper boats and go karts, as well as a miniature golf course and batting cages if you are feeling sporty.

There is also a rock climbing wall as well as a laser tag room, and if you want something mellower there is also a gaming arcade packed with vintage games.

One of the best parts of the center is undoubtedly the ice cream parlor that also features here, so you can stop for a sweet treat before you go home.

3. Vasquez Rocks

Vasquez Rocks is one place that may seem familiar; especially if you like Friends, New Girl, or even Star Trek IV, which all used the rocks as a filming location.

Visitors flock to the rocks due to the gorgeous scenery that the formations here provide, and you can climb the rocks if you are looking for some light exercise.

There are also guided tours with local rangers who will fill you in on the flora and fauna found here as well as the geology of the formations.

4. Gibbon Conservation Center

The Gibbon Conservation Center is the place to come if you love animals and want to know more about these gorgeous primates.

The center dates from the 1970s when it first opened its doors and the facility is dedicated to the preservation and research into these amazing animals.

You can book a guided tour of the center where a member of staff will show you the different conservation areas and you can learn all about the great work that the center does when it comes to rescuing and caring for injured gibbons.

5. Santa Clarita Central Park

Santa Clarita Central Park covers 130 acres of land and with that in mind you will find a huge range of diverse activities on offer here.

The best of the Santa Clarita plant and wildlife is on show here, and there is a trail that stretches for over 3 miles that will let you take in the scenery firsthand.

There are also fields, meadows, and sports areas, and as the park is also used a sports training ground, you may be able to catch a fast paced game of basketball or baseball.

6. Passages

For a quirky museum experience, head to Passage, a museum that is dedicated to teaching visitors all about the history of the Bible.

The museum sprawls over 300,000 square feet and has a range of interactive galleries and exhibits that will take you back in time to the Caves of Qumran, before bringing you on a journey that also includes significant moments in history and how they relate to the Bible.

You can also learn about Jewish, Roman Catholic, and Protestant history along the way.

7. Santa Clarita Trails

Santa Clarita is famous for its hiking opportunities, and these come courtesy of the Santa Clarita trails that stretch for more than 70 miles.

There are a huge number to choose from such as Lost Canyon Road Trailhead, South Fork Trailhead, and Iron Horse Trailhead, and each one has different spots of interest along it and there is something for all levels of ability here.

If you are a beginner hiker then you can choose one of the easier trails, or if you are more experienced, there are some challenging hikes that will take you up into the mountains.

8. Santa Clarita Public Art

Santa Clarita is known for its public art installations and there are art projects all over this city, making it the perfect place for art lovers.

Some of the best art in Santa Clarita can be found in the form of public sculptures, paintings, murals, and fountains that are dotted all over the city, and now there are self-guided walking tours available where you can wander around the city and explore these amazing creations for yourself.

9. Old Town Newhall

Old Town Newhall is an ideal spot if you want to feel as if you have stepped back in time.

The town has a walk of fame exhibit where you can learn all about famous celebrities from Western movies, and there is an annual Cowboy Festival that is held here.

You will also find plenty of olde worlde shopping and dining opportunities and you can take a self-guided tour that will take you around this town and show you the many historical gems that are found here.

10. Quigley Canyon

Quigley Canyon sprawls over 160 acres of land and is known as the place to visit if you want to get out of the center of Santa Clarita and spend some time communing with nature.

The canyon has over 4 miles of trails and there is something for all levels of difficulty here, so even if you are a beginner hiker, then you can still find something suitable.

Hiking and biking are often considered the most popular ways to explore the canyon, but you can also go horseback riding here.

11. Santa Clarita Philharmonic Orchestra

The Santa Clarita Philharmonic Orchestra is on a mission to provide the best in classical music to the local community in Santa Clarita, as well as giving local talented musicians the chance to hone their skills.

Many of the performances by the orchestra are free of charge, and there are also outreach programs run here in order to educate visitors about classical music.

12. Robinson Ranch Golf Club

The Robinson Ranch Golf Club is known as one of the best golfing destinations in California and the golf club has won awards in the past for its facilities.

There is a mountain course here as well as a valley course to choose from, and there is a newly built club house that runs over 25,000 square feet.

You can enjoy fine dining in the club house and there is a terrace lounge if you prefer something a little mellower.

13. Pulchella Winery

If you love wine then you shouldn’t miss the chance to come to the Pulchella Winery where you will find a range of signature Paso Robles Wines on offer.

The winery was developed by two local wine connoisseurs in 2006 and you can take a tour of the facility and learn how the wine is made, from the planting of the grapes to the finished product.

There is a tasting room where you can try some of the blends available here and you can also purchase the wine to take home as a souvenir.

14. Tesoro Adobe Park

Many people to the area may not know that you can actually follow in the footsteps of cinematic greats like Gary Cooper and John Wayne with a trip to Tesoro Adobe Park.

Here you will find a ranch which was originally built by Harry Carrey, a famous star of Western movies in days gone by.

In the park you will find historical buildings dotted around as well as nature trails and picnic spots, and there are both guided and self guided tours if you want to learn more about the history of this amazing park.

15. The Gentle Barn

If you love animals, and especially if you are travelling with children, the Gentle Barn makes an ideal day out in Santa Clarita.

The barn has more than 170 resident animals, all of which have been rescued after being abused, and the barn is dedicated to providing them with a safe sanctuary.

You will find cows, turkeys, chickens, pigs, and sheep here, and you can take a tour of the barn and enjoy a petting zoo experience with some of the animals.

15 Best Things to Do in Santa Clarita (CA):

• St. Francis Dam
• Mountasia Family Fun Center
• Vasquez Rocks
• Gibbon Conservation Center
• Santa Clarita Central Park
• Santa Clarita Trails
• Santa Clarita Public Art
• Old Town Newhall
• Quigley Canyon
• Santa Clarita Philharmonic Orchestra
• Robinson Ranch Golf Club
• Pulchella Winery
• Tesoro Adobe Park
• The Gentle Barn

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Santa Clarita, California: Unforgettable Things to Do Beyond Six Flags

Mimi Slawoff

Six Flags Magic Mountain may have put Santa Clarita on the map but this California city is steeped in rich western and Hollywood history. Decades ago it was a remote rural area ideal for filming. It still is, but there’s more to do now. Over time, people moved here from throughout southern California  for the award-winning schools, outdoor activities, and many other things to do in Santa Clarita.

My husband and I moved here with our three kids for those reasons and more. We love the miles of paseos, nearby hiking trails, and proximity to Los Angeles  without being in the big city. And although we’ve lived here for 28 years, we continue to discover new places to explore.

Here’s my list of historical and outdoorsy things to do in Santa Clarita. A few of them might just surprise you.

Where is Santa Clarita Valley?

Santa Clarita Valley  – typically shortened to SCV – is located in the northern corner of Los Angeles County, California. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Santa Clarita to Downtown Los Angeles. The Santa Clarita Valley comprises four communities: Valencia, Newhall, Saugus, and Canyon Country. We live in Valencia, perhaps best known for being home to Six Flags Magic Mountain  and its adjacent water park.

But there’s a lot more to Santa Clarita than roller coasters and the water park. A year-round sunny climate, hundreds of miles of biking, equestrian, and hiking trails, and picturesque mountains and canyons make this a great place to call home or visit. Santa Clarita is also the site of the first gold discovery in California! In fact, there are several historical sites, including an authentic ghost town and the oldest restaurant in L.A. County.

Santa Clarita Valley is also an ever-growing community with an array of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. There’s also public art on streets and throughout the 36 parks. The next time you’re visiting Los Angeles, be sure to check out the many fun things to do in Santa Clarita.  

SheBuysTravel Tip: Santa Clarita is easily accessible via Interstate 5 (the Golden State Freeway). You can even ride the Metrolink train from L.A. train stations to Newhall.

Read More :  2-Day Itinerary for Los Angeles

1.Explore Miles of Santa Clarita Paseos

Santa Clarita’s 30-plus miles of paseos are one of the city’s best features. The pedestrian-only pathways connect neighborhoods, communities, and parks via tunnels and bridges. That means you never have to cross a street while walking, jogging, biking, skating, or pushing a stroller. We love these paseos and use them nearly every day – even to walk to grocery stores and restaurants.

One of our favorite sections is the four-mile Iron Horse Trailhead popular for walking, biking, and horseback riding. A main attraction is the 1898 railroad trestle bridge, in place since 1928.

2. Have a Picnic in William S. Hart Park

Located in Newhall, the William S. Hart Park is a popular picnic area with hiking trails, historical buildings, farm animals, and the William S. Hart Museum . The museum is the former home of William S. Hart, a 1920s silent film cowboy. It’s a large part of history the SCV embraces. Hart donated his land and ranch home, filled with his personal belongings, to Los Angeles for the public to enjoy.

A unique feature of the park is a herd of bison, descendants of the original eight bison donated by Walt Disney to Hart Park in 1962. You can see them behind a fence near the Bison Road trailhead if you get an early start on your hike.

3. Visit Old Town Newhall

Known as the historic district of Santa Clarita, Old Town Newhall  is the oldest neighborhood in the Santa Clarita Valley. But thanks to a revitalization project, the area retains its western ambiance – check out the Walk of Western Stars – while anchoring over 60 different businesses. Old Town Newhall is home to a farmers market on Main Street, the Laemmle movie theater, and the Pulchella Winery tasting room.

In addition, The Main arts complex, houses music, comedy, film, theatre, workshops, and more.

4. Ride Roller Coasters at Six Flags Magic Mountain

Located in Valencia, Magic Mountain’s colorful roller coasters can be seen from the Golden State Freeway. The 260-acre theme park has 20 roller coasters and over 100 rides, games and attractions. 

5. Splash Around at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Water Park

The tropical-themed water park is located adjacent to Six Flags Magic Mountain  and uses the same parking lot. The 25-acre water park is well-designed with a variety of water slides and pools for all ages. Young kids can wade through Castaway Cove and Splash Island while older kids zip down Black Snake Summit, Taboo Tower, and other water slides.

6. Explore Placerita Canyon Natural Area

Located in a canyon in Newhall, the area is home to the Placerita Canyon Nature Center , numerous hiking trails, and the site of California’s first gold discovery in 1842. The short, paved Heritage Trail leads to the Oak of the Golden Dream, where the first gold nuggets were discovered by a rancher.

7. Enjoy the Many Hiking Trails

Santa Clarita has a large network of hiking trails in the mountains, parks, and natural open spaces. Towsley Canyon has two popular hiking trails. One is about two miles, the other five miles. Both meander through the beautiful Santa Susana Mountains. There’s a seasonal stream. The nearby Taylor Trail has several hiking trails with a couple linking to the Towsley Canyon parking lot. Other area hiking trails include East Canyon , Rice Canyon , and Quigley Canyon open space.

8. Step Back in Time in Mentryville

Nestled in Newhall’s chaparral slopes in the Santa Susana Mountains , Mentryville  was an oil drilling boomtown from 1876 to 1900. Named after French immigrant Charles Mentry, the town was built around oil well Pico No. 4. It was the first commercially successful oil well in the western U.S. Today, it’s a ghost town with just a few buildings still standing. The area is open to the public and has hiking trails.

9. Play at Central Park

This 105-acre park in Santa Clarita has sports courts, a playground, a dog park, and summer concerts with live music.

10. Shop at Valencia Town Center

Formerly called Westfield Valencia Town Center , the mall was recently purchased. Plans call for a multi-use retail village. But in the meantime, it’s the outdoor Patios district that grabs the attention of locals and visitors. Restaurants and stores surround water fountains and sitting areas.

11. Discover Tesoro Adobe Park

I only recently discovered this nugget of history hidden in the Tesoro development in Valencia. Tesoro Adobe was the home of Western actor Harry Carey Sr., who fell in love with the area while filming here in the early 20th century. The 2,000-acre ranch was miles away from Hollywood and city life. But today it’s surrounded by two-story homes and a park. The Tesoro Adobe Park, which contains stables, bunkhouses, and the main adobe structure, is free and open to the public. It’s a nice quiet spot with a rich film history.

12. Outdoorsy Things to do in Santa Clarita: Horseback Riding

Santa Clarita has several equestrian centers in the San Francisquito area, a rural part of Santa Clarita. From lessons to trail rides, the centers offer a variety of opportunities for horseback riding on picturesque trails.

13. Pet Animals at The Gentle Barn

The Gentle Barn is a sanctuary for rescued animals. The public is invited to visit and interact with cows, pigs, turkeys, and other animals.

14. Learn About the Gibbon Conservation Center

Gibbons are a rare group of apes. Learn about them on a guided tour at the Gibbon Conservation Center . Established in 1976, the center is the only institution in the world to house and breed gibbons. Reservations are necessary.

15. Hide Out in Vasquez Rocks

Located in the high desert about 30 minutes from Santa Clarita, Vasquez Rocks  features 932 acres of unique rock formations.  It’s a great place to hike and take photos. The area is named after Tiburico Vasquez, a notorious bandit who hid in the rocks to escape law enforcement in 1874.

Enjoy a Meal at The Original Saugus Cafe

Established in 1886 as the Saugus Eating House, the eatery is the oldest restaurant in Los Angeles County. It was built near a train depot to serve hungry travelers, which included President Harrison and President Roosevelt. It was also a popular film location, so it was common to see celebrities like Douglas Fairbanks, John Wayne, and Clark Gable dining there.

Over time, the eatery was renamed the Original Saugus Cafe , but it still serves classic American comfort food like chicken fried steak, meatloaf, and spaghetti. And it’s still located by the railroad, where the rumbling of passing trains serves as a reminder of the diner’s early history.

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Santa Clarita

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• Six Flags Magic Mountain
• The Gentle Barn
• Gibbon Conservation Center
• Pulchella Winery
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• Placerita Canyon Nature Center
• Scooter's Jungle
• St. Francis Dam-Ruins of Collapsed Dam
• Santa Clarita Woodlands Park
• William S. Hart Museum & Ranch

• Destinations

25 Best Things to Do in Santa Clarita, Southern California

Last Updated By VI on March 9, 2024

Six Flags Magic Mountain, Santa Clarita, CA

Six flags hurricane harbor, vasquez rocks, santa clarita, southern california, gibbon conservation center.

• Complete List & Map

Six Flags Magic Mountain , 26101 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia, CA 91355, 66-255-4100

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19152 Placerita Canyon Road, Newhall, CA 91321, 661-259-7721 , Map

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• 1. Six Flags Magic Mountain, Santa Clarita, CA
• 2. Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
• 3. Vasquez Rocks, Santa Clarita, Southern California
• 4. Gibbon Conservation Center
• 5. Gilchrist Farm
• 6. The Gentle Barn, Santa Clarita, Southern California
• 7. Placerita Canyon Nature Center
• 8. St. Francis Dam
• 9. Mentryville Park
• 10. Egg Plantation
• 11. Tesoro Adobe Park
• 12. Westfield Valencia Town Center
• 13. Santa Clarita Trails
• 14. William S. Hart Ranch and Museum, Santa Clarita, CA
• 15. Santa Clarita’s Public Art
• 16. Pulchella Winery
• 17. Santa Clarita Symphony Orchestra
• 18. Santa Clarita Central Park
• 19. Santa Clarita Valley Historical Society
• 20. Old Town Newhall, Santa Clarita, CA
• 21. Hiking Near Me: Quigley Canyon, Santa Clarita, Southern California
• 22. Robinson Ranch Golf Club
• 23. California Institute of the Arts, Santa Clarita, CA
• 24. Sightseeing Near Me: The Melody Ranch Museum
• 25. Arcane Escape Rooms

Only 35 miles from downtown Los Angeles in Santa Clarita Valley, Santa Clarita is an unsung Hollywood star - you have seen its rolling hills in many movies, especially those with galloping horses and lonely cowboys. Santa Clarita is deep inland and has no beaches, but it has Six Flags Magic Mountain, and Six Flags Hurricane Harbor. The surrounding hills have excellent trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Here are the best things to do in Santa Clarita.

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Top Things to Do in Santa Clarita

Things to do in santa clarita, tours in and around santa clarita.

Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Santa Clarita by Zombie Scavengers

Santa Clarita Shuffle Scavenger Hunt

Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches and More

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5.5-Hour Exclusive Malibu Stars Homes & Beautiful Beach Tour

Shared 3 Hour Los Angeles Tour

Top attractions in santa clarita.

Other Top Attractions around Santa Clarita

What travellers are saying

• Six Flags Magic Mountain
• The Gentle Barn
• Gibbon Conservation Center
• Pulchella Winery
• Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles
• Placerita Canyon Nature Center
• Scooter's Jungle
• St. Francis Dam-Ruins of Collapsed Dam
• Santa Clarita Woodlands Park
• William S. Hart Museum & Ranch

Top Things to Do in Santa Clarita, CA

Things to do in santa clarita, tours in and around santa clarita.

Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Santa Clarita by Zombie Scavengers

Santa Clarita Shuffle Scavenger Hunt

Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches and More

Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour by Open Air Bus

Perfect 5 ½ Hour LA & Hollywood Tour from Santa Monica

TCM Classic Films Tour

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Half-Day Sightseeing Tour of the Best of Los Angeles

5.5-Hour Exclusive Malibu Stars Homes & Beautiful Beach Tour

Shared 3 Hour Los Angeles Tour

Top attractions in santa clarita.

Other Top Attractions around Santa Clarita

What travellers are saying

• Six Flags Magic Mountain
• The Gentle Barn
• Gibbon Conservation Center
• Pulchella Winery
• Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles
• Placerita Canyon Nature Center
• Scooter's Jungle
• St. Francis Dam-Ruins of Collapsed Dam
• Santa Clarita Woodlands Park
• William S. Hart Museum & Ranch

MB2 Entertainment - Santa Clarita

Hours updated 1 month ago

Updates From This Business

30% More Play, Every Day!

Unlock the ultimate entertainment experience with our exclusive Play Card Bonuses! From adrenaline-pumping arcade games to… read more

Highlights from the Business

Locally owned & operated

Large group friendly

Kid friendly

Discounts available

Free parking

Review Highlights

“ Laser tag, axe throwing, and the virtual reality were my favorite games to play. ” in 6 reviews

“ With that we played a round of mini golf and spent a couple of hours in the arcade, which was his favorite. ” in 19 reviews

“ I wasn't looking to drink, but she sold me on a Mango Michelada and even set me up to try throwing an axe to see if I liked it before purchasing a card. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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21516 Golden Triangle Rd

Santa Clarita, CA 91350

Upcoming Special Hours

Amenities and more, about the business.

Business owner information

MB2 Entertainment is an entertainment park with 7 acres of indoor and outdoor space boasting a plethora of attractions including bowling, virtual reality, arcade games, laser tag, live music, axe throwing, mini golf, bump boats and go karts; a full-service restaurant and a walk-up, grab-and-go counter; and private party rooms for group celebrations. Created on the site of the previous Mountasia Family Fun Center, MB2 Entertainment has been remodeled, repaired, modernized and improved to become a destination for food, fun and thrills. …

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Ask a question

How much cost is an average day?

Depends really how many people you want to bring. Each activity takes credits and each person who wants to participate must "pay" the credits. So it could range. We easily spent over $100 with just my party of 3… more

Do you need to buy tickets ahead?

You do not! You use your game card for everything. I do suggest putting your name down to minimize waiting around.

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

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Overall rating

171 reviews

Kayla is the best host at Mb2 she has the best customer service, super attentive with me and my friends she deserves a raise..... Always with a smile can't wait to come back she is amazing.

Business Manager

Mar 22, 2024

Hello Jessica, we are happy to hear Kayla was attentive! We hope you visit us again soon.

Had a great time today at MB2 Entertainment. Staff was amazing. Had a great lunch. Pizza was delicious. Enjoyed the go-carts, lazar tag, bumper boats and the arcade. Don't forget to get some Thrifty's ice cream before you leave.

Hello Aubrey, we are pleased to hear you enjoyed your time with us! We are happy to hear the staff was amazing. We hope you visit us again soon!

Really great experience. It was our first time there for a birthday party and I cannot stress how professional and helpful the staff were. Every need was met and they went above and beyond. The food was also great! The place does get pretty crowded very quickly and parking does get very crowded. I love how it's both indoor and outdoor but I also suggest to bring quite a bit of money for the activities. It's not like other places where you can spend about $20 and that'll last you a while; I suggest probably a minimum of $200 if you can spare it. It has a bowling alley, VR games, arcade games and so much more. It really is just a wonderful place to go to if you're in the area. I highly recommend it.

Feb 27, 2024

Hello Crystal, thank you so much for the positive review! We are proud to hear the professionalism and helpfulness of the staff, along with the quality of the food, contributed to a memorable visit. Thank you for sharing your detailed feedback and recommendation! We hope you visit us again in the future!

We visited last month on a Sunday afternoon and found it to be quite busy! Parking was difficult but we managed to find a spot relatively close by. The amount of people didn't surprise me so much as the sheer amount of bodies attempting to move and flow through such an oddly configured space. The counter where they serve ice cream forms a line towards the front door and then all traffic throughout the rest of the general "lobby" area has to cut through this and it's generally confusing to come to find out you must scan a *TABLE SPECIFIC QR code* to order from the food menu - but it took 30+ minutes to receive a singular side order of fries, which I ended up going up to the counter and asking if I was supposed to stay at the table or.... and then finding out about that special table QR code and eventually handed fries- which I have to say were actually very good so it settled the bad taste in my mouth for then. I'll warn you, it's really up to you to figure out how it all works. Good luck catching an employee to explain. Upon entry, immediately you'll see a sign for ice cream, and people bowling but what you'll soon find out is that you need credits for each activity and that each activity takes a LOT of credits. And for the bowling you'd need to book a time slot at the backside of the ice cream/ prize / fry counter ( which we didn't end up doing) The majority of activities that aren't VR or arcade games are out the back patio, which means you'll brave the narrow, unintentional obstacle course to get to the side door behind the bar / ice cream area thingymabobber. Honestly not sure how this place could be considered ADA compliant but I guess they must...right? This place was a very interesting mix of overwhelming and surprising. We eventually had some pulled pork sliders that were actually delicious and really well made. Even if they did take an hour to come out. As were the cheese curds, fries and hot dog. The racing was again, confusing because they didn't say they were only doing the younger racers so my Fiancé stood in the line for 20+ minutes before finding out he couldn't race with our daughter. At the VR pod, the employee was LESS than thrilled to be there. It seemed he was also working the laser tag game. He wandered in and out not saying much but tapping a lot on the little screens. One young boy wandered in while he was hooking someone up and he said "HEY KID- you can't be in here!" and then continued what he was doing rather than kindly instructing him on what he CAN do. That didn't sit well with me. When our game was over- no one showed up to help us unhook so I had to take it upon myself to just figure it out. You'd think with the dozens of employees I saw standing behind the various counters that you'd have someone around at all times. With it being dark, and new technology, people will need assistance. I wanted to give this place a better review. Especially after we had a GREAT experience at a different location, not far from this one. But even with the good fries, and bomb pulled pork- the customer service or really lack thereof, reaalllly sank this review. I'd be willing to try again on a less busy day and give the benefit of the doubt but in this economy- at this price, days like these are few and far between.

Feb 6, 2024

Hello Courtney, thank you for taking the time to review us! We appreciate the feedback. We do hope you give us another chance to wow you! Make sure to keep an eye out for our weekly specials for attractions. We hope you visit us again soon!

A great place to have fun for people of all ages! With the variety of activities here it's perfect for a group. Took my niece for mini golf and she loved it. The 18 hole course is fun and in good condition. Bumper boats are open year round but you definitely get wet so be prepared if it's a chilly day out. The arcade has different types of games and you can win tickets for prizes. The bowling is super fun as well. They have a lot of seating both indoor as well as a terrace outside where you can an also find lawn games. We didn't eat here but from the looks of other people's food it sure did look delicious! They offer beer and wine at decent prices. Highly recommend this spot! PS They have the OG Thrifty's ice cream and it's at a great price

Feb 3, 2024

Hello Allie, thank you for the 5 star review! We are happy to hear you enjoyed your time with us. We hope you visit us again soon. Keep and eye out for our weekly specials!

Great place for a family night. Something for everyone. The bigger kids had a great time on the go karts. And the little guy had a blast mini golfing.

Mar 25, 2024

Hello Sil, thank you for the review! We are pleased to hear you enjoyed your family night out! We hope you and your family visit us again soon.

Place is overrated overpriced and unsafe save your money and go to six flags. Service was terrible, go karts would break down, and place isn't clean. 0/10

Fun spot for kids and adults. Lots of activities, arcade, laser tag, miniature golf, bowling, bumper cars... you name it.. also lots of birthday parties going on so it was pretty packed! They have a bar/food area inside and out with plenty of seating and private party rooms. We had a good time, killed an hour in the arcade! Good times! Would recommend!

Prize area..

Jan 29, 2024

Hello T.G, thank you for the review! We are happy to hear you enjoyed your time with us. Great photos! We hope you join us again soon. Make sure to keep an eye out for our weekly specials.

It's a holiday weekend and we really wanted to get the kids out of the house for a few hours so they weren't tirelessly walking around the house telling us how bored they were. Bored enough to tell us, but not bored enough to want to go back to school apparently. I remembered my buddy being in town for Christmas telling me his kids were at MB2 and when I asked him about it, he told me it was basically a family fun center with go-carts, mini-golf, etc. How have I lived in the L.A. area since 2000 and not known this existed? Since the perfect opportunity arose this past weekend, I suggested to the wife that maybe we should take the kids out to play mini-golf and so we decided to arrive right around opening (12 PM on a Monday). Within seconds of walking in, all 3 of my kids (13, 11, and 8) had wide eyes and quickly saw the potential of what a place like this can be. This is truly a great place for families to come. In addition to mini-golf and go-carts, here's a full restaurant and bar, arcade, laser tag, bumper boats, axe throwing, and a bowling alley (though I'd say the bowling alley is basically for toddlers.) My kids were jazzed! So were we. I've been looking for something like this for a long time. Here's the best part. The prices are PERFECT. It was $8 per person for mini-golfing. So for a family of 5, $40. I think Go-Carts were $12 per race which is also a great price and Laser Tag maybe $10 per person? All in all, this is what families dealing with crazy expensive everything need as a reprieve to have fun with our kids. They have 2 mini-golf courses (18 holes each) and they were challenging and fun for all of us. We left having a great time realizing this wasn't the only time we were going to be here. We will certainly be back, and most likely with friends.

Jan 23, 2024

Hello Benjamin, thank you for the great review! We are please to hear you and your kids enjoyed your time with us. Keep an eye out for our weekday specials! Come visit us again soon.

Over all everything was okay !!! Except the food experience !!!!!!!! Service was okay they very nice people just had to get my own napkins and cheese for my pizza

Ask for Pepperoni gave me 3 pepperoni ‍ mostly cheese Funnel Fries tasted like salt

Mar 30, 2024

Hello Brew, we apologize about your experience. Please email our management team to discuss the issues. [email protected]

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Top attractions in santa clarita.

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• Six Flags Magic Mountain
• The Gentle Barn
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• Scooter's Jungle
• St. Francis Dam-Ruins of Collapsed Dam
• Santa Clarita Woodlands Park
• William S. Hart Museum & Ranch

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City of Santa Clarita Press Release

Visit the city’s newest amenity – skyline ranch park.

By City Manager Ken Striplin

As City Manager for 12 years now and a longtime resident of Santa Clarita, I am always proud to see how our community continues to grow. In 1987, the City was 39 square miles, today, we are now over 73 square miles and growing. Thanks to the leadership of our City Council, one of our proudest achievements as a City is the preservation of open space surrounding our community, as well as the creation of green spaces, like our parks. On Saturday, April 6, the Santa Clarita City Council was joined by the community for the grand opening of the City’s 38 th park – Skyline Ranch Park.

The new park features 10.5 acres of green space, filled with amenities for everyone. When you first enter the park, visitors are greeted with a spacious multipurpose field, perfect for a friendly soccer match or practice with the team. There is also a shaded gazebo with picnic tables, ready for families to enjoy lunch or a place to rest while on your daily walk. As you continue into the park, residents can also check out the large baseball field tucked into the mountainside with covered seating and dugouts.  

Skyline Ranch Park also has a brand-new shaded playground that includes inclusive elements so that everyone can play together in a fun and safe environment. Around the perimeter of the park is a walking path, connecting residents to the adjoining neighborhood, as well as the miles of trails in our community. Located in the heart of the community, this park was designed with residents in mind, making it accessible by multiple walking trails and sidewalks.

The park also features a basketball court with eight-feet and ten-feet high basketball rims, which allows adults and kids to play on the same court. Just across the way are the two tennis courts, which are overlaid with pickleball courts, making it a great spot for enthusiasts to come work on their swing or enjoy a game with friends. These courts also boast one of the best views in Santa Clarita, with beautiful 360-degree views of the City and the surrounding green mountains.

By creating spaces like Skyline Ranch Park, we can offer our residents healthy opportunities and active benefits of living in our community. According to WalletHub.com, Santa Clarita is the 30 th happiest city in the United States, and I believe that having outdoor recreation options like our parks, is one of the leading reasons as to why residents chose to live, work and play in our City.

After two years of collaboration and construction with TriPointe Homes, I hope our community takes advantage of this picturesque new addition to our parks system. With summer just around the corner, I have no doubt that this will become a popular spot for morning walks, afternoon picnics or nights on the baseball diamond with family and friends. For more information on all our City parks, please visit SantaClarita.gov.

Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at [email protected] .

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Columbia University, the epicenter of the controversial campus Gaza protests, is well aware of its 1968 legacy and the Vietnam era

College students taking up space and making demands for change. University administrators facing pressure to get things back under control. Police brought in to make arrests. At other schools: students taking note, and sometimes taking action.

Columbia University, 2024. And Columbia University, 1968.

The pro-Palestinian demonstration and subsequent arrests at Columbia that have set off similar protests at campuses nationwide these days and even internationally aren’t new ground for students at the Ivy League school. They’re the latest in a Columbia tradition that dates back more than five decades — one that also helped provide inspiration for the anti-apartheid protest of the 1980s, the Iraq war protests, and more.

“When you’re going to Columbia, you know you’re going to an institution which has an honored place in the history of American protest,” said Mark Naison, professor of history and African & African American Studies at Fordham University and himself a participant in the 1968 demonstrations. “Whenever there is a movement, you know Columbia is going to be right there.”

STUDENTS ARE AWARE OF THE HISTORY

It’s part of Columbia’s lore, students taking part in this month’s demonstrations point out — recognized by the school itself in commemorative anniversary programming and taught about in classes.

“A lot of students here are aware of what happened in 1968,” said Sofia Ongele, 23, among those who joined the encampment in response to  this month’s arrests.

The end of an academic year was also approaching in April of that year when students took over five campus buildings. There were multiple reasons. Some were protesting the university’s connection to an institute doing weapon research for the Vietnam War; others opposed how the elite school treated Black and brown residents in the community around the school as well as the atmosphere for minority students.

After several days, Columbia’s president allowed a thousand New York Police Department officers to be brought in to clear most demonstrators out. The arrests, 700 of them, were not gentle. Fists were flying, clubs swinging. Dozens of students and more than a dozen officers were injured.

It’s never been forgotten history. That includes now, when pro-Palestinian students calling on the university to divest from any economic ties to Israel over the war in Gaza set up a tent encampment earlier this month and more than 100 were arrested. It helped spark  similar demonstrations  at campuses around the country  and world.

The storied protest past is one of the reasons Ongele chose Columbia for college and came here from her native Santa Clarita, California. “I wanted to be in an environment where people were indeed socially conscious,” she said.

When it comes to protest, “We have not only the privilege but the responsibility to continue in the shoes of those who came before us,” Ongele said. The goal, she said: to ensure “that we’re able to maintain the integrity of this university as one that is indeed socially aware, one that does have students that do care deeply about what goes on in the world, what goes on in our communities, and what goes on in the lives of the students that make up our community.”

Columbia University officials did not respond to an email asking about the school’s position on the legacy of the 1968 events. Those events, like the current protest, “sparked a huge increase in student activism around the country,” Mark Rudd, a leader of that protest, said in an email to The Associated Press. “Myself and others spent the entire year after April 1968 traveling the country, spreading to campuses the spirit of Columbia.”

NOT EVERYONE SUPPORTS THE PROTESTS

But the echoes of the past aren’t only in inspiration. Then, as now, the protest had its detractors. Naison said the disruption to campus life, and to law and order, angered many at Columbia and outside of it.

“Student protesters are not popular people in the United States of America,” he said. “We weren’t popular in the ’60s. We accomplished a tremendous amount. But we also helped drive the country to the right.”

That has a corollary these days with those critical of the protests, who have condemned what they say is a descent into antisemitism. Some Jewish students have said they have felt targeted for their identity and afraid to be on campus and university presidents have come under political pressure to clamp down and use methods like police intervention.

Columbia University President  Minouche Shafik  had just testified in front of a congressional panel  investigating concerns about antisemitism  at elite schools when the camp initially went up. Despite her requesting police action the next day for what she called a “harassing and intimidating environment,” Republicans in Congress have called for her resignation.

“Freedom of speech is so important, but not beyond the right to security,” said Itai Dreifuss, 25, a third-year student who grew up in the United States and Israel. He was near the encampment this past week, standing in front of posters taped to a wall of the people who were taken hostage by Hamas in the Oct 7 attack that set off the current conflagration.

That feeling among some students that personal animosity is being directed against them is a difference between 1968 and now, Naison said. That conflict between demonstrators and their decriers “is far more visceral,” Naison asserts, which he says makes this time even more fraught.

“It’s history repeating itself, but it’s also uncharted territory,” he said. “What we have here is a whole group of people who see these protests as a natural extension of fighting for justice, and a whole other group of people who see this as a deadly attack on them and their history and tradition. And that makes it very difficult for university officials to manage.”

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Top Things to Do in Santa Clarita

Things to do in santa clarita, tours in and around santa clarita.

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Top attractions in santa clarita.

Other Top Attractions around Santa Clarita

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• Six Flags Magic Mountain
• The Gentle Barn
• Gibbon Conservation Center
• Pulchella Winery
• Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Los Angeles
• Placerita Canyon Nature Center
• Scooter's Jungle
• St. Francis Dam-Ruins of Collapsed Dam
• Santa Clarita Woodlands Park
• William S. Hart Museum & Ranch

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• Horseback Riding
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• Best of Santa Clarita
• Free Things to Do
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• Seasonal Activities

Santa Clarita offers a variety of budget-friendly options that can be enjoyed for $25 or less! Explore our scenic trails, savor local flavors at budget-friendly eateries and discover cultural gems without breaking the bank. Come discover the perfect blend of fun and savings in our charming city!

Hike the Trails – explore the many hiking trails in Santa Clarita such as Towsley Canyon, East Walker Ranch and Whitney Canyon.

SENSES Block Party – From March to October, enjoy live music, affordable food trucks, themed activities and adult beverages every third Thursday on Main Street.

Vasquez Rocks Twilight Hikes – Explore Vasquez Rocks during the magical twilight and early full moon hours – for FREE! Enjoy 90-minute hikes that are led by trained staff and volunteers while learning about the park’s amazingly natural and human histories.

Trek Bike Park – Open from dawn to dusk, grab your bike and enjoy a free ride through seven acres of banks and jumps for riders of all ages.

Pro Tip – if bikes aren’t your thing, bring your skateboard and visit our Skate Park adjacent to the bike park.

Castaic Lake – come to Castaic Like and fulfill all your water sports dreams by going boating, jet skiing, kayaking and more.

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Ice Skating: Go Ice Skating at The Cube Ice and Entertainment Center, with admission and skate rentals for under $20!

Enjoy a concert! Bring your picnic blanket and some food from home and enjoy FREE tunes from cover bands, country crooners and disco revivals during the city’s summer concert series. These free concerts occur Saturdays at 7:00 PM, beginning July through August.

Take a Scenic Drive: Drive along Sierra Highway for breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

Gilchrist Farms: Visit this charming farm to see animals and take in the rural atmosphere. Enjoy axe throwing, wagon rides, horse rides, archery and much more for a small fee.

Geocaching: Go on a treasure hunt by geocaching in various parks around the city.

Community Pool: Take a refreshing dip in the pools at our Aquatic Center during recreational swim hours. Reservations are required in advance.

Disc golf at Central Park: Play a round of disc golf with your best buds at the free 18-hole course at Central Park.

Explore Valencia Town Center: Walk around Valencia Town Center and enjoy the shopping and entertainment options.

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Wildlife Viewing: Go birdwatching at places like Castaic Lake or Placerita Canyon.

Visit Six Flags Magic Mountain: While the regular admission can be costly, you can often find discounted tickets or special promotions.

Hole-in-one: Play golf at one of the city’s public golf courses like Vista Valencia or Sand Canyon Country Club, which often have reasonable green fees.

Visit Farmers’ Markets: Explore the weekly farmers’ markets in Santa Clarita for fresh produce and artisanal goods.

Library workshops: Participate in low-cost worships and events at the Santa Clarita Public Library.

Historical Tours: Download the Old Town Newhall Walking Tour App for free and check out everything this town has to offer! From restaurants to retailers, public arts and even film locations – get started and explore your way through this historic town.

Craft Beer or Wine Tasting: Many local breweries and wineries offer affordable beer or wine tastings. Check out Agua Dulce Winery or Lucky Luke Brewery.

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