Santa Clarita Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, and local customs in Santa Clarita, Southern California. Plan your itinerary with our helpful tour guide.


Introduction to Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita is a vibrant city located in Santa Clarita Valley, Los Angeles, Southern California. With its picturesque scenery and diverse range of activities, Santa Clarita is an ideal destination for tourists looking for an authentic Californian experience.

List of Places to Visit in Santa Clarita

Whether you’re interested in cultural attractions or outdoor adventures, Santa Clarita has something for everyone. Here are the top places you should visit while in Santa Clarita:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. William S. Hart Museum and Park - This museum features a collection of art, artifacts, and personal memorabilia of the noted silent film actor and director, William S. Hart.
  2. Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park - This stunning park is known for its unique rock formations and is a popular filming location, featuring in films such as “Star Trek: Voyager” and “The Flintstones”.
  3. Old Town Newhall - This charming historic district is known for its vintage architecture and cultural events, including the weekly Farmers Market.

Natural Attractions of Santa Clarita: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Placerita Canyon State Park - This park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
  2. Mountasia Family Fun Center - This entertainment center has a variety of activities for all ages, including go-karts, miniature golf, batting cages, and laser tag.
  3. Six Flags Magic Mountain - This iconic amusement park is home to world-class roller coasters and thrilling rides.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita is known for its excellent hiking and biking trails. Here are the top routes you should consider:

  1. East Walker Ranch Open Space - A 6.8-mile loop that offers scenic views of the Santa Clarita Valley.
  2. Towsley Canyon Loop - A 5.4-mile route that features a waterfall and incredible views of the San Fernando Valley.
  3. Iron Horse Trail - This 22-mile trail offers a scenic route that stretches all the way from Santa Clarita to Burbank.

Best Things to Do in Santa Clarita: Activities and Tours

There’s no shortage of things to do in Santa Clarita, for visitors of all ages. Here are the top activities and tours you should consider:

  1. Wine Tasting Tour - Enjoy some of the best wine that Southern California has to offer with a tour of wineries in the Santa Clarita Valley.
  2. Hot Air Balloon Ride - Experience breathtaking aerial views of Santa Clarita with a hot air balloon ride.
  3. Escape Room - Put your problem-solving skills to the test with an escape room adventure at one of the many venues in Santa Clarita.

Week-Long Itinerary for Santa Clarita

If you’re planning to spend a week in Santa Clarita, here is a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day Activity
1 Visit Old Town Newhall and the William S. Hart Museum
2 Spend a day at Six Flags Magic Mountain
3 Explore the Towsley Canyon Loop in the morning, and enjoy Mountasia Family Fun Center in the afternoon
4 Take a hot air balloon ride early in the morning and visit Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park during the day
5 Go on a hiking trip to East Walker Ranch Open Space in the morning, and escape the room at night
6 Tour the wineries and sample local wines
7 Enjoy a relaxing picnic at Placerita Canyon State Park, and end the day with a movie at the renowned Santa Clarita Valley Film Festival

Food and Drink Scene of Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita’s food and drink scene is a reflection of its diverse and vibrant culture. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Mediterranean Plate - A sample of Mediterranean cuisine, including hummus, pita bread, tabouleh, and falafel.
  2. Fish Tacos - A Californian favorite, featuring fresh fish served with cabbage, salsa, and sour cream in a warm tortilla.
  3. Burger and Fries - A classic American meal, there are many places in Santa Clarita that serve a delicious burger and fries.

Local Beverages

  1. Coffee - Santa Clarita has several local coffee shops, offering a variety of artisanal coffee blends.
  2. Craft Beer - Santa Clarita boasts several craft breweries with a variety of unique ales and lagers.
  3. Wine - With several wineries in the area, wine tasting is a must-try experience in Santa Clarita.

Where to Stay in Santa Clarita: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options in Santa Clarita, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the popular places to stay include:

  1. Embassy Suites by Hilton Valencia - A luxurious hotel with modern amenities, including an outdoor pool and free breakfast.
  2. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Santa Clarita - Valencia - A budget-friendly hotel with clean rooms and complimentary breakfast.
  3. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Clarita Valencia - A contemporary hotel with an outdoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center.

What to Buy in Santa Clarita: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir or gift, here are some local products to consider buying:

  1. California Olive Oil - Santa Clarita has several olive groves that produce high-quality olive oil.
  2. Santa Clarita Valley Wine - Many wineries in Santa Clarita produce their own wines that you can take home to share with loved ones.
  3. Handcrafted Jewelry - There are several local artisans who create unique and beautiful pieces of jewelry that make for great gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita is a melting pot of cultures, with residents from all over the world. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to explore and engage with the community.

Best Time to Visit Santa Clarita

The best time to visit Santa Clarita is from late May to early October when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, for those who prefer cooler weather, the months of November to March offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Santa Clarita

Do:

  1. Carry sunscreen and a hat when engaging in outdoor activities.
  2. Respect local customs and traditions.
  3. Visit the weekly Farmers Market in Old Town Newhall to enjoy local produce and crafts.

Don’t:

  1. Litter in public places.
  2. Ignore the “No Trespassing” signs in natural parks and other restricted areas.
  3. Engage in reckless behavior, especially with regards to hiking and biking trails.

Safety and Health

Safety in Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita is a safe city, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should take the usual precautions when traveling, such as keeping an eye on their belongings and not walking alone at night.

Health in Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita has several medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Visitors should ensure they have medical insurance, and familiarize themselves with the location of the nearest medical facility.

Getting to Santa Clarita: Transportation Options and Logistics

Santa Clarita is easily accessible by air, bus, or car.

Airports Near Santa Clarita

  1. Burbank Bob Hope Airport - Located 18 miles from Santa Clarita, Bob Hope Airport offers domestic flights.
  2. Los Angeles International Airport - Located 38 miles from Santa Clarita, LAX is one of the largest airports in the world and offers international flights.

Bus Stations Near Santa Clarita

  1. Santa Clarita Transit - Provides bus service around Santa Clarita and to neighboring cities.
  2. Greyhound Bus Lines - Offers bus service to several destinations, including Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Other Options

  1. Car Rental - Visitors can rent a car to explore Santa Clarita and surrounding areas.
  2. Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services - Several taxi and ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, operate in Santa Clarita.

How to Get Around in Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita has an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains. Visitors can also rent cars or use ride-sharing services to get around.

Where to Go Next from Santa Clarita: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Santa Clarita is within easy reach of several exciting destinations, including:

  1. Los Angeles - Located just 30 miles from Santa Clarita, Los Angeles is famous for its Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios, and Beverly Hills.
  2. Malibu - A scenic city known for its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and shopping.
  3. Santa Barbara - Another popular destination that offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, wineries, and historic sites.

Conclusion

With its eclectic mix of culture, outdoor adventures, and charming attractions, Santa Clarita is a must-visit destination in Southern California. Plan your itinerary using this comprehensive tour guide to make the most of your trip.