Key Takeaways:
- Santa Clarita, California, offers a diverse mix of outdoor adventures, family-friendly attractions, and cultural experiences that can be enjoyed year-round.
- From thrilling roller coasters at Six Flags Magic Mountain to scenic hiking trails and lively festivals, Santa Clarita is a must-visit destination.
- Whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, or history buff, Santa Clarita provides endless opportunities for entertainment in every season.
Table of Contents
- Ride the Thrills at Six Flags Magic Mountain
- Hike the Trails at Placerita Canyon Nature Center
- Explore Old Town Newhall
- Visit the Gibbon Conservation Center
- Enjoy Waterfront Dining at Castaic Lake
- Take a Scenic Drive Along the Sierra Highway
- Discover Local Art at the Santa Clarita Public Arts Program
- Catch a Live Show at The MAIN Theater
- Attend the Cowboy Festival
- Shop and Dine at Westfield Valencia Town Center
Santa Clarita, California, is a city that blends natural beauty, thrilling attractions, and a strong sense of community. Located just north of Los Angeles, it’s known for its world-class amusement parks, picturesque hiking trails, and vibrant arts scene. While many visitors come for the adrenaline-pumping rides at Six Flags Magic Mountain, Santa Clarita has so much more to offer year-round.
With its mild climate, scenic outdoor spaces, and a packed calendar of events, Santa Clarita is a perfect getaway for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, a cultural experience, or a fun-filled weekend, there’s always something happening in this lively city. Here are ten of the best activities to enjoy in Santa Clarita any time of the year.
1. Ride the Thrills at Six Flags Magic Mountain
One of the most famous attractions in Santa Clarita is Six Flags Magic Mountain, home to some of the tallest, fastest, and most thrilling roller coasters in the world. This theme park features over 20 roller coasters, including record-breaking rides like Twisted Colossus and Goliath, making it a must-visit for adrenaline junkies.
Beyond the coasters, the park offers family-friendly attractions, live shows, and seasonal events, such as Fright Fest in the fall and Holiday in the Park during winter. With new rides and attractions added regularly, Six Flags Magic Mountain is an exciting destination no matter what time of year you visit.
2. Hike the Trails at Placerita Canyon Nature Center
For a peaceful escape into nature, Placerita Canyon Nature Center offers beautiful hiking trails, scenic picnic areas, and interactive wildlife exhibits. This nature preserve is home to historic landmarks, including the famous “Oak of the Golden Dream,” where gold was first discovered in California in 1842.
Visitors can explore a variety of trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, all surrounded by stunning canyon landscapes. The center also offers guided nature walks, birdwatching tours, and educational programs, making it a great spot for families, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts year-round.
3. Explore Old Town Newhall
For a taste of Santa Clarita’s historic charm, Old Town Newhall is a lively district filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and local restaurants. The area is rich in Western heritage, with its Walk of Western Stars honoring legendary actors from classic cowboy films.
Throughout the year, Old Town Newhall hosts seasonal festivals, farmers’ markets, and live music events, including the popular SENSES Block Party. Whether you’re browsing unique shops, dining at a local café, or enjoying a community event, Old Town Newhall is a vibrant place to visit year-round.
4. Visit the Gibbon Conservation Center
Animal lovers won’t want to miss the Gibbon Conservation Center, a unique sanctuary dedicated to the preservation of endangered gibbons. This hidden gem offers guided tours where visitors can learn about these fascinating primates, hear their distinctive calls, and support conservation efforts.
The center is open year-round and hosts educational programs, fundraising events, and special tours, giving guests a rare opportunity to observe and learn about these incredible animals up close. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, the Gibbon Conservation Center is a must-visit.
5. Enjoy Waterfront Dining at Castaic Lake
Located just a short drive from Santa Clarita, Castaic Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and picnicking along the water. Visitors can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and jet skis, or simply relax by the shore while enjoying the beautiful views.
Several waterfront restaurants near the lake offer fresh seafood, casual dining, and outdoor patios with lakefront views, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing meal. Whether you’re out on the water or just enjoying a sunset dinner, Castaic Lake provides a peaceful escape from the city.
6. Take a Scenic Drive Along the Sierra Highway
For those who enjoy scenic road trips, the Sierra Highway offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, rugged landscapes, and historic sites. This picturesque route takes travelers through the Angeles National Forest and Santa Clarita’s surrounding countryside, making it a fantastic way to explore the region’s natural beauty.
Along the way, visitors can stop at hidden hiking trails, historic landmarks, and roadside cafes, offering plenty of opportunities to take in the sights. The drive is particularly stunning in the fall and spring, when the landscape is either covered in wildflowers or glowing with golden autumn colors.
7. Discover Local Art at the Santa Clarita Public Arts Program
Santa Clarita has a thriving arts community, and the Public Arts Program showcases stunning murals, sculptures, and gallery exhibitions throughout the city. Art lovers can explore public art installations along walking trails, in parks, and at various community centers, adding creativity to everyday spaces.
Throughout the year, the city hosts art festivals, live painting events, and gallery openings, giving visitors a chance to engage with local artists. Whether you’re strolling through a sculpture garden or attending an art walk, Santa Clarita’s public arts scene offers a vibrant cultural experience year-round.
8. Catch a Live Show at The MAIN Theater
For an evening of entertainment, The MAIN Theater in Old Town Newhall is the place to catch live performances, stand-up comedy, and independent film screenings. This intimate venue hosts a mix of local theater productions, live music concerts, and community events, making it a great spot for culture lovers.
The theater regularly updates its lineup with new plays, improv nights, and spoken word performances, ensuring there’s always something fresh to enjoy. Whether you’re into drama, comedy, or live storytelling, The MAIN provides a cozy and engaging atmosphere for year-round entertainment.
9. Attend the Cowboy Festival
Santa Clarita has deep Western roots, and the Cowboy Festival is a celebration of its rich cowboy heritage. Held every spring, this multi-day festival features live country music, trick roping performances, historical reenactments, and authentic Western cuisine.
Visitors can step back in time as they explore pioneer camps, artisan craft booths, and horse-riding demonstrations. The event also includes storytelling sessions, line dancing, and rodeo-style activities, making it a fun experience for the whole family. Even if you miss the festival, Santa Clarita’s Western culture can be enjoyed through local museums and ranches throughout the year.
10. Shop and Dine at Westfield Valencia Town Center
For a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, Westfield Valencia Town Center is the go-to destination in Santa Clarita. This modern shopping center features a variety of stores, from high-end fashion brands to local boutiques, along with restaurants, coffee shops, and dessert spots.
Beyond shopping, the mall frequently hosts live music performances, holiday events, and seasonal pop-up markets, creating a lively atmosphere for visitors. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite, watching a movie, or enjoying a night out, Westfield Valencia Town Center offers plenty of options for entertainment year-round.
What to Do if You Have Kids?
Santa Clarita is packed with family-friendly attractions, making it a great destination for kids of all ages. The Cube – Ice and Entertainment Center offers public ice skating, hockey lessons, and fun events, perfect for an active day indoors. Central Park is another favorite spot, featuring playgrounds, walking trails, and open spaces for kids to run around.
For an interactive experience, Mountasia Family Fun Center provides mini-golf, go-karts, laser tag, and arcade games, ensuring endless fun. Many of Santa Clarita’s parks and museums also offer kid-friendly activities and seasonal festivals, making it easy to plan an enjoyable family outing any time of year.
Where Can I Find Free Events in Santa Clarita California Taking Place This Weekend?
For free events happening in Santa Clarita this weekend, visit PlanMyWeekend.ai. This tool helps you discover live music performances, outdoor movie nights, farmers’ markets, and community festivals that won’t cost a dime. Whether you’re looking for a local street fair, a free yoga class in the park, or a cultural celebration, PlanMyWeekend.ai makes it easy to find the best free entertainment options in town.
Santa Clarita also hosts seasonal parades, public art walks, and outdoor concerts, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening. Simply enter your location on the site to explore all the best free events in the area.
Final Thoughts
Santa Clarita, California, is a diverse and exciting city that offers a blend of thrilling adventures, scenic outdoor spaces, and vibrant cultural experiences. Whether you’re riding roller coasters at Six Flags, hiking in Placerita Canyon, or enjoying live music in Old Town Newhall, there’s something for everyone year-round.
With its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and strong sense of community, Santa Clarita is a must-visit for travelers looking for a fun-filled weekend getaway or an extended stay. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, there’s always something new to discover in this dynamic city. Start planning your trip today and experience all that Santa Clarita has to offer!
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
