Santa Clarita California

Lights, Camera, Action: Hollywood’s Base Camp

With more than 10 movie ranches and 30 sound stages (spaces dedicated to the creation of film productions), Santa Clarita’s filmmaking reputation is impressive. Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio has been in operation since 1915 and is best known for its western hits featuring Gary Cooper and John Wayne. The studio is now the main filming location for HBO’s critically acclaimed “Westworld.” Many television shows are filmed within the city, so keep your eyes peeled for celebrities and camera crews hard at work.

Moviemaking history comes to life at the William S. Hart Museum. Once the personal estate of famed silent film actor and director William S. Hart, the museum features numerous exhibits displaying collections of Western artwork, Native American artifacts and precious Hollywood mementos. Don’t miss the chance to dine at the Saugus Café. Established in 1887, this restaurant has been serving delicious dishes since Hollywood’s golden age to iconic figures including Clark Gable and Charlie Chaplin.

Southern California Thrills & Attractions

Santa Clarita's Six Flags Magic Mountain and Hurricane Harbor is considered one of the thrill capitals of the world. A must-stop on any Southern California vacation, Six Flags Magic Mountain features 18 world-class roller coasters and more than 100 rides, games and attractions. Make it your mission to ride Full Throttle, the tallest and fastest looping roller coaster in the world, which sets the latest world record in a long history of world records at Six Flags Magic Mountain.

Next door sits Hurricane Harbor water park, which allows for more fun in the California sun. Exhilarating twists and turns will test your courage on the Black Snake Summit, while the Python Plunge slides are the perfect introduction for those working up the courage to try the water park’s more thrilling speed slides. For the kids, Castaway Cove and Splash Island provide a world of entertainment. From the kid-friendly slides to cascading waterfalls, it’s a great way for children to play while mom and dad relax in the adjacent lounge area.

Adventures in Southern California

With numerous trails and awe-inspiring vistas, the city is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Venture into the picturesque Towsley Canyon for stunning views of the entire valley. Or, hike Vasquez Rocks, and bring a camera to snap photos of the impressive formations. For water activities, a detour to Castaic Lake is a must. Kayak across the glass-like surface, fish on the banks of the reservoir or cool off with a relaxing swim.

Looking for an afternoon picnic spot? Head to Whitney Canyon Park and dine beneath the shade of a towering oak. After lunch, take a stroll on the banks of the creek and hike to a small waterfall. A pit stop to The Gentle Barn is a real treat for animal lovers. Visitors can interact with rescue animals such as horses, donkeys, pigs and even an emu. For something a little off the beaten path, visit Mentryville, an 1880s oil boom town and California State Historical Landmark. Its oil well, Pico No. 4, was the longest continually operating oil well in the world until it closed in 1990. Today, you can see some of the town's historic buildings including oil driller Charles Mentry’s mansion, a one-room school house and a period barn.