The top 10 things to do in Santa Clarita, ranked by locals

Where can you ride the hypercoasters at Magic Mountain, see a performance at CalArts, hike a scenic canyon and go shopping on Main Street in historic Old Town Newhall all in one weekend? In the Santa Clarita Valley, of course! There’s so many things to do in SCV, especially when you live at Valencia by FivePoint, with an abundance of activities mere minutes away. But don’t just take it from us. See what our residents have to say about which local sips, eats and activities are their favorites.

1. For Thrill-Seekers

Six Flags Magic Mountain (aka the “Thrill Capital of the World”) is a 260-acre theme park with 100+ rides, including some of the world's tallest, fastest roller coasters. It’s so close by, you could either bike or drive your NEV from Confluence Park.

2. For Coffeeholics

Home of the TornadoBrew™, Havana Savannah’s patented centrifugal brewing system extracts maximum flavor out of every bean. If you’re a coffee connoisseur who likes a strong, aromatic cuppa joe, don’t sleep on this cafe.

Honu brews delicious drinks from a 100% certified organic coffee blend. It’s family owned and operated so every time you go, you’re supporting a SCV small business.

3. For Foodies Who Brunch

Eggs ‘n’ Things has been around since 1974. You don’t have that kind of longevity without serving great food.

Marston’s is another favorite—not only by locals, but by Food Network Magazine, who called it “the best breakfast in California.”

4. For Fine Dining

Le Chêne serves upscale classic French fare on a country estate with its own wine cellar (ooh la la).

If you like Italian, Piccola Osteria has been revered as one of the best Italian Restaurants in Santa Clarita since 1993. 

5. For Sweets & Treats

Lady Di’s Cookies are made with natural ingredients, and they’re free of preservatives, so they’re as wholesome as they are delicious.

S&S Donuts and Bake Shop has everything from donuts (of course) to wedding cakes.

6. For Animal Lovers

Who wouldn’t love to spend a Sunday hugging cows, giving pigs belly rubs and cuddling with chickens? Head to The Gentle Barn, a 6-acre farm animal sanctuary in the high country. Can’t make it in person, no problem. They offer virtual visits too.

7. For Sightseers

Vasquez Rocks is a 932-acre preserved natural area with such stunning formations, it’s been the backdrop for famous movies and TV shows like Star Trek, Westworld and Austin Powers.

Ten minutes south of Valencia, you’ll find the iconic William S. Hart Park, with its beautiful grounds, historic buildings, picnic areas, 256 acres of scenic hiking trails and a herd of bison gifted from Walt Disney.

8. For Outdoor Enthusiasts

Whether you need a new bike, repairs done, or are looking for a group ride, the great staff at CBS Cycling has got you covered.

Santa Clarita activities (hiking and biking areas) extend to Newhall’s East and Rice Canyon. Explore lush vegetation, forested areas and magnificent views. Be sure to bring a little cash—entry to the park costs $5.

With a 2.9-mile paved trail and almost no elevation gain, The Santa Clara River is a popular birding spot where you can see ducks, hummingbirds, hawks, sparrows and more. Don’t forget to pack your binoculars.

9. For Bookworms

The Old Town Newhall Library has over 135,000 literary items (and counting) and a reading room with a fireplace—how cozy! It’s the ultimate escape for bookworms of all ages.

10. For Concerts & Cultural Events:

With a large mainstage venue and an intimate black box theater, the Santa Clarita Performing Arts Center (PAC) hosts concerts, plays, and ballets, special community events and more.

Home to the annual World Music and Dance Festival, at CalArts you can see unique performances by artists from all over the world—and admission is free!

With so much to do and see in the Santa Clarita Valley, and with Valencia by Fivepoint in the center of it all, there’s always something new to discover here. Ready to see what makes our community so special? Come take a look around.