Vacations are all about unwinding, recharging, and making the most of your time away from home. Take it a step further and detour from your usual activities with some once-in-a-lifetime experiences that you can only find here in Santa Clarita. From cuddles with farm animals at The Gentle Barn to the picturesque Vasquez Rocks, this city has it all.
By Stephanie Villafuerte
Vasquez Rocks
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Found as a backdrop for countless films and television shows in pop culture, the natural beauty that is Vasquez Rocks is perfect for film enthusiasts, hikers and anyone looking for a breath of fresh air. The park is open from sunrise to sunset, so grab your friends and climb some rocks!
Reyes Winery
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Robert Reyes opened Reyes Winery in 2014 with a goal in mind: to make wine and share that passion with others to enjoy. This Agua Dulce gem is a 16-acre vineyard that offers wine tasting every Saturday and Sunday for visitors.
Le Chêne French Cuisine
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Le Chêne French Cuisine is one of those treasures you randomly stumble upon when driving down the highway, decide to check out, and later gush to all your friends about the cottage-like restaurant you ate at during your trip. This business has had its doors open for almost six decades, and continues to serve fine French cuisine to its guests every day!
The Gentle Barn
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Open every Sunday to the public, The Gentle Barn is possibly the sweetest spot in Santa Clarita because of how much love fills the space. This animal sanctuary regularly rescues animals who need a good home, and provides them with just that! Stop by and check out the 130+ animals that have found their forever home.
Gilchrist Farm
Add some adventure to your vacation when you take a horse ride at the Gilchrist Farm, or a pony ride if you have littles that want to join! This adorable farm has been loved by Santa Clarita locals for years and makes the best vacation memories for those visiting.
Castaic Lake
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A 9,000-acre park where you can fish, jet ski, kayak, swim, and go boating? What more could you possibly want during your sunny vacation in Southern California? We’re glad you asked! Other than outdoor activities, Castaic Lake also offers summer events! Check their calendar for regular listings.
Halfway House Café
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Order up! Aside from being the diner where Tom Cruise asks for a cup of water in Top Gun: Maverick, Halfway House Café makes history with its breakfast specialties like huevos rancheros, French dip sandwich, and so much more. Pay a visit to this 1931 landmark and have your own motion-picture moment.
Backwoods Inn
A community landmark since 1968 complete with the ambience of sawdust flooring and classic steak and seafood entrees that include the ever popular twice baked potatoes. This restaurant remains a favorite for American Classics and classic rustic ambiance.
Lake Piru
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Lake Piru is located in Ventura County, in the Los Padres National Forest next to the Sespe Condor Sanctuary. The lake is just a half hour from Santa Clarita. From Santa Clarita take Interstate 5, just north of Magic Mountain, to Highway 126 west to the Piru turnoff. Lake Piru offers over 200 level tree-shaded camping sites, clean restrooms, free hot showers and fully stocked store. Motor homes, trailers and truck campers are welcome. Activities nearby include hiking, fishing and boat rentals.