Santa Clarita is an easygoing family getaway with plenty to keep kids entertained, whether you’re looking for thrills, animals, creativity, or a little friendly competition. Spend a day riding coasters and meeting your favorite characters at Six Flags Magic Mountain, challenge the family to races and games at MB2 Entertainment, or let the kids burn off some energy at Billy Beez. For something more hands-on, paint pottery at Color Me Mine, get up close with rescued animals at The Gentle Barn, or visit Animal Tracks for an unforgettable animal encounter. Add in Santa Clarita’s parks, trails, restaurants, and plenty of sunshine, and you have a destination where you can build a full family itinerary without feeling like you have to pack every minute of the day.

Six Flags Magic Mountain and Hurricane Harbor

The Thrill Capital of the World has adrenaline-pumping coasters for the teens, but did you know there’s also Bugs Bunny World for the younger kids? Take the family out for a variety of rollercoasters, funnel cakes, and taking selfies with the heroes of the DC Universe! If you’re vacationing any time from May to September, be sure to hop over to Hurricane Harbor for a splash. This water park is only a few feet away from Six Flags and offers over-the-top waterslides, play areas for the children, and lazy rivers to lounge around.

For the parents: The cherry on top of any sunny day is a delicious and refreshing drink! Satisfy any sweet tooth cravings with a stop at any of the boba shops found in Santa Clarita.

MB2 Entertainment

One of Santa Clarita’s recent additions, MB2 offers a fresh change of scenery. The littles can enjoy the surplus of arcade games, which include classics like Connect 4 and skee ball, while the teens can compete with each other in axe throwing, mini golf, and go-karts. You can also bring the family together for a friendly game of laser tag in MB2’s neon playground before sitting down for a tasty bite at their on-site eatery.

For the parents: While the kids are busy beating arcade records, feel free to check out MB2’s nearby bar and enjoy any of their specialty drinks!

Animal Tracks

Get up close with rescued and exotic animals at Animal Tracks, a unique wildlife sanctuary tucked into the hills of Santa Clarita. Families can meet animals such as big cats, foxes, birds, reptiles, and other rescued creatures while learning about their stories and the importance of responsible animal care. With hands-on experiences and educational tours, it’s a memorable way to add something a little different to a Santa Clarita getaway, especially for animal-loving kids.

Whitney Canyon trail

Don’t forget to pack your hiking boots—Santa Clarita is full of immersive hiking trails for those interested in exploring the outdoors. If your family isn’t exactly new to hiking, but looking to save energy for other vacation to-dos, Whitney Canyon is the way to go. Full of greenery and wide tracks, this 3-mile trail is an absolute gem. Did we mention there’s a waterfall which you can catch after a rainy day?

For the parents: Cool down post-hike by catching the latest blockbuster or independent flick at the Laemmle theater, found in the heart of Newhall.

Billy Beez

With 20,000 square ft. of slides, towers, ball blasters, and high-flying trampolines, Billy Beez is the coolest indoor play park that’ll make for great memories! Their Mini Beez play area is perfect for the littles to enjoy with their parents alongside them. Be sure to refer to their website for pricing and hours.

For the parents: Treat yourself! Get drinks and a meal at Solita: Tacos and Margaritas, the next-door neighbors to Billy Beez. End the night with a stroll through the shops found on the nearby patios.

Color Me Mine

Get creative at Color Me Mine, where you can choose your own piece of pottery and make it completely your own! With a colorful selection of ceramics and plenty of paints to choose from, it’s an easy, hands-on activity for kids, families, and even a fun girls’ day. No artistic experience required, just pick your piece, paint away and let the studio handle the finishing touches!

For the parents: Grab lunch or coffee or take a stroll around Westfield Valencia Town Center for a little shopping while your masterpiece gets fired.

The Gentle Barn

Take a step back from your busy travels by stopping by The Gentle Barn, an animal sanctuary that holds over hundreds of cuddly farm animals which your children can connect with! Open every Sunday to the public, this comfort spot leaves a lasting impression on all crowds and makes leaving just a teensy bit difficult.

For the parents: Just a minute away from this place full of love and all things good, you’ll find the iconic Halfway House. Grab dinner at this local diner, and hope that Tom Cruise will stumble in for a cup of water as he did once for the film Top Gun: Maverick!

Top Out Climbing

Test your skills at this 11,500 square foot indoor facility which holds a number of rock-climbing walls and bouldering courses that you can take a swipe at with the family. Whether your bunch are first-timers or advanced climbers, Top Out is ready to challenge folks with a fun and exciting climb!

For the parents: Get some alone time by catching a picturesque sunset at any of Santa Clarita’s nearby parks.

Canyon Theatre Guild

For over 50 years, the Canyon Theatre Guild has been producing quality live theatre in the Santa Clarita Valley for everyone’s entertainment. With at least nine full-scale productions each season, all of which bring life to the world of arts in a one-of-a-kind way, this Newhall theatre is a go-to for families! Be sure to check out their website for a lineup of performances each season.

For the parents: The absolute tastiest churros can be found just down the street from this theatre scene, and it goes by the name XRO Churro Bar! Exchanges thoughts about the play over any one of the bar’s churro creations.

Ensure that your stay in Santa Clarita is full of comfort and leisure by checking out our list of nearby hotels and transportation services. Even better, hop on the Summer Trolley for a FREE ride from your hotel to Six Flags Magic Mountain, Hurricane Harbor and Valencia Town Center and back!

*For a more detailed itinerary for your family vacation, including day-to-day schedules, check out our Family Fun blog post.