Santa Clarita, CA

Santa Clarita is a large city located approximately 35 miles outside of downtown Los Angeles. Incorporated in 1987, the city is home to an estimated 168,000 residents. In recent years, wildfires have become a regular occurrence in Santa Clarita, with at least one major conflagration per year during the early 21st century.

NEIGHBORHOODS AND DISTRICTS

Santa Clarita is generally considered a good place to live, and an even better place to raise a family. Indeed, the FBI consistently ranks Santa Clarita as one of the safest cities in the United States.

A few notable neighborhoods in Santa Clarita include:

• Canyon Country: Atop the side of a canyon lies one of the city's few neighborhoods with an immediate view of the Santa Clarita Valley. Older, more affordable homes are located toward the bottom of the canyon. Along the roads winding up the canyon, one can find numerous developments, shops and condominiums.
• Newhall: Seekers of a multicultural, more urban neighborhood should visit the Newhall area, a neighborhood known for its diversity. The Canyon Theatre Guild provides family entertainment.
• Stevenson Ranch: With picturesque views, the Stevenson Ranch area neighborhoods offer condos and small family homes in the midst of recreational spots and shopping areas.
• Valencia: Valencia is home to several neighborhoods and developments, with shopping, recreation and housing in close proximity. Residents of the Bridgeport and Old Orchard neighborhoods can take advantage of the nearby Valencia Town Center.

ECONOMY AND INDUSTRIES

The Los Angeles Economic Development Corp. has named Santa Clarita as the "Most Business Friendly City in Los Angeles County." The city is home to the largest master-planned industrial park in Los Angeles County.

The city of Santa Clarita enjoys a fairly stable economy. The number of jobs in Santa Clarita has increased by 50 percent since August 2007.

Santa Clarita is a hot spot for the production of films, commercials and television shows. Famous productions that have been filmed in the area include Ocean's Thirteen, Romy and Michelle's High School Reunion, Encino Man, National Lampoon's Vacation, Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back, Twilight, Heroes, CSI, Big Love and 24.

Some of the city's largest employers include:

• Six Flags Magic Mountain, a major amusement park
• Princess Cruises, one of the world's top cruise lines, is headquartered in Santa Clarita
• College of the Canyons, a local community college
• H. R. Textron, an aerospace manufacturer

FOR VISITORS

• Canyon Country Park: Children's play areas, picnic tables and barbeque areas are available at this park, located just off Soledad County Road.
• Central Bark: This popular off-leash dog area is a popular spot for pooch lovers.
• Central Park: The city's largest public green space, Central Park features go-kart rides, a concession stand, picnic tables and wireless Internet access.
• Santa Clarita Park: A swimming pool, basketball court, child play area and community room are available at this tree-lined park.

BEST BETS

• Agua Dulce Vineyards: This extensive vineyard and winery features daily wine tastings and tours. Visitors can also take advantage of the gourmet gift shop, which features wines for purchase. The winery has garnered numerous recognitions and medals over the years.
• CLWA Conservatory Garden and Learning Center: This peaceful garden offers a self-guided tour, where visitors can learn gardening tips specific to the Santa Clarita Valley.
• Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park: Visitors can find this nature reserve just off the Antelope Valley Freeway. The park is known for its interesting rock formations, which once provided shelter for the Tatavian Indians.
• William S. Hart Park and Museum: What was the former home of actor and director William S. Hart has now been made a showcase of Western art, Native American artifacts, and early Hollywood relics.
• All Corked Up: This wine club, located in the Center Point Business Park, offers cooking classes, wine tastings and private parties. Guests can drop in for a visit to the cellar lounge and cigar bar. Special wine collections can be stored on site at the temperature-controlled facility.
• Historic Route 6: Visitors often like to take a scenic drive along this road, which is also known as Sierra Highway. The route is the only national highway that honors Civil War veterans.

FAMILY FUN

• Mountasia Family Fun Center: The family entertainment center has miniature golf, batting cages, go karts, bumper cars, rock climbing, laser tag, and more than 100 video and amusement games.
• Six Flags Magic Mountain: The popular amusement park is located just outside the city. Roller coasters and water rides are among the park's attractions.
• Ed Davis Park: Located in Towsley Canyon, the outdoor park is a prime spot for hiking and mountain biking trails. It is surrounded by streams and breathtaking natural woodlands.
• Placerita Canyon Natural Area: This wildlife park has a wide range of hiking and biking trails. Trails include the Heritage Trail, a path where visitors can explore different cultural aspects of the area.

EDUCATION

Colleges and higher education institutions in Santa Clarita include:

• California Institute of the Arts
• The Master's College
• College of the Canyons