Discover Santa Clarita: Top Movies, TV Series and Books Set There

Santa Clarita, California, has played a significant role in the world of cinema, literature, and television, serving as a backdrop for numerous iconic works. This comprehensive guide delves into the various films, books, and TV series set in Santa Clarita. We’ll also share the best places to stay, dine, and explore while soaking in the city’s cinematic ambiance. Let’s embark on this exciting journey.

Santa Clarita: A Major Player in the Film Industry

Santa Clarita has been featured in many famous films shot in Santa Clarita that have left an indelible mark on the global cinematic landscape. Its unique blend of picturesque landscapes and urban spaces provides an ideal setting for various movie genres, from action thrillers to romantic dramas.

Blockbuster Movies Filmed in Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita’s diverse landscape has been a preferred choice for many blockbuster films. Here are some memorable ones:

• “Iron Man” (2008)  – Directed by Jon Favreau, this superhero film showcases Santa Clarita’s industrial landscapes, doubling as Afghanistan in certain scenes.
• “The Mummy” (2017)  – Universal’s reboot of the popular franchise used Santa Clarita’s natural landscapes for shooting some significant action sequences.
• “Star Trek” (2009)  – The reboot of this beloved science-fiction franchise utilized the unique topography of Santa Clarita to depict alien worlds.
• “Blazing Saddles” (1974)  – Mel Brooks’ classic comedy was shot in the western-themed Melody Ranch Studio located in Santa Clarita.
• “Fast & Furious” franchise (2001- Present)  – This action-packed series has used Santa Clarita’s roads for thrilling car chase sequences.

Lesser-Known Films Shot in Santa Clarita

Beyond the blockbusters, a handful of lesser-known films have also utilized Santa Clarita’s varied landscapes and cityscapes. Some of these include:

• “Little Miss Sunshine” (2006)  – This indie darling shot several scenes around Santa Clarita, including the infamous diner scene.
• “The Master” (2012)  – Paul Thomas Anderson’s post-war drama used Santa Clarita’s vintage buildings to create a period-accurate setting.
• “Bubble Boy” (2001)  – This cult comedy adventure extensively used Santa Clarita’s residential neighborhoods for its suburban scenes.

Santa Clarita: A Prime Location for TV Series

Santa Clarita is not just a beloved location for films, but it also provides a perfect setting for many TV shows set in Santa Clarita. The city’s versatile landscape and architecture have made it a go-to location for many popular series.

Prominent TV Shows Filmed in Santa Clarita

From action-packed dramas to comedic sitcoms, here are some noteworthy TV series filmed in the city:

• “NCIS” (2003-Present)  – This popular crime procedural has filmed numerous scenes in Santa Clarita, particularly utilizing its industrial spaces.
• “Santa Clarita Diet” (2017-2019)  – This Netflix horror-comedy series is set and filmed in Santa Clarita, showcasing its suburban charm.
• “Sons of Anarchy” (2008-2014)  – The motorcycle club drama used Santa Clarita’s outskirts for many of its outdoor scenes.

Lesser-Known TV Series Filmed in Santa Clarita

Some lesser-known TV series have also capitalized on Santa Clarita’s diverse locales. These include:

• “Justified” (2010-2015)  – This crime drama series used Santa Clarita’s rural landscapes to depict Kentucky’s countryside.
• “Switched at Birth” (2011-2017)  – This family drama filmed several scenes in Santa Clarita, showcasing its residential neighborhoods.

Santa Clarita: An Inspiration for Animated Films

The city’s enchanting landscapes and architectural wonders have also served as inspiration for several animated films set in Santa Clarita. The city’s unique blend of urban and natural environments offers limitless possibilities for animated storytelling.

Noteworthy Animated Films Set in Santa Clarita

Here are some animated films that have depicted the city’s charm:

• “Cars” (2006)  – Pixar’s popular franchise reportedly drew inspiration from Santa Clarita’s car culture and racing history.
• “The Wild” (2006)  – This Disney film features a character named ‘Samson,’ a lion from a zoo, who is believed to be inspired by a real-life Santa Clarita resident, ‘Samson the Hot Tub Bear.’

Lesser-Known Animated Films Set in Santa Clarita

Apart from these popular films, some lesser-known animated features have also used Santa Clarita as their backdrop:

• “Open Season” (2006)  – This film featuring a domesticated grizzly bear and a mule deer, draws inspiration from Santa Clarita’s lush forests.
• “Gnomeo & Juliet” (2011)  – The film’s depiction of ‘Stratford,’ the quiet garden suburb, is believed to resemble Santa Clarita’s residential neighborhoods.

Santa Clarita: A Literary Muse

Santa Clarita’s rich history, cultural significance, and picturesque landscapes have made it a popular setting for numerous literary works. From classic novels to contemporary bestsellers, Santa Clarita’s influence is evident in various literary genres.

Classic Books Set in Santa Clarita

Here are three classic books set in Santa Clarita that vividly capture the city’s essence:

• “Oil!” by Upton Sinclair  – This novel, set in the oil fields of Southern California, includes scenes in Santa Clarita, an area known for its oil reserves.
• “In Dubious Battle” by John Steinbeck  – Santa Clarita’s agricultural history serves as a backdrop for this novel about labor strike.
• “Day of the Locust” by Nathanael West  – Santa Clarita’s Hollywood connection is explored in this classic novel about the film industry.

Contemporary Books Set in Santa Clarita

Here are three contemporary books that brilliantly depict Santa Clarita:

• “The Dogs of Babel” by Carolyn Parkhurst  – This mystery novel, set in a quiet suburb, mirrors Santa Clarita’s peaceful residential neighborhoods.
• “The Girls” by Emma Cline  – Santa Clarita’s late-60s counterculture serves as a backdrop for this coming-of-age novel.
• “The Circle” by Dave Eggers  – This tech-dystopia novel features a company town that resembles Santa Clarita’s Valencia neighborhood, known for housing several tech companies.

Exploring Santa Clarita’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

To fully immerse yourself in Santa Clarita’s cinematic history, there are several key locations you must visit. From iconic city landmarks to picturesque natural sites, these filming locations offer a glimpse into the city’s film industry.

Iconic Filming Locations in Santa Clarita

Here are some must-visit spots that have featured prominently in various films and TV series:

1. Melody Ranch Studio  – Home to numerous Westerns, this studio is a must-visit for film buffs.
2. Golden Oak Ranch  – This Disney-owned property has been used for countless films and TV shows.
3. Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park  – Its unique rock formations have made it a favorite location for science fiction films and series.
4. Santa Clarita Studios  – This modern film studio is home to many current TV productions.
5. Placerita Canyon State Park  – Its diverse flora and fauna have made it a preferred choice for filming outdoor scenes.

Lesser-Known Filming Locations in Santa Clarita

In addition to these popular spots, here are some hidden gems that have been used for filming:

1. Sable Ranch  – This film-friendly ranch has been used for various commercials, music videos, and films.
2. Blue Cloud Movie Ranch  – This versatile location specializes in military and Middle Eastern settings.
3. Club Ed Film Set  – A permanent desert highway set, used in numerous films and commercials.

Where to Sleep in Santa Clarita

Whether you are looking for a luxury stay or budget-friendly accommodation, Santa Clarita offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference.

Luxury Accommodations in Santa Clarita

Here are three luxury options for a comfortable stay in Santa Clarita:

1. Hyatt Regency Valencia  – This upscale hotel offers luxurious rooms, a pool, and a restaurant.
2. Embassy Suites by Hilton Valencia  – A luxury suite hotel with spacious rooms and a free breakfast.
3. The Santa Clarita Motel  – Though not a luxury hotel, it’s famous for its vintage Hollywood charm.

Budget Accommodations in Santa Clarita

For budget-conscious travelers, here are three affordable options:

1. La Quinta Inn & Suites Santa Clarita  – This affordable hotel offers comfortable rooms and a free breakfast.
2. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Santa Clarita  – A budget-friendly option with clean rooms and a pool.
3. Comfort Suites Santa Clarita  – This affordable hotel offers spacious suites and a free breakfast.

Where to Eat in Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita offers a wide range of dining options, from high-end restaurants to budget-friendly eateries. Here are some recommendations:

Luxury Dining in Santa Clarita

For a luxury dining experience, consider these options:

1. Sabor Cocina Mexicana  – This upscale restaurant offers authentic Mexican cuisine in a sophisticated setting.
2. Salt Creek Grille  – A high-end restaurant offering a variety of American classics.
3. Newhall Refinery  – Known for its artisanal food and craft beer, this restaurant is a gourmet’s delight.

Budget Dining in Santa Clarita

For those on a budget, these eateries offer delicious food at affordable prices:

1. In-N-Out Burger  – This iconic fast-food chain offers delicious burgers and fries.
2. Tommy’s Original Hamburger  – Known for its chili burgers, this spot is a local favorite.
3. Rustic Eatery  – This budget-friendly restaurant offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and pizzas.

Detailed Itinerary for Exploring Santa Clarita

To make the most of your film-themed trip to Santa Clarita, we’ve curated a detailed itinerary that takes you to the city’s most iconic filming locations.

Day 1: Santa Clarita’s Famous Studios

• Start your day with a tour of  Melody Ranch Studio, home to many classic Westerns.
• Next, visit  Golden Oak Ranch  to see where numerous Disney films were shot.
• End your day with a visit to  Santa Clarita Studios, a modern film studio home to many TV productions.

Day 2: Santa Clarita’s Natural Filming Locations

• Begin your day with a visit to  Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park, a popular location for science fiction films.
• After lunch, head to  Placerita Canyon State Park  to see where many outdoor scenes were filmed.
• End your day with a hike at  Towsley Canyon Park, another popular filming location.

Day 3: Santa Clarita’s Urban Filming Locations

• Start your day exploring the Valencia neighborhood, known for housing several tech companies and featured in “The Circle”.
• Visit the  College of the Canyons, featured in several TV series.
• End your day with dinner at  Egg Plantation, a popular spot featured in “Santa Clarita Diet”.

Local Legends and Curiosities about Santa Clarita’s Film Industry

Santa Clarita’s film industry is steeped in fascinating local legends and curiosities. For instance, the Melody Ranch Studio is said to be haunted by the ghost of a cowboy who died during a film shoot. The Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park is named after the notorious bandit Tiburcio Vasquez, who used to hide among the rocks.

Hidden Gems in Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita is filled with hidden gems that have served as filming locations, such as the Old Town Newhall, a charming district with a vintage Western feel, and Mountasia Family Fun Center, a popular spot for filming family-friendly movies.

What to Pack for a Trip to Santa Clarita

When packing for Santa Clarita, consider the city’s sunny weather. Pack lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes for exploring, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Don’t forget a camera to capture your cinematic adventure.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Santa Clarita

Getting around Santa Clarita is relatively easy. The Santa Clarita Transit provides bus services throughout the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. For exploring filming locations outside the city, consider renting a car.

Conclusion

Santa Clarita, with its unique blend of urban and natural landscapes, offers a wealth of cinematic history. Whether you’re a film enthusiast or a casual tourist, the city offers a unique travel experience. So pack your bags, and get ready to embark on a cinematic journey through Santa Clarita.