Newhall is a community in the Santa Clarita Valley, about 35 miles north of downtown Los Angeles via Interstate 5. It is the oldest settlement in the Santa Clarita area and has a historic Main Street that retains some of its Old West character — fitting, since this area was a major filming location for early Western movies. The Walk of Western Stars, embedded in the sidewalks along Main Street, honours actors and filmmakers who shaped the genre.
The William S. Hart Museum, set in the former ranch estate of the silent-film cowboy star, sits on a hilltop above town and is free to visit. The grounds include a small herd of bison and offer views across the valley. Nearby, the Melody Ranch Motion Picture Studio is where countless Westerns were shot, from Gene Autry films to Deadwood and Django Unchained.
Newhall is not a destination in its own right, but if you are passing through the Santa Clarita Valley — perhaps on the way to Six Flags Magic Mountain or heading north toward the Central Valley — the historic downtown makes a pleasant stop. There are a few good Mexican restaurants and a growing craft brewery scene along Main Street.