Less than 40 minutes from L.A., tucked into the Newhall hills, William S. Hart Park & Museum is one of Santa Clarita’s best cinematic hidden gems. Once the personal ranch of silent-film cowboy star William S. Hart, the 265-acre property is now a public park offering a unique escape from the city.
Hart was one of Hollywood’s biggest stars between 1914 and 1925, appearing in nearly 70 silent films and earning the nickname “Two-Gun Bill.”
Visitors can explore the 10,000-square-foot mansion, see a small bison herd descended from a group once owned by Walt Disney, and explore shady trails with sweeping foothill scenery.
A former movie star’s ranch, preserved in Santa Clarita
The park’s centerpiece is Hart’s 1920s Spanish Colonial Revival home, now preserved as the William S. Hart Museum. Visitors can join a guided tour to see original artwork, books, clothing, and film memorabilia, and then explore other historic structures on the property, including the Ranch House and Tea Room.
Outside, the property still feels like a working Western ranch with friendly barnyard animals such as pigs, alpacas, ducks, and chickens. A small bison herd lives in a separate enclosure, descended from a herd originally gifted to the park by Walt Disney in 1962.
Four short trails wind across the property, passing the bison enclosure and campgrounds. Pack a lunch for the designated picnic areas or simply stop by to stretch your legs — the park blends local film history, open space, and an easygoing community atmosphere in one endearing outing.
Plan your visit
📍 Location: 24151 Newhall Ave., Newhall, CA 91321
🌳 Park hours: The park property is open daily from 8am to 8pm
⏰ Museum hours: The museum is open for guided tours during limited hours between Wednesday and Sunday. The ranch house is open for self-guided tours on Mondays from 1 to 5pm and Tuesday-Sunday from 10am to 5pm.
🦙 Barnyard hours: The barnyard is open Tuesday to Sunday from 9am to 2pm
🎟️ Admission: Free
🌐 Learn more: William S. Hart Park & Museum