While the revitalization has brought a new appeal to the downtown area, the charm of Old Town Newhall certainly remains timeless. From its unique boutiques, fine and casual dining, lively entertainment and more, there’s much to explore as you stroll down the quaint sidewalks of Old Town Newhall. Shop in the sunshine or enjoy the nightlife…you won’t be disappointed.
Rich in history, Old Town Newhall was originally purchased by Henry Mayo Newhall in the 1870’s. For less than two dollars an acre, Newhall served as the main gateway into the city. Old Town Newhall is also home to many silent film stars, such as William S. Hart, who had acquired 230 acres of land and built a custom home now known as Hart Mansion.
There’s no shortage of history and fun in Old Town Newhall as it is also home to the festive Santa Clarita Fourth of July Parade. A tradition that has been going on since 1932, thousands of residents line the street donning their red white and blue to honor the birth of our nation.
Over the last decade, public and private investments have maintained Old Town Newhall’s charm by revitalizing the area, bringing in new shoppers and businesses while still preserving its historical appeal. The 271-acre destination includes the Old Town Newhall Library, which sits at the north end of Main Street. The 30,000 square foot state of the art LEED certified facility opened in September of 2012 and boasts over 135,000 literary items.
Stroll down Main Street along the revitalized pedestrian friendly strip, enjoy landscaped parkways, charming street lights, seating areas and more. Completed last year, the Old Town Newhall Roundabout made traveling by car a little more smooth, lessening the traffic in the heart of downtown.
Nestled along Walnut Street is the Veteran’s Historical Plaza to honor our veterans. Complete with beautiful fountains, U.S. and California flags, bronze story stations depicting each of our nation’s military conflicts, the area creates a place of peace and serenity.
Stars line the streets in downtown Newhall, Western stars that is. Celebrities are immortalized along San Fernando Road, Newhall Avenue and Market Street, adorned with bronze plaques and terrazzo tile on the sidewalk to honor Western film, stage, television and radio personalities who performed in the Santa Clarita Valley. The Downtown Newhall Walk of Western Stars began in 1981 and continued annually through 1993, with yearly inductions to honor the stars. In 2000, the Walk was incorporated into the City of Santa Clarita’s annual Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival, and is currently sponsored by the City of Santa Clarita and the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce. The Walk brings Western legends to life and commemorates their contributions to Western film history.
There’s much to do every day in downtown Newhall, especially on Thursdays. Thursdays@Newhall is a community wide event complete with a plethora of unique shopping and dining opportunities along with free events on Main Street. From the Art Slam, Jam Sessions to the ever so fun themed block parties otherwise known as Senses, Downtown Newhall is the place to be.
With the improvements to Newhall, it’s no surprise many small local business owners have taken a leap of faith and relocated to make their home in Old Town Newhall.
With a strong sense of community, it’s no wonder why Downtown Newhall remains alive and vibrant. Have you seen the town light up at night? Have you dined along Main Street, indulging in one of the fine restaurants that call Newhall home? If you haven’t already, you should.