Here are my top finds for Yosemite National Park:
🏨Hotels: Ahwahnee, Yosemite Valley Lodge, The Pines Resort(Bass Lake)
📍Tours: Yosemite Sugar Pine Railroad, Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour
🐻 Save time! Buy your National Park Pass before your trip
The Ahwahnee Hotel
The Ahwahnee Hotel is located in Yosemite Valley and is known throughout the world as one of the most luxurious National Park Lodges.
This National Historic Landmark has seen numerous celebrities and presidents walk through its doors, been in movies like The Shining and is home to America's best known Christmas Dinner, the Bracebridge Dinner.
The Ahwahnee Hotel History
The Ahwahnee Hotel was the vision of Stephen T. Mather the first director of the National Park Service. Following the creation of Yosemite National Park in 1916 Mather campaigned to increase support and funding for the National Parks.
He wanted to upgrade Yosemite's concessions and accommodations. He wanted a hotel built that would attract guests and be open year-round. Gilbert Stanly Underwood was chosen as the architect in July of 1925.
Gilbert Underwood also designed two other highly recognized National Park Lodges in Southern Utah, the Bryce Canyon Lodge, and the Zion Canyon Lodge. The initial plans for the hotel consisted of a central tower seven stories high with three wings extending from it.
The east wing would contain and entry lobby and two floors of private rooms. The south wing would contain lots of public spaces including the Grand Lounge and meeting rooms plus three floors of private rooms. The west wing would contain an enormous dining room that could seat 350 people.
To reduce the hotel's vulnerability to fires there was very little wood used in construction. The primary building materials consisted of steel, granite, and concrete. The exterior would be granite and concrete that was stained to look like Redwoods.
The project was approved in March 1926 by Stephen Mather. A contractor was hired who proposed building the hotel for a maximum cost of $525,000 including construction fees by December 15, 1926. The cornerstone was laid for the hotel on August 1, 1926.
All of the building materials had to be trucked into Yosemite National Park. None of the park's natural resources could be used to build the hotel.
As the building was being constructed it was not without issues. Additional square footage was added causing the price to climb to one million dollars and caused the project to be seven months behind schedule.
On October 12, 1926, The Ahwahnee was finally named. The name Ahwahnee was chosen by Yosemite Valley's first residents, the Ahwahneechee people, and translates to "place of large gaping mount".
The grand opening of The Ahwahnee was set for July 16, 1927, with a final price tag of 1.25 million to build the majestic hotel. Right before the hotel was due to open hotel employees realized they could smell the strong fumes coming off of trucks at the main entrance. They had to quickly construct a covered walkway and timber porte-cochere before the grand opening.
Click Here to Book the Ahwahnee Hotel
During World War II the Ahwahnee was used as a rest and relaxation hospital for naval personnel. The great lounge housed 350 men as a dormitory. Over a span of 2.5 years 90,000 servicemen and women relaxed at the hotel.
The hotel went through a $400,000 renovation in 1964 and reopened in time for Christmas.
The original large oak tables, secretaries, and wrought iron chandeliers in the Great Lounge can still be found today. You can see the original hotel rugs now hanging on the wall.
The Ahwahnee Map
Did you know that The Ahwahnee was called The Majestic Yosemite Hotel?
On March 1, 2016, Aramark took over running the Ahwahnee hotel. The hotel's name was changed from The Ahwahnee to The Majestic Yosemite Hotel due to an ongoing trademark dispute with the previous concessionaire, Delaware North Inc., who lost the bid in 2014.
On July 15, 2019, the announcement was made that the ongoing trademark legal dispute was settled, and familiar names like Ahwahnee, Curry Village, and Wawona were restored back into Yosemite National Park.
The Ahwahnee Hotel is a stunning example of Parkitecture
You may be asking yourself, what is Parkitecture?
Parkitecture, also known as National Park Service Rustic Architecture, is a type of architecture designed by the National Park Service in an effort to create buildings that harmonized with its natural surroundings.
The Ahwahnee is one of four National Park Hotels to receive the Class 1 (Criterion) rating from the National Park Lodge Architecture Society including the El Tovar, Old Faithful Lodge, and Crater Lake Lodge. These magnificent structures should be on any park visitor's list of things to see and do in a National Park as they are breathtakingly beautiful and full of grandeur.
The Ahwahnee Hotel is a unique blend of Art Deco, Native American, Middle Eastern, and Arts & Crafts Movement.
Bracebridge Dinner
Every December since the hotel's opening in 1927, The Ahwahnee Dining Room takes on the air of eighteenth-century England. The tables are lit by candlelight as guests are treated to a spectacular seven-course meal and perhaps the most celebrated Christmas Pageant in the United States.
The first two seasons starred Ansel Adams as the Lord of Misrule (Jester) before rewriting the play and playing different roles within the play.
Room Types at The Ahwahnee
There are a few things to remember when staying in one of these historic hotels.
First off, these rooms were built in the 1920s and reflect what luxury was during that time, not 2020 luxury. 1920's luxury was seen more in the common areas where people socialized, had beautiful meals prepared for them, and enjoyed the lodge itself.
The room was merely a place to sleep and change clothes so don't be surprised to hear the plumbing rattle and beds and showers much smaller than today's standards. Technology is always a concern as we have become so accustomed to watching T.V. being on our phones and having the ability to search the internet for all of our questions and needs.
Don't expect wifi access, televisions with cable channels, etc., just take a look out your window, nature is providing one of the most picturesque places on earth just outside your room!
If you want something a little more modern but really want to be in the main part of the park, check out the hotel cottages. These rooms are thoroughly updated, roomy, and just all-around exquisite.
Room classifications in the Ahwahnee Hotel include:
- Standard Hotel Rooms
- Junior Suite
- Hotel Parlors
- Hotel Cottages
Room Amenities
- Hair Dryer
- Flat Screen TV
- Refrigerator
- Telephone
- WiFi Available
- Pillow-Top Mattress
- Iron and Ironing Board
- One King Bed or Two Double Beds
The outdoor pool is heated and can be enjoyed year-round. It is gorgeous during Yosemite winter months when the pool is surrounded by snow and you can see the steam coming off the pool.
Ahwahnee Restaurants
Reserve Your Room at The Ahwahnee Hotel
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
Fine Dining
Breakfast served 7:00 AM-10:00 AM. The dress code is casual
Lunch served 11:30 AM-2:00 PM. Dress Code is Casual
Dinner served 5:30 PM-8:30 PM. Men are required to wear long pants and a shirt with a collar and women wear a dress, skirt, or long pants with a blouse. Children over age 4 are also kindly asked to dress for the occasion as well.
Sundays brunch is served 7:00 AM-2:00 PM. The dress code is casual.
Reservations can be made online or by calling (209)372-1489 between the hours of 9:00 AM- 8:00 PM
The dining room is a place that needs to be seen to fully appreciate its grandeur. The ceiling is a staggering 34 feet above the floor with massive trusses. There are wrought-iron craftsman style chandeliers and the stained glass is absolutely breathtaking!
The Ahwahnee Bar
Casual Dining
Coffee Bar open 6:00 AM-10:30 AM
Open Daily 11:30 AM-11:00 PM with a bar, wine, and cocktail menu.
Ahwahnee Hotel Information
Season - The Ahwahnee is open year-round
Check-In - 4:00 pm
Check-Out - 12:00 pm
Pets - There are no pets allowed on the property.
Smoking - Smoking is strictly prohibited
Deposit - A deposit of 100% of the first night at the time of booking if paid by credit or debit card.
Cancellation Policy - Cancellations or changes in reservations must be received 7 days prior to reservation arrival date to assure refund of deposit.
Book The Ahwahnee Hotel Before it Fills
Best Yosemite National Park Tours & Activities
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad
⭐️ Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 1-3.5 Hours | 🚂 Check Rates and Availability
Step back in time on this historic narrow-gauge railroad where powerful locomotives once hauled massive log trains through the Sierra National Forest, just 10 minutes from Yosemite's south entrance. The conductor-narrated rides (1 to 3.5 hours) take you through majestic woods while sharing the area's logging history, with options ranging from the classic steam train to special themed trips like the Moonlight Special and Yosemite Jazz Train. Perfect for families and multi-generational groups, the experience includes gold panning, a logging museum, and the Kids' Depot Toy Store, all wheelchair accessible with leashed dogs welcome on board.
Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.9 out of 5 Stars (803+ reviews) | ⏳ Tour Length: 9 hours | 🚐
Check Rates and Availability
This is the tour for first-time visitors who want to see everything without the stress of figuring it out on their own. Operated by Discover Yosemite, a TripAdvisor Travelers Choice award winner for two years running, this small-group tour covers the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias, Glacier Point, Yosemite Valley, and all the major viewpoints in one very full day. Lunch is included along with snacks and water.
Semi-Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup/Dropoff
⭐️ Rating: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ Tour Length: 8 hours | 🚌Check Rates and Availability
This is an 8-hour tour that begins with a pick-up at your hotel or the meeting point.
The tour includes stops at Glacier Point(April-November), depending upon the weather, and several stops in the Yosemite Valley. The valley stops include Tunnel View, Bridalveil Falls, Sentinel Bridge, Chapel, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and more!
Check out more great tours of Yosemite. Tours include hiking, snowshoeing, roundtrip tours from San Francisco, and more!
Lodges In Yosemite National Park
⭐️ 4.3 of 5 Stars - Ahwahnee Hotel - Click here for Rates and Availability.
The Ahwahnee stands as Yosemite's most iconic lodge, a National Historic Landmark that has hosted royalty and presidents while offering unmatched views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. This architectural masterpiece blends historic elegance with modern comfort, featuring fine dining, a heated outdoor pool, and artisan shops right at your doorstep. After a day exploring the valley's waterfalls and granite cliffs, you'll appreciate the world-class hospitality and luxurious amenities that make this more than just a place to stay.
⭐️ 4.3 of 5 Stars - Yosemite Valley Lodge - Click here for Rates and Availability.
Yosemite Valley Lodge sits right at the base of Yosemite Falls, offering 245 rooms including family rooms and bunk rooms perfect for groups exploring the park together. The lodge's glass-and-wood architecture frames incredible views while keeping you close to trailheads, with shuttle access, multiple dining options, and seasonal bike rentals right onsite. After hiking to Vernal Fall or exploring the valley floor, cool off in the seasonal outdoor pool or grab a meal before heading to the outdoor amphitheater for evening ranger programs.
⭐️ 4.3 of 5 Stars - Curry Village Tent Cabins - Click here for Rates and Availability.
Nestled beneath Glacier Point since 1899, Curry Village tents offers an authentic lodging experience. This historic base camp puts you right in the heart of Yosemite Valley with multiple dining options, an outdoor pool, and easy shuttle access to trailheads and waterfalls.
Lodges near Yosemite National Park
There are several great lodging options near Yosemite National Park. We are huge fans of staying in Oakhurst, California and entering the park from the southern entrance. Check out my Oakhurst Lodging Guide.
⭐️ 4.4 of 5 Stars - The Pines Resort at Bass Lake - Click here for Rates and Availability.
The only lakeside resort in the Yosemite area, sitting right on the shores of Bass Lake just 17 miles from Yosemite National Park's South Gate with a private beach, full marina, and some of the best sunsets in the Sierra Nevada!
Choose from lakeside suites with log-burning fireplaces, wet bars, and lake-view decks, two-story chalets with full kitchens, or a romantic Honeymoon Suite with an oversized jetted tub. Ducey's on the Lake serves farm-to-table cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with stunning water views, and the poolside beach bar is perfect for after-hike refreshments. Amenities include a seasonal outdoor pool with pool hoist, hot tub, full-service spa, 24-hour fitness center, yoga classes, boat and kayak rentals, two tennis courts, billiards room, convenience market, live entertainment, coin-operated laundry, free WiFi, and free parking. Pet friendly and open year-round!
⭐️ 4.8 of 5 Stars - Chateau du Sureau - Click here for Rates and Availability.
A Forbes Five Star, AAA Four Diamond Provence-inspired castle tucked in the Sierra Nevada foothills just 20 miles from Yosemite's South Gate, widely regarded as the finest luxury hotel in the entire Yosemite region!
The 11 individually designed rooms and suites feature working fireplaces, pillowtop mattresses, down comforters, hypoallergenic bedding, separate soaking tubs and showers, Moulton Brown toiletries, slippers, robes, and private balconies overlooking nine acres of terraced French gardens. A bottle of local rosé awaits you on arrival, and a full gourmet breakfast is included each morning with fresh-squeezed orange juice. The legendary Erna's Elderberry House restaurant is one of California's most celebrated dining destinations, drawing food lovers from across the state for its tasting menus and wine pairings. Additional amenities include a full-service spa, seasonal outdoor pool, bocce court, concierge, valet parking, room service, free WiFi, and free parking. No children under 10. Pet friendly with a fee, open year-round!
Click on this link or the map below to see additional lodging options near Yosemite NP.
https://www.stay22.com/embed/61f07d51cbb4390015c70b0fYosemite National Park Entrance Fee
New in 2026: Each Non-US Resident aged 16 and older visiting Yosemite National Park must pay a $100 nonresident fee (in addition to the standard entrance fee), unless admitted with an annual or America the Beautiful Pass. This includes nonresidents entering as part of a commercial tour group, commercial use authorization (CUA) group, or concessioner tour group.
Park entrance fees are separate from camping and lodging fees.
Park Entrance Pass - $35.00 Per private vehicle (valid for 1-7 days from the date of purchase)
Park Entrance Pass - Motorcycle - $30.00 Per motorcycle (valid for 1-7 days from the date of purchase)
Per-Person Entrance Pass - $20.00 Visitors 16 years or older who enter on foot, bicycle, or as part of an organized group not involved in a commercial tour.
Annual Park Entrance Pass - $70.00, Admits pass holder and all passengers in a non-commercial vehicle. Valid for one year from the month of purchase.
$0.00 for Education/Academic Group
$300.00 for Non-Commercial Group (16+ persons)
$40.00-$20.00 for Commercial Sedan with 1-6 seats and non-commercial groups (16+ persons)
$20.00 for Commercial Van with 7-15 seats
$200.00 for Commercial Mini-Bus with 16-25 seats
$300.00 for Commercial Motor Coach with 26+ seats
Learn more about National Park Passes for parks that have an entrance fee.
$80.00 - For the America the Beautiful/National Park Pass. The pass covers entrance fees to all US National Park Sites and over 2,000 Federal Recreation Fee Sites for an entire year and covers everyone in the car for per-vehicle sites and up to 4 adults for per-person sites.
Buy your pass at this link, and REI will donate 10% of pass proceeds to the National Forest Foundation, National Park Foundation, and the U.S. Endowment for Forestry & Communities.
National Park Free Entrance Days -Mark your calendars with the free entrance days the National Park Service offers for US citizens and residents.
Additional Yosemite Resources
- Complete Guide to Exploring Yosemite National Park
- Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias - The grove is outside of the valley on Highway 41 next to the southern entrance to the park.
- Things to do in Yosemite
- 1-Day in Yosemite guide
- Yosemite Winter Guide
- Yosemite Lodging Guide
- Yosemite National Park Camping Guide
Things To Do Near Yosemite National Park
- Oakhurst, California, the Southern Entrance to Yosemite
- Bass Lake Travel Guide
- The Sierra Vista Scenic Byway
- Wassama Round House State Historic Park
- Oakhurst Lodging Guide
- Oakhurst Restaurant Guide
- Madera Wine Trail
Yosemite National Park No Longer Requires Peak Hours Reservations
Yosemite National Park will not require advance reservations in 2026, including during peak summer months and the February-March firefall period. The park will rely on real-time traffic management measures, including temporary traffic diversions when parking areas reach capacity and deployment of additional seasonal staff to manage high-use areas.
Check out all of the National Parks in California and neighboring National Parks in Oregon, National Parks in Nevada, and National Parks in Arizona.
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