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
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.

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.

Yosemite National Park Entrance Fee
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)
$45.00-$125.00 for Commercial Sedan with 1-6 seats and non-commercial groups (16+ persons)
$125.00 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 five free entrance days the National Park Service offers annually.
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 Reservations
Click here to book your stay at the Ahwahnee Hotel.
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

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.


Here is a look at the Ahwahnee Bar Gastro-Pub Flair menu.
Things to know when booking a visit to The Ahwahnee/The Majestic Yosemite Hotel
Reservations - 888-413-8869
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.
Check-In at 4:00 pm
Check-Out by 12:00 pm
Pets - There are no pets allowed on the property.
Smoking - Smoking is strictly prohibited

Yosemite National Park Lodging
If you are wondering where to stay in Yosemite National Park there are multiple options available ranging from tent cabins to national park lodges.
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.
Wawona Hotel - Currently Closed
Built in 1856 the Wawona Hotel formerly Big Trees Lodge is on the National Historic Landmark located near the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias and the Pioneer History Center in Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
If you are looking to stay in the heart of Yosemite National Park than you will love Yosemite Valley Lodge.
The lodge is located close to Yosemite Falls which makes it a great base for a Yosemite vacation.
Curry Village Cabins
Part of the Curry Village complex that was previously known as Half Dome Village.
Curry Village Tent Cabins
The Curry Village Tent Cabins are a great option for staying in Yosemite Valley. Available for booking on Expedia
Housekeeping Camp
If you are looking to stay in the heart of Yosemite Valley and not bring your own tent you will love Housekeeping Camp.
Tuolumne Meadows Lodge
Located off the Tioga Road in Yosemite National Park the Tuolumne Meadows Lodge includes 69 canvas-tent cabins without electricity.
Where to stay near Yosemite
There are great options for lodging near Yosemite National Park. We are huge fans of staying in Oakhurst, California and entering the park from the southern entrance.
A few of our favorite places to stay in Oakhurst include:
Chateau du Sureau
The Pines Resort at Bass Lake
Sierra Sky Ranch
Hounds Tooth Inn
Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn - At Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn, you can look forward to a terrace, a playground, and laundry facilities. For some rest and relaxation, visit the 2 hot tubs. The onsite restaurant, Yosemite Gateway, features American cuisine. Free Wi-Fi in public areas is available to all guests, along with a bar and a gym.
Yosemite Southgate Hotel & Suites - At Yosemite Southgate Hotel & Suites, you can look forward to free continental breakfast, laundry facilities, and a 24-hour business center. For some rest and relaxation, visit the sauna or the steam room. Stay connected with free in-room Wi-Fi.
Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite - 4-star eco-friendly resort near Yosemite. You can look forward to a poolside bar, a terrace, and shopping on site at Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite. Adventurous travelers may like the rock climbing, snowshoeing, and ice skating at this resort. Indulge in a deep-tissue massage, a body treatment, and aromatherapy at Ascent Spa, the onsite spa. Enjoy pizza and more at the two onsite restaurants. Enjoy the gym, as well as activities like mountain biking and archery. In addition to a coffee shop/café and a garden, guests can connect to free in-room Wi-Fi.
Rush Creek Lodge - 3.5-star family-friendly hotel near Yosemite. Take advantage of a poolside bar, a grocery/convenience store, and a terrace at Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite. Adventurous travelers may like the mountain biking and ecotours at this hotel. For some rest and relaxation, visit the 2 hot tubs. The onsite restaurant, Rush Creek Restaurant, features local cuisine. In addition to a coffee shop/café and a garden, guests can connect to free in-room Wi-Fi.
Yosemite Sierra Inn - Yosemite Sierra Inn provides a business center and more. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi in public areas.
Queen's Inn By the River - Enjoy visiting the attached winery, a terrace, and a garden at Queen's Inn By the River. The onsite restaurant, Idle Hour Winery &Kitchen, features garden views and brunch. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi in public areas, and guests can find other amenities such as 2 bars.
For additional lodging options click on the map below for current rates and availability for lodging and vacation rentals near Yosemite NP.
Additional Yosemite National Park Resources
Complete Guide to Exploring Yosemite National Park - Complete guide to exploring Yosemite National Park.
Make sure also to check out my articles on Things to do in Yosemite, 1-Day in Yosemite guide, Curry Village, Yosemite Winter Guide, Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Falls, Yosemite Valley Guide, Glacier Point, Tunnel View, Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, Midnight Yosemite Valley Floor Tour, and Bracebridge Dinner - which I have selected as one of my top 100 Experiences in the U.S. National Park!
Yosemite National Park Campgrounds
Yosemite National Park Camping Guide - Guide to all of Yosemite National Park's campgrounds including a map showing their location within the park. Campgrounds include the North Pines Campground, Upper Pines Campground, Lower Pines Campground, Camp 4, Wawona Campground, Housekeeping Camp, Hodgdon Meadow Campground, Porcupine Flat Campground, Bridalveil Creek Campground, Crane Flat Campground, Tamarack Flat Campground, Tuolumne Meadows Campground, and Yosemite Creek Campground.

For a fun adventure check out Escape Campervans. These campervans have built in beds, kitchen area with refrigerators, and more. You can have them fully set up with kitchen supplies, bedding, and other fun extras. They are painted with epic designs you can't miss!
Escape Campervans has offices in Vancouver, Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Denver, New York, and Orlando
Additional Information on Oakhurst/Bass Lake, California
Guide to exploring Oakhurst, California, the southern entrance to Yosemite
Bass Lake Camping Guide, including the Lupine Campground and the Cedar Bluff Campground.
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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