There are so many things to do in Yosemite it can be hard to decide where to start. Once you enter the Yosemite Valley you may find yourself parked just staring in awe at the beauty that surrounds you.
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
Best Things to Do in Yosemite
There is something so magical about that first look down the valley and realizing just how special Yosemite National Park is.
This year we are working with Visit Yosemite Madera County to bring you all the best info on the park, Oakhurst, Bass Lake, and the surrounding area! We will be sharing a ton of tips and tools for making the most of your visit to Yosemite.
These are some of our favorite must-see things in Yosemite National Park.
Let us know what your favorite things to do are in the park!
One thing to know about Yosemite NP is the park is huge! You will want to have a plan for your trip to Yosemite going into the park of what your must-see things to do and see are.
This is a park that can be really easy to lose track of time because the views are that epic. Even John Muir was enchanted with Yosemite.
Even after many visits to the park, there are still areas we have not been able to get into due to weather, crowds, or lack of time. This is the perfect park to plan return visits too.
If you are planning a visit in the winter check out our Yosemite Winter Guide. There are a few seasonally specific things to do that are not in this post. Plus what to expect when there is a ton of snow.
Yosemite Visitor Center
I know this is probably not what you expected me to say for one of the must-see things to do in Yosemite National Park but trust me! The visitor center is the place to go for up to date information on the park, the park gift store, and more.
One thing to know is it is a bit of a walk from the parking lot to the visitor center. You will want to arrive early to grab a parking spot before the lot fills up. Once you are parked you can take the free Yosemite shuttle all over the park and not have to worry about moving your car.
Make sure and pick up a Sandy the Squirrel trading card at the Yosemite Conservancy counter!
You can win a return trip to Yosemite from the Yosemite Madera Visitor Bureau!
Collect the Welcoming Committee Member trading cards at specific locations around Yosemite and Madera County.
Collect 2 or more trading cards for a chance to win one of three Yosemite Adventure Vacations.
Locations of trading cards
- Mr. Mead the Saber-Toothed Cat - Fossil Discovery Center
- Honey Bee- Madera Wine Trail
- Sierra the Bear - Oakhurst at the Visitor Bureau
- Blake the Bald Eagle - Bass Lake
- Ricky the Raccoon - Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad
- Galen the Great-Horned Owl - Mariposa Grove (see below)
Yosemite Museum
Located next to the visitor center is the Yosemite Museum which offers a changing display of famous Yosemite Artwork.
Make sure and visit the Ansel Adams Gift Store!
The Ansel Adams Gallery - 9 am to 6 pm
Yosemite Art Center - 9 am to 4 pm, closed for lunch from 12 pm, closed on Sundays
Yosemite Bookstore - Inside Yosemite Visitor Center - 9 am to 5 pm
Yosemite Museum Store - 9 am to 5 pm
The visitor center is near shuttle stops #5 and #9.
Make sure and pick up a Junior Ranger program if you are traveling with kids. This is a great way to learn more about the park!
Yosemite is one of the most visited National Parks for a reason! This park is epic!
Yosemite Waterfalls
Yosemite Falls
This walk is about a ¼ of a mile and so worth it! Plan at least 30 minutes for the walk and then a little more time to soak up the view and take a ton of photographs!
Yosemite Falls drops 2,525 feet and is considered the tallest waterfall in the United States. Some people question this clam since the falls is actually three distinct tiers of waterfalls.
Either way, you do not want to miss seeing Yosemite Falls during your visit.
You can take a bit of a grueling hike up to the top if you really want to or you can enjoy the view from down below.
This is one of those hiking trails that makes you work for the great view at the top.
In spring you can even experience seeing and photographing Moonbows in Yosemite. When the moon is bright it creates a moonbow that is amazing.
Bridalveil Fall
A 15-minute walk from the parking lot leads you to a viewpoint that is truly jaw-dropping.
Look up at the 620 foot tall Bridalveil Falls! This waterfall is active year-round making it a great waterfall to visit in the summer and fall when many waterfalls have dried up in the park.
Be prepared to get soaked when Bridalveil Falls is roaring. During the summer the falls can be reduced down to a whisper of water.
El Capitan
El Capitan is nearly 3600 feet from base to summit and ranks as one of the world's largest granite monoliths. El Capitan is a bucket list climb for experienced rock climbers but definitely not for beginners.
If you bring binoculars or look closely you may be able to see climbers working their way up the cracks and ledges of El Capitan.
Half Dome
Half Dome rises 8,842 feet above sea level and nearly a mile above the Yosemite Valley floor.
On most days you can't miss seeing Half Dome but there are days that the weather is grey and ugly that you may not get a clear view.
You can stop into Half Dome Village to see a great view of Half Dome.
Yosemite Valley Chapel
Yosemite Valley Chapel is the oldest structure in the park that is still in use.
The church originally stood near the base of Four-Mile-Trail but was moved in 1901 a mile to its present spot in Yosemite Valley.
There are Sunday morning services held each week that are nondenominational. You can also have your wedding at the church if you wish.
Yosemite Village
Yosemite Village is the perfect place to stop for lunch or a snack break. You can check out the Village Store which is filled with Yosemite souvenirs, snacks, and camping supplies.
Degnan's Kitchen offers deli sandwiches, breakfast items, artisan pizza, and an espresso stand.
The Village Grill has sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and vegetarian options.
Ahwahnee Hotel
The Ahwahnee Hotel which was formerly known as the Majestic Yosemite Hotel is an amazing National Park Lodge!
Don't worry you don't have to be a guest of the hotel to enjoy its finery!
You can enjoy lunch in the lounge, warming up by the giant fireplace, staring out in wonder from the 10-foot windows in the solarium, or make dinner reservations for a truly amazing experience.
The hotel was built entirely with local granite, pine, and cedar. The hotel is a National Historic Landmark.
Mirror Lake
This walk is about a half-mile from the shuttle stop. The lake offers a great view of Half Dome.
Mariposa Grove of Sequoia Trees
I like Big Trees and I can not lie...HA! A little 80's humor to go with a great walk among well big trees.
This is Yosemite's largest grove of giant Sequoias and not to be missed.
Located near the South Entrance keep an eye out for wildlife as you drive through the park. We saw a pair of coyotes along the way and some great bird watching.
Tunnel View
This is one of my favorite places to visit in Yosemite. It is hard to describe the awe-inspiring view as you pull out of the Wawona tunnel and see Yosemite Valley.
Glacier Point
Glacier Point offers amazing views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley. The road to Glacier Point is opened seasonally based on snow levels.
The views from the 7,214 foot Glacier Point are honestly breathtaking.
If you are scared of heights make sure you take a deep breath and prepare yourself but the views are so worth it!
Tuolumne Meadows
Tuolumne Meadows is located 55 miles from Yosemite Valley! This is definitely something to be aware of when planning your visit to the park.
Tuolumne Meadows is a sub-alpine wonderland surrounded by jagged peaks and smooth granite domes. If you are visiting in July make sure and check out the wildflowers.
This area is a paradise for hikers and climbers. The meadow is located deep in the high country of the Sierras and may only be accessible from June through November. This all depends on snow along Tioga Road.
You can stay at the Tuolumne Meadows Lodge in tent cabins.
Reader Favorites
We asked on the Park Ranger John Facebook page for your suggestions on your favorite things to do in Yosemite and they included:
Vernal Falls is a favorite of Kevin H.
Climbing Half Dome with the cables down and to have the rock to ourselves.
So many things to see in my favorite national park. From Vernal and Nevada Falls along the Mist Trail. Glacier Point views are amazing.
The hike up to Upper Yosemite Falls. Snowshoeing to DeweyPoint. The trek to Clouds Rest Trail.
Yosemite and all its gifts, leave with nothing but the presence of a smile on your lips are all
Favorites of Rafael M.
We love hiking Hetch Hetchy with our kids! It is such a gorgeous part of the park. ~ Rob
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
Check out all of the National Parks in California and neighboring National Parks in Oregon, National Parks in Nevada, and National Parks in Arizona.
Make sure to follow Park Ranger John on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok
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