If you are looking for a convenient place to stay before you visit Yosemite National Park, you’ll definitely want to check out Mariposa, California!
Mariposa is another California Gold Rush town conveniently located less than an hour from Yosemite National Park.
Thanks again to Yosemite Mariposa County for hosting my visit. All opinions are my own. This article contains affiliate links.
If you’re visiting Yosemite National Park, it’s nice to know about neighboring towns where you can eat and stay, especially if you’re visiting the area in the summer during peak season.
Where is Mariposa, California?
We visited Mariposa County after our time in Tuolumne County during our Yosemite road trip adventure.
We traveled to Mariposa from Columbia, California, via Highway 49, which took approximately 90 minutes.
The scenic switchback drive through the mountains on Highway 49 is definitely a memorable one!
What’s the Weather Like in Mariposa, California?
Mariposa, California’s average yearly temperature is a mild 57 degrees Fahrenheit.
We visited in early October when the temperatures were in the mid-70s. The weather was PERFECT! It did get a little chilly in the morning, but it warmed up nicely during the day.
The area can get snow, so check the road conditions before you travel throughout the county during the winter.
Stop By the Mariposa County Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center
5158 CA-140, Mariposa, Calfornia
I always recommend stopping by a city’s visitor center when you visit an area for the first time.
The staff are a great resource for additional things to do in the area, local events, and restaurants.
They can also give you local insight before you visit Yosemite National Park.
Visit the Yosemite Climbing Association Museum and Gallery
5180 Highway 140, Mariposa, California 95338
*Closed Mondays & Federally Observed Holidays
You can gain an even greater appreciation for the skills and bravery of the Yosemite rock climbing community at the Yosemite Climbing Association Museum and Gallery.
The museum showcases historical climbing artifacts, memorabilia, photography, and publications to help preserve climbing history.
Visitors can see how the sport of climbing and its gear have evolved over time through various exhibits.
The museum staff can provide guided tours based on availability. Private tours for groups need to be booked in advance.
Learn About the Area at the Mariposa Museum and History Center
5119 Jessie St., Mariposa, Calfornia 95338
The Smithsonian Institute has deemed Mariposa Museum and History Center “The Best Little Museum of its Size West of the Mississippi.”
This museum has a LOT of information, with exhibits covering the California Gold Rush, Yosemite, Native Americans, Spanish Settlement, and Mariposa County History.
Mariposa is one of the southernmost Gold Rush towns, first settled in 1849.
Our docent, Chris, helped the museum’s history come alive for us. His stories included the life of explorer John C Fremont, who was also a politician with a previous military background.
The exhibits contrasting the living conditions during the Gold Rush period were very interesting.
For example, John Fremont’s furnishings, compared to a miner’s one-room cabin, told the story of two very different life experiences and comforts without saying a word.
The Gold Rush lasted in the area for about 7 years, and then the area shifted to a tourism economy, selling to the miners.
Guided tours are available for small groups and families, but you must contact the museum in advance.
Admission to the museum is $10 for adults, kids ages 7-12 are $5, and children 6 and under are FREE!
First responders and military personnel also receive free admission.
Outside, you can see their 5 Stamp Mill, one of the few stamp mills still operational in California Gold Country.
A demonstration of the mill is frequently done for group tours.
See the Oldest Seat of Justice Still in Use at Mariposa County Courthouse
5088 Bullion Street, Mariposa, California
The Mariposa County Courthouse is the oldest continuously used courthouse west of the Rockies, dating back to 1854.
It’s also the oldest superior courthouse west of the Mississippi.
When you enter the building, make sure you walk down the hallway of the first floor.
A fascinating progression of maps of California shows how the boundary lines have changed over the years.
Court proceedings weren’t in session during our visit, which made it possible for us to check out the courtroom located on the second floor.
It was pretty simple, with rows of benches and chairs with a few modern touches.
Explore Downtown Mariposa, California
Downtown Mariposa has plenty of shops and local restaurants. You’ll find souvenirs, antiques, home decor, and boutique apparel.
You can view the list of shops in downtown Mariposa here.
Many buildings downtown also have historical plaques sharing more about the buildings’ history.
For example, Mariposa Marketplace is located inside the Historic John Trabucco Building that opened in 1896.
Enjoy Dinner at Castillo’s Restaurant
4995 5th Street, Mariposa, California
Castillo’s Restaurant is a great dining option for authentic Mexican food.
Their menu has plenty of Mexican staples, including enchiladas, burritos, and tamales.
I tried the “Camarones a la Diablo.” It’s made with shrimp sautéed in spicy butter sauce, garlic, and hot peppers. This is a great dish if you like a meal with some HEAT.
My husband enjoyed the enchilada combination platter. The portion sizes are generous, and the chips and salsa are tasty, too.
After-dinner Drinks at The Grove House
4993 5th St, Mariposa, Calfornia
The Grove House has a great ambiance (dog-friendly and family-friendly), plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, and live music several nights a week.
In addition to craft beer and wine, you’ll find sours, kombucha, hard seltzers, craft cocktails, and non- alcoholic options.
The Grove House has a rotating farm-to-table menu if you want to grab a bite to eat during your visit.
We opted to enjoy our margaritas outside. The weather was beautiful, and the outdoor atmosphere was laid back.
Overnight Stay at Mariposa Lodge
5052 Highway 140, Mariposa, California 95338
We stayed one night at the Mariposa Lodge in Mariposa.
Save on Booking Your Stay at Mariposa Lodge HereThe location was very convenient, within walking distance of restaurants and shops in downtown Mariposa.
We knew we wanted to wake up early the following day for our visit to Yosemite National Park.
Our room had two queen-sized beds, a mini fridge, a coffee maker, and a microwave.
Book One of the Hotels in Mariposa, California
You can compare prices on hotels in Mariposa, California, using the map to help book your stay.
Explore Yosemite National Park (Approximately One-Hour Drive From Mariposa)
We got up early and left Mariposa before sunrise because we wanted to experience watching the sunrise in the National Park.
Take the Valley Floor Tour
“The Valley Floor Tour” provides an overview of Yosemite National Park. It’s a great option if you’re short on time.
The two-hour tour is narrated by a park ranger and departs from Yosemite Valley Lodge.
You’re supposed to arrive 15 minutes before your departure time, at the latest, because it leaves promptly on time.
I recommend arriving earlier than 15 minutes before your tour. The seats on the tour fill up quickly, and you ride shoulder-to-shoulder with the person next to you.
Add an Extra Day to See Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
I think it’s too hard to attempt to explore the highlights of Yosemite National Park and Mariposa Grove of the Giant Sequoias (on the opposite end of the national park) in one day.
Daylight can also be a factor, depending on the time of year you visit.
We enjoyed having dedicated time at each section of the National Park over 2 days.
The giant sequoia trees are a marvel to see up close.
Add Mariposa, California, to Your List!
I’m so glad we spent time in another California Gold Rush Town during our road trip. Each town has its own unique charm and history.
