Things to do in Yosemite National Park

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Photo provided by Ben Gepp
Photo provided by Ben Gepp
Photo provided by fotojoy
Yosemite National Park featuring mountains and forests
Photo provided by fotojoy

Yosemite National Park Attractions

If you're ready to discover the best of Yosemite National Park, join a few of the top tours & day trips on offer, and let a friendly expert show you some of the most popular sights. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our {45 fun activities in Yosemite National Park fun activities in Yosemite National Park} are also worth a look.


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Yosemite National Park must see attractions

1. Yosemite Valley

Yosemite Valley is the emerald green heart of Yosemite National Park. Marvel at the soaring granite walls, including some of the park’s most iconic landmarks, flanking this 8-mile (13-kilometer) canyon.
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Yosemite Valley featuring a waterfall and mountains

2. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an area of extraordinary natural beauty in the center of California. It has abundant flora and fauna in addition to majestic mountains, giant trees, vast valleys and peaceful lakes. Every year, millions of travelers visit the park, which stretches across 747,956 acres (302,687 hectares). Glaciers formed the fascinating landscape about 1 million years ago.
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Yosemite Falls showing a waterfall and mountains

3. Yosemite Falls

Yosemite National Park sets the bar high for magnificent natural beauty, but Yosemite Falls is indisputably one of its most striking features. This towering waterfall is one of the highest in North America. Water plunges a total of 2,425 feet (739 meters) from top to bottom of Yosemite Falls in three distinct sections.
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Yosemite Falls showing a waterfall and mountains

4. El Capitan

El Capitan is one of Yosemite National Park’s best-known features, rising sharply from the valley floor in a spectacular precipitous formation. Translating to “the captain” in Spanish, El Capitan looks out over the magnificent valley and dares rock climbers and hikers to reach its dizzying peaks. See the mesmerizing rock face from one of several roads that wind through the western part of Yosemite Valley or grab your climbing equipment and tackle “El Cap” yourself.
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El Capitan which includes forest scenes and a gorge or canyon

5. Yosemite Visitor Center

Yosemite Visitor Center presents a superb introduction to the history and majestic scenery of Yosemite National Park. The center is many people’s first port of call when visiting the park. Come here to chat with knowledgeable rangers and plan your discovery of the park and valley. Find interactive exhibits that highlight the park’s varied geological features, vegetation and wildlife.
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stunning view at glacier point!

6. Glacier Point

Enjoy one of Yosemite National Park’s most enthralling views from Glacier Point, an outlook area that presents a sweeping scenic vista. See some of the Yosemite Valley’s most distinctive landmarks from the viewing area and go hiking, bird watching, stargazing or cross-country skiing in the majestic surrounding landscape.
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Glacier Point which includes tranquil scenes, a cascade and landscape views

What to do in Yosemite National Park

Free Things to Do in Yosemite National Park

Heading to Yosemite National Park on a budget? The following can be seen for nix.

Swinging Bridge Picnic Area - Give the kids a good time or let the big kid in you run free — this place was built for fun.

Mirror Lake - Shut your eyes and draw a deep breath — nothing tops being close to the water for some peace and relaxation.

LeConte Memorial Lodge - Pay a visit and discover the importance of this place to the locals.

Wawona Meadow - Escape the big city and get back to Mother Nature at this stunning landscape.

Nature Center at Happy Isles - Grab your blanket, pack some nibbles and find a shady spot to appreciate Mother Nature.

Things to Do in Yosemite National Park with Kids

There are plenty of outstanding experiences in Yosemite National Park that the entire gang will enjoy. Here are a few of the best family friendly experiences in the area.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Yosemite National Park? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


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Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Yosemite National Park

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Yosemite West

Just outside Yosemite National Park, this unincorporated community offers resort homes and access to several hiking trails, including Deer Camp Trail and Alder Creek Trail. Explore the historic Henness Ridge fire lookout tower and admire Alder Creek Fall.

Yosemite West

 

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Popular day trips from Yosemite National Park

Frequently asked questions

Is Yosemite National Park worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor activities, there are many great things to do in Yosemite National Park. Remember to discover the area's blend of unmissable attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Yosemite National Park?
After you've visited top attractions like Yosemite Falls and Glacier Point, spend the rest of your day enjoying Yosemite National Park's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Yosemite National Park?
You can't go home without checking out Yosemite Falls, rated the top tourist attraction in Yosemite National Park.
Is three days enough to stay in Yosemite National Park?
Three days will give you plenty of time to tick off popular city sights, including Olmsted Point, Lukens Lake Trailhead and Tenaya Lake. The average stay in Yosemite National Park is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your vacation, El Portal isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Yosemite National Park with kids?
What to do in Yosemite National Park for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Yosemite National Park, with entertainment for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to The Ahwahnee.
Are there free things to do in Yosemite National Park?
In Yosemite National Park, Tenaya Lake is a top spot for anyone wanting to tour the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the other neighborhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's an easy way to learn about the best free things to do in Yosemite National Park.

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