Things to do in Yosemite Village

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Cook\'s Meadow
Yosemite National Park which includes mountains, a river or creek and tranquil scenes
Yosemite National Park which includes tranquil scenes and forest scenes
Yosemite Village showing signage and a park
Cook\'s Meadow

Yosemite Village Attractions

It's hardly surprising that so many people head back to Yosemite Village again and again. This captivating city is brimming with fun things to do. Whether you enjoy sightseeing or trying more action-packed activities, it's tough to be bored here.

Discover what makes Yosemite Village tick with some of the very best tours & day trips. Browse through our top {35 fun activities in Yosemite Village fun activities in Yosemite Village}, and rest easy knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

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Yosemite Village 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 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!

4. Lower Yosemite Falls

All waterfalls have a certain amount of grandeur, but Lower Yosemite Falls and its upstream counterpart create a majestic presence. The beauty and wonder may have something to do with the effect of the water appearing to come from the sky, as its source can’t be seen from below. Visit Yosemite Village and take the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail that brings you within safe proximity to the bottom of the cascading water.
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Lower Yosemite Falls which includes a river or creek and forest scenes

5. Ahwahnee Meadow

Located in beautiful Yosemite National Park, Ahwahnee Meadow in the Yosemite Valley is a tranquil and picturesque area to spend time appreciating majestic surroundings. Look for Half Dome and Yosemite Falls, which are easily identifiable from the meadow. Drive or hike to the accessible observation deck or catch the bus making regular rounds. Be sure to bring your camera. For a detailed visit, consider the park’s Ranger and Interpretive Programs that include information on the area’s morphology, geology and ecology.
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Yosemite National Park which includes tranquil scenes and forest scenes

6. Yosemite Valley Chapel

A “picture-perfect chapel in the woods” nicely describes Yosemite Valley Chapel. It is tucked up against a colossal rock and nestled among conifers in Yosemite National Park. The New England-style church is on the National Register of Historic Places and is the oldest structure used for public purposes in the park. Visit the nondenominational Yosemite Valley Chapel to view its interior, attend a service or be blessed prior to hiking or climbing some of the park’s more challenging trails and rock formations.
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Yosemite Valley Chapel showing a cascade and heritage elements

7. Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater

Nature is usually the star attraction of Yosemite National Park, but at Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater, another type of entertainment takes center stage. During the warmer months, attend slideshows, nature movies, ranger talks and other entertaining and informative activities. Located in the center of Yosemite Valley Lodge, the outdoor amphitheater hosts events every night during the summer.
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Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater featuring forest scenes and a waterfall

8. Ansel Adams Gallery

See how professional photographers have interpreted Yosemite National Park’s attractions in the artworks at Ansel Adams Gallery in Yosemite Village. Get inspiration to create your own photo book. Consider going on a camera walk led by gallery staff members who are also avid photographers. Their advice on how to set your camera for the surroundings’ unique light as it changes through the day can help you get the perfect shot. View the gallery’s permanent Ansel Adams collection as well as exhibits of contemporary photographers, with new displays rotating roughly every six weeks.
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Ansel Adams Gallery

Recommended things to do in Yosemite Village

Number of things to do
35
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Yosemite National Park: GPS Audio Driving Tour - Explore at Your Own Pace: $50
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Yosemite Village

Free Things to Do in Yosemite Village

There's no need to dig deep into your pockets in Yosemite Village. The following won't even cost a penny.

Swinging Bridge Picnic Area - If you want to turn up the dial on fun during your getaway, this is a great place to do it.

Yosemite Falls - Take things slow and treat yourself to a little time out close to the water.

LeConte Memorial Lodge - Leave time to have a look at this place of local significance.

Cook's Meadow - Kick back and let the natural surroundings here revitalize your mind.

Nature Center at Happy Isles - Nurture your green thumb and appreciate the wide variety of plants on display.

Things to Do in Yosemite Village with Kids

There are loads of unforgettable experiences in Yosemite Village that the whole gang will get a buzz out of. Here are a few of the best family friendly experiences in the area.

 

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

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Yosemite Village

Yosemite Valley featuring a waterfall and mountains

Yosemite Valley

From Yosemite Falls to Half Dome and El Capitan, you can see some of the most stunning scenery in the world from Yosemite National Park’s central valley.

Yosemite Valley
Yosemite Falls showing a waterfall and mountains

Yosemite Falls

You may hear these thundering falls, which are among the top 10 tallest in the world, before you see them in California’s Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite Falls
El Capitan which includes forest scenes and a gorge or canyon

El Capitan

Experience the enormity of Yosemite Valley’s glacially carved granite peaks when you gaze upon this distinctive formation and rock-climbing landmark.

El Capitan
Half Dome

Half Dome

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Half Dome during your travels in Yosemite National Park. Amble around the area's riverfront or seek out the hiking trails.

Half Dome
Yosemite Visitor Center featuring interior views

Yosemite Visitor Center

Discover the geological history of the Yosemite Valley, pick up trail maps and shop for souvenirs at this portal to Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite Visitor Center
Glacier Point which includes tranquil scenes, a cascade and landscape views

Glacier Point

Witness a superb panorama of the Yosemite Valley from this viewing point and spot soaring canyons, plunging falls and granite cliffs along the rugged valley skyline.

Glacier Point
Tunnel View showing views and mountains as well as a large group of people

Tunnel View

Experience one of America’s iconic natural sights, a sweeping view of the forests, waterfalls and monolithic granite mountains of the Yosemite Valley.

Tunnel View
Tuolumne Meadows showing snow and tranquil scenes

Tuolumne Meadows

Explore the meadows of Yosemite National Park’s high country and see its velvety green plains studded with stunning granite domes, Sierra willows and wildflowers.

Tuolumne Meadows
Beauty is all around you, make a 360' and marvel in its majesty.

Wawona Visitor Center

Enjoy the mountain views and explore Wawona Visitor Center, a lovely green space in Wawona. Amble around the area's riverfront or seek out the hiking trails.

Wawona Visitor Center

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Yosemite Village

Yosemite Valley featuring a sunset, mountains and a gorge or canyon

Yosemite National Park

Photo by Meg Faller

Curry Village

Frequently asked questions

Is Yosemite Village worth visiting?
With a blend of family-friendly attractions and nature, there are many things to do in Yosemite Village. While you're here, visit Yosemite Falls, a must-see attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Yosemite Village?
After you've checked off major attractions like Yosemite Falls and Glacier Point, spend the rest of your day discovering the food and retail options in Yosemite Village.
What is the top tourist attraction in Yosemite Village?
Don't go home without visiting Yosemite Falls, rated the top tourist attraction in Yosemite Village.
Is three days enough to stay in Yosemite Village?
You can easily tour top attractions like Yosemite Falls, Half Dome and El Capitan with a three-day break in Yosemite Village. On average, many travelers book two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so linger longer and head to Oakhurst.
What are some activities to do in Yosemite Village with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities takes your trip to the next level. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Yosemite Village with kids.

What to do in Yosemite Village for adults?
The Ahwahnee is one of the top things to do in Yosemite Village. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to explore.
Are there free things to do in Yosemite Village?
From visiting parks to strolling around vibrant neighborhoods, it's simple to find free things to do in Yosemite Village. If you need new ideas, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Yosemite Falls is a must for anyone planning to save on their travel adventures.

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