Yosemite National Park

Iconic national park offers an array of options such as hiking among redwoods & river rafting.
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Top places to visit

4.9
(8013)
4.9
(4629)
Mentioned on 
Scenic spot
Nature & Parks
Glacier Point is a renowned overlook in Yosemite National Park, offering breathtaking top-down views of iconic landmarks like Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the Sierra Nevada high country. It's a favorite spot for photographers due to its unparalleled panoramic vistas and unique perspectives along the short paved path and Horseshoe Bend. The sunrise provides a less crowded experience with warm hues casting across the rock faces in the late afternoon.
Glacier Point, in my opinion, is one of the most beautiful sites in Yosemite. Great views of the valley, several waterfalls and Half Dome. Because this lookout is so popular, I would recommend coming early. An absolute must visit if you are in Yosemite.
Cameron — Google review
A spectacular view of Half Dome, the waterfalls and Yosemite Valley below. We worth the hour drive before entering the valley. Can get fairly cool in the fall but seeing the traditional reds, yellow, orange and brown foliage is so beautiful. Food, drinks and gifts are available.
JOSEPH L — Google review
We went to Glacier Point to watch the sunset. Really awesome experience. There is a large parking lot with three sets of restrooms. There is a wheelchair accessible route to Glacier Point. From Glacier Point there are 2 trails that lead back to the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center. Some nights, there are nighttime ranger talks where you can view the Milky Way with guidance.
Dana V — Google review
Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park is truly one of the most breathtaking places you’ll ever visit in your lifetime! The view from the top is simply magical — you can see the majestic Half Dome, endless mountain ranges, and the beauty of Yosemite stretching across the horizon. Standing here feels like being on top of the world, surrounded by peace, nature, and pure wonder. If you ever get a chance to visit the United States, make sure Glacier Point is on your list — it’s an experience you’ll never forget!
Hari K — Google review
This place lives up to the hype. Thank goodness we planned and prepared for our visit. The drive up to this point is super fun and your views are rewarded should you survive. You could also hike up there but those days are over for me.
Intiaz R — Google review
Breathtaking views of the Yosemite valley and half dome. Can be easily accessed during summer when the roads are open. During winter, you have to hike to this place.
Bharath K — Google review
Hello Everyone — We visited Glacier Point around June 2025 around morning time. We travelled from Yosemite view lodge and overall exp. was amazing. Driving experience (4/5) — We travelled from Yosemite view lodge to the Glacier point. Road was clean but of-course you have to be very carefully drive since there are plenty of loops in the road and it’s stressful! Parking (4/5) — When we reached around 10:30 AM in the morning there were plenty of parking available. Restroom (3/5) — Not maintained and super smelly. Gift Shop (3/5) — high price and rarely you can get a good fridge magnate with glacier point logo! View of Glacier Point (5/5) — wow!! What an amazing beauty, breathtaking!! Half-Dome (Rock ages — 93 Myr), Yosemite Falls, Vernal + Nevada Falls view from the top was mesmerizing!! I can’t forget that in my lifetime. Important point to note — Pl download offline Google Maps for Navigation, signal strengths are pathetic.
Kousik M — Google review
On this day we had sun shine, rain, and hail. We rode our motorcycles up from Clovis and even saw traces of snow still on ground as we made our way over the top before dropping down to Glacier point. Light attendance, easy parking, and clean skies. Fall time in October is a great time for a visit.
BIll A — Google review
4.9
(3245)
4.8
(3125)
Mentioned on 
Scenic spot
Sights & Landmarks
Lookouts
Tunnel View is a renowned overlook in Yosemite National Park that offers breathtaking views of the park's valley and mountains. This iconic vista showcases El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall, making it a favorite spot for photographers and visitors. The best times to visit are at sunrise and sunset when the lighting creates a stunning atmosphere. To secure a prime viewing location, it's recommended to arrive early.
Tunnel View is absolutely breathtaking and one of the most iconic viewpoints in Yosemite. It is well worth visiting early in the morning. I arrived just before sunrise and was pleasantly surprised by how peaceful and uncrowded it was. Watching the light slowly illuminate El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall was unforgettable. There is something magical about experiencing this view in the stillness of the morning before the crowds arrive. Plenty of parking was available at that time as well. I highly recommend making the early trip if you want a quiet and awe inspiring moment in the park.
Daniel R — Google review
Visiting Yosemite is not complete without seeing the tunnel view. This is a breath taking view of Yosemite valley. I spent almost an hour just sitting and looking at this view. It can be quite busy as it is one of the most popular spots in the park. It's worth every second. Don't forget to come here while you are visiting Yosemite.
Aung H — Google review
Tunnel View in Yosemite basically looks like nature decided to flex on every other national park in existence. You stand there for two seconds and suddenly you understand why your phone storage is full. It is that good. The moment you walk up to the viewpoint you get El Capitan staring at you like a giant granite bouncer. Half Dome lurking in the distance pretending to be subtle. Bridalveil Fall doing its whole dramatic “look at me” thing. The entire valley opens up like a postcard that got hit with a cheat code. And you loved it for a reason. Yosemite just rocks. Literally and spiritually. It feels like the planet invited you to look at its highlight reel. Even the air smells like it knows it belongs in a screensaver. Tunnel View is one of those spots where you take a photo, look at it, and immediately think “this doesn’t even come close”. Your eyes win every time. Perfect view. Perfect valley. Yosemite is a showoff and it knows it. Totally worth every second.
Wade W — Google review
Definitely a must see in Yosemite NP! This is the iconic view of Yosemite Valley, and you can drive right up to it and take a picture. You will want to come back to this spot multiple times so you can catch the view of the valley under different lighting conditions. Parking is difficult to find, but a little bit of patience goes a long way. You can also park across the street in the overflow lot. The view is amazing, so take lots of pictures, but don't forget to sit and enjoy it as well. You can see El Capitan, Half Dome, and a couple of waterfalls in the valley. At night, a lot of people come here to take pictures of the night sky, but there are many other places in the park better suited for astrophotography. The large mountain to the south blocks most of the Milky Way, so it's not ideal. If you look down the valley at night, you can easily spot satellites in the night sky.
Ariz H — Google review
Beautiful shot as you come through the tunnel. Nightmare of a tourist trap during the season, quite possibly the worst tourist trap of any NPS site! But during offseason or when it is not busy, absolutely breathtaking!
Ali A — Google review
Came here two days in a row and finally got to see Tunnel View without the heavy fog — absolutely worth the wait. Now I totally understand why Apple chose this as a wallpaper. The view is pure magic, a true masterpiece carved by nature.
Spencer J — Google review
We've been to several National Parks and the Tunnel View at Yosemite is by far the prettiest that we've seen .... so far!!
Scott P — Google review
Truly magical coming out of that tunnel, there’s nothing like the view you get there. Truly breathe taking everytime
Em — Google review
4.9
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4.8
(1498)
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Mountain peak
Sights & Landmarks
Half Dome is a legendary granite dome at Yosemite National Park, known for attracting hikers and rock climbers due to its stunning views. The Half Dome trail is considered one of the most challenging but rewarding hikes in Yosemite, offering an epic adventure for experienced hikers. Most day hikers choose to tackle this popular hike from Yosemite Valley, which requires a sought-after permit and takes 10-12 hours to complete.
Ok. So before we went on this hike I did a lot of research. How much water to bring, snacks, lunch, difficulty level, etc. So let me tell you this first. If you're a lower level hiker like myself this trip will be the hardest hike you've ever been on. For myself and my family it took us down! Tired, blisters, dehydration, sore muscles, etc. It would have been better if we hiked halfway, camped, and then did the second half with fresh legs. We sadly didn't make it to the top of half dome. But we made it all the way to the base of sub dome. Well, most of us. Our two older kids stopped at the river and took a dip while the rest of us trudged on. We hike a lot of smaller trails and we even hiked the same distance as half dome on the Silver Falls hike in Oregon. But the amount of uphill and rock stair case climbing is what killed us. Silver Falls is mostly flat. Same distance, but flat. This hike was both mentally challenging as well as physically challenging. I don't know that I'll make another attempt. At least anytime soon! But I was super proud of my family for doing it together! 4 kids, my wife and I with ages from 45 down to 9 years old. Making it to sub dome was quite the accomplishment! Maher Clan! The beauty and views alone are worth the hike! But if you're an average hiker like we are prepare to get your butt kicked! Just sayin!
Isaiah M — Google review
Wonderful day and one of the best ways to experience Yosemite. The views from the top and along the way are breathtaking. Some tips I found useful: Start very early in the morning so you can take your time and enjoy the views. Bring a lot of water (at least 5 liters per person) or a filter bottle. Don’t miss it! Register to the lottery as many times as needed until you get the permit, you won’t regret it.
Amit S — Google review
If you’re planning to hike Half Dome, here’s what you’ll need: sturdy hiking shoes with excellent grip, gloves for the cables (no need to spend $$ on some fancy gloves - inexpensive ones from Home Depot work great), plenty of water, and an early start around 3:30a. The hike is very doable if you’re reasonably fit and not afraid of heights, but preparation makes all the difference.
Jag S — Google review
Made it to the top of HALF DOME 😳⛰️☀️👏🏼🥵 Successfully- Challenge YESS! Start time 4am - End time-1pm 8 miles up - 8 miles down = 16 miles Elevation - 8,839 - backpacking Out of Breath- Adventure is Wild - worth it
Kristina W — Google review
My wife and I hiked Half Dome on 10/24/25. We spent the night at Lower Pines Campground and started the trail at 4:30 a.m. We reached Subdome around 10:30 a.m. The hike wasn’t too difficult until the last two hours. Crampons helped a lot since the final section had snow and icy rock. The cables were much steeper than I expected. They were down, so we put on our harnesses and prepared for the climb. It took us longer than anticipated. You really need to be both physically and mentally prepared; it’s a very dangerous hike, and you shouldn’t attempt it unless you feel fully capable. We used harnesses with double hooks so we were attached to the cables the entire time. I would definitely do it again, but probably in the summer—and I’d still use the harness. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience! Yosemite is such a beautiful national park.
Luis E — Google review
Plenty of parking. There are lots of bathroom before heading to the Glacier point trail. About 4+ miles from the parking lot. There is a souvenir shop up there to purchase some drinks, ice cream and snacks. It is beautiful up there.
Jee S — Google review
What an awesome & unique hiking experience this was! Got fortunate on the 3rd attempt on permit lottery to do this hike. Trail overview & ascend: Started the hike on 5 a.m from Curry Village Parking lot, which already had quite a lot of cars at that point. Followed the Alltrails route along JMT, which was easy to track - there were also signs along the route to help you navigate. Arrived by the start of the famous stairs at 9 a.m and reached the summit 30 minutes later. Note that there will be a lot of waiting on the stairs as you're making way for the people coming down (which also makes the climb less physically demanding) Water: Packed 4 liters of water and plenty of snacks. The last opportunity to fill up water (with filtering) during the ascend is from the river by the camp site couple of miles from the top. Most of the water was consumed during the descend as the California heat was really kicking in around noon. Ran out of water 2 miles before the end of hike, luckily there was a water filling station by the Vernal Fall Foot Bridge. There are outhouses along the way, which was a big plus! The stair section itself was not as scary as social media can make it look like. Having a good grip strength and knowing how to use body especially during the descend will make it fairly simple to conquer. Simply breathtaking views from the top, making the 13km ascend 100% worth the effort.
Tomi L — Google review
What an unforgettable experience after months of planning and preparation! On October 5, 2023, three friends and I set out from Curry Village at 5:30 AM, determined to conquer Half Dome in a single day. Thirteen hours later—exhausted, exhilarated, and awe-struck—we returned, having completed over 20 miles round trip. Basecamp at Curry Village We stayed three nights in the canvas tents of Curry Village—simple but atmospheric. No heat, but plenty of charm. Nestled on the Valley floor beneath the shadow of Glacier Point, it offered stunning views of Half Dome itself. Between the food, coffee, and even drinks available, it made for the perfect launch pad into the wilderness. The Hike The trek was demanding yet deeply rewarding. It took us roughly 6.5 hours to summit, with plenty of pauses to take in the scenery. The first miles lulled us into rhythm, but the sub-dome tested every ounce of endurance—a relentless, steep ascent that felt unending. And then came the infamous cables—nearly 400 feet of vertical pull, where the granite seemed to tilt to an 80–90% grade. Adrenaline surged as hands gripped steel and boots searched for footing. Each step upward was as much mental as physical, demanding focus, strength, and courage. Standing on the summit, I couldn’t help but think of Alex Honnold, who free soloed 2,000+ feet of sheer granite without ropes. What felt monumental to me was a warm-up in his world—a sobering reminder of the extremes of human capacity. Lessons Learned If I were to do it again, I’d bring at least 4+ liters of water or a solid purification system. I nearly ran dry after the descent, but thankfully my friend’s purification tablets saved me from hiking the final 10 miles dehydrated. Stats • Total Time: 13:08:03 • Calories Burned: 4,091 • Average Pace: 39:06/mi (plenty of stops for scenery and recovery) • Total Distance: 20.14 miles Final Thoughts Half Dome was more than just a hike—it was a test of grit, patience, and determination. Physically punishing, mentally demanding, and spiritually humbling. Standing at the summit, with Yosemite sprawling in every direction, I felt the weight of creation’s grandeur and the fleetingness of my own strength. A true bucket list adventure—and one I’ll carry with me forever.
Chaz P — Google review
4.7
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4.6
(1947)
Mentioned on 
Woods
Nature & Parks
Nestled in the southern reaches of Yosemite National Park, Mariposa Grove is a breathtaking sanctuary that showcases some of the largest and most awe-inspiring giant sequoia trees on Earth. Among its towering giants are the renowned Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree, which draw visitors into a world where nature reigns supreme. The grove offers an enchanting hiking experience that allows first-time adventurers to immerse themselves in this ancient forest, surrounded by stunning granite cliffs and majestic mountain views.
A fantastic visit and the Grizzly Giant trail was excellent - especially the quieter section beyond the tree itself. Some wonderful views and great wildlife to admire. The only downside was that the shuttle bus was not frequent enough to meet demand - on the return trip the bus ran around every 12 minutes but the line was so long that we were only able to board the third bus despite the drivers doing an admirable job of ensuring that every last bit of space was used to cram more people in. This did not detract significantly from a really superb visit.
Michael I — Google review
We visited this place on December 25th and it was an amazing experience, if you want a fantastic experience wait until it's covered with snow, you can visit with all the family but consider that the public transportation int the park doesn't work because of the icy roads so you have to consider a long walking distance, get a back pack with snacks and water. Wear comfy and warm clothes and shoes and just enjoy the amazing landscapes and the amazing sequoias they are out of this world experience.
Karla D — Google review
Free shuttle to 1.5 mile round trip trail to see tons of dinosaur size sequoias including the legendary grizzly and tunnel tree that you can walk under. Amazing!
Justin A — Google review
This place is absolutely gorgeous. I suggest you go here if you like the sights and sounds of mother nature. I didn't realize that there is such beauty everywhere you go on our beautiful planet.
Joseph W — Google review
My wife and I love nature and being amongst the largest living organisms in the world is a thrill. Walking among these giants in this quiet and calm setting is a wonderful way to relax and recharge.
James P — Google review
Mariposa Grove in Yosemite National Park is a fantastic and free place to visit. Free that is once you have purchased your pass and/or park access reservation. Only a few minutes drive from the South entrance to Yosemite, Mariposa Grove is serviced by a large carpark and, a free shuttle bus that takes visitors up to the starting point of the Sequoia Trail. Once off the shuttle bus you are free to roam around a broad selection of long and short walks around the forest. At the bus drop off point there are also public toilets should the need arise. A trail map is available to enable you to choose your route then off you go. The giant sequoias are world famous and when in Yosemite, it would be criminal not to come and see these majestical giants of nature. They really are a sight to see and you are certainly standing in the presence of giants during your time here. The California Tunnel Tree and the Giant Grizzly are two of the famous sequoias and these are spectacular to see however, as you continue to walk, many more equally wonderful trees present themselves around every corner. Sadly, fires regularly tear through these woodlands but as tragic as this seems, this is all part of the sequoias life cycle enabling them to keep growing stronger and stronger. Mariposa Grove is a great place to visit and I would highly recommend you spend some time here enjoying nature.
John G — Google review
Very beautiful trail. If you take the trail and not the bus (the bus service begins from May) it will take you up to one hour and a half (1:30) from the parking to reach the Grizzly Giant. I recommend to take the trail although the time you will spend. We will love it. If you go off season it is not well cleaned and maybe you will find difficulties with the ice and the fallen trees. Stay in the trail and be aware of mountain lions (cougars). They are shy with the humans but if you go close to their nest they roar
Gerasimos A — Google review
Giant Sequoia tree 2 mile loop trail through Mariposa Grove, located at the South entrance of Yosemite National Park. Try the free ranger guided 1 1/2 hour tour everyday at 9:30 AM. . if you have been to Sequoia National Park to see these trees, you probably do not need to go here. It is repetitive with far fewer trees.
Jeffrey S — Google review
4.8
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4.6
(567)
Mentioned on 
Park
Nature & Parks
Nestled at an elevation of 8,600 feet, Tuolumne Meadows is a vast and expansive high-elevation meadow surrounded by glacially carved domes and granite mountains. This picturesque location offers stunning views with fewer crowds compared to Yosemite Valley. The wild and scenic Tuolumne River winds through the meadow, while the nearby Tioga Road provides a scenic route through forests and alpine lakes, including notable viewpoints like Olmsted Point.
One of the most beautiful areas in Yosemite the meadows are different from majestic mountains lakes and forests but their size and location are wonderful. Situated not too far from the NE entrance to the park the meadows may not be as famous as the waterfalls or the domes but are definitely worth a visit
Bernard S — Google review
Amazing place to visit in the summer. You can see all sorts of wildlife and engage in hiking and other fun outdoor activities. If you visit after 5:00 p.m. You don't have to pay the toll at the national park entrance and you could just do a day trip from Mammoth mountain, which is great
Emil B — Google review
Definitely a must visit point in the summer. The lush green meadows with the shinny mountains in the backdrop is absolutely stunning. You can always hike to soda spring which is less than a mile if you want something easy. The place looks straight out of some postcard picture. This place is mostly closed in winter due to the snow so make sure to check the forecast before going.
Deepayan B — Google review
I’ve been here two times. One of the more beautiful places we’ve been. Lots of wildlife and if you like big rocks, waterfalls and views for days this is the place
Tyler B — Google review
This place is amazing, one of those places that looks like taken out of science fiction movie. Including the scenery on the way to Toulumne Meadows.
Roberto H — Google review
Beautiful landscape. The walk to Soda Springs is flat and easy. Just enjoy it.
Sora — Google review
If you’ve never been, just go! Wander for hours and appreciate nature.
Tod P — Google review
It's a long drive, but worth it. Watch out for the elevation, though. If you're not used to hiking at 9,000' - 10,000' elevation it gets your attention.
Bev B — Google review

Top places to eat

4.3
(1517)
4.0
(270)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Pizza restaurant
Fast food restaurant
Located in Yosemite National Park, Curry Village Pizza Deck is a rustic eatery offering creative pizzas and a relaxed dining experience. The airy dining room and terrace provide outdoor seating options for visitors to enjoy their hearty hand-tossed pizzas. Whether you're craving traditional pizza toppings or more original options, the menu caters to both vegans and meat lovers. With stunning views of Glacier Point from inside or out, this spot is definitely worth a visit after a day of exploring the park's iconic landmarks.
Replace all those lost calories with this hot delicious pizza! This hit the spot! It's on the thicker side so if you prefer thin crust, this may not be it for you. Overall it was still really good!
Analicia P — Google review
Came on a Monday after a hike, later in the afternoon around 4, which I think helped make it less busy. We kept it simple and only ordered one pizza, choosing pepperoni and splitting it between all of us. The pepperonis were a bit crispy too, and had additional seasonings on top, which made them really tasty. I did notice a few people with more festive, extravagant pizza toppings, but the pepperoni was delicious, and thankfully, none of us got sick, as I read some people did on reviews! The Vernal Falls hike was much longer than expected, with a Mist Trail detour that made it even longer, so we were all glad to get the food quickly with no issues, and we ate inside the food court vs outside because it was hotter, and fewer tables were available.
Lauren B — Google review
Their pizzas are delicious — we tried the veggie one and absolutely loved it. You can enjoy your pizza with a drink either outside or in the large indoor cafeteria. Inside, you’ll also find a variety of sauces, and the place feels warm and cozy. Also if you sit outside crows and squirrels will come around to take their share. And yes… beware of Bear No. 37!
Sagar M — Google review
I went to Yosemite last July. The line was long at 7-ish on Monday evening, and it indeed moved fast. The waiting for the food took about half an hour. The medium size of a fresh Half Dome was delicious and perfect for two women having small stomachs. We weren’t able to finish it and brought a half for the next-day breakfast. When we heated it up on the grill in the morning, it tasted great and the topping was still crispy! This pizza place is a must if you are visiting in Yosemite!
Minju S — Google review
The pizzas were delicious but quite oily. We had to wait around 1 hr from starting the line until getting the pizza. Probably 20-30 min of waiting for waiting after ordering, good thing they give you a buzzer and it will let you know when it’s ready. Not many tables to sit and can be quite loud depending on how crowded curry village is
Cynthia M — Google review
This pizza is absolutely delicious! It really surpasses many of the other brands out there. We chose to order online ahead of time to avoid the long wait, and it made the experience much more enjoyable.
C. H — Google review
Walk-up pizza. Nice deck seating if you can find something available. More seating inside. Mixed green salad was good but had a lot of kale. Large pizza have everyone in family at least one slice. There were pie pans by menu board to give example. We got half all meat option and half bacon pineapple.
Eric W — Google review
My son Alex said this pizza is better than Disneyland pizza - and he's right! We tried the Mother Curry and Half Dome pizzas and everything tasted so fresh. Ordering was super easy and the views of Glacier Point while eating made it even better. You can tell they make everything fresh - not like most tourist places that serve frozen stuff. We come here every time we visit Yosemite now. The outdoor deck is perfect for families and the pizza actually tastes great. Hard to find good food in the park but this place nails it. If I could give 100 stars I would! Don't skip this spot when you're in Yosemite.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Jessica H — Google review
4.1
(432)
4.0
(1219)
Mentioned on 
affordable
American restaurant
The Mountain Room is an upscale restaurant located in Yosemite Valley Lodge, offering stunning views of the 2,425-foot Yosemite Falls through its floor-to-ceiling windows. The menu features a variety of dishes including steak, seafood, and pasta, complemented by a full bar. It's recommended to make reservations in advance for the coveted waterfall-view tables. After a day of outdoor activities in Yosemite National Park, visitors can treat themselves to a memorable dining experience at The Mountain Room.
The service was great and the view of the upper falls provided a nice backdrop and object of conversation. For example, we discussed the flow rate of the waterfall compared to, uh, our shower at home and determined it would be like a Tim Allen Home Improvement experience to shower under the falls :-). My Manhattan cocktail could have been colder, but other than this the seared trout and the mole pork chop were both delicious. Our waiter Sean was attentive and presented everything with panache. Parking is available, but you will have to hunt patiently for an empty spot. Reservation is required.
Rob T — Google review
Great food, great service, nice surroundings. Pricey, but food quality and preparation were excellent. Nice folks, clean area. Halibut and steak were excellent. Stella on draft a plus. Make a reservation!
Mountains B — Google review
Pricey but reasonable for the location. We enjoyed the wagyu burger and lamb chops. Dining room was fairly empty on a Monday night so food came out within 30 minutes. Unfortunately our server lost our credit card walking back to the station and just assumed we didn’t give him a card, so we sat waiting for 10 minutes wondering why he brought the check back. He hardly apologized when he finally realized and never ended up finding the card.
Noom — Google review
The food with its presentation will pleasantly surprise you. Compliments to the chef. This is fine dining in the Valley. Dinner reservations are absolutely necessary. Service was inconsistent. It depended greatly on the server.
M P — Google review
We dined here twice during our stay in Yosemite and both times were pretty awesome. The first time I had the burger and it was probs the best burger I've had in a long time...juicy, well-seasoned, perfectly cooked. The second time we were there for our wedding anniversary so we both got the 10 oz filet mignon. Again, perfectly cooked, perfectly seasoned, very delish. And the mashed potatoes that came with it were amazing. We're about to have the cheesecake for dessert, but I'm sure it won't disappoint. Definitely come here at least once if you're going to be staying in the park. Well worth it!!
Jennifer P — Google review
Service was terrible - and food was also. We had a female waitress (no name tags so we can’t figure out what her name was but she mentioned she’s a nomad that works around areas from Tahoe to Yosemite and climbs). Literally had the worst service of our entire time - could not do dressing on the side for a salad. Asked for no syrup in a mocktail (can’t do that either). Asked for ribs and was not available, only for the table next to us to get ribs. She gave us some excuse. This is absolutely unacceptable. YVL do better. Train your staff. Food was also really really sad for what you pay for. Go to the cafeteria next time.
Jennifer J — Google review
Ordered a ribeye steak at medium cook, but got a well-done instead, and my partner’s pan roasted halibut was dry. Our waiter was very kind and got me a medium cook steak, which tasted really good and just cooked right, after I showed him the first one he served. Not sure if this is a fine dining restaurant but the prices are. There are limited selection of wine, beer, and cocktail but good ones. I would have rated this restaurant 3-star, but because of our waiter, I gave a 4-star.
Armando R — Google review
One of the hidden gems of the valley. Great food and equally good service. Must visit for fine dining options in the valley.
Dheeraj S — Google review
3.9
(634)
4.0
(2714)
Mentioned on 
expensive
Traditional American restaurant
The Ahwahnee Dining Room is a renowned American dining venue located in the historic Ahwahnee Hotel, offering a culinary experience amidst cathedral windows and a soaring cross-beam ceiling. The restaurant prides itself on excellence, featuring dishes like Berkshire Pork Chop Milanese and Angus Beef Filet Oscar. With its airy dining space boasting 34-foot beamed ceilings and picturesque views of Yosemite Valley, the Ahwahnee seamlessly integrates architecture with natural beauty.
We were very impressed with the service here. Our server, Shannon, gave us great advice and tips. All the servers were very friendly and attentive. There were many menu options, including vegan ones. And the space is AWESOME! As in, truly inspired awe. It's a grand hall with beautiful windows and lots of space between tables. Just lovely. Thanks again!
Raymond R — Google review
We went to The Awahnee Dining Room as a family of 6 on two separate occasions. LOVED the experience. For breakfast we opted for the al la carte menu and we can say everything tasted really good except for the French Toast that was more on the soggy side. The steel cut oats and trio mushroom, avocado and salmon on toast was a big hit. Angeline was incredible super cheerful and friendly. On average each plate was around ~20 dollars per pax before tip with generous portions. For dinner we had the dinner buffet. Although the selection was smaller than anticipated we thoroughly enjoyed our experience. The highlight was the prime rib which was not chewy and the salad was to die for. We received great service yet again from Shannon and Marcus who were enthusiastic and attentive. Shannon even provided us recommendations for which route to take back to sf. There was live piano music which adds to the atmosphere.
Thananuch T — Google review
Great hotel and the architecture with its history is wonderful. Loved the hospitality at the restaurant. Ordered for Salmon. It was very tasty and juicy. Kids loved the Chicken tenders. Highly recommend this place if you’re in Yosemite area.
Praveen M — Google review
I recently had dinner at the Ahwahnee Dining Room and while the night overall was memorable, it was thanks largely to the stunning atmosphere and the great company I was with. The grandeur of the historic hotel truly sets a tone of elegance and charm—the high ceilings, classic decor, and timeless beauty of the space made it feel special. However, a few elements detracted from the experience. While we dressed for the occasion, it was disappointing to see that the dress code was not consistently enforced. The lack of formality at many nearby tables took away from the sophisticated ambiance that the venue naturally provides. As for the food, it was unfortunately underwhelming. It wasn’t bad, but it lacked depth of flavor and the menu was more limited than I expected for such a renowned location. Service was another area that didn’t meet the mark. Our waitress was kind and genuinely tried her best, but it was clear she was under stress—likely a result of being understaffed, which seemed to be a theme across the room. The setting is truly one-of-a-kind and worth experiencing, but I hope the dining and service elements rise to meet the surroundings in future visits.
Luis V — Google review
The room is beautiful and service was ok. What really disappointed was the food. We ordered 2 burgers cooked medium. The burgers were overcooked but the worst was that the fries were served completely cold and mushy. In a hotel of this level how can’t they even get a burger with fries right?
Sara T — Google review
What can I say, I was so looking forward to dinner in the beautiful dining room having booked many months in advance. The room, stunning, our waitress efficient, courteous & engaging, piano player provided a pleasant atmosphere. The food however was quite an opposite story. Unremarkable & underwhelming start with the bread basket. Dry rolls & lacking in quality & freshness that you would expect for $8. French onion soup & salad fine but nothing spectacular. Main course of prime rib & hanger steak came out cold initially. Potatoes severally undercooked. When the meal was returned, came back having been obviously placed under a heat lamp. Yorkshire pudding burnt on top, steak recooked to well done & potatoes dry & hard. At $62 & $54 again I expected so much better. The best part of the meal was the glass of wine which indeed was delicious! Whilst the manager reduced the bill by taking off the coat of bread & soup & offered a dessert, it just didn't recover the night.
Wendy M — Google review
I read all of the reviews about how bad the food is so we decided to eat here for lunch and we thoroughly enjoyed it. The dining room is magnificent. It looks like the dining hall in the Harry Potter movies. The views from the huge windows are stunning. We had the salmon, burger, french dip sandwich, cauliflower appetizer and stuffed mushrooms. The salmon was good and the burger and french dip were decent. The cauliflower was actually very good, with dates, honey, and chili flakes. The mushrooms were bland. The service was ok. The waitstaff are nice enough but they make some mistakes and aren’t really professional. But it wasn’t bad enough to ruin the experience. I think that lunch is the way to go. It’s less expensive and you can enjoy the views outside. It was one of the highlights of our visit. If you’re not staying at the hotel plan to pay $10 for parking or take the shuttle from the welcome center. It’s a long walk from the village.
Audreygubler — Google review
The setting is absolutely stunning—the dining room feels like something out of Harry Potter’s Great Hall or Beauty and the Beast. High timbered ceilings, stone walls, candle-like chandeliers, and live piano music set a magical atmosphere. Unfortunately, the food was a major letdown. Despite the fine-dining prices, the buffet menu was underwhelming and poorly executed. Most dishes lacked flavor, and the desserts were simply bad. It was quite disheartening, especially considering the grandeur of the place. Another downside was the inconsistent service. While some of the waitstaff were professional and attentive, others seemed undergroomed and unprepared, which detracted from the overall experience. If it weren’t for the charming piano music, this would have been a zero-star experience for me. I truly hope they improve the food—it wouldn’t take much, given how low the bar currently is. I came in with high expectations, and sadly, the meal didn’t come close to matching the setting.
Javier C — Google review
3.4
(630)
3.0
(247)
Mentioned on 
Restaurant
Coffee shop
Nestled within Yosemite Valley Lodge, Base Camp Eatery pays tribute to the area's rock climbing legacy through its architecture. This casual and spacious food court offers a diverse array of dining options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. From Asian-style noodles to pizza, salads, burgers, and even Starbucks coffee, there's something for every palate. Emphasizing front-of-house cooking and fresh culinary concepts using local and seasonal ingredients, the eatery also provides grab-and-go selections.
Great spot to grab a bite after a morning hike! We had the chicken fingers, cheeseburger with fries, and some super fresh coleslaw—way better than I expected. The food hit the spot and came out fast, which we really appreciated. We liked it so much, we came back the next morning for breakfast. The short stack was delicious, and the breakfast combo was just the right amount of food. Service was quick both times, and there was plenty of seating. Definitely recommend if you’re in the park and need a solid, no-fuss meal!
T C — Google review
I ordered the crispy chicken sandwich. It was dense and tasteless, liking chewing rubber, only the roll was satisfactory. The prices are reasonable but the quality of the food is utterly unacceptable. It’s best to just bring cold sandwiches and salads (in a large cooler) from home or purchase these items from a local deli as you drive to the Park.
Wayne C — Google review
Base Camp Eatery is in Yosemite Valley. To order your food you have to use the kiosk. There are many options to choose from. I ordered a ham and cheese sandwich. It tasted good, but was expensive. All food in Yosemite is expensive. Plenty of seating in the dining area.
Marc C — Google review
The only place to eat at yosemite Valley so your options are somewhat limited to whats on offer at that time. Place is packed with tourist and hikers and is loud with limited seats and tables. We got the pizza and cheeseburger and I'd have to say this was the safest options. Pizza was good tasting and the cheeseburger no complaints. No cash, card only for payment
Vu T — Google review
While staying at the Yosemite Valley Lodge we had breakfast at the Base Camp Eatery. This is a cafeteria style restaurant right in the Lodge common area (near the lodge main office). We walked the short distance to the Eatery where there was a small line. You place your order at electronic kiosks with a number of options for the morning meal, and for most items on the menu you can customize your order. They also serve dinner and lunch but we enjoyed those meals at other locations in the Valley. After you place your order - and pay for it at the kiosk - you receive a receipt with your order number. The kitchen staff prepares your meal and calls your number. My wife and I ordered the same thing our first morning, the Breakfast Bundle. We both often for Bacon (pork sausage was the other option) which was served with scrambled eggs and breakfast potatoes. 

My wife found a table while I wanted for our food (at certain times, an indoor table can be elusive - she found one in just a few minutes). We were both pleased with our meal. The scrambled eggs and potatoes were seasoned well and the bacon had minimal gristle. There was ample serving for a reasonable price - especially knowing we were deep inside a National Park. They do serve coffee but we splurged and ordered Mocha Latte from Starbucks which is next door. On our second morning we wanted a lighter breakfast as we had plans for a bigger lunch that day. We ordered two Yogurt parfait with a side order of two pastries. It was a good sized container with greek style yogurt - with added blueberries and strawberries. I also selected one fruit danish and one chocolate croissant. Once again,. we both enjoyed our orders. I appreciate having a quality meal available in such a convenient location in the park with reasonable prices. I did note several bad reviews and it looks like it's related to lunch or dinner meals.
Chet D — Google review
One of my favorite eateries here for the convenience. Large indoor seating, ordering kiosks, and amenities nearby as apart of the lodge. Cell service here is also decent
Michael P — Google review
Any place in Yosemite gets 5 stars for the atmosphere, it's absolutely beautiful. The food here isn't anything special but it's solid for what it is, a little on the expensive side (which is a trend for everywhere in Yosemite). Overall it's a good spot to stop for a quick lunch in the park.
Evan H — Google review
Huge space, easy kiosk to order from, and pretty fresh selection of dishes. Affordable, quality, I was very impressed.
Nicholas K — Google review
3.5
(383)
3.5
(123)
Mentioned on 
Temporarily Closed
affordable
Hamburger restaurant
The Village Grill is a laid-back eatery located in Yosemite National Park, offering a range of grilled sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and vegetarian choices. Situated in eastern Yosemite Valley near the parking area, it provides a casual dining experience with an expansive outdoor deck that offers breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley. Whether you're craving traditional hot dogs or more unique options like salmon burgers, this popular spot has something for everyone.
Burger place with vegan options. We had a plant-based burger with a bean patty that tasted great! If you’re cutting down on carbs/calories you can have it protein-style: without a bun and wrapped in lettuce instead. Great views at the patio!
Galina C — Google review
The pulled pork sandwich is awesome. The employees here are equally awesome. Just make sure to keep the front door closed. Green and purple bus stop 2 is very close.
Michael P — Google review
I think your experience will vary depending on WHEN you visit. I went twice. Once when it was slower 1 day, and once when it was busy another day. The non-busy day it was an average experience. 3/5 stars at best. Nothing special. Not bad, not good. If you visit when it's busy, this place falls apart. They become rude, impatient, unhelpful and the food was significantly worse. Additionally, the second time I visited their fryers were broke, so they could basically only serve burgers and a few others things. I understand that things break and stuff happens, that's life, but that does not excuse the absolute terrible customer service experienced at the front counter. I watched 3 people walk out the door pissed off and saying stuff about the place while I was in line to get inside. I only realized after I ordered why they were upset. I will be back to Yosemite to visit, but I surely will not be back to this place.
Neil T — Google review
This restaurant is at shuttle stop 2 in the park. I had the basket of chicken tenders, if you have a basket then you can either choose to have it with fries or a watermelon wedge. The watermelon was so juicy and sweet, the chicken tenders were a little dry though which let it down slightly. You collect food from inside and then sit outside to eat under umbrella tables. The area can look very busy but there’s a fast turnaround on tables so don’t be put off if you can’t immediately see a free table.
B — Google review
Good restaurant behind the welcome centre, there can be long queues during peak times. Wait times are not too bad, the service is good and food looks good. We ordered 3 French fries as a little snack for lunch. Ordering at the counter was fine and waiting for our order was ok, no problems. Nice place for lunch with outdoor seating.
Pravin M — Google review
The Village Grill in the valley serves delicious French fries 🍟 and refreshing Coca Cola 🥤 — perfect for a quick snack. You can also fill up your water vessel there, which is really handy in the 100° F heat. The only downside was the very long queue, so be prepared to wait during busy times.
William T — Google review
Honestly can’t fault the food or service. We went on a busy Friday and ordered the chicken tenders, pulled pork sandwich, onion rings and fries. We really enjoyed our food- it was hot, tenders were crispy and chicken moist. The fries and sandwich were also great. The onion rings were also really crisp and hot when we got them. It took less than 10 mins for food for 4 people to come out. Server was friendly and patient. Not to mention the food was really reasonably priced especially considering where you are. Will be visiting again.
Wren — Google review
It’s not a “Grill” if the grill is a microwave. For being at Yosemite National Park, one of the most beautiful places on earth, their food is extremely bland and mediocre. I got an angus burger and my partner got the chili. The chili was good! But this burger… I actually received the food maybe within 10 seconds of ordering it, which means it was either microwaved, or they had cooked more and the burger was just sitting there. To be honest, I think it was both. It was cold and had the texture of school cafeteria burgers. Very basic; tasteless; weird texture; cold. I did not enjoy it at all. I do have to say, the fries are actually okay! Overall, you have no other food options other than this restaurant if you don’t have your own food, so just stay away from the burger and you will be okay.
Nezam N — Google review

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