Yosemite Valley Welcome Center: Your Gateway to Nature's Marvels
Explore Yosemite National Park’s natural beauty and rich history at the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center, your essential guide to adventure.
Nestled in the heart of Yosemite National Park, the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center is a must-visit for tourists seeking information, guidance, and a deeper connection to this natural wonder. With engaging exhibits and breathtaking views, it serves as a perfect starting point for your adventure in this iconic landscape.
A brief summary to Yosemite Valley Welcome Center
- 9035 Village Dr, Yosemite Valley, Yosemite Village, California, 95389, US
- +1209-372-0200
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and make the most of your visit.
- Check the daily schedule for ranger-led programs and talks for a deeper understanding of the park.
- Take advantage of the free maps and brochures available at the center.
- Don’t forget your camera; the views from the center are stunning and perfect for photos.
- Plan your visit during weekdays for a quieter experience.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving within Yosemite National Park, head towards Yosemite Valley. From any direction in the park, follow signs for Yosemite Valley. Once you reach the valley floor, look for the signs for the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center. It is located at 9035 Village Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389. There is no entrance fee to access the Welcome Center itself, but be aware that there is an entrance fee for the park. As of 2023, the fee is $35 per vehicle, valid for seven days.
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Public Transportation
If you are using the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS), take the bus to the Yosemite Valley stop. The YARTS schedule varies, so check ahead of time for specific times and routes. Once you arrive at the Yosemite Valley stop, follow the walking signs to the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center, which is approximately a 5-minute walk. Ensure you have a valid YARTS fare; prices vary by route, so check the YARTS website for details.
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Bicycle
For those who enjoy biking, you can cycle to the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center. The park offers a network of bike paths. If you are starting from the Yosemite Village area, follow the bike path along the valley floor. The Welcome Center is easily accessible from the bike paths, located just off the main route. Remember to wear a helmet and follow all park regulations. Bicycle rentals are available at various locations in the park.
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Walking
If you are already in the Yosemite Valley area, walking to the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center is a great option. From the Yosemite Lodge at the Falls, it takes about 20 minutes on foot. Head east on Northside Drive, then turn south onto Village Drive. The Welcome Center will be on your right at 9035 Village Dr. Walking is a pleasant way to enjoy the natural beauty of the valley.
Discover more about Yosemite Valley Welcome Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Yosemite Wilderness Center
0.1 km
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Yosemite Cemetery
0.2 km
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Housekeeping Camp
1.1 km
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Yosemite Valley Lodge
1.1 km
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The Ahwahnee
1.2 km
Experience luxury and nature at The Ahwahnee, an iconic hotel in Yosemite Valley, perfect for your outdoor adventures and serene getaways.
Curry Village
1.9 km
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Four Mile Trailhead
2.1 km
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El Capitan Picnic Area
3.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of El Capitan Picnic Area in Yosemite National Park—a perfect spot for family picnics and outdoor relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.
Vernal Falls Footbridge
4.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Vernal Falls Footbridge in Yosemite National Park, where nature's beauty and adventure await around every corner.
Vernal Falls
4.5 km
Explore the stunning Vernal Falls in Yosemite National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts.
El Capitan Trail
4.5 km
Explore the breathtaking El Capitan Trail in Yosemite National Park, a must-visit hiking destination offering stunning views and diverse ecosystems.
El Capitan
4.7 km
Explore El Capitan, a breathtaking granite cliff in Yosemite National Park, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers seeking stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Half Dome
4.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and thrilling hikes of Half Dome, a must-visit granite peak in Yosemite National Park, California.
Sub dome
5.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sub Dome in Yosemite National Park, a hiking haven offering stunning views and unforgettable adventures in nature.
El Capitan Meadow
5.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views and tranquil beauty of El Capitan Meadow in Yosemite National Park, a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Yosemite Valley Welcome Center
0.0 km
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Yosemite Exploration Center
0.0 km
Yosemite Exploration Center: Your Gateway to Unlocking the Wonders of Yosemite National Park's Natural Beauty.
The Ansel Adams Gallery
0.0 km
Discover the breathtaking artistry of Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park, where nature and photography unite in a stunning gallery experience.
Indian Village of Ahwahnee
0.1 km
Explore the Indian Village of Ahwahnee in Yosemite Valley, a cultural gem showcasing the heritage of the Ahwahneechee people amidst stunning natural beauty.
Yosemite Museum
0.1 km
Discover the captivating history and ecology of Yosemite at the Yosemite Museum, a key stop for all visitors to this stunning national park.
Yosemite Village
0.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Village, your gateway to California's iconic national park, rich in nature, history, and adventure.
Cook's Meadow Loop
0.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cook's Meadow Loop in Yosemite Valley, a serene trail with iconic views and diverse wildlife.
Yosemite Falls View
0.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Falls View, a must-visit attraction in Yosemite National Park known for its stunning vistas and natural wonders.
Sentinel Bridge
0.6 km
Experience the breathtaking views from Sentinel Bridge in Yosemite Valley, a must-see attraction for nature lovers and photographers.
Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop
0.7 km
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Yosemite Valley
0.7 km
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Lower Yosemite Fall Vista Point
0.8 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Lower Yosemite Fall, a scenic spot in Yosemite National Park, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trl
0.8 km
Explore the stunning Lower Yosemite Fall Trail in California, where breathtaking views and serene nature await every visitor in Yosemite National Park.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead
0.8 km
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Yosemite Valley Chapel
0.9 km
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Essential places to dine
The Loft at Degnan's
0.2 km
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Village Grill
0.3 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
1.1 km
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The Mountain Room
1.2 km
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The Ahwahnee Bar
1.2 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
1.2 km
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Curry Village Pizza Deck
1.9 km
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Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
1.9 km
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Seven Tents Pavilion
1.9 km
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Curry Village Dining Pavilion
1.9 km
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The Skiers Grill
11.7 km
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White Wolf Lodge Dining Room
14.5 km
Experience fine dining at White Wolf Lodge Dining Room amidst California's breathtaking High Sierra landscapes.
The River Restaurant & Lounge
17.5 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at The River Restaurant & Lounge, where breathtaking views meet delicious flavors in El Portal.
Wawona Hotel Dining Room
24.3 km
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The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
26.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Yosemite Visitor Center
0.0 km
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Degnan's Deli
0.2 km
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Village Store
0.3 km
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Yosemite Village Parking
0.5 km
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Housekeeping Camp Store
1.1 km
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Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
1.1 km
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Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
1.1 km
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The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
1.2 km
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The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop
1.2 km
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Starbucks Yosemite
1.2 km
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Base Camp Eatery
1.2 km
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Curry Village Gift and Grocery
1.9 km
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Curry Village Coffee Corner
1.9 km
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Mountain Shop at Curry Village
1.9 km
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Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
2.6 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mountain Room Lounge
1.1 km
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Bar 1899
1.9 km
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Dry Creek Bar
49.4 km
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Tusks Bar
49.6 km
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Steeps Bar
50.4 km
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Basin Bar
51.3 km
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Grizzly Bar
52.8 km
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Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe
54.0 km
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Clocktower Cellar
54.2 km
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Mammoth Brewing Company
54.3 km
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Salsa's
54.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Salsa's in Mammoth Lakes, offering a fantastic drink selection and lively atmosphere amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Liberty Sports Bar and Grill
55.2 km
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Black Velvet Coffee Roaster | Espresso & Wine Bar
55.3 km
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The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie
55.4 km
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Distant Brewing
55.9 km
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