Yosemite Valley Welcome Center: Your Park Adventure Begins Here
Start your Yosemite adventure at the Welcome Center: expert advice, maps, and resources for exploring this iconic national park.
The Yosemite Valley Welcome Center is the primary information hub in Yosemite Valley, offering visitors maps, advice, and resources to plan their exploration of the park. Located in Yosemite Village, it's the perfect first stop for any Yosemite adventure.
A brief summary to Yosemite Valley Welcome Center
- 9007 Village Dr, Yosemite Valley, Yosemite Village, California, 95389, US
- +1209-372-0200
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, as parking in Yosemite Valley fills up quickly.
- Check the current park conditions and road closures before your visit by calling (209) 372-0200.
- Take advantage of the free Yosemite Valley shuttle system to get around the valley without worrying about parking.
- Pick up free trail maps and Junior Ranger booklets at the Welcome Center.
Getting There
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Driving
If driving, follow signs for Yosemite Valley and then Yosemite Village. Parking is available in Yosemite Village, a short walk from the Welcome Center. Arrive before 9 am during peak season as parking fills quickly. Note that a $35 entrance fee per vehicle is required to enter Yosemite National Park, valid for seven consecutive days. During peak season (May 24-26, June 15-August 15, August 30-September 1), a reservation may be required to enter the park between 6 AM and 2 PM, in addition to the entrance fee; the reservation fee is $2.
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Public Transport
Take the Yosemite Valley Shuttle to the Yosemite Village stop (Shuttle Stops 1 & 2), which is located near the Welcome Center. The Yosemite Valley Shuttle is free and operates from 7 am to 10 pm, with buses arriving every 12 to 22 minutes. Alternatively, YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) provides fee-based bus service into Yosemite National Park from nearby communities. YARTS riders do not need additional peak-hours reservations for Yosemite during the summer months.
Discover more about Yosemite Valley Welcome Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Yosemite Wilderness Center
0.3 km
Your first stop for Yosemite wilderness adventures: permits, maps, and expert advice in the heart of Tuolumne Meadows.
Yosemite Cemetery
0.5 km
Discover the stories of Yosemite's pioneers in this peaceful and historic cemetery nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
Housekeeping Camp
0.8 km
Experience Yosemite's beauty with a touch of comfort at Housekeeping Camp, offering rustic lodging and stunning views in the heart of Yosemite Valley.
The Ahwahnee
0.9 km
Experience Yosemite's grandeur at the Ahwahnee Hotel, a historic landmark offering luxury, stunning views, and a connection to the park's natural beauty.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
1.3 km
Experience Yosemite Valley from this ideally located lodge, offering comfortable rooms, convenient amenities, and easy access to park attractions.
Curry Village
1.5 km
Experience Yosemite Valley's charm at Curry Village: lodging, dining, activities, and stunning views beneath Glacier Point.
Four Mile Trailhead
2.1 km
Hike Yosemite's Four Mile Trail for breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome. A challenging climb to Glacier Point!
Vernal Falls Footbridge
3.7 km
Hike the iconic Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge for breathtaking views of Yosemite's powerful waterfall and stunning granite landscape.
El Capitan Picnic Area
3.8 km
Picnic beneath a giant: Enjoy stunning views of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park at this accessible and scenic picnic spot.
Cathedral Beach Picnic Area
4.4 km
A scenic picnic spot in Yosemite Valley with stunning El Capitan views and Merced River access, perfect for a relaxing day in nature.
Half Dome
4.5 km
Conquer Yosemite's iconic Half Dome: a challenging hike with breathtaking panoramic views from the summit. Permits required.
El Capitan Trail
4.7 km
Experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, a world-renowned rock climbing destination and a symbol of nature's majesty, offering year-round beauty.
Sub dome
4.9 km
Conquer the Sub Dome, conquer Half Dome. A challenging climb with rewarding views in Yosemite National Park.
El Capitan
4.9 km
Witness the majesty of El Capitan, Yosemite's iconic granite monolith and a world-class destination for climbers and nature enthusiasts.
El Capitan Meadow
5.2 km
Experience the awe-inspiring presence of El Capitan, the world's largest granite monolith, from the serene beauty of El Capitan Meadow in Yosemite Valley.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Ansel Adams Gallery
0.3 km
Discover the breathtaking artistry of Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park, where nature and photography unite in a stunning gallery experience.
Yosemite Valley Visitor Center
0.3 km
Discover Yosemite's wonders: exhibits, films, and expert advice await at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, your gateway to an unforgettable park experience.
Yosemite Exploration Center
0.3 km
Yosemite Exploration Center: Your Gateway to Unlocking the Wonders of Yosemite National Park's Natural Beauty.
Yosemite Museum
0.4 km
Explore Yosemite Museum: A Journey Through Nature and Culture in Yosemite National Park.
Indian Village of Ahwahnee
0.4 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 Village
0.5 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite Village, your gateway to California's iconic national park, rich in nature, history, and adventure.
Sentinel Bridge
0.6 km
Experience the breathtaking views from Sentinel Bridge in Yosemite Valley, a must-see attraction for nature lovers and photographers.
Cook's Meadow Loop
0.7 km
Experience iconic Yosemite views on this easy, accessible loop trail through Cook's Meadow, offering stunning perspectives of Yosemite's natural wonders.
Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Sentinel/Cook's Meadow Loop, a serene hiking paradise in Yosemite National Park, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Yosemite Valley
0.8 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures in Yosemite Valley, a national reserve celebrated for its majestic granite cliffs and stunning waterfalls.
Yosemite Falls View
0.8 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.
Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center
0.9 km
Explore the Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center: A blend of nature, history, and conservation in the heart of Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite Valley Chapel
0.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Yosemite Valley Chapel, a historic gem nestled in the heart of Yosemite National Park, perfect for reflection and inspiration.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead
1.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lower Yosemite Falls, a stunning hiking area in the heart of Yosemite National Park, perfect for all adventurers.
Lower Yosemite Fall Trl
1.0 km
Explore the stunning Lower Yosemite Fall Trail in California, where breathtaking views and serene nature await every visitor in Yosemite National Park.
Essential places to dine
Village Grill
0.0 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Village Grill in Yosemite National Park - a perfect stop for hungry adventurers!
The Loft at Degnan's
0.2 km
Discover The Loft at Degnan's - where delicious pizzas meet stunning Yosemite Valley views.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
0.9 km
Experience fine dining at The Ahwahnee Dining Room in Yosemite National Park - where culinary artistry meets breathtaking natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Bar
0.9 km
Experience luxury dining at The Ahwahnee Bar amidst Yosemite's breathtaking scenery with craft cocktails and gourmet bites.
The Mountain Room
1.3 km
Experience exceptional American cuisine with breathtaking views at The Mountain Room in Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Yosemite Lodge Food Court
1.3 km
Experience delicious meals amidst breathtaking views at Yosemite Lodge Food Court - where nature meets culinary delight.
Curry Village Pizza Deck
1.5 km
Savor delicious pizza in the heart of Yosemite National Park at Curry Village Pizza Deck - where nature meets flavor.
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill
1.5 km
Experience delicious grilled dishes amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite Valley at Taqueria @ Meadow Grill.
Seven Tents Pavilion
1.6 km
Experience delightful dining at Seven Tents Pavilion amidst Yosemite Valley's breathtaking landscapes.
Curry Village Dining Pavilion
1.6 km
Experience delightful dining amidst breathtaking views at Curry Village Dining Pavilion in Yosemite Valley.
The Skiers Grill
11.7 km
Discover The Skiers Grill: A cozy dining gem in Badger Pass Ski Area offering hearty breakfasts and delicious lunches amidst Yosemite's stunning scenery.
White Wolf Lodge Dining Room
14.8 km
Experience fine dining at White Wolf Lodge Dining Room amidst California's breathtaking High Sierra landscapes.
The River Restaurant & Lounge
17.6 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
24.1 km
Experience delectable American cuisine surrounded by Yosemite's breathtaking beauty at Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge
27.1 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at The Restaurant at Rush Creek Lodge in Groveland.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Village Store
0.0 km
Discover the ultimate convenience at The Village Store in Yosemite Valley, offering groceries and unique souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.
Degnan's Deli
0.2 km
Discover the delicious flavors of Degnan's Deli in Yosemite, where fresh ingredients meet stunning natural beauty for the perfect dining experience.
Yosemite Village Parking
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Yosemite National Park with easy parking access to breathtaking views and a free shuttle service around the valley.
Yosemite Visitor Center
0.3 km
Explore Yosemite National Park's breathtaking beauty starting at the Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure, information, and unforgettable experiences.
Housekeeping Camp Store
0.8 km
Explore Yosemite National Park with ease at Housekeeping Camp Store, your go-to for groceries and camping essentials amidst stunning natural beauty.
The Ahwahnee Gift Shop
0.9 km
Discover unique souvenirs and outdoor gear at The Ahwahnee Gift Shop, nestled in Yosemite Valley, capturing the spirit of nature's beauty.
The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop
0.9 km
Discover sweet delights at The Ahwahnee Sweet Shop in Yosemite National Park, where delectable confections meet breathtaking natural beauty.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite National Park on two wheels with the Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand, an ideal adventure for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop
1.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and essential supplies at Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop, your gateway to capturing the essence of Yosemite National Park.
Starbucks Yosemite
1.3 km
Experience a unique coffee haven in the heart of Yosemite National Park, where nature meets the comfort of Starbucks.
Base Camp Eatery
1.3 km
Experience the flavors of Yosemite Valley at Base Camp Eatery, where delicious meals meet breathtaking views in a casual atmosphere.
Curry Village Gift and Grocery
1.5 km
Explore the heart of Yosemite with unique souvenirs and grocery essentials at Curry Village Gift and Grocery.
Curry Village Coffee Corner
1.5 km
Experience the charm of Curry Village Coffee Corner, your perfect retreat in the heart of Yosemite National Park, offering delicious coffee and breathtaking views.
Mountain Shop at Curry Village
1.6 km
Explore Yosemite with ease - the Mountain Shop at Curry Village is your go-to for outdoor gear, groceries, and expert advice.
Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand
2.2 km
Explore the Glacier Point Gift Shop & Snack Stand for unique souvenirs and tasty snacks amidst Yosemite's stunning beauty.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Mountain Room Lounge
1.2 km
Experience the breathtaking views and delicious local cuisine at The Mountain Room Lounge in Yosemite National Park.
Bar 1899
1.5 km
Experience the rustic charm of Bar 1899 in Yosemite Valley, where refreshing drinks and breathtaking views create unforgettable moments.
Dry Creek Bar
49.1 km
Discover unique cocktails and cozy lodging at Dry Creek Bar, a must-visit cocktail haven in the heart of Mammoth Lakes, California.
Tusks Bar
49.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tusks Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where live music and sports create an unforgettable experience.
Steeps Bar
50.1 km
Discover Steeps Bar in Mammoth Lakes for a cozy atmosphere, delicious American cuisine, and stunning mountain views, perfect for any traveler.
Basin Bar
51.0 km
Unwind at Basin Bar in Mammoth Lakes, where friendly vibes and local brews blend seamlessly for an unforgettable après-adventure experience.
Grizzly Bar
52.5 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Grizzly Bar, a cozy destination in Mammoth Lakes offering delicious American cuisine and refreshing drinks.
Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe
53.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of exquisite wines and delightful cuisine at Side Door Wine Bar & Cafe in Mammoth Lakes, California.
Clocktower Cellar
53.9 km
Discover the charm of Clocktower Cellar, a cozy bar and restaurant in Mammoth Lakes, offering fine wines, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere.
Mammoth Brewing Company
54.0 km
Experience the best of Mammoth Lakes at Mammoth Brewing Company, where craft beer meets breathtaking scenery and great food.
Salsa's
54.3 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
54.9 km
Experience the best of American cuisine and lively sports atmosphere at Liberty Sports Bar and Grill in Mammoth Lakes.
Black Velvet Coffee Roaster | Espresso & Wine Bar
55.0 km
Discover Black Velvet Coffee Roaster, a delightful espresso bar in Mammoth Lakes offering artisanal coffees and exquisite wines in a cozy atmosphere.
The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie
55.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite wines and artisanal charcuterie at The Shed | Wine & Charcuterie in Mammoth Lakes, CA.
Distant Brewing
55.6 km
Discover the best of craft brews and delicious American cuisine at Distant Brewing in Mammoth Lakes, the perfect spot for beer lovers.
