The Mariposa center point is approximately 4 miles east of Downtown Mariposa and 4 miles east of Mariposa Museum and History Center.
With so much to do around Mariposa year-round, there's never a bad time to visit. If you're hoping to strike that balance between affordability and fewer crowds, however, plan your trip during the spring or fall shoulder seasons.
Evenings in Mariposa can be chilly during the spring as the weather warms up, but average highs range from 63 degrees to 77 degrees Fahrenheit from March through May. Spring is also the perfect time to visit attractions like the Mariposa Museum and History Center.
Fall in Mariposa is just as pleasant. In fact, higher evening temperatures help make fall one of the best times to visit Yosemite Valley. With peak season winding down, local hotels start dropping prices, which can help you better budget your getaway. Mariposa also experiences less rain during the fall, which is great news for those hoping to spend their days outdoors.
Naturally, summer is peak tourist season in Mariposa. Although hotel rates skyrocket and accommodations are harder to come by, visitors can take full advantage of the outdoors from June through early September. Consider taking the family zip lining or gold panning. If you feel like escaping the hot daytime temps, head to an indoor attraction like a winery, the orchestra, or one of the area's noted museums.
Winters in Mariposa are chilly but mild, and snow is a rare event. With average highs hovering around 58 degrees Fahrenheit all winter long, don't discount an off-season trip. Since tourists tend to stay away during the winter months, hotel rates hit rock bottom in November and remain low through March. Just be sure to wear layers and bring some wintertime outerwear for those cold nights.
Seniors, AAA members, government employees, and military service members can all find special rates to book at hotels throughout Yosemite Valley.
For instance, military families can save big at Mariposa Fair Bungalow Tent Cabins - Caravan Park, which is a fun change of pace to the traditional hotel. The minimalist property offers free parking, a picnic area, and barbecue grills, but nature is the star here. The basic but comfortable guest tents include complimentary Wi-Fi access, mini fridges, towels, and nightstands. Bathrooms with showers are also provided, giving you everything you need to enjoy a rustic getaway.
Military and government employees can also save at Quality Inn Yosemite Valley Gateway. This Mariposa accommodation has a 24-hour front desk, event space, guest laundry facilities, a spa tub, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary breakfast buffet. Guest rooms include flat-screen TVs with satellite programming, mini fridges, coffee makers, hair dryers, and toiletries.
Another great hotel with special rates is Monarch Inn in Mariposa. Enjoy coffee and tea in the lobby, a complimentary continental breakfast, an outdoor pool, a reception hall, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to skiing. The air-conditioned guest rooms feature mini fridges, microwaves, well-lit desks, coffee makers, hair dryers, toiletries, and shower/tub combinations.
The Mariposa area has many midrange accommodations designed to give you more amenities for your dollar.
Located near Mariposa County Courthouse, Americas Best Value Inn Mariposa Lodge is one of the most affordable options inside the community's limits. This highly rated lodge features a 24-hour front desk, designated smoking areas, ticket assistance, a picnic area, an outdoor pool, a spa tub, complimentary wireless internet access, and ample free parking. The comfortable guest rooms include microwaves, mini refrigerators, private balconies, cable TV, and private bathrooms with hair dryers and complimentary toiletries.
If you don't mind staying farther out, consider Americas Best Value Inn Yosemite South Gate. Situated near Children's Museum of the Sierra, this budget-friendly hotel offers a complimentary continental breakfast, a 24-hour front desk with a safe deposit box, coffee and tea in the lobby, a meeting room, an outdoor pool, a spa tub, ticketing assistance, and a game room. Guest rooms feature complimentary Wi-Fi, cable TV, mini fridges, microwaves, irons, ironing boards, work desks, hair dryers, toiletries, and phones with free local calls.
With so much to do around Mariposa, you may be wondering which attractions are worth adding to the top of your itinerary.
Mariposa Museum and History Center should be your first stop, as this facility gives you a peek into the community's history and lifestyle. Once you've checked out that museum, head to California State Mining and Mineral Museum. Always a hit with the entire family, this mineral museum showcases Mariposa's rich history as a mining town.
Wine lovers should stop by Butterfly Creek Winery and Vineyards for a tasting. Established in 1972, this tried-and-true winery and vineyard is a mainstay in Mariposa, contributing to California's excellent wine options.
Other accommodations worth checking out include Mariposa County's Old Stone Jail, Mariposa Marketplace, and Mariposa Symphony Orchestra.
Exploring Yosemite Valley is a tall order, but it all starts right here in Mariposa. No matter what activities your family enjoys, you can find the perfect hotel to serve as your home base for exploring one of California's most beautiful and intriguing landscapes.
Below are reviews of the city of Mariposa, CA from an actual visitor's perspective.
A historic city well cared for by its community with fun shopping opportunities and very good dining options.
Great places to eat, very clean. Everywhere we visited people were very pleasant.
Mariposa is a gem along Hwy 49. It has many shops and very upscale restaurants and a very nice supermarket. Explore the little side streets to find hidden local spots like Espresso Coffee shop. Great coffee and homemade baked goods!
Old town, shops and a little trail.
Mariposa is a lovely small town with nice eateries, walkable main street and good people.
Easy to walk around and friendly. We enjoyed the Butterfly Parade right outside of our hotel.
Friendly and quaint, the shops and history were enjoyable. Great meal at Savourys, too!
Cute town, good food.