Presentation on Map Reviews Nearby

Yosemite Valley Welcome Center in Yosemite National Park

4.7 (198) 9035 Village Dr, Yosemite Valley, CA 95389, United States

Categories

Visitor center
Tourist attraction
Tourist information center

Location on the map

Yosemite National Park, Mariposa County, California, US

Phone: +1 209-372-0200
Site: https://nps.gov/yose/planyou...

Opening hours

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

Edit info

Total reviews rating 4.7

198 Reviews for Yosemite Valley Welcome Center 2024:

Review №1

2024-06-09 18:05:07

Spent 3 days checking out Yosemite National Park! What an awesome Park. The huge rock formations, the meadows, the water falls, trails and mother nature was definitely worth it. Folks from all over the world was at this park. I recommend coming in early June before things gets really crowd. You may have to make reservation to enter the park if you stay on the outside of the Park. Just a note the temperature can reach up to 95 and above. There is an entrance fee to get in the Park. If you like being outdoors with Nature then Yosemite is the place to be. Enjoy your adventure!

Review №2

2024-05-14 14:19:42

A beautiful welcome center!Decent amount of parking with a 30 minute limit.There are bathrooms here, rangers, and a mini gift shop! Talked to the rangers about where the wildflower super bloom is and she was very knowledgeable.Boards with tons of information about Yosemite.Very locally placed in the park and next to a general shop.

Review №3

2024-06-21 19:21:30

Many paved trails, good photo ops, and eating options near here. Ride the shuttle for free or walk point to point like we did.

Review №4

2024-05-23 19:10:27

Best place in California. Must visit and stay the night to really enjoy the valley . Wake up early to take a walk from Curry village to the visitor center is a must . Bring your bikes if you can .

Review №5

2023-08-07 04:07:46

What can I say that hasn’t already been said about this place. As far as the visitor center, the staff was super helpful. They were able to guide us on a route so we could maximize our limited time in the park. The views are magnificent. There is no wrong direction. Everywhere you go is gorgeous, stunning. Of course I particularly enjoyed the hike up to Nevada Falls. The water is so powerful and I felt so connected to nature here.

Review №6

2024-05-26 15:18:53

Yosemite is well worth a trip. Very beautiful. Be sure to get a permit beforehand though because you cant get in with one (at least on the weekends). Bring your camera and hiking shoes. There is so much to see.

Review №7

2023-07-26 20:17:52

Breathtaking. The drive is one of the best scenic drive Ive been on. The hikes are amazing and the views are the best. I went on a Monday so not that many people and was able to do so much. Get there early to avoid crowds. I recommend getting the national park pass if you go to more than three, it pays for itself.

Review №8

2023-08-17 23:44:33

The Valley visitors center is actually smaller than youd expect, usually very busy (always busy on weekends), and stocked with fun souvenirs. Staff is incredibly patient and helpful with questions of all kinds at both desks. Last time I visited I. August 2023 the exhibit hall was closed for renovations, so Im sure itll be even better once completed. The bookstore has all the usual goodies like magnets, postcards, and books. The park stamp is located right in front of you on the left as you enter.

Review №9

2024-06-04 18:01:12

Love the experience end the views throughout Yosemite national Park!

Review №10

2024-05-22 20:17:50

The view Its breathtaking! I was mesmerized by the beauty of its nature. I got goosebumps just to be in the middle of it as I try to take it all in. Oh what a sight 😍

Review №11

2023-10-23 17:57:55

Enjoyed the center including the video. Very helpful staff. Everything was clean and well kept. Got directions to Yosemite lower falls for the best views

Review №12

2024-05-08 04:13:49

We all should start here at first.Informative, clean and well staffed.

Review №13

2024-02-26 20:49:56

Yosemite never disappoints. It was a beautiful sunny day, a little chilly. Hadnt been in a few years and it just just gorgeous

Review №14

2023-04-27 16:40:44

The ranger helped me figure out the perfect day as a first time visitor with one day to explore. I hiked Yosemite, lower falls and then rented a bike and biked through the whole valley. Wow. There is nothing like Yosemite! Enjoy your trip!!

Review №15

2021-04-20 17:26:02

There aren’t enough positive superlatives to describe this place. Amazing and wonderful would be a start. We visited in mid April and the scenery on our hikes with snow on the mountains and the waterfalls at their fullest did not disappoint!! Park rangers were friendly and helpful. Plenty of parking available and a few places open for lunch. Great value at $35 for entry and this lasts the week. We stayed in nearby mariposa, as camping was fully booked in Yosemite. But the drive there and back was very scenic too.We hiked the mist trail and valley loop, both well sign posted. Quite busy at times up to Vernal falls, especially on the steep steps. Would recommend walking poles and a light rain jacket for when you get to the top of the vernal falls. And lower Yosemite hike is easy and the waterfall is impressive!

Review №16

2023-06-23 07:23:25

Went on the weekend in the middle of June and it was one of the worst experiences I’ve had and I’ve been to Yosemite several times! The crowds of people and traffic in The Valley was awful!!!! Butttt the waterfalls were beautiful and I can’t be mad about that.

Review №17

2024-01-23 03:03:38

Amazing area! Powerfullof Nature Beauty and Majesty!!!!

Review №18

2024-06-04 20:15:19

Obviously loved the park itself, words can’t even describe how beautiful it is. I did just want to shoutout the Welcome Center and how helpful everybody is there. My friends and I went in on two separate occasions and were helped by Margareet and Patty McGee. They were so beyond helpful and so friendly! We could’ve sat there and chatted with them for hours. My only complaint would be that we couldn’t take them on our hikes with us :)

Review №19

2022-09-24 04:21:14

OMG! If you havent been you must go! It was one of the most beautiful natural beauty Ive seen. We seen some wildlife, a coyote, some deer, and a mama bear and her baby. Seeing the bear was a very special highlight.

Review №20

2023-04-09 18:53:10

$35 per vehicle but good for a few days. Beautiful scenario. Worth the trip. Lots of picnic and camping areas.

Review №21

2022-06-22 03:43:15

This is a must do bucket list National Park to visit ! Fantastic waterfalls, views, and visitors center exhibits. Great hikes for all ages, abilities and skill levels. We rode the YARTS bus in, since we couldnt get a car pass reservation, during our trip, which made the experience even better !

Review №22

2023-05-26 14:57:13

Highway 120 to Yosemite Valley is closed due to a huge sink hole,according to the park ranger. We decided to try the Hetch Hetchy Dam road. What a wonderful change of plans! The short,pretty level hike went over the dam,through a mountain tunnel, to two beautiful waterfalls before we came to a spot on the trail where it was a bit too deep to pass to the third waterfall.Be sure to pack food and water,fill up the gas tank in Groveland or before. Wear hiking boots as many with sneakers seemed to slip on the trail at times. Parts of the trail were in full sun so on a hot day,a hat and sunscreen help.

Review №23

2023-11-26 18:07:50

Still closed as of 11/26. But having been in there before, it’s very cool!

Review №24

2022-10-11 12:19:34

Was first time to Yosemite, and the cellular signal wasnt very good, as expected for national parks. I think it might take some time to figure out directions for first timers who want to take a walk in the forest. However, it will be simpler if you drive or take the shuttle bus.Went at the end of summer, and there was only a little water in the fall. Maybe not only the season, but the California drought had some impact.Never take out your food and eat in the forest, there are a lot of bees who are hungry for food!

Review №25

2021-02-13 05:41:08

It was quiet and enjoyable when we stopped there in February 2021. The visitor center itself was closed but the rangers had set up outdoors; behind the building. There were 2 canopies with rangers providing helpful info to visitors of Yosemite.The nearby bathrooms seemed clean but the entrance was a bit flooded due to the snow melting. The surrounding trees were majestic. A place for meditation indeed.

Review №26

2021-03-10 04:46:08

Weve been here three times during the pandemic. We wanted to utilize the reservation feature since it limited the number of park guests. It felt like practically having the park to yourself. The staff was phenomenal, and we loved the junior ranger program. Ive grown up visiting here, and you never run out of sights. Its truly majestic.

Review №27

2021-04-23 01:49:58

WOW! What an amazing place! Something to see in every direction!I cannot wait to go back and see more of its beauty! Thank you Mother Nature for being so good to us on our trip❣🌲🌲🦅🐻🐿🦌🐎

Review №28

2024-06-15 14:12:15

Great place to stop first in the park, especially if its your first visit or if its been awhile since you were in the valley. More for asking rangers questions, signing up for tours and getting the lay of the land figured out vs the visitor center where you can learn about the park.

Review №29

2023-06-11 00:16:56

Loved this place. Waited a good amount of time to get into the park. But it was well worth it.

Review №30

2017-09-26 08:45:45

Not enough time in a life-time to explore such a wilderness wonder. I can clearly see why so many movies have been filmed here. Its just awe inspiring. If you get the chance come here to get back in touch with your wild side.

Review №31

2022-01-27 21:40:52

YOSEMITE!!!! I had to visit this place being at LA. My husband and I finally found the chance to visit in winters. To our surprise, lots of people. You wont need a prior entry pass but you pay up there. Its best to take the year pass if you plan to visit multiple times as one time is 35$ and full year is 70$.Its just so beautiful in snow and cold as well but I am sure aLOTTTT more gorgeous in summer which I cant wait to explore. We stayed near bass lake and took a one day trip to this np. Explored whichever sights were open and hiked a mile to lower Yosemite fall.

Review №32

2023-09-10 20:54:24

Great views, but extremely packed making it hard to find parking.

Review №33

2021-06-23 02:31:16

Yosemite in October. Weather was nice, not to hot. There was no water in the streams and some of the waterfalls were dry too. But always beautiful. Not to crowded this time of year. We did see deer and a bear while visiting the valley. Definitely want to visit in the spring when everything is coming back alive from winter.

Review №34

2019-05-07 22:41:25

So pretty & amazing views! Just wish it wasnt so stinking busy. The hikes here are great with tons to do and see. If you go do your best to not go on a weekend. Too many people we almost spent two hours in bumper to bumper traffic.

Review №35

2022-06-26 07:39:02

Real cool exhibit to learn about and check out while youre in Yosemite. Its free (you can literally go inside and either check out the bookstore on your left or go see the posters and items that they display to your right). A lot of history on display.

Review №36

2018-06-29 06:48:11

Best entrance with today climate and other stuff.tariff details camping details.7 days validity time time car.vendor separate line other annual members and individual. No washroom, map and walk way details provided through maps. In that maps shuttle bus green and violet details. Parking weekend pathetic. No where getting parking. Its really good

Review №37

2022-07-15 13:23:26

Its amazing, all the experience of/and in the valley park is wonderful, joy, fun and knowledge are part you can live on it. All the difficult levels of hike, bike and climb. I think the whole experience is doing camping there.

Review №38

2021-10-13 03:09:56

When you come to Yosemite, you feel peace 🕊️.Although the waterfall is not as promising as Niagra Falls, yet, the stream of water still makes me to appreciate the nature.🥰🥰🥰Parking is convenient. Facility is clean. And it is always a good idea to bring the walking stick when you go hiking on trails.

Review №39

2018-06-24 09:21:16

A place worth visiting at any time of the year. Doesnt matter if it is summer or winter, this place has something new to offer in each season. The views are different. Id encourage people who have visited once to come back during a different season to see what Im talking about. This place relieves me of all the stress I accumulated till that time. A much needed unwinding experience.

Review №40

2022-09-19 06:09:46

If you only have time to visit one place in California make it Yosemite. Its a one of a kind place in the world.If you come in the summer make sure to get reservations. In order to preserve the natural beauty they limit the number of cars and people per day.

Review №41

2022-08-24 04:44:57

My first time to Yosemite and I was scared and I was afraid I was going to be a bear snack. Sebastian put me at ease. He was so wonderful and helpful made my stay very easy. Ryan was also right there whenever I needed anything. You have a wonderful front office staff.

Review №42

2024-06-05 23:35:20

Its hard to imagine that any better spot could exist on the Earth ! If you crave the ultimate in outdoors, nature, national park experience, then THIS is the place! I do suggest that you go there during the work-week though --- because there are just too many people !

Review №43

2023-10-14 16:44:29

Great place. Love Yosemite. Once in a lifetime... but love it so much Ive been twice

Review №44

2023-05-14 11:12:52

They have maps and boards telling you what to do, and how long things take.If youre going for the day Id recommend one of the following hikes Brideveil Falls, Vernall/Nevada falls, Glacier point or Yosemite falls. Definitely need to walk to the lower Yosemite falls to the bridge (not a long walk) for an awesome view... But youll get wet

Review №45

2022-07-09 22:14:04

This town is so different and unique. Fun place to visit for an eye opener. You will be driving from the country road into a unique architecture setting. Your first word is...and your eyes will deceives you for few minutes of mesmerizing. You first taste of Swedish in California.

Review №46

2019-08-03 00:29:27

Thia was amazing with all the information on every attraction. Download the app before you lose service. It can be used without wifi after you download the app. It has bus schedules, and even lets you plan you own route around the park.

Review №47

2019-06-29 03:07:37

I know some time here with my sister. We did a few hikes and got to see some awesome sites. We were fortunate enough to get a campsite at upper pines and did the mirror lake hike at sunrise. We also did the mist trail all the way to Nevada falls and that was spectacular; highly recommended.

Review №48

2023-08-05 22:50:59

Amazing place- the folks who work there are awesome. They are helpful and friendly- even with a the crowds. Views are amazing

Review №49

2023-07-28 14:55:56

We hiked on two routes, the mirror lake and the lower waterfall. The routes are not difficult and the view is very beautiful.

Review №50

2020-08-24 04:05:26

The entire valley was full of smoke, you couldnt see any of the attractions very well. Unless you were 100 feet away or less the walls of the valley were obscured. The store was nice and the Deli had a water bottle filler that I took advantage of. The visitor center had 2 easy ups set up with very helpful staff who answered all the questions I had about the area and the YARTS bus.

Review №51

2023-10-16 02:34:26

Awesome park, need more than one day for see everything.

Review №52

2024-06-30 03:45:10

The best outdoor experience, and very recommended, make sure you have 1-2 days to explore everything

Review №53

2021-04-27 06:49:08

Yosemite was amazing. Beautiful, fresh air, amazing scenery, and overall a great time. It can get a little crowded at points throughout the day, but if you go early enough you should be fine. I am glad I was able to enjoy the time there with family and friends. Be sure to stop and see the different sites, and take your time driving through there to pull off and see as much as possible. Sometimes if you pass a location there is no going back unless you want to drive around the big circle again. So be slow and enjoy.

Review №54

2022-07-09 03:05:02

Nice that its finally open (was closed during COVID, although the Art Gallery and stores were letting people in shoulder-to-shoulder), and neat to see the relief map of the entire valley! 🏞Def recommend the Junior Ranger program -- check the schedule for when to have a Ranger swear them in as Jr Rangers!!

Review №55

2019-04-05 00:46:29

If you can visit this place, you would not regret it! Is really famous because this place have an amazing forest, big old sequoias trees, the tunnel view is the best. Also you can do camping, or stayed all weekend in the hotel, it got museums, stores, Ansel Adams gallery, and is a really peaceful place. Dont forget the amazing waterfalls!

Review №56

2020-09-29 19:49:42

I love when that they have an amazing covid safe way to purchase items. Here you can get your favorite passport book items, stickers, apparel, mugs, and stuffed animals. You walk up to the window, give the very nice ladies the number that you want to purchase which is nicely displayed with numbers in a case. You pay at the station, contact free from the cashier. They prepare your items and meet you at a table with your purchases. Such a well organized way to make your purchase.

Review №57

2021-05-24 20:08:08

Even though Covid limits some services it was a special experience. We just made the cutoff now people need to get reservation tickets online. So glad we missed that!

Review №58

2022-07-21 07:44:10

As always, I spent a over an hour reading and watching the introduction about Yosemite National Park, the content most attracted to me was the rock climbing intros for Yosemite El Capitan, I watched award winning documentary Free Solo a few years ago, and was so impressed by Alex Honnold’s record breaking adventure. It was a living proof that human spirit has no bound!! I took a bunch of photos of the intro and am sharing here! Hope you Would enjoy as much as I did. Cheers!

Review №59

2022-06-20 22:43:10

This park is absolutely incredible. The shuttles and maps make everything easy to navigate. Theres something for every skill level.

Review №60

2020-11-17 18:00:21

Stop here for information on hike routes, duration, and difficulty. The library, gift stores, food court, coffee, and Ansel Adams photographic art studio is all found here.Pro tip:. This is a great place to take a stroll on level surfaces and is wheelchair accessible.

Review №61

2021-07-02 14:23:38

Parking lot and visitor center, you need reservations to enter Yosemite.The national park is beautiful and awesome, but visitor center and many concessions are operating with limited service. Also there was a heat wave.The park itself gets 5⭐️, it is beyond amazing.

Review №62

2022-12-05 00:22:54

Definitely a must visit during fall. Light snow, beautiful color trees but some areas are closed during fall so you won’t be able see all of the trails but it’s the best time to visit so you can avoid the rush

Review №63

2023-03-05 21:20:27

We were there in earlt February. First time to Yoaemite, and it did not disappoint. RANGERS were helpful in giving us ideas on what to do. Had an amazing photo tour with Mike at Ansel Adams. Looking forward to going back .

Review №64

2019-06-08 04:04:47

Very nice place. You can spend days together here. If you have less time cycling is good option to cover lot of place. Bus helps but u loose some time waiting for the bus. Vernal falls was the best for me

Review №65

2019-09-22 14:34:36

Been here so many times but still a amazing place to visit! We done a little hike from here and get a very clear information and detection guide to our trail! We enjoyed!

Review №66

2024-06-12 22:05:11

The welcome center had a small gift shop. Rangers were available to answer questions, give advice and suggestions.Near here are restrooms and a small store/market.

Review №67

2023-07-25 14:10:05

Beautiful place. Was speechless the whole day. Waterfalls are amazing and there are many trails that you can do. Just be mindful that each trail is about 1 hr

Review №68

2021-10-02 12:01:21

We were there to hike half dome. Arrived 1 am due to heavy traffic. We were able to check in quickly, they had 24 hours service, stayed in curry village. Everything was great. Dont forget your permit, they are checking at the subdome. After the hike - pizza place very popular but the line moved fast.

Review №69

2019-10-22 09:57:51

Definatly a must go place when in California. Entry ticket is 30-35 USD but ots worth going and check out the gaint trees out there and you will get to see all the wildlife as well.

Review №70

2020-07-19 16:01:41

Stunning views of huge granite cliffs, lush green forests, a river running right though the middle. The bike path around the valley floor was very fun.

Review №71

2021-03-13 20:02:09

Definitely need to experience this place at least once. Beautiful scenery and the park staff is friendly and helpful.

Review №72

2023-06-20 17:51:46

Fascinating!!!! Beautiful!!! Wonderful Escenary for Hiking!!!! Enjoying this nature makes you feel so good.

Review №73

2021-04-13 06:11:41

I strongly recommend visiting Yosemite National Park! Absolutely breathtaking and had sooo much more things to see than I ever imaged! The people in the park & in town at Oakhurst (where we stayed at the Best Western & drove up the 41 to the park) were so friendly! I recommend staying at a hotel in Oakhurst (then driving up the 41 to the park) or even somewhere close in the park itself to see everything there is in the park (currently not everything is re-opened in the park due to Covid, but it is the nature that is most important to experience!). I recommend doing the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad tour since it is up & running, they offer box lunches, the people are so friendly & is super fun! Great for the whole family. With covid its hard to find things that are open, safe to do & needed a trip away from the city for my mental health! To sum it up in one word; transformative!

Review №74

2020-10-28 22:07:02

Had the pleasure of speaking with some highly knowledgeable Yosemite Rangers. Although, they probably have heard my questions many times over, I appreciate their sincerity. Also wanted to mention how respectful the Rangers are when they approach you, to verify your wilderness permit.

Review №75

2022-12-24 18:01:39

Perfectly located and very well maintained facility. Ample of parking space. Good food as well.

Review №76

2023-08-23 01:22:25

I love this park. Great scenery, great hikes. $35 personal car entry.

Review №77

2023-07-16 02:06:41

Yosemite park is a must watch and one of the beautiful places that we have visited.

Review №78

2022-07-17 17:41:42

Great place to visit! Absolutely amazing experience forvthe whole family!

Review №79

2022-09-09 05:58:04

Stunning place. been there for one day and i wait to come back to see more

Review №80

2017-07-16 01:04:47

Beautiful. It has 2 buses, one green that runs in every 10 mins in yosemite valley.Other, dark brown that runs for el capitan.People are good. Have rooms to stay.

Review №81

2019-05-06 08:08:05

Besides the crowd, its an amazing place to be at. Think Disneyland for the nature lover. Park rangers at the visitor centers are lovely, helpful and very very welcoming.So listen to them when they speak. Stay on the trails, keep the park clean and leave it better than when you arrive.

Review №82

2022-09-15 20:38:44

The Yosemite visitors center was pretty cool. It has plenty of good information you should have when visiting the Park. The Paul rangers were kind and knowledgeable!

Review №83

2024-06-26 13:23:11

An abundance of helpful resources, rangers and helpful volunteers. Best place to start your visit to Yosemite.

Review №84

2024-05-23 13:44:34

Ranger gave us great advice and marked up a map for planning our exploration via ebikes and walking around the valley.

Review №85

2023-06-14 22:21:42

Great place for info and to sign up for tours and campsites. Also very informative on the trails.

Review №86

2020-01-30 00:58:15

Do you need a new desktop background? Then look no farther! Stop Photoshoping yourself into beautiful places when you can just go there for a mere $35.Seriously, go there. Learn about the geology that formed this cool place. Appreciate nature and how long it takes to do the things to make this beautiful world we live in.It was on my bucket list far too long. I already want to go again.

Review №87

2018-09-12 00:27:37

You can get all information about Yosemite from visitor center. They operate from 9.00am to 5.00pm. Kids will get a clear idea about different types of rocks and textures. The big exhibit of burning tree gives a clear idea of wildfire. They have a theater and a small store inside the visiting center. Outside the visiting center park ranger comes in specific time and explain the kids about rock patterns, different wild life of Yosemite National Park, etc.They have junior ranger program too. The only reason I am knocking down one star is, we have to pay for the junior ranger booklet to do the program. All other national parks provide it.

Review №88

2018-02-21 16:30:48

What an amazing experience this is! Please follow your heart and GO to the mountains. If youre near central California, you MUST visit Yosemite at least one time in your life; or as many times as you can. You will not be disappointed with the happiness that you will feel as you experience the beautiful nature.

Review №89

2022-04-01 19:47:50

What a great trip! We saw only a small amount of what is there... cant wait to go back!

Review №90

2023-12-25 17:26:41

Great place to start your trip. Has various maps on display, some you can buy and they have very friendly and knowledgeable people there that can answer any questions you have. Public bathrooms, the Valley Market is right nextdoor. Very nice place.

Review №91

2019-07-27 23:22:07

OMG this place is amazing!!!!! Its such a beautiful place to go to. One thing tho, the shuttles r a little bit packed so ur gonna be a little bit squished. Other than that its an AMAZING PLACE!!!!!

Review №92

2024-02-16 17:53:55

Nice, but not a big selection of souvenirs. Head to the Village Store if youre looking for a larger selection of shirts, hats, hoodies, mugs, magnets, etc.

Review №93

2020-02-05 19:04:32

This is a great place to start your trip into Yosemite Valley. Have kids 13 & under? Check out the “Jr Ranger Program”! You start by purchasing a $3 booklet at the visitors center, completing some tasks/activities/ranger walk, and kids are then sworn in as a jr ranger, and receive a jr ranger patch and a jr ranger wooden pin/tack. Excellent for bragging rights! Totally worth the $3 investment.All visitors can enjoy the touchable brass topographical map just inside the doors, to help orient you to the valley floor layout. It’s cool! Look for El Capitan & Half Dome; we left plenty of cooties all over those. Head to the right to enjoy a little walk-through, educational, self guided tour to learn more about Yosemite. It has tagged boulders that show which types of rocks are present in the valley (geology nerds, unite!) and so much more.Next door is the Indian museum, where the docent just might let you hold a piece of rainbow obsidian if you ask reeeeeeeeally nicely. If you enjoy stories of stubborn people triumphing, check out the story of the Indian motorcycle that sits in the museum, and giggle with me.The rangers are friendly and knowledgeable. I recommend asking them about whichever hikes you’re hoping to hit up on your trip, since they will be most familiar with any secret spots or unexpected hiccups during whatever time of year you visit.And please, people... don’t litter in the park! Part of the jr ranger program includes picking up trash and throwing it away, and I was amazed at how easy it was to find trash blowing around in a NATIONAL PARK! Respect, folks- even if you’re not an environmentalist, I’m sure you consider yourself “decent”. Hang on to your status by chasing after your trash if it blows out of your hands. It’s not that hard!And DON’T feed the ANIMALS! Check out the bear video in the visitor’s center for a laugh and a healthy dose of “don’t leave your chips on your dash”.Enjoy!

Review №94

2024-05-02 12:03:55

Too Good to describe, It’s nature countless bountiful beauty everywhere . Falls or mountain look magnificent .

Review №95

2023-08-07 22:50:26

Yosemite !! You have to see it to believe it. With 7000 ft waterfall and plenty of hiking trails it’s definitely worth the hype

Review №96

2024-01-22 03:38:22

Really amazing views. Take your time on the drive and enjoy. When looking for the welcom center, follow the signs for Yosimite Village. Google doesnt take you the correct way close to the lodge.

Review №97

2019-08-11 16:01:27

Stopped by the valley on our way to Mammoth Lakes. Its the middle of summer in late July and the valley was packed to the tilt. We finally got lucky and found a parking spot by the road and enjoyed our picnic lunch looking over the Yosemite falls. Half-Dome was a majestic as ever, and I highly recommend anyone to watch the move Free Solo. I mean, looking at the Half Dome while thinking that a man can scale it without any safety harnesses is just incredible.

Review №98

2024-05-21 04:53:52

It was formerly valley visitor center and changed to exploration center on Nov 2023. It has never been named as welcome center. That is another location. Apparently this misinformation messed up visitors using Google map that even guide reversing one way and lose 20+mins as of May 2024.

Review №99

2019-05-16 23:17:03

The Yosemite Valley Visitor Centre is in the middle of the village in the Yosemite Valley. It is nestled between the Ansel Adam Gallery and Yosemite Museum and is open from 9-5pm daily.This is the main resource in the Valley for information related to trail, campground area and road conditions to other areas of the Yosemite National Park. There are rangers on hand for you to ask questions you might have. You can also pick up maps and park news leaflet here at the visitor centre.At the centre there are water refill facets, bathrooms, a book and gift shop as well an exhibit hall dedicated to education. Here you find exhibitions relating to natural history, flora & fauna, geographical formations of the valley, sequoias in the Mariposa area, Native American settlement in the Valley, pioneer arrivals into valley as well as the establishment of Yosemite as one of the first national parks in the United States.Just outside the back of the Visitor Centre is an auditorium where short 20+ minute films are shown providing a background and visual representation of Yosemite National Park.Note that there is no parking in the immediate area of the Visitor Centre. Best to park n the large lot off of Northside Drive and walk to the visitor centre probably 400 metres away.

Review №100

2021-08-26 18:01:04

You should be prepared to do a lot of hiking. Always carry water and may be a towel since the Sun will kiss you a lot 😁. It is truly a experience. Than any other National Forest I visited this is the one which gives the experience of being inside a forest.

Review №101

2019-08-31 20:47:27

Avoid if you can, extremely busy and parking is tough. Was there Monday and Tuesday and still tough to get parking. Beautiful park though!

Review №102

2024-06-12 15:03:51

Good place to start your visit of the park. Best place to get on the shuttle bus.

Review №103

2019-07-13 23:16:22

Awesome! A womderful place God created for all creatures on earth. The variety of landsacpe tell the stories of the planet.

Review №104

2022-08-30 22:07:22

Experienced rangers here are very helpful recommending hikes and giving other information about the valley. Signboards outside show photos with maps of various trails.

Review №105

2018-10-20 22:31:14

Very helpful people will advise you where to go and what to see if you’re only for a day. There is a little museum inside, you can learn some interesting facts about this place. Yosemite Valley/Scenic Views are situated within a walking distance from visitor center. You can also stay here if you book a cabin in advance. Beautiful nature, very impressive mountains and falls. You can meet some wild animals on your way.

Review №106

2022-08-25 21:18:54

Nice Indian village and small exhibition about the history of the valley. If you have the time stop by, but I recommend enjoying the outdoors more than the museum.

Review №107

2020-01-02 20:59:29

Walking from the parking to the visitor center, there are lots of signs with information about Yosemite; trails, weather, general park information,...Went to have a look in the visitor center itself and there was a huge line to the counter.There was a nice souvenir shop as well a small free and interactive museum about the erosions that resulted into Yosemite.

Review №108

2023-02-23 05:10:03

Most sites are closed due to weather but worth the drive serene view with waterfalls...experienced 1 load rock fall. Enjoy and plan accordingly

Review №109

2022-06-22 22:10:21

Visited the Indian Visitor Center.. Talked with, Ranger Benjamin Cunnin..how was very helpful in a small personal tour of the Visitors Area.

Review №110

2019-06-01 13:36:09

Its such a nice thing to get away from the hustle and bustle of a big city and escape to the woods. Yosemite takes that every further with gorgeous jaw dropping views. The park is very well maintained as well.

Review №111

2022-05-27 15:10:29

Learn about the park and the history behind it. Also see the world famous climbing mecca this park has turned into.

Review №112

2022-04-17 16:23:21

What a beautiful National Park😍. I had a great time in this park. Yosemite is my Top 5 National Park!

Review №113

2020-01-17 04:10:13

Good place for first time visitors or people who’re not prepared much for travel.They have the most updated trails info & can help out with finding other places in the park.- The place also has a good information side where you can learn about history of Yosemite and the ahwahnee people who lived here.- They also have two movies playing throughout the day about Yosemite. Nice to check out and good place to relax your legs between hikes.- They also have a Yosemite conservancy bookstore which is quite nice but pricey. (Check our the village stores for souvenirs)

Review №114

2019-03-17 18:05:00

Awesome as always, nice and quite this last trip at the end of February. It was super pretty with the Yosemite valley cover in snow

Review №115

2019-06-26 05:18:20

What a great park! Although it was very crowded, I met some great people to hike with on the trails. Everyone was very friendly.

Review №116

2020-08-26 18:42:32

Yosemite is one of the most amazing places that Ive been. Its why I keep coming back more than to any other place. Its worth the drive. Its worth the flight. Its worth the trek, by whatever means are needed to get you there.Your first drive in will make you wonder if youve been transported to Tolkeins Middle Earth.

Review №117

2022-12-31 16:35:15

Nice place to visit, it will take 1 full day to visit all places.

Review №118

2023-08-01 13:56:58

The visitor’s center has so much information about the Yosemite Valley. A must see/stop while in the park.

Review №119

2023-10-16 01:04:21

Just visited in mid-October. This visitor center provides great information from the Rangers BUT only if you can get to it without getting lost! It is easily reached via shuttle at stop #5. However, if you are driving there, it’s very easy to miss it because it is actually hidden inside the village. The road was closed when we were there driving on our own. You actually just need to park at the village store parking lot on Valley drive and walk to it.

Review №120

2019-07-17 03:43:11

Natural beauty. If you like giant waterfalls, valley views, and everything in between you owe yourself a visit. Just dont forget the bug spray.🦟🦟😫🦟🦟

Review №121

2024-01-07 19:03:44

Unfortunately there are several parts of this that are closed for repairs, or deeding upgrades, or for staff shortages. The staff there were friendly, helpful and extremely knowledgeable. This is (nevertheless) an excellent place to start your visit to the park.

Review №122

2022-08-03 00:22:41

Very friendly visitor centre with an interesting museum attached. Staff extremely helpful in suggesting easy walking routes and good spots for swimming.

Review №123

2020-12-04 06:23:19

What a cool village! We saw a coyote trot through while we talked to the ranger! And its literally cooler in the valleyIf youre going to a national park, please remember its your world and pick up a couple pieces of trash to make up for those who are trash.

Review №124

2023-09-16 13:46:24

We had fun visiting Yosemite last year. Its recommended to get tickets ahead of time and book hotel nearby.

Review №125

2023-10-24 01:41:19

While the visitor center wasnt actually open the rangers/volunteers outside the visitor center were very helpful!! We received our junior ranger books and we were able to complete them and receive our badges at the information booths outside. It was a gorgeous day in Mid October, not sure what it would be like if the weather wasnt nice but still very helpful Im sure. Glad they were there to help!!

Review №126

2018-12-05 23:56:37

I’ve visited the park in winter, less tourist, less traffic and absolutely beautiful. Many palces closed in the winter but there are still lot more places to explore.

Review №127

2022-05-24 13:41:55

Disappointed as to how “America’s biggest treasure” visitor center should be! Very limited collection of souvenirs

Review №128

2022-07-10 23:12:16

It’s a nice place for getting some food, water and clean restrooms! You can grab some maps or information there. The rangers are so friendly to help!

Review №129

2021-11-30 01:30:04

Family fun. The only thing we didnt count on was having to pay for the junior ranger books for the kids. All of the other national parks we have visited theyve been free. Didnt slow us down from appreciating the beauty of the park

Review №130

2024-03-10 22:47:13

Helpful staff and great facilities. The road signage needs review as we struggled to locate the centre and find the road entrance.

Review №131

2017-07-24 05:50:27

Absolutely amazing national park. The rangers were very helpful and friendly. The views were breathtaking and there was an endless list of things to see and do. I wish we couldve stayed longer. This was my first time visiting Yosemite and I definitely plan on coming back in the future.

Review №132

2016-08-31 06:50:43

The visitor centre is where you get your tickets to go on paid chattels. We took the the Yosemite Floor Valley Chattle which provided an insight into the history of the Yosemite National Park. The park is amazing and it is a must see one.

Review №133

2018-07-22 01:11:32

Visitor Centers & MuseumsValley Visitor Center (all year): Ranger-staffed information desk, bookstore, Spirit of Yosemite film, and exhibit hall detailing the parks geology, plant and animal life, and history.Valley Wilderness Center (May to October): Offers wilderness permits, bear canisters, maps, and guidebooks. Information on pre-trip planning, minimum-impact camping, and the Yosemite Wilderness.Yosemite Museum (all year): The Indian Cultural Exhibit and Village interprets the cultural history of Yosemites native Miwok and Paiute people from 1850 to the present. Demonstrations of traditional skills are presented. The Gallery offers art exhibits periodically throught the year.Happy Isles Art and Nature Center (May to September): Designed for nature-exploring families, this center offers natural history exhibits, interactive displays, and art workshops. Nearby are short trails through the area’s forest, river, and fen environments. Evidence of the huge 1996 rockfall from the Glacier Point cliff is visible above.Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center, formerly LeConte Memorial Lodge (late May to early September): Yosemites first public visitor center, operated by the Sierra Club, features a childrens corner, library, and a variety of environmental education and evening programs.

Review №134

2023-11-30 18:16:12

The rangers there are great, theyre friendly and they know their stuff. When you put in Yosemite Visitor Center to Google maps, this is the place that pulls up, which can be confusing. Also, some of the roads around the welcome center are closed which makes it harder to find with Google maps and the signage isnt great in the park but its a good place to stop for info on the trails.

Review №135

2022-01-18 08:16:50

One of the best of a few places that is beyond beautiful in any season. A must visit!!

Review №136

2021-05-29 21:07:53

Lots of really cool info. Cant believe how old those sequoias are

Review №137

2021-09-24 17:03:04

Yosemite is always wonderful. However at this time covid and drought have made their impacts. No crowds!

Review №138

2022-02-07 03:50:26

Never enough time, I could spend every day in the park. Just part of a 2.5 day trip

Review №139

2018-05-20 01:48:11

This is the main visitors center. A great spot to get the gifts and learn about the park. They also have park rangers to answer all of your questions. There are also restooms and water just outside the visitors center. This is the heart of the village and you can walk to some of the other store/restaurants. There are a number of tram/bus stops by this location. Enjoy your time in the park.

Review №140

2017-07-24 15:23:12

This was a fantastic visitor center. With the main exhibits, Native American museum, and a fantastic tour on one of the trams, it was a well rounded and enjoyable experience. For my younger brother, the Junior Rangers experience was very involved and fun. The bathrooms were the only part of the experience that didnt blow me away, but I recognize they are doing renovations to that area soon.

Review №141

2019-11-17 16:14:06

Wonderful..but going at the end of fall season is a pretty bad idea..will be visiting again in spring..cheers

Review №142

2021-06-12 02:07:44

First time visiting Yosemite. It was so beautiful! The timing was perfect what with the limited capacity, and reservations required.

Review №143

2022-08-09 02:59:48

Very good center to learn more about the redwoods, their fire resistance, wildlife in Yosemite . Last time we visited the visitor center was easily accessible. This time because they changed the traffic flow we kept driving the valley loop so many times but couldnt find the visitor center parking. Gps is not correct for that location. So, look for the boards there.

Review №144

2022-01-17 01:29:47

Went again this winter and had yet another amazing experience

Review №145

2019-07-25 02:33:19

Awesome place, everyone who works are very friendly and knowledgeable about the park

Review №146

2020-02-27 04:15:48

Beautiful landscapes, nature at its best. Spend a few days if you can discovering the various trails of the valley. If its snowed well, dont miss the firefall at horsetail falls in the third week of Feb.

Review №147

2020-01-02 14:14:42

Yosemite is my favorite national park to date!!! It is like no other place in NorthAmerica! The visitor center is great, very informative and the park staff will gladly help in whichever way they can! The only down side to Yosemite is you’ll always leave wishing you had more time to spend here!!!

Review №148

2021-06-17 00:12:53

Just there for our 19th annual girls weekend. Absolutely love it ...never get tired of it!!

Review №149

2021-06-13 00:39:06

You need reservations to I go the park. Camping will get you into the park. Visitor center has maps and general understanding of park. Restrooms and Rangers nearby. Make this a must stop to get a handle if first time. Also, NO CELL SERVICE AT THIS POINT.

Review №150

2023-02-22 19:53:59

Great place take a bike to be able see more. Then just walking. Take proper type of bike footwear and clothing. For weather conditions

Review №151

2020-07-08 14:05:41

The most beautiful place on earth! Everyone should go and walk the footsteps of John Muir.

Review №152

2018-08-15 16:36:49

Helpful staff, very knowledgeable about Park... Shame about wildfires. Couldnt quite see some of the best landmarks.

Review №153

2023-10-15 22:01:39

We’ve been here with a lot of searching work. The road to the visitor center is hard to find. When we got here, lot’s of things were closed because of previous winter storms. They were rebuilding some things. To bad for us, but it was something that was much needed to happen.Great gift shop, and friendly people working here. Enjoyed the time here.

Review №154

2022-06-20 23:17:31

Wonderful place, staff was great, just seems likes everyone wants to be there. And its obvious why

Review №155

2020-08-15 04:11:45

Every Ranger you meet at Yosemite is an absolute class act! Everyone there is incredibly well informed and friendly. I cannot wait to return to the park again just for the small interactions with the Park Rangers!

Review №156

2021-04-29 13:48:40

Parking is complicated and far away. Food choices scarce. But the views around are amazing.

Review №157

2022-06-14 21:00:52

This place is super helpful . I wasnt sure on where to go or what hike to do but the staff there are super knowledgeable. All rangers in uniform will always be your best bet for a great breakdown on all the different paths.

Review №158

2024-03-11 05:46:30

Its an updated visitor center with good displays that kids enjoy and lots to learn about the valley.

Review №159

2021-10-17 04:48:32

Our family loved it here. We should have arrived earlier so we could enjoy it more.

Review №160

2023-07-02 16:28:39

What a disappointing yet breathtaking experience! We arrived early and it still took an hour to enter the park. Once in we were told there was no parking in the village and we had to park on the street outside the main loop. We were told we had to either walk or take a shuttle… We spent at least 4-5 hours of our day walking to the shuttle stops, waiting for shuttles, and riding shuttles that were inhumanely STUFFED with people. Usually having to wait for 6 shuttles to come before getting to board. We had no time to visit many parts of the park and were unable to walk all of the distances.This is a beautiful park, gorgeous, one of the most beautiful I’ve seen with the waterfalls etc.. But the number of people and the logistics of the park almost completely ruined the experience, There needs to be timed entry or reservations, always! Navigating the park was nearly impossible unless you plan on walking the whole park.

Review №161

2016-07-31 22:18:09

Spectacular views and plenty of photo ops. Recommend the lower Yosemite Falls trail at least. Would love to camp there if I ever have the chance.

Review №162

2017-01-17 22:33:44

Friendly and helpful staff, very professional. Got free map and national park brochure here. Souvenir shop and public restroom available.

Review №163

2023-05-12 20:53:52

The guides were very helpful and recommended some great trails! We took their advice and went on the Columbia Rock trail for a moderate one under 2hrs.Removed a star because trying to find the parking lot on Google Maps was next to impossible. We drove in circles and couldn’t find it! I suggest putting the gift shop address into the map as there is a massive parking lot behind there, then it’s an easy walk to the visitor centre.

Review №164

2019-05-15 11:13:28

One of the most incredible places on earth and certainly the best national park in the US! Love it here! Just make sure you plan your route in and out and check for road closures to avoid unplanned detours!

Review №165

2017-08-15 17:55:52

Really crowded! There was no ranger when we entered the park this morning, so we didnt get a map. The visitor center is hard to find. Parking is a mess. We had to come to get a map. We had to make the long line just to get one. Two rangers are answering questions which is good, but three would get people in and out faster. Bathrooms are disgusting, clogged toilets, no toilet paper, not enough stalls. Expect a log wait for everything.

Review №166

2024-03-17 03:16:02

Helpful. A lot of places in Yosemite are closed during this time of year, but they were open.

Review №167

2018-05-06 14:56:59

Outstanding place to visit. A must see sometime in your life. I suggest you use the buss system.

Review №168

2019-04-20 20:35:24

Very pleasant and beautiful place to visit. There are many different things to see like mountains, waterfalls, a museum.

Review №169

2022-06-10 22:53:00

Great place to take first time visitors to the park and children to learn about the history and formation of Yosemite Valley.The visitor center very interesting.

Review №170

2020-09-06 23:13:17

The visitor center is good to visit first before it gets crowded and theres a good lunch place there that is open during the Corona chaos....

Review №171

2023-05-07 18:57:46

Need about 10 mins walk from parking. Dont navigate to visitor center, make sure you set destination to parking.D area is the closest area to go to visitor center.

Review №172

2022-09-21 22:53:00

Stop by the Pizza place in Curry Village you will not be disappointed. Don’t forget to take pictures of the view while you are out here

Review №173

2024-02-14 00:42:29

Yosemite Never Disappoints...

Review №174

2023-09-11 18:53:22

The park was beautiful. The ticket both attendant was very rude. The first guy overcharged us. He charged 70 dallars for one car its posted 35 per car.We realized after driving off.We turned around and went back to the same booth had to walk there actually. But there was a new attendant and she was off from the start. She was unpleasant it seemed on purpose. She gave us a refund but not before she treated us like criminals first. It almost ruined the day before it got started. Check your ticket before driving away from the booth. And dont bother asking any employee anything unless you want to be treated badly.And the toilets are so disgusting a nightmare .

Review №175

2019-08-26 06:12:25

Great place to visit have feel the peace of what God created this world to be like

Review №176

2020-01-05 14:58:53

Toller Park. High season could be tricky due to too much visitors.

Review №177

2020-02-25 05:56:26

I should have choose this as the first stop. To have a look at the actual 3D trail. So that I would know the difficulty level.

Review №178

2022-02-10 03:23:38

A magnificent nature place that you cannot miss if you visit the west coast .

Review №179

2023-07-20 16:29:10

Yosemite is amazing! Its truly worth the hype! The visitor center gets one less star because they really dont have a variety of post cards for my kids or other things. The money spent here goes towards the park, but they dont have much to spend money on. Kind people and informative videos.

Review №180

2019-09-30 17:01:46

Its good for a quick stop for the kids to see something indoors. There was only one person at the info desk and a looong line of people waiting. Very disappointing that we couldnt get help. They really need to staff it better.

Review №181

2023-10-15 03:04:54

Too many cuts to services. The restaurant and cafeteria foods are mostly reheated frozen food. Eat outside the park! Or bring your own... Cant count on the free shuttles either.

Review №182

2023-07-19 02:53:00

Huge challenge just finding a parking spot there. Not all follow the 30 min parking rule. Well it’s gets so crowded in there 30 min might not be sufficient. Very commercialized. It’s better to plan ahead bring the essentials with you rather than at the center.

Review №183

2020-10-07 03:31:02

Beautiful Yosemite must see place to visit.

Review №184

2023-06-15 17:20:42

Enjoyed the beautiful weather fresh air hiking & water falls

Review №185

2019-08-16 02:04:07

The visitors center is great, but the massive crowds definitely take away from the experience. My advice, visit during non-peak periods but not sure when that is!

Review №186

2023-02-07 22:06:35

So much of Gods beauty.....

Review №187

2021-05-05 20:57:41

This National Park should be on everyone bucket list! Breathtaking!!!

Review №188

2023-07-24 00:52:45

I was kind of disappointed with this visitors center. I’d read it was the biggest, and so I thought it would have the best selection of souvenirs and information. But it only has a small bookstore with a very limited selection of items. And the parking lot to the facility was completely full two days in a row. I ended up parking elsewhere and taking the one way shuttle that is 1 hr 20 mins. to make the loop. So it was a complete waste of too much time. I think the Wawona visitor center was much better & I recommend visiting that one instead.

Review №189

2019-09-15 14:36:13

BEAUTIFUL. The views and sights are amazing. Stay until sunset and hear all the nature around you. Sit by a creek and eat lunch. This is a GREAT spot to reconnect with nature. Everyone should see this place at some point in their life.

Review №190

2020-03-18 08:05:32

Most gorgeous National Park weve ever been to!!!

Review №191

2023-08-13 13:36:17

Not as big as I expected. The people at the desk are super helpful with any information though. If you are looking to buy any souvenirs or anything of that sort, there is a much bigger collection at the village store 5 buildings away than at the visitor center.

Review №192

2019-12-23 21:59:58

Very informative place on the Indians at Yosemite valley. They have some handmade Indian jewelry and bags for purchase. The visitor center also has very detailed explanation of the formation of the Yosemite Valley. The theatre screens short documentaries regarding the start of the National Park system by Teddy Roosevelt inspired by John Muir.

Review №193

2023-11-26 21:47:05

Even on a cold, rainy day the Welcome Center made a nice memory of Yosemite.

Review №194

2021-08-17 05:28:23

Beautiful, lots of trails, nice lake for swimming!

Review №195

2021-08-17 05:02:34

Currently, due to COVID-19, theres no indoor service available. Information center is at outside camp.The way to purchase at bookstore is also quite different. You have to choose the items at display windows and memorize 3-digit numbers to order at window. After you pay, theyll put your order at pick-up table.

Review №196

2022-10-25 19:49:22

I just love the Yosemite Valley area. So much to do and fall is a great time to visit too.

Review №197

2023-06-19 16:39:10

Love Yosemite, and the visitor center was a busy place on the day i visited. The restrooms were port a potty out back. There were too many people in the store to move around well. So I didnt buy anything.

Review №198

2021-12-12 08:15:53

Best place tp ge some gift.