Things to do in Yosemite National Park

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Photo provided by Ben Gepp
Photo provided by Ben Gepp
Photo provided by Ben Gepp
Photo provided by Ben Gepp
Photo provided by fotojoy
Photo provided by fotojoy
Yosemite National Park featuring mountains and forests
Photo provided by fotojoy
Photo provided by fotojoy
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Yosemite National Park must see attractions

1. Yosemite Valley

Yosemite Valley is the emerald green heart of Yosemite National Park. Marvel at the soaring granite walls, including some of the park’s most iconic landmarks, flanking this 8-mile (13-kilometer) canyon.
Learn more
Yosemite Valley featuring a waterfall and mountains

2. Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an area of extraordinary natural beauty in the center of California. It has abundant flora and fauna in addition to majestic mountains, giant trees, vast valleys and peaceful lakes. Every year, millions of travelers visit the park, which stretches across 747,956 acres (302,687 hectares). Glaciers formed the fascinating landscape about 1 million years ago.
Learn more
Yosemite Falls showing a waterfall and mountains

3. Yosemite Falls

Yosemite National Park sets the bar high for magnificent natural beauty, but Yosemite Falls is indisputably one of its most striking features. This towering waterfall is one of the highest in North America. Water plunges a total of 2,425 feet (739 meters) from top to bottom of Yosemite Falls in three distinct sections.
Learn more
Yosemite Falls showing a waterfall and mountains

4. El Capitan

El Capitan is one of Yosemite National Park’s best-known features, rising sharply from the valley floor in a spectacular precipitous formation. Translating to “the captain” in Spanish, El Capitan looks out over the magnificent valley and dares rock climbers and hikers to reach its dizzying peaks. See the mesmerizing rock face from one of several roads that wind through the western part of Yosemite Valley or grab your climbing equipment and tackle “El Cap” yourself.
Learn more
El Capitan which includes forest scenes and a gorge or canyon

5. Yosemite Visitor Center

Yosemite Visitor Center presents a superb introduction to the history and majestic scenery of Yosemite National Park. The center is many people’s first port of call when visiting the park. Come here to chat with knowledgeable rangers and plan your discovery of the park and valley. Find interactive exhibits that highlight the park’s varied geological features, vegetation and wildlife.
Learn more
Yosemite Visitor Center featuring interior views

6. Glacier Point

Enjoy one of Yosemite National Park’s most enthralling views from Glacier Point, an outlook area that presents a sweeping scenic vista. See some of the Yosemite Valley’s most distinctive landmarks from the viewing area and go hiking, bird watching, stargazing or cross-country skiing in the majestic surrounding landscape.
Learn more
Glacier Point which includes tranquil scenes, a cascade and landscape views

What to do in Yosemite National Park

Discover the most popular places to visit in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Valley featuring a waterfall and mountains

Yosemite Valley

5/5(1,197 reviews)

From Yosemite Falls to Half Dome and El Capitan, you can see some of the most stunning scenery in the world from Yosemite National Park’s central valley.

Yosemite Valley
Yosemite Falls showing a waterfall and mountains

Yosemite Falls

4.5/5(987 reviews)

You may hear these thundering falls, which are among the top 10 tallest in the world, before you see them in California’s Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite Falls
El Capitan which includes forest scenes and a gorge or canyon

El Capitan

5/5(896 reviews)

Experience the enormity of Yosemite Valley’s glacially carved granite peaks when you gaze upon this distinctive formation and rock-climbing landmark.

El Capitan
Half Dome

Half Dome

5/5(321 reviews)

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Half Dome during your travels in Yosemite National Park. Amble around the area's riverfront or seek out the hiking trails.

Half Dome
Yosemite Visitor Center featuring interior views

Yosemite Visitor Center

4.5/5(395 reviews)

Discover the geological history of the Yosemite Valley, pick up trail maps and shop for souvenirs at this portal to Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite Visitor Center
Glacier Point which includes tranquil scenes, a cascade and landscape views

Glacier Point

5/5(584 reviews)

Witness a superb panorama of the Yosemite Valley from this viewing point and spot soaring canyons, plunging falls and granite cliffs along the rugged valley skyline.

Glacier Point
Tunnel View showing views and mountains as well as a large group of people

Tunnel View

5/5(727 reviews)

Experience one of America’s iconic natural sights, a sweeping view of the forests, waterfalls and monolithic granite mountains of the Yosemite Valley.

Tunnel View
Tuolumne Meadows showing snow and tranquil scenes

Tuolumne Meadows

4.5/5(254 reviews)

Explore the meadows of Yosemite National Park’s high country and see its velvety green plains studded with stunning granite domes, Sierra willows and wildflowers.

Tuolumne Meadows
Tenaya Lake

Tenaya Lake

4.5/5(52 reviews)

View a range of rock formations reflected in serene blue water. This popular destination allows families to hike along the lake’s shoreline.

Tenaya Lake

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Yosemite National Park

🚙🚗🚙🚗🚙🚗🚙🚗🚙🚗🚙 driving through #Yosemite #nationalpark #toottootbeepbeep #ruffiansroadtrip ☀🌲🍃🌲🍃🌲🍃🌲🍃🌲🍃

Yosemite West

Just outside Yosemite National Park, this unincorporated community offers resort homes and access to several hiking trails, including Deer Camp Trail and Alder Creek Trail. Explore the historic Henness Ridge fire lookout tower and admire Alder Creek Fall.

Yosemite West

Popular day trips from Yosemite National Park

Photo by Mariam Qozi

Oakhurst

Mariposa which includes tranquil scenes and mountains

Mariposa

Photo by Joe McCarty

June Lake

Photo by Chris Winicki

Fish Camp

El Portal

El Portal

Hetch Hetchy Reservoir featuring forest scenes

Groveland

Cook\'s Meadow

Yosemite Village

Photo by Meg Faller

Curry Village

Frequently asked questions

Is Yosemite National Park worth visiting?
Yosemite National Park has a unique blend of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into outdoor activities, history or regional cuisine, there's plenty you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Yosemite National Park?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Yosemite Falls and Glacier Point. Then, explore other areas of Yosemite National Park for tasty eats and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Yosemite National Park?
You can't leave without exploring Yosemite Falls, rated the top tourist attraction in Yosemite National Park.
Is three days enough to stay in Yosemite National Park?
You can easily tour top attractions like Olmsted Point, Lukens Lake Trailhead and Tenaya Lake with a three-day break in Yosemite National Park. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stick around longer and check out El Portal.
What are some activities to do in Yosemite National Park with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with cool activities takes your trip to the next level. Check out our ideas for what to do in Yosemite National Park with kids.

What to do in Yosemite National Park for adults?
The Ahwahnee is one of the main things to do in Yosemite National Park. With loads of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Yosemite National Park?
In Yosemite National Park, Tenaya Lake is a popular spot for anyone looking to experience the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the local neighborhoods and parks, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's an easy way to discover the best free things to do in Yosemite National Park.