Galleries, Museums
Arts & Culture
Arts are thriving in Yosemite Mariposa County where a growing community of artists and galleries, museums, musicians, live performances and more contribute to a truly inspired environment. Explore local art galleries and local museums to get a taste of Yosemite culture.
Or maybe you’re looking to create your own Yosemite art! One way to really stop and enjoy the park as a family is by engaging in a Yosemite Art Workshop. Taking place daily throughout the summer, Yosemite Art workshops are led by different artists every week and focus on a variety of subjects, from watercolor to silk painting!
In downtown Mariposa and in Yosemite National Park, authentic art galleries feature work from local and regional artists in a variety of mediums. Browse through galleries and perhaps bring home a special Yosemite memento.
A can’t-miss on any Yosemite National Park trip is the Ansel Adams Gallery, home to photographs, gifts and handcrafts inspired by the great photographer and renowned artist himself. You can even delve into photography workshops offered by the gallery.
Check out the work of local artists at the Sierra Artists’ Gallery in Mariposa. This cooperative gallery features gifts and works from artisans from the Sierra foothills and Yosemite area and has been in operation since 1969. Find more fine art and contemporary art at Treetop Gallery and Casto Oaks Fine Wine and Art all located in Mariposa.
Put some of the amazing natural and local history you discover on your visit to Yosemite into context with a visit to one of the many enthralling museums in the area. There are several interesting history museums to enjoy in Yosemite and more outside of the park. Most visitors stop at the Yosemite Museum to learn about Yosemite’s American Indian cultures, including incredible handwoven baskets created by local tribe members. It’s free and open to the public.
Wawona is home to the Yosemite History Center where an authentic replica stagecoach can whisk you back in time to explore historic sites and significant buildings from Yosemite’s history, complete with living history from volunteers in replica costumes.
Near the town of Mariposa, you can get a glimpse of pioneer and gold rush history at the Mariposa Museum & History Center. Or visit the newly opened Yosemite Climbing Museum for stories of daring and adventure on the big walls of Yosemite.
See what other local museums offer here.
Regardless of the type of music you’re into, you’ll find plenty to perk up your ears in Yosemite Mariposa County on your next visit. Check out contemporary live music at a number of night owl hangouts where you can hear all the latest hits along with classic rock and country in a bar or patio setting. Get a little fancier with a show from the Mariposa Yosemite Symphony Orchestra, which has entertained with classical favorites since 2002. The Mariposa County Arts Council is also a great resource for finding cultural events in the area.
At the link below, explore all the live music happening in Yosemite Mariposa County as well as other great events.