Tune in to Yosemite’s Local Music Scene

Some might say Yosemite Mariposa County’s “playlist” is the thunder of waterfalls, Sierra zephyrs whistling through the pines, the burble of a snowmelt-fed stream.  All beautiful sonic accents to your outdoor getaway.  But there’s more to tune into amid these granite walls and forests of rapture.

Indeed, live music is playing all across Yosemite Mariposa County. The music scene is strong at bespoke indoor venues and lively outdoor settings.  Pair a show with a delicious meal and overnight stay, and you’ve got a visit that hits all the right notes.

The Alley

The Alley is a beloved Mariposa local hangout, located in the heart of historic downtown on Highway 140.  Craft beer, Sierra Foothills wine, artisan pizza, and bar bites serve as perfect accompaniments to small stage concerts in the covered backyard beer garden.  Check out The Alley’s event page for upcoming events.

AutoCamp Yosemite

What’s more “California dreaming” than a custom Airstream camper? How about a whole fleet of these Silver Burritos, in a full-service lodging environment just 30 miles from a world-famous national park.  You’ve arrived at AutoCamp Yosemite, a one-of-a-kind lodging option in Midpines. And where there’s an Airstream, there’s bound to be hip music.  AutoCamp Yosemite stages live acoustic jams seasonally at its hub for celebration, the Clubhouse’s communal fire pit.  Grab a cocktail at the Clubhouse Bar for a fireside kumbaya!

Coulter Café

Making your way to historic Coulterville is always a Eureka-worthy Gold Country endeavor, even more so on Saturday afternoons when the Coulter Café is featuring live music on its lovely flagstone-and-flower patio.  Farm-to-fork deliciousness from the café kitchen pairs with local libations and great music from solo players and soulful bands.  There may be no better way to savor a Northern Mariposa County sunset.  Check out Coulter Café’s Facebook page for the full line-up. 

The Grove House

Ready to cap off an epic day in Yosemite? The Grove House, in county-seat Mariposa, grooves with an eclectic line-up of artists and bands.  Farm-to-table menu of plates and small bites, craft beer on tap, wine and a full bar round out the charming indoor/outdoor venue.  See The Grove House event calendar for what’s playing next.  

The Hideout Saloon

Just finding The Hideout Saloon is an accomplishment in itself (hint: it’s tucked just off Highway 140 and 6^th Street in Mariposa, look for the sign pointing you to the Hideout).  When you walk in, feel free to kick up your heels and holler “Yeehaw!” Gold Rush legacy flows strong here, as do cocktails like the Gunny Bear Shot and Pear Elderflower Martini, along with local suds and wine.  Tasty gastropub fare rounds out the menu. The Hideout’s music calendar includes Open Mic nights, and there are even house instruments available for impromptu guest jam sessions.

Mariposa Arts Park

Every Friday and Saturday during the summer months, the Mariposa County Arts Council presents its Music on the Green series at Mariposa’s Arts Park.  Free concerts that feature folk, rock, reggae, jazz, country, and world music hit all the right notes.  Pro tip: blankets get thrown early so try to arrive early, grab picnic provisions from Pioneer Market, and stake out a good spot for the family-friendly shows that start at 7 pm.

Mariposa Yosemite Symphony Orchestra

Symphonic music can really soar, especially amid Sierra peaks.  power is hard to top, and so it’s surprising yet fitting that the elevated environment of Yosemite offers its own orchestra: the Mariposa Yosemite Symphony Orchestra. Led by legendary conductor Les Marsden, MYSO performs at iconic locations in Yosemite National Park and around Mariposa County.  See their website for upcoming concert news and tickets.

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad Summer Music Series

Railroads and song have a storied connection, and both are in play with the fabled Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad.  Hop on board the Yosemite Jazz Train this summer and enjoy a concert in the Sierra National Forest.  Located in Fish Camp, Yosemite Jazz Train events run on select Sundays from June to September, with an eclectic line-up of artists ranging from smooth jazz and blues to comedy.  Appetizers, beer, and wine are available for purchase at the station before boarding an authentic narrow-gauge steam train for the tree-lined, 25-minute excursion to the concert venue, Lewis Creek Amphitheater.

Yosemite National Park Events

Yosemite musician and historian Tom Bopp tickles the ivories at the Wawona and Ahwahnee hotels on the regular, performing crowd-pleasing sets he’s honed since the 1980s.  Prepare for enlightened entertainment nightly at the Wawona Hotel dining room for several weeks this summer and fall when Mr. Bopp delivers his signature blend of storytelling and song.  Learn more about this legendary player at Yosemite Music & Art, including his current show schedule.

Encore Accommodations

Once the last notes have faded into the night, Yosemite Mariposa County offers a compelling collection of places to stay, from cozy vacation cabin rentals and campgrounds to full-service hotels.  See the full “set list” at Yosemite.com.