Mariposa was originally founded as a mining camp called Aqua Fria about 6 miles from modern-day Mariposa. After a horrible winter of fires and flooding in 1849 and 1850, residents moved the town to its current location. Soon after, the Mariposa gold mine opened, providing stable employment. The community quickly became a supply hub for area mining districts, which helped contribute to its population growth. By 1854, the community built a grand courthouse for Mariposa County's new county seat, and that courthouse is still in operation today.
Mariposa remains an important community thanks to its position at the gateway of the Yosemite Valley. Many visitors flock to this area to take advantage of outdoor recreation and to view important historic sites, making Mariposa a must-see destination for anyone passing through this part of California.
Whether you plan to stay one night or a week, it's important to find the right accommodation that allows you to explore everything this charming, historic community has to offer.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Mariposa, CA?
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.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Mariposa, CA:
Mariposa, CA: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. nightly cost trends by star rating class in Mariposa, CA. Browse these illustrations to calculate the best months to stay in Mariposa for upcoming travels.
What About Luxury Hotels Near Mariposa, CA?
If you prefer more upscale accommodations during your trip to Mariposa, you're in luck.
Best Western Plus Yosemite Way Station Motel boasts all the amenities you could hope for during a relaxing getaway, including a 24-hour front desk, a business center, express check-in, event facilities, a spa tub, a seasonal outdoor pool, wedding services, a vending machine, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary full breakfast. The comfortable and spacious guest rooms feature LCD TVs with satellite programming, mini fridges, pillowtop beds, shower/tub combinations, hair dryers, and complimentary toiletries.
Located about 12 miles outside Mariposa in Ahwahnee, Homestead Cottages is an exceptional accommodation with easy access to downhill skiing. The hotel features a front desk staffed during limited hours, a complimentary continental breakfast, concierge services, a TV in the lobby, complimentary Wi-Fi, and ski-in/ski-out access. The beautiful guest cottages boast TVs with satellite programming, separate sitting areas, and kitchens with full-size refrigerators, ovens, and microwaves.
Another upscale lodging with easy skiing access is Yosemite View Lodge. This El Portal accommodation features three outdoor swimming pools, gift shops, ticket assistance, an area shuttle service, two restaurants, buffet breakfasts (for an additional fee), a 24-hour front desk, guest laundry facilities, and a multilingual staff. The beautiful guest rooms feature kitchenettes with microwaves and refrigerators, cable TV, coffee makers, and wireless internet access (additional surcharge applies).
Are There Any Budget Hotels Near Mariposa, CA?
3 Star Average Prices: $155.62
When researching your options for budget-friendly accommodations near Mariposa, be sure to expand your search to surrounding areas. Doing so will increase your chances of finding the amenities you want at a price you can afford, especially during peak season.
Miners Inn in is conveniently located in Mariposa's historic district, just steps from the Mariposa County Visitor Center. The simple accommodation features an outdoor pool, a spa tub, complimentary Wi-Fi, a gift shop, ticket assistance, free newspapers, and a 24-hour front desk with a safe deposit box. Guests can also enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast and meals at the on-site Miners Roadhouse restaurant. Guest rooms feature 32-inch flat-screen TVs with cable programming, safes, coffee makers, and toiletries.
Mariposa's Yosemite Inn is a pet-friendly accommodation in the historic district. Enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, free parking, and helpful staff. Guest rooms feature cable TV, mini fridges, microwaves, desks, ironing facilities, and private bathrooms with hair dryers and complimentary toiletries.
Another great option outside Mariposa is Red Bud Lodge. Located in El Portal, this hidden gem boasts free parking, barbecue grills, and friendly staff. Guest rooms are straightforward but comfortable, offering mini fridges, microwaves, satellite TV, coffee makers, and ceiling fans. Kitchenettes with cookware are also available.