Looking for the best things to do in Mariposa, California? Then you are going to find this post helpful.
Though the city is small and just a suburb of California, Mariposa has many packages for everyone who visits this fantastic city.
There’s always something for everyone who visits Mariposa. Many old historic buildings, wildlife reserves, Ancient museums, and natural attractions are all available in the area.
Mariposa, the Spanish word for ”butterflies”, got its name from Gabriel Moraga, a Spanish explorer.
And just as the name implies, Mariposa has lots of charm and fun things for anyone visiting the area.
Here’s a list of the best and most fun things to do in Mariposa, California.
Things to Do in Mariposa, CA
1. Shop at Mariposa Marketplace
You can’t go wrong shopping at Mariposa Marketplace as this unique market has got everything you need.
There are many historic spots in Mariposa County, and the Mariposa Marketplace is one of those lovely places.

Whether you wish to shop for gifts, jewelry, handcrafted materials, or even buy souvenirs for decoration, the marketplace has lots of shops to get anything you desire.
Mariposa Marketplace occupies a sizable reserved area inside the Trabucco Building. You could shop for souvenirs or artworks at the marketplace. You’ll be so amazed by the city’s artists’ prowess that you may buy every art piece you find at the market.
Location: 5024 State Highway 140 Mariposa, CA 95338, United States
2. Watch a Performance by the Mariposa Symphony Orchestra
Sweet Melody, they say, is food for the soul. If you have a thing for music, you will enjoy watching musical performances by the Mariposa Symphony Orchestra.
Very few Cities in California have Symphony orchestras, and Mariposa is one of those rare gems in the country.

Founded in 2002, Mariposa Symphony Orchestra aims to provide inspiring symphonic works for locals and visitors to the city.
Location: 5009 Highway 140, Mariposa, California 95338, United States
3. Grab a Glass of Fine Wine at Casto Oaks
Casto Oaks is a six-acre land space that serves Fine wine and allows guests to watch and participate in the wine-making process.
Have you been to a winery where you can order tasty wine and enjoy fantastic art displays?
Well, you’re in luck as you’ll find all these at Casto Oaks.

Inside the vineyard lies a tasting room where guests can enjoy wine while checking out art displays.
Casto Oaks is the best option for you in Mariposa if you need a place for family bonding and relaxation. Visitors also get a chance to connect with local artists whose works are at the gallery.
If you wish to stay back through the night, you can book a stay at their cottage to enjoy the lovely scenery and fine wine.
If you’re lucky, you may catch one of the wine release events at the vineyard. But, of course, visiting Casto Oaks with family and friends is always exciting.
Location: 5022 State Highway 140 Mariposa, CA 95338, United States
4. Learn about Mariposa’s Historic Past at Mariposa Museum and History Center
How better to start your tour than to get to know the city you’re visiting?
No place offers you the chance to know about Mariposa better than Mariposa Museum & History Center.

Past tourists in the city highly recommend the museum. Learning about Mariposa’s historical past is one of the best things to do in the city.
There are many exciting things to do at the museum, including watching a live blacksmithing session. You will also find pictures of how the city looked in previous times.
You can also familiarize yourself with historical artifacts that date back to the county’s gold mining days. Again, you aren’t charged a dime at the museum, so feel free to include a trip to Mariposa Museum & History Center on your itinerary list.
Location: 5119 Jessie St. Mariposa, CA 95338, United States
5. California State Mining and Mineral Museum
It’s not unusual that many tourists came to Mariposa in search of greener pastures in the 19th century.
California State Mining and Mineral Museum is a historical edifice that reflects the state’s mining history.

California State Mining and Mineral Museum is a place every lover of history and geology would enjoy visiting.
Guests get the chance to learn about rocks, gems, and other natural endowments. You don’t have to bother taking your kids along because the museum is open to people of all ages.
California State Mining and Mineral Museum is home to more than 13,000 mineral artifacts, and some extracts from this collection were gathered far back in 1880.
Fricot Nugget, the crystallized gold specimen discovered by the American River, is also on display at the museum. Don’t forget to take your camera with you, so you don’t miss out on capturing the historical artifacts at the museum.
Location: 5005 Fairgrounds Rd, Mariposa, CA 95338, United States
6. Gold Hunt at Prospect Yosemite
Have you ever pondered the possibility of owning a gold-plated item or wished you were part of the multitude who tried their luck during the Gold Rush?
Well, you don’t need to ponder any because a visit to Prospect Yosemite would offer you the opportunity to satisfy your cravings.

Locals and Tourists stop by Prospect Yosemite to enjoy gold planning lessons and try their hands at securing gold in the area.
If luck is on your side, you may own your piece of golden treasure in the area. Prospect Yosemite offers family and friends the opportunity to bond and feature in an exciting river snorkeling tour.
The tour features over four hours of snorkeling, allowing guests to learn about aquatic wildlife in Yosemite.
Location: 4958 13th Street, Mariposa, California 95338, United States
7. Visit Mariposa County Visitor Center to learn about the area
Won’t you love to get an overview of the fantastic attractions and places to visit in Mariposa, CA?
A visit to Mariposa County Visitor Center will help you plan your tour better. The center contains many books and guides to help you make informed decisions on the places to visit in the city.

Unlike most Visit centers that offer you a guide on roaming the city, Mariposa County Visitor Center features an escape room where visitors can enjoy playing escape room games.
Guests are locked in a room and have to work as a team solving puzzles and other tasks to escape the room.
Stop by this center, and you’ll be glad you did.
Location: 5158 Highway 140 Mariposa, CA 95338, United States
8. Explore Yosemite Climbing Museum
Are you a lover of heights? Do you ensure climbing rocks and hills?
If you do, you’ll have a great time exploring the Yosemite Climbing Museum.

The Yosemite Climbing Museum has numerous ancient climbing Artifacts. The museum also contains publications and pictures on Rock climbing.
If you want to learn about the history of rock climbing and critical ascents in climbing history, make sure to stop by the Yosemite Climbing Museum.
Location: 5180 CA-140, Mariposa, CA 95338, United States
9. Stop By at Mariposa County’s Old Stone Jail
Taking time to stop by Mariposa County’s Old Stone Jail is one of the fun things to do in Mariposa, CA.
Mariposa has a rich history, and the city is bent on preserving its history regardless of the cost.
Among the many historical landmarks in the city, Mariposa County’s Old Stone Jail is a beauty to behold. This Old Jail Stone has lasted several decades(160 years)
Amazing right?

Since its construction in 1858, Mariposa County’s Old Stone Jail remains one of the oldest standing facilities in the region.
You don’t pay a penny to enter the facility, so you don’t have to bother paying for entry.
Mariposa County’s Old Stone Jail was the first jail facility in the county. So you’ll also get a chance to learn about the inmates incarcerated here in Mariposa’s early days.
Endeavor to spice up your trip with a visit to Mariposa County’s Old Stone Jail.
Location: 5012 Bullion Street Mariposa, CA 95338, United States
10. Grab a Glass of Wine at Butterfly Creek Winery & Vineyards
Good liquor is good for the soul.
If you desire the perfect spot to buy chilled wine and enjoy the evening with friends and family, Butterfly Creek Winery & Vineyard is the ideal location.
Butterfly Creek Winery & Vineyard is the largest winery in Mariposa. Functional since 1972, This top-notch vineyard serves the best wine in the region.

If you desire to be a wine connoisseur, there’s no better place to achieve your goals than Butterfly Creek Winery & Vineyard.
The ambiance at the vineyard is calm and lovely, with many aerial openings. You can also sign up for their touring event to watch the entire wine-making process and taste freshly produced wine.
Don’t forget to order their best-selling top-notch wine, Cabernet Sauvignon. They supply wine for events as well, so either planning for your anniversary, wedding, or birthday, do not forget to give them a call.
Location: 4063 Triangle Road Mariposa, CA 95338, United States
11. Sightseeing at Horsetail Falls
One of the exciting places to visit in Mariposa is Horsetail Falls.
Right inside Yosemite National lies Horsetail Fall, measuring 1,575ft in height.
There are tons of lovely sights to witness in the area. One standout scenery at Horsetail Fall is the ”Firefall.”

Guests and locals converge to watch the waterfall like flames. The sun’s illumination causes the water to emit an orange glow which causes it to appear like fire.
It’s always exciting witnessing a sight that beats one’s imagination. If you get to experience this rare masterpiece, ensure to take photos to remind you of your visit to Horsetail Fall.
After witnessing this rare phenomenon, you could take a walk on the 6.4km long trail, which is open from n around May to October.
Dogs are also allowed on the trail; what better way to spend the weekend than to see incredible sights you’ve not seen before?
Location: Yosemite National Park Mariposa, CA 95389, United States
12. Visit the Silver Apron
Mariposa is home to many natural attractions and fun-filled centers.
One of those exciting places is Silver Apron, one of the region’s three major waterfalls.

If you’re planning on visiting during Summer, then you’re just in luck as the waterfall spreads across a smooth granite slide, leading to another 60-foot plunge during this season.
Due to recent records of accidents in the area, Swimming isn’t allowed in the area.
Irrespective of that, the sight of waterfalls in the region is fantastic.
Location: Mariposa, CA, United States
13. Grab a Cup of Apple Cider at Sierra Cider Farm and Cidery
Sierra Cider Farm and Cidery is a family-owned business in Mariposa.
They own a family farm with over 800 Apple trees. Sierra Cider is known for its best-selling Apple cider, which makes locals and tourists always return for more.

Its proximity to Yosemite National Park makes it easily accessible to locals and visitors.
If you desire to know more about the history of cider-making in Mariposa, ensure to stop by their farm. You’ll also get to taste their unique cider product at the farm.
Sierra Cider Farm and Cidery produce four unique cider blends, so you could try all four and select your favorite. There are also board games at the farm to give you a lovely time there.
Location: 5569 Meadow Lane Mariposa, CA 95338, United States
14. Outdoor Fun Experience at Yosemite Ziplines and Adventure Ranch
Do you crave a place that offers an outdoor fun experience in Mariposa, CA?
If yes, you’re lucky because Yosemite Ziplines and Adventure Ranch offers the best outdoor experience in Mariposa, CA.
Yosemite Ziplines and Adventure Ranch, owned by locals, is a perfect spot for an adventurous time out with family.

You can try out several activities at the Ranch. First, you can go on a two-hour tour to the mountains in Polaris Rangers, where you’ll spot gigantic downtown villages.
Also, you can have fun sliding through the zip lines, which run over 3,800 linear feet. Finally, you may test your grit and agility by undertaking an aerial adventure course of about eight different adventures.
Location: 4808 Hwy 140 Mariposa, CA 95338, United States
15. Hiking at Lower Chilnualna Falls Trail
If you’re in for some adventurous walk, you should consider hiking at Lower Chilnualna Falls Trail.
Hiking the trail is challenging and exciting as hikers go on a tedious and lengthy climb at the track, usually around 4 to 6 hours of trail hike.

Lower Chilnualna Falls Trail features the Cascades and three impressive waterfalls at the beginning of the trail.
Although Lower Chilnualna Falls Trail isn’t as famous as Mist Trail, it still attracts locals and tourists across the city.
Location: Yosemite National Park, 8154 N Chilnualna Falls Rd, Wawona, CA 95389, United States
16. Yosemite Close Up Tours
If you’re still uncertain how best to enjoy your stay in Mariposa, CA, consider getting in touch with Yosemite Close Up Tours.
Yosemite Close Up Tours is a tour company with expertise in organizing small group tours around Yosemite National Park.

Unlike other Tour companies that use large buses while on tour, Yosemite Close Up Tours uses small vans to tour around the National Park.
While this may be a constraint because smaller buses imply only a small number of persons, it is advantageous in the long run because it aids them in visiting more amazing venues inaccessible to large vehicles.
Location: 4998 5th St, Mariposa, CA 95338, United States
17. A Trip Back in Time at Mariposa Stage Line
Won’t you love to travel back in time to the period of the 1849 Gold Rush?
Mariposa Stage Line takes visitors to drift down history lane. In addition, the Stage Line features a stagecoach ride through Mariposa’s Old Town.

It’s an exciting and enjoyable ride because the drivers always have lots of stories to tell, and patrons always enjoy every hour spent during the ride.
Location: Old Town, Mariposa, California 95338, United States
18. Go Hiking at Stockton Creek Preserve Trail
Hiking around Stockton Creek Preserve Trail is one of the fun and best things to do in Mariposa, CA.
Stockton Creek Preserve Trail, located around Sierra Nevada foothills, is a vast trail that leads to the ridgeline between Stock Creek Watershed and Mariposa.

Hikers get to enjoy fantastic scenery while hiking along the trail. And there’s a resting spot between a small lake and a waterfall where hikers can chill and watch the beautiful waterfall in the area.
If luck is on your side, you may spot deer and squirrels in the area. You may also spot the California quail, red-tailed hawk, vultures, and ravens at the site.
And not to forget the various native fauna, which give the trail a colorful boost.
Location: Mariposa, CA, United States
19. Go Skydiving at Skydive Yosemite
Would you love to spice up your travel with something fun and adventurous? No place in Mariposa gets your adrenaline pumped better than Skydive Yosemite.
Skydive Yosemite, situated on Macready Way, is the perfect spot for an adventurous encounter. You can get lovely views of Yosemite Valley and Yosemite National Park at the skydive center.

If you are up for some adventurous encounters, you can go skydiving from the top sky atop picturesque views.
It’s exciting to know that you can book group jumps with family and family.
Exciting, right?
Ensure to include a trip to Skydive Yosemite on your literary list.
Location: 5020c Macready Way, Mariposa, California 95338, United States.
20. Satisfy Your Cravings at Charles Street Dinner House
Are you a food lover looking for the best place to grab lovely dishes in Mariposa, CA?
Charles Street Dinner House is available to serve unique dishes that keep you glued to the restaurant.

Their menu offers a wide variety of dishes like soups and salads, pasta, and chicken.
You could also opt for their special menu, which includes pescetarian, low-sodium, gluten-free, and vegan.
Local dishes available at the restaurants include salmon fillet, street burger, and scallion.
Location: Highway 140 and 7th Street, Mariposa, California 95338, United States
21. Go shopping at the Brick Wall Boutique
Brick Wall Boutique has all you need in Mariposa, CA if you desire to buy a bag, shoe, jewelry or v, or vintage clothing.
Brick Wall Boutique has an extensive collection of vintage clothing and features items from popular brands like Yerba Santa and Fading West Jewels.

Whether you need foreign or desire to shop for local brand items, there’s always something for you at Brick Wall Boutique.
Mariposa Brand products like Lone Wolf Designs and Old Hippie are available at the Boutique.
Location: 5027 CA-140 Suite A, Mariposa, CA 95338, United States
When is the Best Time to Visit Mariposa, California?
The best time to Visit Mariposa, California, for ideal weather is between April 30th to October 28th.
The average weather temperature in Mariposa, California, differs significantly.
If you’re looking for the warmest time to visit Mariposa, the hottest months are July, August, and June.
The month of July is the busiest, and prices of hotels inflate within this period.
November seems to be less crowded, so tourists planning on a vacation with a low budget can schedule their visit within these days as the prices of hotels are less expensive this time.
How Much Does it Cost to Travel to Mariposa, California?
Regardless of where you are around the globe, the Average worldwide flight cost to Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is between $568 and $871 per person (economy flights)
And $1,782 to $2,733 per person for a first-class flight
How Much Does it Cost to Live in Mariposa, California as a Guest (Visitor)?
The average cost of living for a 7-day trip in Mariposa, California, is as follows:
- $2,147 for a solo traveler
- $3,856 for a couple
- And $7,229 for a family of 4.
A solo traveler looking to visit Mariposa, California, is expected to budget $78 to $169 per day for feeding and transportation.
The average hotel price for a solo traveler is $152 to $173 per night for a 1,2 or 3-star hotel room. $156 to $190 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental.
Couples, on the other hand, are expected to have a budget of $156 to $338 per day for food, sightseeing, and transportation.
For couples, hotels range from $152 to $173 per night for a 1,2 or 3-star hotel room. $156 to $190 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental.
The average budget for a family of 4 is between $312 to $676 per day for food and transportation.
While for lodging, the average price for two or 3-star hotels is $304 to $356 per night. $234 to $285 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental.