Many people know Mariposa, California as the gateway to Yosemite National Park. However, anyone who spends a bit of time exploring this historic Gold Rush town in the northern part of the state will soon see that it’s also one of the most walkable cities in California. Boasting a charming Old Town area and dozens of great shops, restaurants, and historic attractions, you could spend an entire day wandering around Mariposa’s streets and never get bored. Curious to know more? Read on to learn why you need to plan a stop at one of the best downtowns in NorCal during your next visit to Yosemite.

Settled in 1849, the town of Mariposa is steeped in Gold Rush history. In fact, the town's streets still follow the original grid laid out by John C. Fremont in 1850. This has helped make Mariposa one of the most walkable cities in California.
Ken Lund/Flickr
Over 150 years later, there are plenty of things to do in Mariposa, California. As you explore its main street, you'll come across sights like the Mariposa County Courthouse, which was built in 1854 and is the oldest courthouse west of the Rockies still in continuous operation!
Ken Lund/Flickr
Today, Mariposa, California's historic Old Town is filled with a combination of charming local shops and restaurants. As one of the best downtowns in NorCal, Main Street provides a map and list of all of its businesses. This makes it easy for you to explore and uncover Mariposa's endless treasures.
Don Barrett/Flickr

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Aside from numerous things to do in Mariposa, you'll also have plenty of restaurant options. As one of the most walkable cities in California, Mariposa has a wide selection of restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and casual food options. Charles Street Dinner House is a favorite for steaks, seafood, and other hearty Old West-style classics.
Anthony Dolce/Flickr
If you're interested in turning your visit into an overnight adventure, you'll find that Mariposa, California has a variety of accommodations to choose from too. The Mariposa Hotel Inn is the oldest Yosemite-area hotel - the current building was built in 1901 after a fire destroyed much of downtown Mariposa in 1899.
Anthony Dolce/Flickr
Delve deeper into Mariposa's history with a visit to one of the town's museums, like the California State Mining & Mineral Museum or Mariposa Museum & History Center. If you're not sure where to start, simply stop by Mariposa County Visitor Center along Highway 140 for a nudge in the right direction to get more ideas of what to explore in one of the best downtowns in NorCal.
Ken Lund/Flickr
As you can see, since Mariposa is one of the most walkable cities in California, it's an ideal destination to visit on its own too.
Luke Chapman/Flickr

Have you spent any time exploring Mariposa, California? If so, share your favorite thing about this gem in the comments below! If you’d like to make your visit to one of the most walkable cities in California part of a bigger adventure, take a look at this Northern California road trip that includes Mariposa and other lesser-known spots to explore as well.

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More to Explore

Walkable Cities in California

Marla S. | September 19, 2022

What are the most charming small towns in NorCal?

While Mariposa, California is one of the most walkable cities in California, there are other destinations throughout the state that are just as charming. To begin, along with being named after a metal, the town of Copperopolis sits on Lake Tulloch and is just 40 minutes east of Stockton. In addition to this quaint spot, this list of 12 charming small towns in NorCal includes destinations with stunning landscapes, unique architecture, and a strong sense of community.

What is the most unique town in NorCal?

Like Mariposa, Cambria has its own special charm and has one of the best downtowns in NorCal. In addition to being halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, Cambria is unique due to the array of things to do in this charming small town. This includes dining at one of the many restaurants in the area, spending the day checking out the art galleries in town and having a blast exploring the area by bike. You also have the option to take in water views and relax by the beach when you visit this seaside town in NorCal.

What is the most beautiful small town in NorCal?

Thanks to its stunning location, history, and charming vibe, Carmel-by-the Sea is known as the most beautiful small town in NorCal. While it's small in size and has less than 4000 residents, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers picturesque views of the Pacific and is only a two-hour drive from San Francisco. And like Mariposa, the easy-to-get around downtown area makes Carmel-by-the-Sea one of the most walkable cities in California.

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Mariposa, CA 95338, USA