Yosemite Adventure on a Shoestring Budget: A 2-Day Foodie Itinerary

Day 1: Yosemite Valley Exploration

Yosemite National Park, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Mountain Room Restaurant

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at The Mountain Room, known for its breathtaking views and extensive breakfast menu featuring local ingredients.
Head to The Mountain Room located near the entrance to Yosemite Valley.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Yosemite Falls Hike

Embark on the iconic Yosemite Falls hike which offers stunning views of the tallest waterfall in North America.
Follow the signs from Yosemite Valley to the Yosemite Falls trailhead.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Degnan's Kitchen

Grab a delicious sandwich or salad at Degnan's Kitchen, a local favorite for fresh, tasty meals on the go.
Located in the heart of Yosemite Village, just a short walk from the falls.
USD 12, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Ansel Adams Gallery

Take some time to appreciate the incredible work of Ansel Adams at his namesake gallery showcasing stunning photography of Yosemite.
Head to the Ansel Adams Gallery located in Yosemite Village, a short stroll from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore El Capitan Meadow

Discover the immense El Capitan, one of the world's largest granite monoliths, and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the meadows with picture-perfect views.
Drive towards El Capitan with plenty of parking spaces available nearby.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Yosemite Valley Lodge

Enjoy a stunning view of the falls while dining at the Yosemite Valley Lodge's restaurant, noted for its comfortable atmosphere and hearty American dishes.
Drive back to the lodge from El Capitan, where dinner awaits.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Stargazing at Yosemite Valley

Conclude your day with breathtaking stargazing in Yosemite Valley, where the skies are clear and the stars are vibrant.
Find a quiet spot in the valley, maybe near the riverbank.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Glacier Point Adventure

Yosemite National Park, USA

7:00AM

Breakfast at Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort

Fuel up with a budget-friendly breakfast at this charming resort, offering tasty, homemade options.
Head south towards Yosemite Bug, a quick drive from the valley.
USD 10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Glacier Point

Take a scenic drive to Glacier Point, where you'll be greeted by sweeping views of the valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra.
Follow the Glacier Point Road to its endpoint for parking.
USD 35 for park entry (valid for 7 days), 1 hour

9:30AM

Sightseeing at Glacier Point

Take in the stunning vistas at Glacier Point, perfect for photography and soaking in the grandeur of nature.
Walk to the various viewpoints accessible from the parking area.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Short Hike on the Glacier Point Trail

Explore a segment of the Glacier Point Trail, ideal for breathing in the fresh mountain air and viewing unique rock formations.
Follow trail markers along the Glacier Point Trail.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Curry Village Pizza Deck

Savor a wood-fired pizza at Curry Village, a budget-friendly option that will satisfy your midday cravings.
Drive back towards Curry Village, a popular stop in Yosemite.
USD 15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

Experience the grandeur of ancient sequoias at Mariposa Grove, where you can wander among trees that are thousands of years old.
Drive towards Mariposa Grove from Curry Village, following park signs.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Yosemite Valley

Head back to Yosemite Valley for a refreshing walk before dinner.
Retrace your route back to the valley.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Wawona Hotel Dining Room

Enjoy an affordable and satisfying meal in a lovely vintage setting at the Wawona Hotel Dining Room.
Drive to the Wawona Hotel location within the park.
USD 18, 1 hour

8:00PM

Evening Scenic Drive

End your day with a relaxing evening drive through the tranquil Yosemite Valley, soaking in the beauty as the sun sets.
Drive along the valley loop road.
Free, 1 hour
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