LOCAL BUZZ: MINGLING WITH MARIPOSANS
The folks who call Mariposa County home are an eclectic lot. From rock climbers and ranchers to shopkeepers and artists, they comprise a medley of colorful characters who are as authentic as they are friendly. And with world-famous Yosemite National Park soaring above its eastern flank, the constant flow of travelers creates a lively crossroads where ideas and inspiration are freely shared.
Whether you find yourself in historic downtown Mariposa, carefree Midpines or classic Coulterville, there’s no better way to get the inside scoop than shooting the breeze with locals. Indeed, mingling with Mariposans can transform your getaway from an ordinary jaunt to an extraordinary journey.
LOCAL BUZZ: NIGHTLIFE
Perched atop downtown Mariposa’s raised sidewalks, The Alley has a cozy L-shaped bar where travelers’ tales weave with local lore. The Alley features 16 beers on tap, artisanal apps and an outdoor patio that plays host to the occasional troubadour. Owners Keith & Stephanie Erikson exemplify the Mariposa spirit, so if your Yosemite adventure is in need of a base camp try their sister venture the River Rock Inn just around the corner. Pint to pillow, anyone?
The Hideout Saloon is a Mariposa County institution. Aptly named, the entrance to this Gold Rush tavern is tucked away in the back of the Corner Stores building at Hwy 140 and 6th Street in downtown Mariposa. With dollar bills pinned to the walls, 49er pub fare, a pool table, Thursday open mic nights and regular live music, visitors might be tempted to join an impromptu dance session.
The vibe is reliably loose at The Grove House with a live music calendar that ranges from local legends to touring bands. Located on 5th Street in downtown Mariposa, this highceilinged venue brings out locals and Yosemite wayfarers. The patio lights and picnic tables that adorn the patio space are familyfriendly as well.
LOCAL BUZZ: RESTAURANTS
From communal tables to diner counters and outdoor patios, enjoying a meal at a neighborhood eatery is a great way to mingle Mariposa-style. These aren’t cookie-cutter chains — rather ma & pa originals where the menus reflect the love the owners have for their unique hometowns.
Located at the Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort, the June Bug Cafe welcomes everyone from backpackers to traveling families and hungry locals. Known for its rotating menu of internationallyinspired meals, this Midpines culinary institution serves up such dishes as New York Steak with rosemary-shallot butter, red-wine braised portobello mushroom and a vegan Thai bowl.
With a modern pub menu with smoked rib eye, fried chicken, gourmet burgers (including vegetarian) and craft beer, the 1850 Restaurant & Brewery is the ultimate culinary crossroads where local hopheads gossip with Yosemite trail-hounds. Owners Jake & Hanna Wackerman have spiced up the local foodie scene with
their dedication to craft and community. Sit at the bar or enjoy the Sierra breeze on the outdoor patio.
It’s no surprise that the Gold Rush town of Coulterville received the 2022 Reader’s Digest Award for Nicest Place in America. Historic buildings line the supremely walkable main drag, and smack dab in the middle of the action sits the Coulter Cafe & General Store. Enjoy your tasty meal on the patio and you’re likely to see a mix of touring bikers, strategizing tourists and satisfi.