Arts & Culture
Mariposa Museum & History Center
Praised by the Smithsonian Institution as “The Best Little Museum of its Size West of the Mississippi,” this museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting local culture and history. Enjoy exhibits such as a working 5-Stamp Mill, a blacksmith shop, and historical recreations of a courthouse, saloon, schoolroom, and general store.
Groups can schedule two-hour guided tours Wednesday–Saturday, while walk-in visitors are welcome any day from 9am to 4pm. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and children.
5119 Jessie Street
Mariposa, CA 95338
(209) 966-2924
info@mariposamuseum.com
Yosemite Climbing Museum
Recently reopened after extensive renovations, the Yosemite Climbing Museum showcases the evolution of rock climbing from the mid-1800s to today, highlighting Yosemite’s worldwide influence on climbing techniques and gear.
Inside, you’ll find historical equipment, photos, publications, and other memorabilia. Admission is free (donations welcome), with self-guided tours available Tuesday–Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM. For a deeper dive, guided tours can be booked by appointment.
5180 Highway 140
Mariposa, CA 95338
(209) 742-1000
info@yosemiteclimbing.org
Sierra Artists Gallery
Established in 1969, Sierra Artists Gallery is Mariposa’s oldest operating art gallery. Specializing in Yosemite-inspired scenes and works from local member artists, it also sponsors community events like the Annual Open Art Exhibition and the upcoming Mariposa Paint Out in 2025.
Open daily (except Wednesdays) from 11 AM to 4 PM, visitors can browse and purchase original pieces capturing the beauty of Yosemite and the surrounding Sierra Foothills.
6th and Hwy 140
Mariposa, CA 95338 (PO Box 327)
(209) 966-2284
MariposaSierraArtists@gmail.com
California State Mining & Mineral Museum
Discover the historic site where John C. Fremont and Kit Carson first uncovered the Mariposa Gold Vein and opened California’s pioneering mill for crushing ore. Established in 1880 and becoming a state park in 1999, the museum houses over 13,000 artifacts—everything from rare crystalline gold to gems and minerals from around the world.
Perfect for curious families and students, the museum offers free youth activities and hosts an annual gem and mineral show. Open Thursday through Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM starting in October, admission is only $4 for adults, with free entry for children under 12.
Mariposa Fairgrounds
Mariposa, CA 95338
(209) 742-7625
Mineral.Museum@parks.ca.gov
Mariposa Marketplace
Housed in the historic Trabucco building—originally the “Cheap Cash Store” built in 1896—Mariposa Marketplace is a vibrant two-story collection of shops offering arts and crafts, antiques, jewelry, clothing, and more.
The structure itself is a local treasure, featuring an iron staircase shipped around Cape Horn to San Francisco before being carted by wagon to Mariposa. Local stonemasons fashioned the interior with stone from Mormon Bar, adding to the building’s unique character.
Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, this downtown spot is within easy walking distance of most lodgings, making it a must-see destination for both shopping and historic ambiance.
5024-B Hwy 140
Mariposa, CA 95338
(209) 966-7377
info@mariposamarketplace.net
Mariposa County Courthouse
Built in 1854, this historic landmark is the oldest superior courthouse west of the Mississippi—and the oldest still in active use west of the Rocky Mountains.
Mariposa County was formed in 1850, even before California became a state, and its courthouse has been in continuous operation ever since. Visitors can admire the charming wooden architecture from outside, but be aware that entry requires security screening and a valid reason for visiting.
Open weekdays from 8 AM to 3 PM, this living piece of history remains a vital part of Mariposa County’s heritage.
5088 Bullion Street
Mariposa, CA 95338
(209) 966-2005
Casto Oaks Fine Wine & Wine Tasting
Discover the taste of Mariposa at Casto Oaks, a small, family-run vineyard spanning six acres right here in town. Renowned for their sustainable farming practices and award-winning wines (including multiple gold medals in the largest U.S. wine competitions), Casto Oaks invites you to sample their creations at their downtown tasting room.
Pick up a bottle or two to take home and enjoy a true taste of this historic region.
Hours & Details
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Closed Tuesday & Wednesday
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Opens at 12 PM on Monday, Thursday, Friday
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Opens at 11 AM on Saturday & Sunday
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Closes by 5 PM on Monday & Thursday, 6 PM on Friday, 7 PM on Saturday, and 4 PM on Sunday
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Check their website for special events throughout the year
5022 Highway 140
Mariposa, CA 95338
(209) 742-2000
Made in Mariposa
Nestled in the heart of downtown Mariposa, Made in Mariposa is a nonprofit cooperative dedicated to showcasing the work of local artists, crafters, and producers. Browse an array of one-of-a-kind, handmade items—from candles and leather goods to jewelry, pottery, and apparel.
You can also sign up for various hands-on classes like gourd painting, clay work, and fly tying to learn a new skill and embrace Mariposa’s creative spirit.
Hours
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Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM
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Closes at 5 PM on Sundays
5022 Unit B Highway 140
Mariposa, CA 95338
(209) 966-2213
Hillside Glass Co.
Dive into the art of stained glass at Hillside Glass Co., where you’ll learn basic techniques and create stunning glass designs under expert guidance. The shop also offers a range of finished pieces for purchase, perfect for adding a touch of color to your home. Please note that workshops are limited to participants 18 and older and not available for pregnant individuals due to the use of sharp objects and lead.
Hours & Details
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Closed Monday & Tuesday
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Open 10 AM–5 PM Wednesday–Saturday (closes at 3 PM on Sunday)
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Workshop dates vary; tickets ($60 per person) can be reserved online
4998B 5th Street
Mariposa, CA 95338
(209) 201-7326
Mariposa Old Stone Jail
After a devastating fire destroyed the original wooden jail in 1852, this sturdy granite structure was built in 1858 for nearly $15,000—using 24-inch thick granite blocks quarried from Mormon Bar.
Originally two stories tall with a flat roof and gallows overlooking town, it served the community for 105 years before closing in 1963. In 1892, a fire set during an escape attempt led to significant rebuilding, giving the jail the appearance you see today.
A visit to this historic site offers a fascinating glimpse into Mariposa’s early architecture and local lore. Admission is free, and no appointment is required, making it a convenient stop for travelers with unpredictable schedules.
5012 Bullion St.
Mariposa, CA 95338
Mariposa Marketplace
Housed in the historic Trabucco building—originally the “Cheap Cash Store” built in 1896—Mariposa Marketplace is a vibrant two-story collection of shops offering arts and crafts, antiques, jewelry, clothing, and more.
The structure itself is a local treasure, featuring an iron staircase shipped around Cape Horn to San Francisco before being carted by wagon to Mariposa. Local stonemasons fashioned the interior with stone from Mormon Bar, adding to the building’s unique character.
Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, this downtown spot is within easy walking distance of most lodgings, making it a must-see destination for both shopping and historic ambiance.
5024-B Hwy 140
Mariposa, CA 95338
(209) 966-7377
info@mariposamarketplace.net
Mariposa County Courthouse
Built in 1854, this historic landmark is the oldest superior courthouse west of the Mississippi—and the oldest still in active use west of the Rocky Mountains.
Mariposa County was formed in 1850, even before California became a state, and its courthouse has been in continuous operation ever since. Visitors can admire the charming wooden architecture from outside, but be aware that entry requires security screening and a valid reason for visiting.
Open weekdays from 8 AM to 3 PM, this living piece of history remains a vital part of Mariposa County’s heritage.
5088 Bullion Street
Mariposa, CA 95338
(209) 966-2005
Casto Oaks Fine Wine & Wine Tasting
Discover the taste of Mariposa at Casto Oaks, a small, family-run vineyard spanning six acres right here in town. Renowned for their sustainable farming practices and award-winning wines (including multiple gold medals in the largest U.S. wine competitions), Casto Oaks invites you to sample their creations at their downtown tasting room.
Pick up a bottle or two to take home and enjoy a true taste of this historic region.
Hours & Details
-
Closed Tuesday & Wednesday
-
Opens at 12 PM on Monday, Thursday, Friday
-
Opens at 11 AM on Saturday & Sunday
-
Closes by 5 PM on Monday & Thursday, 6 PM on Friday, 7 PM on Saturday, and 4 PM on Sunday
-
Check their website for special events throughout the year
5022 Highway 140
Mariposa, CA 95338
(209) 742-2000
Made in Mariposa
Nestled in the heart of downtown Mariposa, Made in Mariposa is a nonprofit cooperative dedicated to showcasing the work of local artists, crafters, and producers. Browse an array of one-of-a-kind, handmade items—from candles and leather goods to jewelry, pottery, and apparel.
You can also sign up for various hands-on classes like gourd painting, clay work, and fly tying to learn a new skill and embrace Mariposa’s creative spirit.
Hours
-
Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM
-
Closes at 5 PM on Sundays
5022 Unit B Highway 140
Mariposa, CA 95338
(209) 966-2213
Ben's barbershop
Set to open in early 2024, Ben the Barber brings traditional barbering services to gentlemen in the local area. Beyond standard haircuts, he offers straight razor shaves and beard trims tailored to each client’s preferences. Though he specializes in shorter cuts for men, he’s also skilled in working with children’s and women’s hairstyles, employing a wide array of cutting techniques. If you’re passing through on your way to Yosemite and need a trim or shave, this shop is a must-visit.
They’re open Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM, with a lunch break from 12 PM to 1:30 PM. Services start at $32 for a basic haircut, $15 for a beard trim, and $32 for a straight razor shave.
Details
4998 5th street #A
Mariposa, CA
