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Family Yosemite Trip in July

Hi all.

We are visiting Yosemite July 1-4th or 5th. We are a family of four, with a 14yr old and 11yr old. It's probably too late, but are there any must visit restaurants in the area that I should try and make a reservation for...or other restaurants we need to visit?

Thank you all in advance.

S

Visiting Yosemite in July is peak season, so dining options can be very busy. For a family of four, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and consider making reservations where possible, though some spots operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Here are some notable restaurants and dining options inside and near Yosemite Valley:

  • The Ahwahnee Dining Room: A classic Yosemite experience with upscale American cuisine. Reservations are highly recommended and can fill up quickly, especially for dinner. The historic setting is stunning and worth visiting at least once.
  • Curry Village Pizza Deck: Casual, kid-friendly, and perfect for a relaxed meal after hiking. They offer pizza, sandwiches, and salads.
  • Curry Village Pavilion: Buffet-style meals for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Quick and convenient, though it can be crowded during peak hours.
  • Degnan’s Kitchen: Great for grab-and-go meals, coffee, sandwiches, and snacks. Useful if you plan on being out on the trails early in the morning.
  • Yosemite Valley Lodge Food Court: Offers burgers, salads, and kid-friendly options with quick service.

If you are staying outside the park or driving in from nearby towns:

  • El Portal or Wawona: A few lodges and cafes provide decent meals and a quieter atmosphere than the busy valley.
  • Groveland: About an hour from Yosemite Valley, it has charming small restaurants, like the Iron Door Saloon or nearby cafes, if you want a change of pace.

Additional tips for dining in Yosemite in July:

  • Make reservations for the Ahwahnee Dining Room as early as possible; if not available, consider breakfast there as it is slightly easier to get a table.
  • For casual meals, consider packing picnic lunches or snacks, as lines can be long at peak hours.
  • Arrive early for popular food courts like Curry Village Pavilion to avoid the busiest times.

With a 14-year-old and 11-year-old, having flexible options like Curry Village Pizza Deck or grab-and-go spots is helpful for keeping everyone energized between hikes and sightseeing.

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