• Question: What is Mariposa primarily known for?
    Answer: Mariposa is primarily known as the gateway to Yosemite National Park.
  • Question: Why is Mariposa a great destination for nature lovers?
    Answer: Mariposa is a charming town that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the best of California’s natural beauty.
  • Question: What outdoor areas can hikers explore in Mariposa?
    Answer: Avid hikers and outdoor lovers can explore areas like the Horsetail Falls and Fireplace Creek Falls.
  • Question: Where can visitors learn about the history of Mariposa’s natural blessings?
    Answer: Visitors can learn about Mariposa’s history at the Mariposa Museum and History Center.

Mariposa Museum and History Center

Explore Gold Rush exhibits and discover local sights on an educational trip.

Mariposa Museum and History Center

© Mariposa Museum and History Center

If you are wondering about what the history of the small town of Mariposa could possibly be, you’ll get all the answers you’re looking and even more amazing stories at the Mariposa Museum and History Center. The museum was founded in 1957 and is a non-profit corporation run by the passion and love of volunteers. Dubbed the “Best Little Museum of Its Size West of the Mississippi” by none other than the Smithsonian Institution, the museum and history center portrays with great detail and authenticity the history and lifestyle of Mariposa County from the era of Native Americans up until the modern age.

5119 Jessie Street, Mariposa, California 95338, Phone: 209-966-2924

California State Mining and Mineral Museum

See glittering gems and learn mining history on an exciting visit with kids.

California State Mining and Mineral Museum

© California State Mining and Mineral Museum

“There’s gold in the hills of California!” It was these words, cried out in 1848, that birthed a massive migration of people into the great interior wilderness of California. One of the greatest repositories of this much sought after gold were in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, in the town of Mariposa. Today, the California State Mining and Mineral Museum showcases the rich history of Mariposa as a mining town as well as the rest of California as a whole. Additionally, the museum teaches all of its visitors the importance of mining not just to the history of California, but the environment and the future of society as well. A trip to the museum is like taking a journey back in time to the height of the mining culture and certainly leaves an impression.

5005 Fairgrounds Road, Mariposa, California 95338, Phone: 209-742-7625

Mariposa County’s Old Stone Jail

Look at historic cells and walk through unusual sights on a quick outing.

Mariposa County’s Old Stone Jail

© Mariposa County’s Old Stone Jail

Although it is by no means a large attraction, the Mariposa County’s Old Stone Jail is undoubtedly a cultural gem and a special point of interest to see whether you’re just passing through or in Mariposa for an extended vacation. The jail was built in 1858 and features granite blocks that were quarried in an area close to the Mormon Bar. Operational until 1963, the Old Stone Jail has seen its fair share of action with several exciting escapes, the most prolific of which was probably in 1935 when two inmates escaped by somehow cutting rivets, removing an iron plant and working a stone block loose without any outside help.

5379 CA-49, Mariposa, CA 95338

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