Ahwahnee Hotel Tour & Review | California Travel Tips

Veronica Hill tours the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite National Park in this episode of California Travel Tips.

Opened on July 14, 1927, the Ahwahnee is Yosemite's most luxurious accommodations. Its grand public rooms have hosted presidents and royalty, and today it remains one of Yosemite's top attractions.

Free walking tours of the Yosemite Ahwahnee are offered throughout the year, highlighting the hotel's history, architecture and legends.

According to Interpretive Services guide Andrew West, the Ahwahnee lodge served as inspiration, but not the filming site of "The Shining."

Named for the Ahwahneechee Indians who once inhabited this valley, the Ahwahnee combines Native American, Art Deco, and Arts & Crafts styles.

Don't miss the gorgeous stained glass panels in the Great Lounge, or the original rubber tile mosaics found on the lobby floor. Middle Eastern rugs, German Gothic chandeliers and Native American baskets add to the eclectic look.

Every fall, the hotel hosts its annual Vintners Holidays, drawing top winemakers from throughout the state.

This epicurean event, which precedes the hotel's Chef's Holidays and Bracebridge Dinner, features wine tasting, informative seminars, and grand 5-course meal in the historic Ahwahnee Dining Room.

With its 34-foot ceiling, huge floor-to-ceiling windows and sugar pine beams, the Ahwahnee dining room is one of the most beautiful restaurants in the world. Chef Percy Whatley leads the culinary team, with expertly prepared American cuisine using farm-fresh ingredients.

Most of the Ahwahnee hotel rooms, suites and cottages have stunning views of the valley — and WiFi is free for hotel guests. For a true splurge, book one of their private cabins along the Merced River, or an Ahwahnee suite — just like Queen Elizabeth II did during her visit in 1983.

Conveniently located just 1 mile east of Yosemite Village, Ahwahnee is close to the center of action.

Start your day with free coffee in the Mezzanine, followed by breakfast in the hotel Awhwahnee Bar.

Then, hop on the free Valley Shuttle, which leaves right from the Ahwahnee Yosemite parking lot. It stops at the Visitor Center, historic Curry Village, Yosemite Lodge and Yosemite Falls.

After a day of sightseeing, return to the Yosemite Ahwahnee Hotel for a quick dip in the heated swimming pool, followed by a crisp glass of wine by the grand fireplace. I can't think of a better way to end a day in Yosemite.

Ahwahnee Hotel Reservations should be made at least 5 months and up to one year in advance. Ahwahnee reservations can be made by calling (801) 559-5000 or visiting YosemitePark.com. The Ahwahnee Hotel phone number is (209) 372-1407.

The Ahwahnee Hotel Yosemite is located at 1 Ahwahnee Road, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389.

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