Los Angeles To Yosemite National Park Road Trip: Make Memories

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Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park road trip is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA. The 279 miles of Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park drive takes around 4 hours and 40 mins without stops.

This article includes 12 tips that turn your Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park drive into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park, take your coffee and keep reading!

4 Best Hotels On The Road Trip From Los Angeles To Yosemite National Park

On the Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park road trip, you may want to stay at some points. Here are the top four hotels on the Los Angeles – Yosemite National Park route!

1. Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita

If you want to stay near Santa Clarita, California; Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita could be a suitable option for you on the Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park road trip. Driving from Los Angeles to Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita might take around 36 mins.

Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita is a great place to stop during a road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. This hotel offers a unique blend of historic culture and contemporary elegance that provides a memorable experience. The location in Santa Clarita’s Premier Arts & Entertainment District is perfect for those who want to explore the best restaurants, live music venues, and luxurious shopping in the area. The hotel’s simple and stylish rooms are designed to provide a peaceful haven for visitors to relax and unwind after a long drive. The friendly and accommodating staff at Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita make the experience even better. Overall, this hotel is highly recommended for anyone traveling on this route. If you’re looking for a good place to stay on the drive, make sure to check out Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita.

Check the Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita, one of the best hotels in Santa Clarita, California, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.

2. Best Western Plus Hill House

If you’re looking for a hotel near Bakersfield, California; Best Western Plus Hill House might be the perfect choice for you to stay on the road trip to Yosemite National Park from Los Angeles is Best Western Plus Hill House. Best Western Plus Hill House is 112 miles away from Los Angeles, and it would take 1 hour and 55 mins to drive.

During my Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park road trip, I had the chance to stay at the Best Western Plus Hill House in Bakersfield, California. This pet-friendly hotel is conveniently located near popular attractions like Rabobank Arena and is just a short drive from many other points of interest. The hotel’s amenities, including complimentary continental breakfast and on-site dining options, made my stay comfortable and enjoyable. The hotel’s rooms are spacious and clean, with all the necessary amenities, making it a great place to rest and recharge during a long drive. The staff was friendly and helpful, always ready to assist me with any questions or needs. Overall, I highly recommend the Best Western Plus Hill House to anyone looking for a good place to stay during their road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park.

If you want to learn more about the Best Western Plus Hill House, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com.

3. Days Inn Yosemite Area

Days Inn Yosemite Area could be a great pick for you if you’re looking for a hotel near Fresno, California. Days Inn Yosemite Area is 225 miles away from Los Angeles. You can arrive there with 3 hours and 32 mins of non-stop driving.

On my recent road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park, I stayed at the Days Inn Yosemite Area in Fresno, California, and I must say it was a great choice. The hotel’s location just off Highway 41 makes it an ideal pit stop for travelers, especially families, as it offers safety, cleanliness, and comfortable beds at an affordable price. The rooms are well-appointed with amenities like free high-speed WiFi, a microwave, mini-fridge, and a 50-inch LED TV, ensuring a comfortable stay. The staff is friendly, and the hotel’s cleanliness is top-notch, making it a great option for those who value hygiene. The free enhanced Daybreak breakfast with healthy options is an excellent way to start the day, followed by a workout in the well-equipped fitness center or getting some work done in the business center. The hotel also provides ample free parking, which is a bonus for those traveling with large vehicles like trucks and RVs. Overall, I highly recommend the Days Inn Yosemite Area in Fresno as a great place to stay on your road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park.

Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Days Inn Yosemite Area, for more information.

4. Curry Village

If you want to stay near Yosemite National Park, California; Curry Village could be a suitable option for you. Curry Village is 311 miles from Los Angeles, and it would take 5 hours and 40 mins to drive.

Curry Village in Yosemite National Park is a must-visit place on your road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. Nestled in the heart of Yosemite Valley, it offers a unique and immersive experience surrounded by nature’s beauty. I loved how the cabins were tucked away in the forest, offering a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The staff was welcoming and helpful, making our stay comfortable and enjoyable. The cabin was cozy and clean, with everything we needed for a comfortable stay. The best part of staying at Curry Village was being able to explore the park easily. It’s located in the heart of Yosemite Valley, close to many of the park’s most popular attractions. I highly recommend Curry Village for anyone looking for an authentic Yosemite experience. It’s the perfect place to rest and recharge after a long drive from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park.

If you need more info about the price and availability of Curry Village, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.

In this part, we explained four hotels you can stay at on the road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by commenting on this post. It will help people who will take Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. We have four restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

4 Best Restaurants On The Los Angeles To Yosemite National Park Road Trip

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park road trip. This section lists four restaurants to dine at on the road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. Stay hungry and enjoy!

1. Egg Plantation

We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park road trip with Egg Plantation. Egg Plantation is located in Santa Clarita, California, and is 30.9 miles from Los Angeles. It would take 37 mins of driving.

If you’re planning a road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park and happen to find yourself in Santa Clarita, make sure to stop at the Egg Plantation. This restaurant is a hidden gem that offers a wide range of breakfast options, including mouth-watering omelets. But that’s not all. They also have specialty espresso drinks and a full bar serving up some of the best Bloody Marys around. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with friendly staff who make you feel right at home. On top of that, on Saturdays and Sundays, guests can enjoy live music from 10 am to 2 pm, courtesy of Marco Tulio. It’s a perfect place to stop and refuel during your drive. The Egg Plantation is definitely a good place to take a break and grab a bite to eat while on your Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park road trip. I highly recommend this spot for breakfast or brunch to start your day off on the right foot!

For more information about Egg Plantation, you can visit the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of Egg Plantation.

2. 24th Street Cafe

Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to Yosemite National Park from Los Angeles is 24th Street Cafe. Located in Bakersfield, California, 24th Street Cafe is 113 miles from Los Angeles and would take 1 hour and 54 mins of driving.

24th Street Cafe in Bakersfield, California is a must-visit spot during your road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. This charming cafe offers a warm and cozy ambiance, serving up home-style comfort food that hits the spot. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast, a quick lunch or a delicious dinner, 24th Street Cafe has got you covered. Their extensive menu boasts a variety of options, from classic American dishes to vegetarian and vegan options. The friendly staff and fast service add to the overall pleasant dining experience. If you’re driving through Bakersfield, make sure to stop by 24th Street Cafe for a tasty bite and a break from the road. It’s the perfect place to recharge and refuel before continuing on your adventure.

If you want to learn more about 24th Street Cafe, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

3. Pismo’s Coastal Grill

Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is Pismo’s Coastal Grill. It will take 3 hours and 35 mins of car drive to take 227 miles from Los Angeles to Pismo’s Coastal Grill, Fresno, California.

If you’re looking for a delicious seafood meal during your road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park, Pismo’s Coastal Grill in Fresno, California is a must-visit. This restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with unique roll-up windows and charming Santa Barbara rock columns that add to the overall ambiance. The seafood is fresh and flavorful, with standout dishes like the marinated cracked crab and fish & chips. And don’t miss out on the clam chowder, served with warm sourdough bread straight from the oven. The attentive and friendly service, along with fair pricing, make for a great dining experience. And if you’re a seafood lover, the fish market located next to the restaurant is a must-visit, offering some of the freshest seafood in the area to take with you on the road. Be sure to make reservations in advance, as Pismo’s Coastal Grill can get busy, but it’s definitely worth the stop on your drive to Yosemite National Park.

You can check Pismo’s Coastal Grill, on TripAdvisor or Google Maps for more information.

4. The Mountain Room, Yosemite

The Mountain Room, Yosemite deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Yosemite National Park, California.

The Mountain Room in Yosemite National Park, California is a must-visit restaurant during your road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with wooden decorations and stunning forest views, provides the perfect backdrop for a delicious meal. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it a great value for your money. And if you’re a steak lover, you won’t be disappointed, as The Mountain Room offers quality steak that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. But the restaurant doesn’t just stop at steak; there are plenty of other tasty options on the menu as well. From fresh salads to hearty sandwiches, there’s something for everyone. The friendly staff and great service add to the overall enjoyable dining experience. If you’re driving through Yosemite National Park, make sure to stop by The Mountain Room for a satisfying meal that will fuel you up for the rest of your drive.

The Mountain Room, Yosemite is 311 miles from Los Angeles, and it would take 5 hours and 43 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about The Mountain Room, Yosemite, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

This section lists our four restaurant recommendations for your road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 279 miles journey into a feast of taste. Of course, you can choose a suitable restaurant from the list according to your preference. Remember, like you, people planning a Yosemite National Park road trip need your opinion. Therefore, we kindly ask you to share your experience with us in the comment field at the end of the blog post.

In the next section, we list the destinations worth seeing along the route from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. Keep reading.

4 Places To Visit On The Los Angeles To Yosemite National Park Drive

A unique experience awaits you in Yosemite National Park. However, there are also some unique destinations like Santa Clarita, California on your road trip. We want to explain the top four destinations we recommend on the Yosemite National Park route.

1. Six Flags Magic Mountain

Six Flags Magic Mountain will be the first destination we recommend you to stop by on your Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park road trip. Located in Santa Clarita, California, Six Flags Magic Mountain is 35.1 miles away from Los Angeles, and it would take 40 mins to drive.

Six Flags Magic Mountain in Santa Clarita, California is an excellent addition to any road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. This amusement park spans 260 acres and offers over 100 attractions, making it the perfect destination for a day full of fun and adventure. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or prefer more family-friendly rides, Six Flags has something for everyone. The roller coasters are a standout, with a wide range of options that will leave your heart racing. But that’s not all – Six Flags also has water slides, animal experiences, festivals, and games to enjoy. And don’t forget about the delicious food options throughout the park, which will keep you fueled up for a day of excitement. With so much to do, it’s no surprise that Six Flags Magic Mountain is a favorite among visitors. So if you’re looking to add some excitement to your Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park road trip, make sure to add Six Flags Magic Mountain to your itinerary.

If you want to learn more about the Six Flags Magic Mountain, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website.

2. Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace

Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, Bakersfield, California is one of the destinations we recommend you stop by on the Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park route. It’s 111 miles from Los Angeles, and it’ll take about 1 hour and 51 mins of driving.

Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace in Bakersfield, California is a fantastic stop on your road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. The live music creates an incredible atmosphere, making for a memorable dining experience. The service is top-notch, and the restaurant is family-friendly, making it an excellent spot for all ages. The museum and memorabilia on display add to the charm of this unique location, providing a glimpse into the rich history of country music. Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace is not just a restaurant but also an entertainment venue, featuring some of the best country music acts around. Whether you’re a fan of country music or just looking for a fun and enjoyable night out, Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace won’t disappoint. And if you’re a foodie, the menu is filled with delicious options that are sure to satisfy your appetite. So if you’re driving through Bakersfield, make sure to stop by Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace for a one-of-a-kind dining and entertainment experience.

If you want to learn more about Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website.

3. Forestiere Underground Gardens

One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park in Fresno, California. And if you visit Fresno, California, we suggest you visit Forestiere Underground Gardens. You can arrive at Forestiere Underground Gardens after 3 hours and 32 mins of driving.

Forestiere Underground Gardens in Fresno, California is a hidden gem that’s a must-see during your road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. This engineering marvel is a testament to one man’s determination and vision. Baldassare Forestiere spent 40 years building this underground home and garden using castaway remnants from landfills, creating a unique and awe-inspiring network of underground rooms, courtyards, and passageways. You’ll also find fruit-producing trees, shrubs, and vines that have been growing underground for over 90 years! The ancient Roman architecture with arches, vaults, and stone-built walls is impressive, and the underground micro-climates with temperature variations of 10 to 30 degrees add to the charm. The knowledgeable and friendly guides make the tour even more enjoyable, providing a wealth of information about the history and engineering behind this incredible attraction. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for human ingenuity and creativity, and a desire to learn more about this unique underground world. Don’t miss out on Forestiere Underground Gardens, Fresno’s best-kept secret, on your road trip through California.

You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of Forestiere Underground Gardens for more information.

4. Yosemite Valley

Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, California on the Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park road trip. Yosemite Valley is 308 miles from Los Angeles, and you can arrive there after the 5 hours and 34 mins of drive.

Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park, California is a must-visit destination on your road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. This beautiful valley is surrounded by lush forests, towering granite cliffs, and thundering waterfalls, providing a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor activities. From hiking to rock climbing, there are endless opportunities to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature. The serenity of Yosemite Valley is unmatched, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a scenic drive, Yosemite Valley won’t disappoint. And don’t forget to bring your camera – the views are truly stunning and will leave you in awe. So make sure to add Yosemite Valley to your road trip itinerary and experience the natural beauty of California.

In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Yosemite Valley before going there.

FAQ of the Road Trip From Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about the Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From Los Angeles To Yosemite National Park?

  • With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park road trip takes approximately 4 hours and 40 mins to drive. The driving distance between Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park is 279 miles.
  • If you want to make the Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park road trip by bike, the time you spend on the road will be 1 day and 9 hours.
  • If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the Los Angeles-Yosemite National Park route, then you will have to walk for 4 days and 8 hours.

Where Do You Stop On Driving From Los Angeles To Yosemite National Park?

There are many beautiful pits stops along the way to Yosemite National Park. You can visit Santa Clarita, California; Bakersfield, California; Fresno, California; Yosemite National Park, California; on the road. Here we list four places to visit for you. For more information about the best places on the Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park journey, you can check the 4 Best Places To Visit On The Los Angeles To Yosemite National Park Road Trip.

  1. Six Flags Magic Mountain: 35.1 miles / 40 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 247 miles / 4 hours and 10 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
  2. Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace: 111 miles / 1 hour and 51 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 168 miles / 2 hours and 51 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
  3. Forestiere Underground Gardens: 226 miles / 3 hours and 32 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 61.7 miles / 1 hour and 24 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
  4. Yosemite Valley: 308 miles / 5 hours and 34 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 17.6 miles / 38 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From Los Angeles To Yosemite National Park?

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. We have selected four hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 4 Best Hotels On The Road Trip To Yosemite National Park From the Los Angeles section.

  • Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita: 30.4 miles / 36 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 251 miles / 4 hours and 13 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
  • Best Western Plus Hill House: 112 miles / 1 hour and 55 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 170 miles / 2 hours and 55 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
  • Days Inn Yosemite Area: 225 miles / 3 hours and 32 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 55.5 miles / 1 hour and 13 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
  • Curry Village: 311 miles / 5 hours and 40 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 17.2 miles / 39 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.

Where To Eat Between Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park drive, you can consider the four restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 4 Best Restaurants On The Los Angeles To Yosemite National Park Road Trip.

  1. Egg Plantation: 30.9 miles / 37 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 250 miles / 4 hours and 12 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
  2. 24th Street Cafe: 113 miles / 1 hour and 54 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 170 miles / 2 hours and 56 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
  3. Pismo’s Coastal Grill: 227 miles / 3 hours and 35 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 53.5 miles / 1 hour and 11 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.
  4. The Mountain Room, Yosemite: 311 miles / 5 hours and 43 mins to drive from Los Angeles | 15.3 miles / 33 mins of driving to Yosemite National Park.

Conclusion

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. We have listed four hotels, four restaurants, and four places to visit on the Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park Drive. We have also given you detailed information about each place so that you can make an informed choice about where to stay, eat, and what to see. We hope this guide has helped make your road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park as enjoyable as possible.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever taken the Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park road trip? So, it would be perfect if you shared your experience with other travelers who want to have the same experience. You can share your thoughts about the road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park and your recommendations about this route by using the comment field below.

Video: Yosemite Road Trip – Travel Guide

In this video you can find an extensive travel guide about Yosemite National Park.




Tolga

Hi, I'm Tolga. Your guide for unforgettable road trips across the USA, Europe, and Australia. I offer destination insights, tips, and occasionally use AI for added accuracy. Let's explore the world one road at a time!

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