Yosemite Museum

The Yosemite Museum was completed in 1925, designed by architect Herbert Maier in the newly emerging National Park Service rustic style. Though few realize it, the Yosemite Museum was the first building constructed as a museum in the national park system, and its educational initiatives served as a model for parks nationwide.

The primary collection was donated in 1925 and consists of American Indian baskets valued at between $10,000 and $15,000 (in 1925 dollars). The Yosemite museum encourages visitors to view the exhibits chronologically, beginning with geological exhibits describing the formation of the Valley and proceeding through time to the stage coaches that brought early visitors to the park. The museum is open year-round and offers special exhibits. Visit the Yosemite National Park website for more information.

Take a Virtual Tour using the links above.