"Mariposa is a small and charming Californian town located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of Yosemite National Park. With a population of just over 2,000 people, Mariposa is a tranquil and peaceful place, where you can relax and enjoy the great outdoors as well as explore the quaint 19th-century buildings that line the town’s winding streets.
1. Mariposa parks and places for a walk on a first date
If you and your date are nature lovers, one of the best things to do in Mariposa is to go for a walk in one of the town’s parks or trails. You can check out the panoramic views of the countryside from the top of Indian Peak Trail, or wander along the meandering Mariposa Creek. In the town itself, there’s Mariposa Courthouse Historic District, where you can admire the old buildings and monuments, and have a romantic picnic in the evening.
2. Places for a coffee date in Mariposa
If you’d prefer a more relaxed first date, Mariposa also has plenty of great coffee shops where you can grab a cup of coffee and chat. Biker Coffee, located in Mariposa’s main town square, is a great spot for a coffee date – it has a relaxed vibe, with outdoor seating for the summer months and a cozy, laid-back atmosphere all year round. And if you’re looking for something a bit more stylish, you can head to the newly opened Obscura! Coffee, which has a chic industrial décor and serves delicious homemade treats.
3. Mariposa galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
The Mariposa Museum and History Center is a great place to take your date—it offers a fascinating look at the area’s history and culture, with displays on Native American tribes, the California Gold Rush and the Yosemite Valley. And if you’re looking for something a bit more creative, you can also check out the Mariposa Arts Council’s gallery, which features rotating exhibitions of local artists’ work and a gift shop filled with unique creations.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Mariposa
If you’re looking for an enjoyable evening out, Mariposa has plenty of live entertainment for you to choose from. The Jesse Ross Memorial Park often hosts music concerts and performances, with a range of genres from acoustic to bluegrass. Or if you and your date prefer something a little more low-key, you can check out the Mariposa Brewing Company, which has live music every weekend.
5. Mariposa pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
When it comes to drinks and food, Mariposa has plenty of great spots to choose from. For a romantic date night, you can check out the Corner View Café, which has a cozy atmosphere and a delicious menu of classic comfort food. Or if you’re in the mood for something a bit more lively, you can head to the Mariposa Pub, which serves craft beers and cocktails and has a lively atmosphere.
6. Other date ideas to try in Mariposa
There are plenty of other fun things to do in Mariposa for a first date. You can go for a drive and explore the beautiful Yosemite Valley, or spend an afternoon antiquing in the town’s many interesting shops. Or if you’d like to do something a bit more active, you can rent kayaks or mountain bikes and explore the surrounding countryside.
