Mariposa has been my home for 10+ years and I wouldn't live anywhere else. I love driving through…read moretown and seeing happy tourists from around the world. I don't blame anyone in particular for the housing crisis. We are all just trying to scrape a living out here in the sticks.
Anyway, downtown Mariposa is a heartfelt spot, and a time capsule of California's history, with nary a street light. Most of the town is easily walkable. We do have parades at certain holidays. Then there's the county fair at the end of summer, and the car show in October.
The shops themselves offer a great variety of gifts, whether they be Route 66 or Yosemite paraphernalia, toys aplenty, Coast Hardware, a fair trade clothing store (Anahata), art gallery, wine tasting, craft beer bars, and more.
Food options are plenty. The Pizza Factory has an all-you-can-eat lunch special. There's a BBQ joint that recently opened too. Boba tea, ramen, burgers, and fancy dinners at Savory's or Charles Street Dinner House. Down the way a bit, across from the cozy Mariposa History Museum are two local titans of burger joints, which happily co-exist Happy Burger Diner boasts a massive selection, offers senior (55+) discounts, and features an outdoor section with a couple of simple kids' rides and air hockey. 1850 next door sells savory burgers and a vast menu of excellent local craft beers.
Check local schedules at the welcome center, or the bulletin board at the High Country Health Food Store. This lovely little store has a wide selection of healthy foods, supplements, and cafe and restaurant, fresh produce, and just about everything you need.
Rite Aid is across the street, and beyond, PDQ, which has the self-powered car wash and the laundromat. Forgive me if this sounds like a rushed tour.
The historic courthouse and library are also must-sees. Friendly locals will be glad to point you in the right direction, should you need anything.
One last thing, the tire shop by the post office provides excellent and prompt service.
Thank you for coming to my TED Talk.