Wanderlust World Wanderlust World The Yosemite Lodge is the closest lodging to the Yosemite Falls. Construction began in 1915 and additions were added over the years with a major redesign in 1998. In 2010, it features 226 lodge rooms, 4 family rooms and 19 standard rooms. On site are a large outdoor pool and children's play areas. The redesign added more glass so guests could easily enjoy the magnificent scenery. Guests can view the sights from their patios or balconies as well as from the lobby and restaurant.
The larger rooms suit family groups, offering a king bed, two single beds and a queen-sized sofa sleeper. All have private bathrooms, telephones and televisions with DVD players. At times guests have expressed discomfort due to lack of air conditioning, although most days are cool enough not to need it. As of 2010 rates ranged from $147 to $177 plus taxes.
For formal dining, the Mountain Room Restaurant offers a varied menu, including fresh fish, vegetarian dishes and local ingredients. The Food Court, more cafeteria style, serves three meals each day plus picnic items to take with you. At the poolside, guests can buy ice cream, sodas and snacks; this is open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Most guests have expressed satisfaction with the quality of the food and pricing.
Visitors come more for the natural wonders than for the accommodations. Yosemite Lodge is not a 5-star resort, garnering 3 stars from 507 reviews in the Trip Advisor website. Other reader sites agreed. Most reviews expressed pleasure with the setting but less enthusiasm with the comfort and style of the Lodge.