Visitors interested in the study of law will find the Mariposa County Courthouse fascinating. Built in 1854, it is the oldest courthouse in California. It is also the oldest of all county courthouses that is still used today on the western side of the Rocky Mountains.
The Mariposa Museum and History Center is full of exciting historical information and artifacts. Mariposa was an area populated by Native Americans and the site of several battles between settlers' militia and the Native Americans. The Mariposa Museum and History Center features displays of both local Native American history, specifically the MiWok tribe, and the mining history of Mariposa's first settlers.
Visitors needing a break from historical activities can relax with a walk through the Mariposa Arts Park. Several festivals are held at the park throughout the year. During the summer, there are free concerts by area musicians on Friday and Saturday nights.
Yosemite National Park is just under 40 miles away from Mariposa and offers a wealth of outdoor activities for visitors. Try a camping or backpacking trip, wilderness exploring or even a day of catch-and-release fishing.
The likelihood of finding any gold is extremely slim but panning for gold in nearby streams is a favorite activity for tourists and children.
Enjoy the winter months at Badger Pass Ski Area. This ski resort also offers lessons to less-experienced skiers.
Mariposa is an active community and the town hosts many events throughout the year, including festivals, balls, dances, concerts, art festivals, charity races and fundraisers. Check the Mariposa Chamber of Commerce for the latest event calendar updates. And be sure to catch the Butterfly Days Festival, which is always held the first weekend in May. It's a highlight for Mariposa, which received its name from the Spanish word for butterfly.
