Self-Guided Tour of The Ahwahnee Hotel

The Ahwahnee Hotel is steeped in history and is considered the crown jewel of the National Park system. The stunning interior design and architecture contributed to the hotel being listed on the National Register of Historic Places and becoming a National Historic Landmark. The Ahwahnee was intentionally designed to blend in with its natural surroundings, highlighting iconic views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and Glacier Point.


The destination of queens, celebrities, and even presidents, this majestic Yosemite hotel offers a balance of rich history, hospitality, and elegance. In this eBook, I take you to seventeen points of interest and discuss why each spot is significant. You'll learn about the Ahwahneechee's, early pioneers (like James Lamon and Aaron Harris), the architect, interior designers, and the artists who helped bring this beautiful hotel to life. I also include chapters on famous guests and the movie The Shining.