2016 California Vacation
My vacation arose on somewhat short notice when I realized how much PTO time I needed to use or lose before year end. With just under a month to plan I jumped onto the NPS (National Park Service) websites to research Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks. I upgraded my AAA memership to take advantage of premier services. And, I purchased my airline tickets and car rental. I would fly into San Francisco, pick up the rental car, do a little city sight-seeing, get overnight accommodations outside of town, and the next day begin my road trip in earnest. The plan was to spend most of my time exploring Yosemite, get acquainted with Sequoia, and enjoy part of the West Coast on my way back up to San Francisco to fly home.
Yosemite Village
"Yosemite Village is the primary developed place in Yosemite Valley. Situated along the north side of the valley floor, its permanent population includes National Park Service staff and some concession workers. The Village is the site of some useful facilities, such as a fire station, a post office (ZIP Code 95389), a medical clinic, a convenience store, restaurants, gift shops, a school (kindergarten through eighth grade), and the park's headquarters facilities, and main visitor center. The Yosemite Lodge is located on the west end of the village near Yosemite Falls. The Ahwahnee Hotel is a few blocks to the north. Like Camp Curry, Yosemite Village is characterized by shed style architecture making heavy use of native wood." (Wikipedia) Yosemite Village is also home to the Ansel Adams Gallery.