The Wawona Hotel was built in 1879 before the area was part of the national park, and its as gracious and inviting as it ever was. Today a National Historic Landmark, it showcases the Yosemite history better than any of its in-park peers, thanks to its décor of authentic and reproduction period pieces (we love the fact that each room opens onto the verandah). That being said, the rooms without bathrooms are small; the larger units feature tub-shower combos. The Wawona also has as many facilities as any lodging in Yosemite Valley, with a restaurant, store, a number of trailheads, tennis court, swimming tank, nearby stables and even a 9-hole golf course.