Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Korean War and the Vietnam War sit in repose across from a large hangar. Even the most
conscientious of objectors will stand agape at these feats of engineering.
Sleeping & Eating
HI Merced Home Hostel
HOSTEL
( 209-725-0407;
www.hiusa.org
; dm $20-23; reception 5:30-10pm)
A night in this six-bed homestay in the northeast part of town feels like staying with your
long-lost Aunt Jan and Uncle Larry, the kind of folks happy to lend advice about Yosemite
at the kitchen table. Beds fill quickly and must be reserved in advance (call between
5:30pm and 10pm). They can shuttle you to/from the bus and train stations.
Hooper House Bear Creek Inn
B&B
( 209-723-3991;
www.hooperhouse.com
;
575 W North Bear Creek Dr; r $139-169; )
In a grand old Colonial-style mansion, Hooper House Bear Creek Inn is a leisurely retreat.
Rooms are large and beautifully furnished with hardwood furniture, soft beds and tiled
bathrooms. A full breakfast is included, which you can have sent to your room.
Branding Iron
STEAKHOUSE
(
www.thebrandingiron-merced.com
;
640 W 16th St; lunch mains $9-11, dinner $10-27;
11:30am-2pm Mon-Fri, 5-10pm Sun-Thu, to 9:30 Fri & Sat)
The Branding Iron roadhouse, a favorite of ranchers in the area, has been spruced up a bit
for the tour buses, but locals still dig the hearty steak platters and Western atmosphere.
Presiding over the dining room is 'Old Blue,' a massive stuffed bull's head from a local
dairy farm.
Getting There & Away
depart three (winter) to five (summer) times daily for Yosemite Valley from several
takes about 2½ hours and stops include Mariposa, Midpines and the Yosemite Bug Lodge
