Merced or Mariposa
 

HI, Heading to Yosemite, but getting into Oakland Airport miday, which town would be better for a overnight stay before heading to Yosemite. Merced or Maripose.
Thanks for input

Mariposa, Mariposa, Mariposa. Charming B and B's, antique shops, small cafes etc... much more scenic. Try google and good luck.

I'll second the recommendation for Mariposa.

Mariposa - quaint mountain town outside of Yosemite. Merced - agricultural town in the San Joaquin Valley.

Mariposa!

In case the above aren't clear enough - MARIPOSA!!!!!

(Merced is just a smaller Fresno)

Another vote for Mariposa - you'll see why when you pass through Merced on your way through.

Janis - you made me crack up - you are so right, just a smaller Fresno.

Totally agree with the others, MARIPOSA!!

Thanks everyone for the response. I knew I could depend on my Yosemite friends for advice. Mariposa it is! Any recomendations for lodging?

Don't stay in Merced. Ick.

You could also look into staying in Groveland, which is a teeny goldrush town in the hills on your way into Yosemite.